It’s times like this we envy folks who waited to buy. Photo: Apple
With new iPads expected right around the corner at Apple’s May 7 “Let Loose” event, you can expect discounts on older models. Check out Monday’s great deal at Best Buy — the lowest price on M1 iPad Air 5 (64GB, Wi-Fi) at $399. That’s a whopping $200 off.
And that’s not the only iPad deal at Best Buy going on right now. See others below.
This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.
Best Buy drops M1 iPad Air 5 to lowest-ever price
Many recent deals have sprung up on iPads, as a new batch appears to be just about to launch. But do you really need the latest and greatest? Some people insist on it, but others wait for just this kind of bargain to come along.
But when it’s the lowest-ever price as far as we can tell, don’t be surprised if you don’t get tons of choices.
This 2022 M1 iPad Air 5 is the 64GB model with Wi-Fi only and it’s available in one color only, starlight. But still, that’s a nice tablet.
I’ve been the proud owner of an M1 iPad Air with 256GB unified memory since they came out in 2022, and I have no complaints. The tablet has become my frequent companion, especially for reading news and books, but also for music and video. If you don’t want to pay full price for the latest models coming out, this is a great option.
Today’s beautiful MacBook Pro and PC setup lets the two “frenemy” computers work easily in the same setup through a 4K external display’s built-in KVM switch. That means no messing around with cables, and no swapping out or re-pairing peripherals.
This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.
4K display’s KVM switch helps MacBook Pro-and-PC setup work
IT product manager and Redditor DarthChrisDK (“Chris”) showcased the sharp-looking setup in a post entitled, “MacBook Pro + PC setup.” He noted he runs two systems: M3 Pro MacBook Pro (18 GB unified memory, 512 GB SSD storage, space black) and a gaming PC (Intel 11, 3080, 32 GB RAM).
He’s also got a lovely Grovemade Desk Shelf and desk mat, a Mode Sonnet mechanical keyboard, a Logitech MX Master 3S mouse, a BenQ Screenbar Plus, an Oakywood laptop stand and fabulous Ruark Audio MR1 MK2 speakers on stands.
It’s nice stuff. And you can tell it’s a “money” setup — especially with the exquisite Omega Speedmaster and Tudor GMT Swiss watches proudly displayed in the photograph.
“Why do you need all of that?” a commenter asked.
“Because I like it,” Chris replied.
Gigabyte 4K display with KVM switch
So he uses a MacBook and a PC all the time in his home office. But, as a tech guy, he’s not one to settle for frequently plugging and unplugging devices or constantly pairing peripherals like keyboards with the different machines.
“Are you running everything through a dock, or a built-in monitor KVM switch?” asked a commenter.
“I am currently using the built-in KVM of the monitor,” Chris replied.
So his external display, a 32-inch Gigabyte 4K monitor, does the switching for him with its built-in KVM switch. The display, by the way, is geared a bit more to Chris’ gaming PC than his Mac. The Gigabyte flaunts a screaming-fast 144Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time, along with its great connectivity options.
“I do plan to add a TB dock at some point in the future,” he added. “If the KVM works well in the long run then I might just add the dock to my current setup. Otherwise, I might use a USB switch instead, and manually change video input. But for now, I’m enjoying the simplicity.”
He noted in conversation that he’s eyeing CalDigit’s well-regarding Thunderbolt 4 dock. He also said his old Logi mouse works that predates the one made specifically for Mac integration actually works great with macOS.
“I actually also have another mouse that I use regularly,” he added. “The Logitech G Pro Wireless combined with the Logitech PowerPlay mat. It is supported by Mac as well, and it’s just really easy to use and keeps my wireless mouse charged at all times.”
If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to [email protected]. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches, challenges and plans for new additions.
It’s possible to remove an Apple ID from your iPhone without a password using UnlockGo.
You can unlock iCloud Activation Lock without a password or the previous owner, remove a forgotten Screen Time passcode without data loss, bypass MDM locks and more. It’s a really powerful app and it’s available for both Mac and PC.
If you get a second-hand iPhone but find out the seller didn’t fully reset it beforehand, UnlockGo will fix it. Here’s how it works.
Sign out of Apple ID without password
You need an Apple ID to use all the iPhone’s best features and services, like the App Store and iCloud. If someone else’s Apple ID is signed in on your phone, you may not be able to access your App Store purchases or sync your photos to your own account.
You’ll want to sign out of the other account and add your own to avoid problems with your iPhone.
What will happen if you sign out of your Apple ID?
Your Apple ID holds all your data on the App Store and iCloud. Image: Apple
Signing out of your Apple ID on your device will disable features like Find My, iCloud Backup, Photos, Messages in iCloud, Apple Pay, Reminders, Notes, Safari tabs and Continuity features.
When you sign out of your Apple ID, your data stored in iCloud isn’t deleted, but will be removed from the device (unless you choose to keep a copy). If you pay for iCloud storage and sign out on your device, you will lose access to iCloud+ features like Private Relay, Hide My Email, HomeKit Secure Video support, and custom email domain.
You can keep using iMessage and FaceTime without an Apple ID, but you will only be reachable through your phone number, not your @icloud.com email address.
You can keep using all the apps on your phone without an Apple ID, but you will need to sign back in to install updates, download new apps or re-download previous purchases.
How to reset your Apple ID password
Change your Apple ID password in Settings. Screenshot: D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac
If you forget the password to your Apple ID, there are two ways to reset it.
From your iPhone, open Settings then tap on your name at the top. Tap Sign-In & Security then tap Change Password. (There may be a waiting period if you have Stolen Device Protection turned on and you’re not at home.) All you need to type in is your iPhone passcode to change your Apple ID password.
The other way is easy to remember — go to iforgot.apple.com and tap Reset Password. Enter in your phone number and your email address. If you have your iPhone or your other Apple devices nearby, they’ll be pinged with a notification for you to authorize the change.
Otherwise, you can still change your password by signing into a new device, using a friend’s device or at an Apple Store.
How to remove someone else’s Apple ID from your iPhone without a password
If you bought a used iPhone on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or from a friend or family member, all too often they haven’t factory reset the phone first. If you’re setting up a new iPhone, you should see a “Hello” screen animation. Otherwise, someone else’s Apple ID is still on your iPhone and you will need to remove it.
Also, it’s possible someone had to borrow your phone for something and left their Apple ID signed in; now you need to sign them out, but you don’t have their password.
You have a bunch of helpful tools at your disposal. Screenshot: D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac
It supports the current version of iOS 17 and the latest iPhone 15.
The tool is easy to use. Download it from the website, copy it to your Applications folder, then launch it. There are buttons in the right side of the toolbar where you can buy a license and register the purchase if you don’t have one yet.
Whatever you’re attempting to do, there’ll be easy-to-follow directions with helpful graphics. Screenshot: D. Griffin Jones/Cult of Mac
Just plug your iPhone in and click on any of the available tools. There are easy walkthroughs for all the steps you need to perform on-device, like entering DFU mode. For the steps that require it, it even has an animated 5- and 10-second countdown to help you perform the exact button incantations.
Every step has a thorough explanation of what’s happening and what each option will do. It’s a refreshing change of pace from Apple’s vague error messages and confusing options.
The most popular UnlockGo is available as a one-time purchase for one device and one Mac. Other pricing options unlock up to five devices for either a month or a year at a time; the lifetime plan is valid forever. You can enjoy free software updates and 7/24 professional support on whichever plan you choose.
Apple TV+ took four prizes in the TV craft awards, and may win more in the broader BAFTA Television Awards. Photo: Apple TV+
The BAFTA Television Craft Awards — a branch of the BAFTAs, often thought of as the British Oscars — awarded wins to Apple TV+ hit series Slow Horses and Silo, the iPhone giant said Sunday.
The acerbic espionage drama Slow Horses won for best editing and best sound. Sci-fi series Silo landed wins for best production design and best original music.
In addition, Apple TV+ received further nominations in the upcoming BAFTA Television Awards.
Apple TV+ wins BAFTA Television Craft awards for Slow Horses, Silo and more
Apple TV+ took two awards apiece in the 2024 BAFTA Television Craft Awards for its acclaimed espionage drama Slow Horses and its sci-fi hit Silo. Slow Horses landed Best Editing: Fiction and Best Sound: Fiction, while Silo won for Best Production Design and Best Original Music.
The BAFTA Television Awards recognize the best British programs, performances and productions each year. Outside of the craft awards subset, Apple TV+ got further nominations for the upcoming awards, below.
Apple landed four BAFTA Television Craft Award wins in total, including:
Slow Horses
Editing: Fiction — Sam Williams
Sound: Fiction
Silo
Production Design — Gavin Bocquet, Amanda Bernstein
Original Music: Fiction — Atli Örvarsson
Upcoming BAFTA Television Awards nominations
Apple TV+ also got nominated for four category awards at the 2024 BAFTA Television Awards that take place Sunday, May 12:
Slow Horses
Drama Series Supporting Actor — Jack Lowden
Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas
Entertainment
The Enfield Poltergeist
Specialist Factual
Previous BAFTA wins for Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has previously won BAFTA Television Awards:
Best Drama Series in 2023 for acclaimed hit Bad Sisters, along with the show’s awards for Best Supporting Actress (Anne-Marie Duff) and Best Titles & Graphic Identity for Peter Anderson Studio.
Apple’s limited series The Essex Serpent landed Best Costume Design for first-time BAFTA winner Jane Petrie in 2023.
In 2022, 9/11: Inside the President’s War Room won Editing: Factual, and 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything earned Sound: Factual.
iOS 18 could bring some big upgrades to Notes, Mail, Photos, and Fitness. Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
Apple could upgrade many of iPhone’s built-in apps with iOS 18 later this year. Reportedly, this includes Notes, Mail, Photos, and Fitness.
However, there’s no word on how Apple will improve these core iPhone apps and what features to expect.
Notes, Mail, and other apps could get big upgrades with iOS 18
Apple could upgrade many iPhone system apps in iOS 18 with AI features to improve their functionality. Google is reportedly testing a Summarize feature for long emails in the Gmail for Android app. Apple could offer a similar functionality on its Mail app with iOS 18. Similarly, the Notes app could get an auto-summarize feature along with the ability to use AI to format a note automatically.
In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman revealed the planned “overhaul” of iOS 18’s built-in apps.
While there are plenty of great third-party email and note-taking apps on the App Store, many iPhone users prefer the stock apps because of how neatly they integrate with the OS. Plus, they are more privacy-focused than other options from the App Store.
iOS 18 could pack a lot of exciting features
Besides AI, Apple may focus on enhancing its system apps in iOS 18. This could explain a recent rumor that indicated iPadOS might finally get a native Calculator app. You can already use Siri as a calculator, but most people are not aware of it. There’s even a hidden calculator on your iPad that you probably don’t know about.
April 28, 2003: Apple opens the iTunes Music Store, revolutionizing the music industry and digital distribution of content.
At a time when getting music online mostly means illegal downloads from pirate services like Napster, iTunes quickly proves that customers will pay for songs — provided the service is good enough.
iTunes Music Store opens
The ability to share free music was one of many major disruptions the internet brought in the 1990s and 2000s. Faster connections made downloading and sharing tracks less painful. And the widespread presence of CD-RW drives (which shipped on around 40% of new PCs by winter 2000) made sharing songs or even whole albums quick and easy.
Surprisingly, Apple — traditionally ahead of the curve on multimedia — initially missed out on letting users burn their songs to CD. Although the company marketed the iMac G3 as an internet computer (one of the words the “i” in its name evoked was “internet”), it took until February 2001 for an iMac to ship with a CD-RW drive.
“I felt like a dope,” Steve Jobs later admitted, having made a rare misjudgment about where the industry was headed.
iMac lets users ‘Rip, Mix, Burn’ CDs
The 2001 iMac rolled out with an advertising campaign describing the computer’s ability to let users “Rip, Mix, Burn” their own CDs. This earned Apple the ire of entertainment industry moguls, who suggested that the company condoned piracy.
The Apple ads coincided with the launch of iTunes 1.0, which started out as software for ripping music from CDs and then organizing it on Macs. Later in 2001, Apple launched the first iPod, which rapidly grew to become the company’s biggest-selling product. The combined success of the iPod and iTunes made Jobs contemplate ways to simplify online music sales.
The challenge for the iTunes Music Store came in convincing music labels that digital distribution, which risked further diminishing CD sales, made sense from a business perspective. Other companies’ previous attempts to sell MP3s failed, due to limited catalogs, ugly user interfaces and an insistence that users pay subscription fees.
Apple planned to change that. However, to do so, it needed to sell record labels on breaking down albums into individual tracks costing 99 cents each.
Jobs eventually won over the heads of the “Big Five” record labels — BMG, EMI, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group. As a result, the iTunes Music Store launched on this day in 2003 with more than 200,000 tracks on offer. Within six months, the number of songs in the iTunes store doubled.
These days, downloaded songs have given way to streaming on services like Apple Music and Spotify. However, the opening of the iTunes Music Store remains immensely significant. It showed Apple’s willingness to move into a new market. And it also created a new profit-splitting revenue stream for the company.
The later expansion of iTunes to sell TV shows, music videos and movies also helped turn Apple into a full-fledged media company. Cupertino continues to build on these efforts today by creating its own original video content for Apple TV+.
Without iTunes’ breakout success, it’s questionable whether Apple would have even created an App Store.
What was the first song you ever downloaded on iTunes? Leave your comments below.
Getting this wireless night light/charger combo for $40 is a pretty bright idea. Photo: Cult of Mac Deals
You want to wake up with your iPhone charged. And you want a soothing night light to set the perfect mood during your downtime. If that sounds like you, this night light charging station is your perfect iPhone accessory.
This one stands out from the crowd. With this night light charging station, you can relax by the gentle light of your phone charger. This night light charging station works with any wireless chargeable devices, including iPhones and AirPods. Just plug the included Type-C cable into a compatible adapter to power up your night light charger.
Though it may have a strong stage presence, this wireless charger is pretty small. Still, it’s big enough to balance an iPhone or safely hold onto your AirPods case. The small size also means you can tuck it into a corner of your nightstand. That means no tangled cables and no wasted space!
Don’t risk your expensive technology on a charger that doesn’t offer adequate protection. This reliable overnight iPhone charger comes equipped with temperature protection, over-voltage protection, over-charge protection, over-current protection, and a smart IC chip.
Could Apple’s upcoming OLED iPad Pro sport an M4 chip? Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac
Apple’s upcoming OLED iPad Pro will reportedly begin the company’s shift into AI hardware. Apparently, the new tablets will sport the next-gen M4 chip to power all the AI features.
If this report is accurate, Apple will skip bringing its existing M3 SoC to its flagship tablet lineup.
2024 iPad Pro could skip the M3 chip for M4
Apple unveiled its 3nm-based M3 chip just a few months earlier, in October 2023. It introduced notable performance and efficiency improvements along with a faster and more efficient Neural Engine.
A recent report suggests the company has planned even bigger AI-focused upgrades for its next-gen M4 chip. The SoC would power many AI features Apple has planned for its upcoming Macs.
But Apple has typically announced a new M-series after 12-15 months. So, it would be an odd move for the company to unveil the M4 chip so soon.
As per Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter release, this will allow Apple to “position the tablet as its first truly AI-powered device.” Every new product the company releases after this will also highlight its AI capabilities. The upcoming iPhone 16’s A18 chip will also reportedly center around AI.
Apple is also expected to unveil a refreshed Apple Pencil, in addition to introducing a new iPad Pro, iPad Air, and a revamped Magic Keyboard. The company’s May 7th ‘Let Loose’ event invite does a good job of teasing the accessory already.
While the rumor mill has been relatively silent about the third-gen Apple Pencil features, Gurman says it will sport haptic feedback. If true, this would be the first time Apple’s stylus for the iPad has incorporated this technology. It would also help the Apple Pencil 3 stand out from other styluses on the market, as none offer any form of haptic feedback.
We’ve got an iPad event coming in hot! Image: Cult of Mac
This week on Cult of Mac’s podcast: The surprise Apple event on May 7 looks like an iPad and Apple Pencil extravaganza. What’s on Cupertino’s agenda? We discuss all the latest iPad rumors.
Also on The CultCast:
Apple might finally fix one of the iPad’s most glaring omissions. Can you say iPad calculator app?
iOS 18’s big push into artificial intelligence leaves some of us hopeful and others of us skeptical. Same goes for the iPhone 16’s rumored move away from physical buttons.
Some new Apple Watch Series X concept art gets our hearts pounding. (Better check that ECG!)
Plus, an instant tangent where we hear all about Erfon’s failed attempt at buying his dream camera.
Listen to this week’s episode of The CultCast in the Podcasts app or your favorite podcast app. (Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review if you like it!) Or watch the video live stream, embedded below.
The CultCast live stream archive: Apple’s May 7 event announced
Watch the video version of our podcast where we talk about the Apple “Let Loose” event:
Our sponsors: CultCloth and The CultCast subscriptions
This week’s top Apple news
On the show this week: Your host Erfon Elijah (@erfon), Cult of Mac managing editor Lewis Wallace (@lewiswallace) and Cult of Mac writer D. Griffin Jones (@dgriffinjones).
Here are the headlines we’re talking about on this week’s show:
Your wireless carrier won’t be able to throttle streaming video for much longer. Image: Fox/Cult of Mac
There’s a good chance watching video on your iPhone is about to get better. Net neutrality rules passed by the FCC this week reportedly forbid U.S. wireless carriers from lowering the quality of streaming video to throttle the amount of data its consumes.
So if you watch Apple TV+, Netflix, etc. on your iPhone, your carrier is no longer allowed to reduce the video quality.
Wireless carriers currently throttle streaming video
Wireless carriers have a limited amount of wireless bandwidth to offer their customers. When the FCC killed net neutrality in 2017, they began stretching it by throttling streaming video for some customers.
Top-tier wireless service plans might not put limits on video quality, but Verizon’s starter plan, for example, draws the line at 480p. AT&T’s low-cost plan limits video to 2 Mbps.
Those days are almost over.
Net neutrality forbids throttling streaming video
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission voted to restore net neutrality on Thursday. That means internet providers, including wireless carriers, are not allowed to single out certain types of data for special treatment.
Ryan Singel teaches about net neutrality at Stanford Law School, and he explained to Marketplace what the rule change means for mobile streaming video.
“If you go and look at the pricing plans for Verizon and AT&T and T-Mobile, if you are not on their most premium plan, the video quality you get on your mobile connection is throttled. Like you get lower quality video, regardless of how much data you have. So those kinds of things will no longer be legal and I expect that the FCC will move rather quickly to prevent that.”
Cult of Mac checked and the websites of major wireless carriers still indicate they throttle wireless video. But if Singel is correct, that’ll change once the FCC steps in to order a change.
April 28, 2003: Apple opens the iTunes Music Store, revolutionizing the music industry and digital distribution of content.
