Apple on Mac mini: Switch is rarely used
Apple’s decision to place the power button for the new Mac mini on its underside, and on the side facing away from the user, continues to be controversial. Apple’s marketing chief Greg Joswiak explained in an interview with the Chinese blog IT Home that the change was necessary to drastically reduce the size of the computer. Joswiak confidently argues the placement is optimal and that users can simply slide their finger under the Mac mini to press the button, which he claims is rarely used. Criticism over design decisions, such as the location of the Magic Mouse charging port, is typically ignored by Apple, which sees no potential for improvement.
3D printing solutions are emerging daily on portals like MakerWorld to enhance access to this switch. One particularly liked model is the Mac mini M4 Power Button Base, a cross that fits under the mini and allows the switch to be pressed from above.
iSight 2.0: Apple reportedly working on a new smart-home camera
Apple is reported to be working on a new smart surveillance camera for home use. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, connected with Cupertino’s supply and manufacturing chains, reveals further details. Mass production is targeted for 2026, aiming at an annual output of over ten million units by the Chinese manufacturer Goertek, who is to produce the camera exclusively for Apple. The camera is expected to connect wirelessly with other Apple devices and be deeply embedded in Apple’s ecosystem, enhancing user experience with Apple Intelligence and Siri integration.
Additionally, Apple plans to add new health features to its AirPods wireless earbuds, potentially increasing sales from 48 million units in 2023 to as much as 68 million units annually by 2026.
New Anker chargers from 30 to 240 watts, exclusively with Apple
The accessory manufacturer Anker has introduced a range of new USB-C chargers available exclusively on apple.com and selected Apple Stores. The exclusive collaboration reflects a mutual focus on more sustainable technology, with the chargers made of 75% recycled plastic without compromising charging performance. A variety of models supports different power requirements, from 30 to 240 watts, for simultaneously powering multiple devices like Apple Watches, AirPods, iPads, and MacBooks. Prices range from €49.95 to €149.95, and the chargers feature GaN technology for compact design and reduced heat emission.
Kindle Colorsoft: Colored PDFs only via wireless transmission
Initial tests of the new Kindle Colorsoft revealed a limitation on color display, which appears to require Amazon’s processing for colored content in personal documents. As reported by the magazine „The eBook Reader,“ colored PDFs, when transferred via USB, are shown only in grayscale. To display in color, PDFs must be submitted via the „Send to Kindle“ function, unlike eBooks which retain color even when transferred by USB. This restriction also applies to the Kindle Scribe, which only permits handwritten notes on PDFs sent through „Send to Kindle.“
macOS 15 Sequoia alerts for liquid in USB-C ports
Apple introduces a function in macOS 15 Sequoia that detects liquid in USB-C ports, alerting users if accessories with moist contacts are connected. The feature, active for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models with M3 or M4 chips, aims to prevent damage from moisture. When wet cables or USB-C accessories are connected, macOS prompts users to disconnect and dry the device for 24 hours. While the alert does not affect usage, Apple warns that sustained moisture could damage cables and the MacBook, especially while charging.
Obsidian: New Web Clipper saves online content
The Obsidian Web Clipper, a new browser extension, allows users to save almost any web content as Markdown files for offline use. It is available for desktop and mobile browsers (including Arc, Brave, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Orion, and Safari) and is open source under the MIT license. The Clipper facilitates permanent archiving, addressing web content changes or deletions. It lets users highlight and save content for incorporation into notes and is usable for recipes, building a research collection, or saving items to read later.
Upcoming postal increases: Letters likely to rise to 94 cents
The Federal Network Agency has set a new framework for Deutsche Post’s postage cost increases from 2025, responding to demands for hikes up to 99 cents, which won’t materialize. Recognizing declining mail volumes and added nationwide service burdens, the agency supports moderate increases. The agency allows a maximum 10.48% increase for private customer letters, corresponding to a new postage price of 94 cents, with similar restrictions for business mail. Private customer parcels can increase by up to 7.21%. The final prices are expected within the month, valid until December 31, 2026.
New AirTag features: 15 airlines participating
The new „Share Location“ feature in the „Find My“ app will allow AirTag and other compatible device locations to be securely shared with third parties. Available in the iOS 18.2 beta, it should soon be accessible for all iPhone models from the iPhone Xs. Expected in December, this update aims to improve finding lost items, benefiting users and companies like airlines with baggage management. Initially partnering with 15 airlines, Apple plans integration in early 2025, enhancing the search for lost luggage with encrypted processes.
OttPlayer: Another IPTV player for Mac, iPhone, and iPad
Following recent recommendations for IPTV solutions for Mac and iPhone, numerous suggestions arose for OttPlayer. The OttPlayer offers a simple solution for streaming IPTV content across various devices and is available for Mac, iPad, and iPhone. It supports HLS, RTSP, TS over UDP, RTMP, and M3U8 playlist standards, allowing integration of different sources. Previous IPTV apps provide no channels but serve as platforms for IPTV streaming with a playlist in M3U8 format.
Apple extends High Power Mode to MacBook Pro and Mac mini
Apple has expanded the High Power Mode, introduced in November 2021, to include the new MacBook Pro models with the M4-Pro chip and the new Mac mini. Initially reserved for Max-chips, this mode boosts performance through increased fan speeds for cooling during graphics-heavy tasks. However, initial tests reveal minimal noticeable performance gains in the Mac mini, with significant audible fan noise, leading to questions about its practical advantage.
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