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Macworld When Apple launched its streaming service back in 2019, it was branded with a “+” at the end as a way to differentiate it from the existing Apple TV app, which also offers content from third-party providers. However, Apple on Monday announced it is rebranding Apple TV+ to simply “Apple TV,” and the first signs of this rebranding can be seen in the latest iOS beta. A new Apple TV logo and identity With the third iOS 26.1 beta, which was released to developers on Monday, Apple unveiled the new logo for the Apple TV app and Apple TV+. It looks very similar to the old logo, but this time with colors and a Liquid Glass effect instead of plain white characters. The new logo can also be seen in some parts of the app to indicate that a movie is part of Apple’s streaming platform catalog. Of course, since we’re talking about beta software, the old name “Apple TV+” can still be seen in some of the app’s menus. It’s also still present in the “Entertainment” tab of Apple’s website. Apple The news came as a surprise early this morning when Apple published a press release announcing that “F1 The Movie” will begin streaming on December 12. At the end of the press release, the company mentions that “Apple TV+ is now simply Apple TV, with a vibrant new identity.”  There are no further details on when the new identity will go live, but presumably this will happen in the coming weeks alongside the public release of iOS 26.1. What’s behind the name change? It’s unclear why exactly Apple decided to drop the “+” from Apple TV. Honestly, it sounds a bit awkward to tell someone that I’m watching an Apple TV show on the Apple TV app on an Apple TV. Hopefully, the new branding will make more sense once Apple tells us the whole story. There’s also a chance that the “Apple TV+” brand could return at some point with a different purpose. Many rumors have been suggesting that Apple is considering launching different tiers for its streaming catalog like other services. If true, “TV+” could become the top-tier ad-free plan. Apple is rumored to announce some new products in the coming days, including the M5 iPad Pro and M5 MacBook Pro, and possibly a new Apple TV 4K. Perhaps we’ll learn more about Apple TV’s new branding along with these announcements.

Macworld The only thing we love more than the Mac mini is a great deal on one—especially the high-priced M4 Pro model. So this one caught our eye: Today at Amazon, you can get an M4 Pro Mac mini with 512GB of storage and 24GB of RAM for just $1,200, a savings of $200 and within a few dollars of the best price we’ve ever seen on this model. In our review of the M4 Pro Mac mini, we were thoroughly impressed by how much power is packed in such a small design. Furthermore, we loved how many ports it fits in its tiny frame—there are three Thunderbolt 5 ports, an HDMI port, and two USB-C ports, giving you plenty of options to connect multiple displays and external drives. Since this sleek and compact powerhouse computer has a 512GB SSD, you won’t need to spend extra to upgrade the internal storage, but you can always add a speedy external drive later. At $1,200, the M4 Pro Mac mini is an incredible value at the lowest price we’ve seen in months, so get one before the deal expires. Grab a powerful Mac mini for $200 offBuy now at Amazon

Macworld At a glance Our Verdict If you bought an iPhone 16 last year you can hold on to it, but if you are Considering upgrading from something older there is no reason to pick the iPhone 16 over the iPhone 17 at the price Apple is selling it for. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Apple iPhone 17 Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket As is always the case at this time of year, there are new iPhone models to get excited about, but if you are lucky enough to be upgrading to a new iPhone is the new iPhone 17 the one to get, or should you save money and buy a new iPhone 16? The iPhone 17 is packed with features that shrink the gap between it and the Pro and Pro Max models and it boasts some big improvements over the already great iPhone 16. Plus, at only $100/£100 more than the iPhone 16, and with twice as much storage, it looks like a bargain in comparison. But could there be any reason to buy the iPhone 16 instead of the iPhone 17? And If you already own an iPhone 16 is there any point upgrading to the 2025 model, or should you wait another year (or two). Here’s how the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16 stack up against one another. Read our full reviews: iPhone 17 and iPhone 16. iPhone 17 vs 16: Design and Build While the iPhone Air and the iPhone 17 Pro models have seen a shift to the new ‘plateau’ bump on the rear, the iPhone 17 looks a lot like the iPhone 16, albeit in new color options. Alongside the now-standard Black and White, you can find iPhone 17 in Mist Blue, Sage, and Lavender. These colors are a little paler than the iPhone 16’s bold Ultramarine, Teal and Pink. We would always recommend that color isn’t an important factor because our advice is to put your iPhone in a case to protect it, but if you prefer bright pink to the more muted lavender, then the iPhone 16 may get your vote. The iPhone 17 has smaller bezels than the iPhone 16 and a slightly bigger display.Thomas Armbrüster There’s still that vertically-aligned pair of camera sensors on the back, but look a little closer and the thinner bezels on the front mean the display is a 6.3-inch panel rather than a 6.1-inch one (more on that shortly). That does make the phone ever so slightly larger than its predecessor, though, so if you’re already pushed for pocket space, that’s something to consider. iPhone 17 vs 16: Display Here’s where the newer iPhone 17 begins to pull away. Not only is that display a fraction larger, but it also has ProMotion. Apple’s variable refresh rate technology has never been on a non-Pro iPhone before, so this is a huge deal. Since the display can offer a refresh rate that’s anywhere from 1Hz to 120Hz, not only is motion buttery smooth when you’re scrolling in just about any app, but you’ll find that the battery can last longer because it’s potentially only powering a single refresh whereas before it was pushing 60Hz all the time. The display is more durable, too, with Ceramic Shield 2 making it tougher, alongside an anti-reflective coating that makes the iPhone 17 easier to use outdoors. David Price / Foundry iPhone 17 vs 16: Specs One of the biggest differences that you might not notice is the storage. There is no 128GB model of the iPhone 17. The newer phone starts at 256GB, with a 512GB option for anyone who needs it. The iPhone 16 on the other hand is now only available with 128GB storage. This would perhaps be acceptable if it wasn’t for the fact that the 128GB iPhone 16 only costs $100/£100 less than the iPhone 17 with 256GB storage. It would be very hard to argue against paying just $100 more for twice the amount of storage and all the other features offered by the iPhone 17, so we won’t! Find that extra $100, you won’t regret it! Here’s how the two phones compare, at a glance: iPhone 16iPhone 17Display6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (2556 x 1179), 60Hz refresh rate6.3-inch Super Retina XDR (2622 x 1206), up to 120Hz refresh rateProcessorA18A19Storage128GB256GB/512GBRear CameraDual 48MP f/1.6 Fusion, 12MP f/2.6 Ultra Wide; 0.5X, 1X, and 2X zoom; Smart HDR 5, Macro, Spatial CaptureDual 48MP main (f/1.6), 48MP ultrawide (f/2.2); 2x, 4x optical zoom, digital zoom 10x; Smart HDR 5, Macro, Spatial CaptureFront Camera12MP TrueDepth, f/1.918MP Center Stage selfie (f/1.9)Video Recording4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps, HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60 fps, Cinematic mode, Action Mode, Spatial video, Wind noise reduction, Audio mix4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps, HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60 fps, Cinematic mode, Action Mode, Spatial video, Wind noise reduction, Audio mixBiometric SecurityFace IDFace IDControl optionsAction button, Camera Control buttonAction button, Camera Control buttonWi-FiWi-Fi 7Wi-Fi 7Cellular5G5GBattery Life22 hours (video playback)30 hours (video playback)ChargingUSB-CUSB-CWireless ChargingYes, with MagSafe (charging up to 25W with 30W adapter or higher)Yes, with MagSafe (charging up to 25W with 30W adapter or higher)Bluetooth5.36Apple PayYesYesWaterproofingIP68IP68SIMDual (nano and eSim or 2x eSIM in US)Dual (nano and eSim or 2x eSIM in US)Dimensions5.81in x 2.82in x 0.31in or 146.7mm x 71.5mm x 7.8mm5.81in x 2.82in x 0.31in or 149.6mm x 71.5mm x 7.95mmWeight170g177g iPhone 17 vs 16: Performance Performance almost feels like a moot point. iPhones rarely feel sluggish, even years into their lifecycle, and 2024’s A18 is still doing a great job for just about everyone we know using one. The A19 is a step beyond (with Geekbench 6 benchmarks suggesting a sizeable performance jump), but you likely won’t see much of a difference in day-to-day usage. As new AI features debut, that might change, of course, so the A19 is the chip to go for if you want to prolong the life of your iPhone. David Price / Foundry Then there’s battery life. The iPhone 17 can play video files for up to 30 hours, which is a big jump from last year’s performance by around 8 hours, but much of this could come down to the aforementioned benefits of a ProMotion display. In any case, the iPhone 17 will last longer and perform better, both of which win it points against the iPhone 16. iPhone 17 vs 16: Cameras Macro photography on the iPhone 17. David Price / Foundry The iPhone 17 also offers a big step up in terms of its cameras. Starting on the front, all iPhone 17 models have the new Center Stage camera, with an 18MP sensor. That sensor is square, so you can take landscape selfies without needing to hold your phone awkwardly. That’s a step up from 12MP option on the iPhone 16. On the back, there are two cameras again, but they’re both 48MP this time around (the iPhone 16’s Ultrawide was a 12MP one). Images are much more detailed as a result,  particularly in macro photography. Finally, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Dual Capture. It feels aimed at the next wave of TikTok stars, but allows you to film what you’re looking at and your reaction simultaneously. iPhone 17 vs 16: Price We had expected a price jump for the iPhone 17, particularly on the back of tariffs hitting products in the U.S., so we were very impressed to see Apple keep the base iPhone at $799, despite doubling the storage and improving just about every aspect of its design. The year-old iPhone 16 saw a price drop, but only by $100. Charging $699 for an older iPhone with half the storage really does seem amis. Especially when you can get a 256GB iPhone 16e for the same price. If Apple really wanted to sell the iPhone 16 it needed to drop the price further, or sell the 256GB model, but it hasn’t. So we will conclude that it doesn’t really want to sell it. And on that note, you probably shouldn’t buy it. Apple iPhone 17 Read our review Apple iPhone 16 Read our review Best Prices Today: $829 at Apple | $829.99 at Best Buy Should you buy iPhone 17 or 16? For the first time in a long time, it’s very easy to recommend the iPhone 17, either as an alternative purchase to the cheaper iPhone 16, or as an annual upgrade from the iPhone 16, particularly if you can find a decent trade-in deal for your current model. The iPhone 17 has a bigger, better display, more performance, better battery, improved cameras and more storage at the bottom tier, and still comes in at the same price. We theorise that the iPhone 16 is only left on sale as a means for Apple to upsell people to the iPhone 17, after all, it’s only costs an extra $100 and you get so much more for your money. Want more help ch

Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Super stylish Plenty of storage Smart organizer sections Hidden phone pocket Cons Premium price New version drops the AirTag pocket Our Verdict Smart enough to be worn with a suit and full of smartly Considered features, but still with space for a middle-distance traveller, the Troubadour Apex 4.0 repays its high price with style and on-the-go easy-access, secure storage. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Troubadour Apex 4.0 Backpack Retailer Price $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices One of Macworld’s favorite backpacks, fine enough to carry our beloved MacBook, is the Apex from premium bag maker Troubadour. The company doesn’t just make a bag and then move onto the next one. Like a technology company, it makes regular product updates, refining the design based on customer feedback. The Apex backpack is now up to version 4.0 with multiple small enhancements, although we miss the 3.0’s hidden AirTag pocket. The Apex 3.0, by the way, is still available and a little cheaper, although we’d expect the older version to disappear from the shelves when stock is gone. First, let’s look why we liked the previous Apex versions so much. All bags we recommend must keep our (and your) technology safe as we move it around with us—whether that’s carried on the daily commute, slung by café tables, dragged around airport departures halls, or stuffed into overhead compartments. The Apex is one of few laptop backpacks that looks great even with a suit. It’s chic as well as a premium build for comfort, and—most importantly for MacBook owners—full of laptop and tech accessory organizer compartments. Inside is kept just as smart, with the zips and clips matching the bag’s outer color, of which there are six: a classic Black, Ink Blue and a similar Basalt, a maroon Bronze Red and a unique Smoke Green. Troubadour Three main Apex designs Apex 4.0 Backpack Fits up to 17-inch laptop Height: 19 inches (48cm) Width: 12.6 inches (32cm) Depth: 6 inches (15cm) Capacity: 22L Weight: 2.7lbs (1.22kg) Apex 4.0 Compact Backpack There’s also a Compact version available that’s less tall: Fits up to 16-inch laptop Height: 16 inches (41cm) Width: 11.5 inches (29cm) Depth: 5.5 inches (14cm) Capacity: 15L Weight: 2.5lbs (1.13kg) Apex Travel Backpack And for longer journeys away from home, a Travel version is taller, wider and can expand significantly: Height: 22 inches (56cm) Width: 16.5 inches (42cm) Depth: 6.3 inches (16cm) Capacity: 42L Weight: 3.04 lbs (1.38kg) The Apex 4.0 is built around three major sections that host a total of 10 cleverly designed pockets and enclosures. At the front for quick, easy access there’s a zipped pocket with a handy, long-strapped key fob tucked inside. This front section is usable even when the main compartment is full. If front-loaded fast-access storage is a priority you might consider Troubadour’s smaller everyday 22L Neo backpack that features a zipped pocket with three compartments and a small, concealed zipper pocket to keep your valuables—a passport just fits. Below that there’s a neat even-easier-access pocket with a magnetic closure and (similar to the Apex 4.0) key fob. The Apex 4.0’s 22L capacity is less than the Apex 3.0’s 25L but it feels generous enough for a day trip and easily enough for a packed commute. It’s not one for the weekly shop, however. For that you might consider its more capacious sibling, the large yet attractive 42L Apex Travel backpack. Troubadour The main section features a generous three zipped pockets (one mesh) that are large and deep enough for your tech (and other) essentials—good places to keep your charger and cables. These are boosted by three identical flexed leather-tabbed pockets for faster access. This section keeps its shape even when full. The 3.0 had an AirTag pocket, but this is gone from the 4.0, so you’ll have to just drop one in a pocket if you want to use this method of locating a backpack away from your grasp. Behind the main section, your MacBook is very well protected by what Troubadour calls a “Crashpad Cocoon”, which suspends and cushions not just any laptop up to 17 inches in size but an additional smaller laptop or more likely iPad. The Compact version of the Apex fits a laptop up to 16 inches so even that model would still be large enough for Apple’s biggest MacBook. This laptop compartment is right at the back, making it easier to extract at airport security or blindly in a darkened conference room. Interior contrast lining doesn’t just add some sophistication, it enhances visibility and facilitates pocket and item discoverability. At one side of the backpack is a sturdy bottle holder, expanded by 2cm to carry up to a 1-litre container. Opposite, the other side upright pocket is now zipped for added security but will still accommodate a water bottle or flask if you need two or maybe an umbrella to keep the water off you and the backpack. The exterior eco-engineered FortiWeave fabric— spun from recycled plastic bottles—of the Apex 4.0 has fluorocarbon-free weather-proofing and abrasion resistance. Apex 4.0 iPhone Quiver Pocket and front key fob strap.Troubadour The Apex 3.0 featured a hidden, secure zipped phone pocket on one of the shoulder straps that could be reached without taking off the bag. The Apex 4.0 swaps this for a non-zipped but crafty new Quiver Pocket, a magnetic origami-inspired opening with high-tension strap webbing and adjustable backstop. The Apex 4.0 backpack is comfortable to wear and features a new and rather lovely leather-bonded grab handle with soft padding for one-handed carrying carry comfort and durability. Other Apex 4.0 upgrades include: re-engineered back straps; newly designed adjusters to eliminate slippage; a sculpted 3D mesh back (with a discreet over-luggage sleeve) for more breathable support. Apex 4.0 Compact, Apex 4.0 standard and Apex Travel backpacks.Troubadour Which Apex backpack should you buy All three Troubadour Apex backpacks are comfortable with padded S-curve shoulder straps, stylish looks with eco-friendly materials and water-proofing, smart section and pocket organization, and robust laptop protection. The Apex 4.0 is the sensible middle choice in terms of size with its 22L capacity, but if you fancy a smaller pack on your back the Compact Apex 4.0 (15L) is three inches shorter with a little less space inside. The Apex Travel is an easier decision as the capacity is so much greater, and it has significant travel features such as a side handle so it can be carried like a duffle bag plus the fact that it packs like a suitcase with a fold-out-flat lid design. It’s designed for long weekends and one-bag travel and meets the carry-on requirements on most major airlines—although it’s worth checking against your favorite carrier’s maximum limits. Troubadour Neo backpack (left) and Apex 4.0 backpack (right).Troubadour Just to make your decision more effort, Troubadour has a non-Apex backpack, the Neo. The company states this is more for everyday use with its light weight, and it weighs 0.4lbs less than the Apex 4.0 and has the same capacity (22L). We’ve put them side by side and each has its points over the other (the Apex’s Quiver Pocket is a nice touch but so is the Neo’s magnetic-closure front compartment). I’d pick the Apex 4.0 over the Neo just on smarter looks, not that the Neo looks shabby—although that price difference will tempt many. Someone described the Neo as having more of a “start-up feel” compared to the Apex’s “boardroom” looks. That doesn’t stop start-up founders buying the Apex or CEOs slinging on a Neo, but you get the idea, I hope. And to confuse matters further Troubadour has an even smarter backpack, the more expensive $279 Matrix. At 20L, this slimmer bag is notably smaller than the Apex 4.0 but does boast a great open-flat vegan leather front pocket. The Matrix may tempt you if your load is smaller, and it makes a great commuter bag for the smart set. Read our Troubadour Matrix review for more details. The Apex 4.0 has redesigned padded shoulder straps to eliminate pressure points, and features an integrated luggage sleeve to make airport travel less of a backache.Troubadour Price There’s no disguising the fact that the Troubadour Apex 4.0 Backpack is a premium laptop backpack not just in looks and organizational savvy but price ($249/£249) too. If you want a cheap backpack, look elsewhere or see if Amazon is having a sale. The slightly smaller Compact Apex 4.0 Backpack is priced a little cheaper at $229/£229. You won’t choose the Compact just to save a few bucks. That decision will come down to size, with the 15L Compact being three inches shorter than the 22L Apex 4.0 but much less capacious. At $329/£329 the Apex Travel Backpack costs a decent amount more but at 42L expanded it could save you bags of cash in cabin-vs-hold luggage fees. An alternative from the same company is the lighter Neo Backpack—a tempting cost saving priced at $179/£179 compared to the Apex 4.0’s $249/£249. With it

Macworld Following the launch of new iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods at the “Awe Dropping” event last month, Apple is expected to continue its fall launch blitz this week with a flurry of new M5-based products. The latest report predicts that updated versions of the iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, and Vision Pro will all be unveiled over the coming days. In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman predicts that the refreshed lineup will include an M5-based iPad Pro and a Vision Pro. Both are ready for imminent launch and expected to be very minor updates, with little beyond the faster chip. The Vision Pro will reportedly include an “improved strap,” but the cheaper and lighter model is believed to have been shelved in favor of Apple’s smart glasses project. Gurman also thinks it’s likely that we’ll get a 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro this week, although which models arrive is less certain. The issue is that Apple hasn’t finished preparing the full range of chips; whereas MacBook Pros running the standard M5 chip are ready to go, those based on the higher-end M5 Pro and M5 Max chips “won’t be ready in volume” until next year. It’s therefore possible Apple will hold back and announce the full refresh at once in early 2026… but Gurman expects a staggered launch, based in part on recent stock shortages of baseline M4 MacBook Pro models, but normal stock levels of the higher-end versions. Gurman is far from the only pundit to think new Apple products will arrive this week. The last time he tweeted on this subject, the YouTube host Vadim Yuryev replied to predict “3 days of M5 chip product launches next week, starting on Monday [October 13] or Tuesday [October 14]. M5 MacBook Pro 14-inch model ONLY, M5 iPad Pro, M5 Vision Pro.” But wait! There’s more. Apple also has a new AirTag, HomePod mini, and Apple TV to launch, both Gurman and Yuryev say, although neither commit to a launch timeframe. “Those are still very much on the road map,” Gurman writes, before contrasting these products with “new versions of the iPad Air and entry-level iPad, two external monitors, the M5 MacBook Air lineup and iPhone 17e,” all of which he expects to arrive early next year. This would appear to imply that the AirTag, HomePod mini and Apple TV will, or could, be updated later in 2025. In the past, Apple has frequently held press events in both September and October. (In 2020, it held them in September, October, and November.) But the consensus is that we won’t get a second event this year. Rather, Apple will announce the new products via press releases and website posts. And of course, they’ll all be covered right here on Macworld, so stay tuned.

Macworld This time of year is quite hard work if you’re a journalist who writes about Apple products. (I know, I know. First-world problems.) First, there’s the September event, which means lots of urgent news in a big rush. Then you spend several weeks carefully testing the new devices and writing in-depth reviews. And then, just when you think the worst is over, you get hit in the face with a bunch of October launches, as is expected to happen this week. Last week, I finished my review of the Apple Watch SE 3 and then, like the tireless journalistic Stakhanovite that I am, plowed straight on with the Apple Watch Series 11. I say this not to win your admiration, although I certainly deserve it. But to observe that using three different watches in the space of three weeks—Series 9, SE 3, and now Series 11—is a strange experience, and one that demonstrates how much Apple’s launch strategy depends on direct comparison. By any reasonable metric, all three of those products are excellent smartwatches that won’t let you down. They all have always-on displays, a wide array of medical apps and sensors, and powerful componentry. My Series 9 was two years old when I stopped using it, which is unusual for a grotesquely privileged reviewer like me, but at no time did I feel it was outdated or slow or unequipped for the role assigned to it in my life. To the uninitiated, and frankly to the initiated too, they’re all basically as good as each other. But when you put them next to each other, the little differences suddenly jump out. Switching from the Series 9 to the SE 3 made the latter’s screen seem painfully small, at least initially. (It didn’t help that I went from the larger Series 9 to the smaller SE 3.) I missed the ECG and blood oxygen sensor, despite almost never using them on the Series 9, and fretted, unnecessarily, that the lack of Precision Finding would make life more difficult. Subjective comparison highlighted the very minor flaws of an objectively strong product. And then the journey from SE 3 to Series 11 made the latter look much better than it would have coming from a Series 9 or 10. The point is that, like the iPhone and the iPad, the Apple Watch has reached a point in its evolution where the chances are low that anything really significant is going to change in the space of one or two generations: all the low-hanging and nutritionally important fruit was plucked long ago. In fact, despite being younger than those other two, the Apple Watch has moved further down this path because it’s innately more limited as a product. It does fewer things, hence being good enough at all of them is easier to achieve. The apps and functions I use and enjoy most on my Apple Watch are ones that have been there for years: Workout, Activity rings, sleep tracking, on-wrist message notifications, and the ability to make my iPhone beep when I can’t find it. With rare exceptions (the iPhone Air’s radical redesign is one, and we may get a similar revamp of the Apple Watch at some point), such products tend to reach a sort of evolutionary equilibrium where big-picture strategic change in any direction can only make them worse, and the logical way forward is barely noticeable iterative improvements to the underlying tech. Microwave ovens are like this, and nobody’s surprised when a new microwave comes out and it doesn’t change the entire microwave paradigm. Nor do we all get excited about buying a new microwave every three years. But Apple, somehow, manages to sell the tiny upgrades like they’re going to make a dent in the universe. And its yearly updates to the iPhone and Apple Watch, which nine times out of 10 are minor and iterative, are major press events that merit a mention on the news and poor overworked journalists having to clear their schedules and work until really quite late at night. This is not to say that upgrades are pointless, or that Apple should stop releasing new Apple Watches. (Nor is any of this directed at the Apple Watch SE 3 in particular, which is richly deserving of its 4.5-star review. The fact that the products have little to differentiate them means it’s more important than ever to look for value for money.) It’s just to observe that so much of the company’s upgrade strategy depends on technological envy: comparing the perfectly serviceable product in your pocket to the one in the shop that does a couple of things slightly better and dropping a fat wad of cash out of pure undiluted FOMO. It’s my job as a reviewer to describe and evaluate the ways in which the Apple Watch has changed since last year; it’s a hard job, but someone has to do it. And it’s your job as a customer to appreciate that, as nice as the watches are, most of those changes don’t make anywhere near enough of a difference to justify paying for a new device. Foundry Welcome to our weekly Apple Breakfast column, which includes all the Apple news you missed last week in a handy bite-sized roundup. We call it Apple Breakfast because we think it goes great with a Monday morning cup of coffee or tea, but it’s cool if you want to give it a read during lunch or dinner hours too. Trending: Top stories Siri changed the world 14 years ago. Can it do it again? Pocket is shutting down. Here are 6 great read-it-later alternatives for your iPhone. Revealed: The tiny 20-byte patch that solved Apple’s most infamous iPhone scandal. Mahmoud Itani has 9 tips and tricks to unlock your iPhone 17 Pro’s full powers. Siri suddenly has a whole lot of company in being terribly late, reports the Macalope. Apple pokes fun at Windows PCs in ‘The Underdogs: BSOD’. Podcast of the week Apple is expected to update the MacBook Pro soon. What can we expect? And is Apple really doing a new, cheap MacBook? All this and more in the latest episode of the Macworld Podcast. You can catch every episode of the Macworld Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Soundcloud, the Podcasts app, or our own site. Reviews corner iPhone Air review: A whole lot less for a whole lot more. Apple Watch SE 3 review: Brilliance on a budget. Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 review: Ray-markable solar-powered keyboard. Razer Thunderbolt 5 Dock review: Who knew high-end expansion could look so good? The rumor mill The M5 MacBook Pro could be coming as soon as this week. The M5 Pro and Max MacBook Pros, meanwhile, face delays (but will be worth the wait). These imminent Apple upgrades could be even more impactful than the M5. New report reveals key details of iPhone Fold design. Video of the week @macworld.com iPhone Air lightning review #apple #iphone #review ♬ original sound – Macworld – Macworld It’s time for the iPhone Air lightning review. Let’s do this! You can enjoy all our short-form video on TikTok or Instagram. Software updates, bugs, and problems Alex Blake’s favorite iOS 26 feature has banished spam callers once and for all. iOS 26.1 beta 2 adds more quality of life improvements. Slide Over returns to the iPad with the latest iPadOS 26.1 beta. Apple issues mystery AirPods firmware 8A358 update ahead of iOS 26.1. And with that, we’re done for this week’s Apple Breakfast. If you’d like to get regular roundups, sign up for our newsletters, including our new email from The Macalope–an irreverent, humorous take on the latest news and rumors from a half-man, half-mythical Mac beast. You can also follow us on Facebook, Threads, Bluesky, or X for discussion of breaking Apple news stories. See you next Monday, and stay Appley.

Macworld One of the downsides of relying so much on technology is that your iPhone’s probably holding on to hundreds (if not thousands) of blurry photos, duplicate contacts, giant videos you’ll “edit later,” and ancient emails you forgot existed. Today’s your last chance to clean it all up the smart way — with Cleaner Kit’s Premium Plan, now just $24.97 for lifetime access with code SAVE5. Used by over 67 million people, Cleaner Kit uses AI to find and remove digital clutter without ever uploading your private data. It can: Delete duplicate and low-quality photos in a few swipes Compress large videos while keeping quality intact Merge messy contacts and clean up empty entries Remove old calendar junk automatically Organize your inbox by sender for one-tap cleanup Secure sensitive files in a private vault This is your final call to make your iPhone feel almost brand new — for less than dinner delivery. Only through 11:59 p.m. PT today, get Cleaner Kit’s Premium Plan for the one-time payment of $24.97 (MSRP $104.97) for lifetime access with code SAVE5. Cleaner Kit for iOS Premium Plan: Lifetime SubscriptionSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld TL;DR: The 13.3″ M1 MacBook Air is back in stock for just $399.99 (reg. $1,499). After the last drop sold out in record time, the $400 MacBook Air is officially back, but likely not for long. This 2020 M1 model remains one of the most popular laptops Apple has ever made, and now it’s available again at a fraction of the usual cost. Powered by Apple’s M1 chip, this 13.3-inch MacBook Air delivers exceptional performance and battery life that can stretch up to 18 hours on a single charge. It’s silent, fast, and still holds up beautifully for everyday use in 2025 from creative work to binge-watching your favorite shows. What’s the deal with the MacBook Airs? Apple M1 Chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU for smooth multitasking and video playback 512GB SSD and 8GB RAM for fast loading times and generous storage 13.3-inch Retina display with crisp, vivid color for work or streaming Fanless, lightweight design that runs cool and quiet Up to 18 hours of battery life, depending on settings Grade A refurbished condition — near mint, with charger included Touch ID and backlit Magic Keyboard for secure, comfortable use Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ (2020) M1 8GB RAM 512GB SSD (Refurbished) — $399.99 (reg. $1,499) Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ (2020) M1 MGN63LL/A 8GB RAM 512GB SSD Space Gray (Refurbished)See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld Whether you’re working a full day from your home or a couple of hours on vacation, you shouldn’t have to keep paying to use the tools you rely on every day. And Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 can help you with that—with a lifetime license for just $59.97, no ongoing subscription fees required. This suite includes everything you need to easily handle work, school, and side projects: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams (basic), and OneNote (free). It’s the classic productivity suite, designed for Mac users who just want their software to work—without recurring fees or renewal reminders. Whether you’re editing a presentation on your MacBook in the back of a café, managing email on Outlook during your commute, or budgeting in Excel for your next big trip—this license will support you. You only pay once, and it’s yours forever. That means no more getting charged every month just to access your own documents. This is not Microsoft 365—it’s the full, downloadable Office suite for Mac, tied to your Microsoft account, not your device. Get a Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 lifetime license while it’s on sale for just $59.97 (MSRP $219) through October 19. Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021: Lifetime LicenseSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld TL;DR: Charge your Apple Watch + smartphone anywhere with this 2-in-1 magnetic charger and power bank, now just $17.97 (MSRP $59.95) through Oct. 12 with free shipping. If your Apple Watch dies halfway through the day (probably right when your fitness goals are finally within reach), this little gadget might just be your new favorite tech accessory. Meet the Apple Watch Charger with Built-In 2000mAh Power Bank—a sleek, ultra-portable lifesaver that keeps both your Apple Watch and USB-C smartphone powered wherever you go. It’s the minimalist’s dream. Think no tangled cords, no bulky accessories, just a pocket-sized charging fob that plugs directly into your device or magnetically snaps onto your watch. Perfect for travel, the gym, or long commutes, it delivers a quick boost with smart charging protection to keep your devices safe from overheating or overcharging. Clip it to your keychain, toss it in your backpack, or slip it in your pocket—this thing’s lighter than your car key and ready whenever your battery gives up before you do. At this 2-day-only sale price, this deal is a no-brainer for Apple Watch owners. Get this Apple Watch Charger with Built-In 2000mAh Power Bank while it’s just $17.97 (MSRP $59.95) through 11:59 p.m. PT on October 12—plus free shipping. Apple Watch Charger with Built-In 2000mAh Power BankSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld TL;DR: New members can get a one-year Sam’s Club membership for $15 (reg. $50) through Oct. 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Between rising costs and busy schedules, many shoppers are turning to warehouse memberships for convenience and value. Right now, new members can join Sam’s Club for only $15 for one year. Sam’s Club operates more than 590 warehouses nationwide, offering members access to savings on everyday items, from groceries and cleaning supplies to apparel, tech gadgets, and furniture. Members can also take advantage of exclusive online deals, curbside pickup, and delivery options that make shopping simple and flexible. Beyond everyday purchases, a Sam’s Club membership extends to travel and entertainment discounts, giving members access to special pricing on vacations, attractions, and event tickets. It’s an easy way to stretch budgets without sacrificing quality or convenience. Whether shopping for family, planning a trip, or stocking up for the season, this membership provides consistent savings and a wide variety of options under one roof.Claim this limited-time offer and get a 1-year Sam’s Club membership for $15. Deal ends Oct. 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 1-Year Sam’s Club Membership with Auto-RenewSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Improved interface and ease of use Wide range of cleaning tools Subscription or one-time purchase available Cons More expensive than some rivals Limited malware features Some technical knowledge still needed Our Verdict CleanMacMac is a good multi-purpose utility for the macOS operating system, and its bright, friendly user interface lends easy access to several handy utilities to clear up disk space, protect user privacy, optimize performance, update applications, uninstall software, and help prevent malware and adware. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Retailer Price MacPaw (first year, 1 device) $47.40 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: CleanMyMac Retailer Price MacPaw (first year, 1 device) $47.40 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket First year, 1 device$39.95One time purchase$119.95 There are lots of cleanup apps available that claim to speed up your Mac by getting rid of old files that might be clogging up your Mac’s drive, deleting duplicate photos, or uninstalling apps and software completely so that they don’t leave behind any old files that are no longer needed. However, few of those cleanup apps are as comprehensive as CleanMyMac from MacPaw, which was updated to version 5.0 (and dropped the ‘X’ from its name, as version 4 was called CleanMyMac X) back in 2024. In this review we’ll run through what you can do with CleanMyMac, what we link about it, and what we aren’t so keen on, and we’ll explain what’s in the latest update. See how CleanMyMac compares to other Mac Cleaners in our Best Mac Cleaner software round-up. What CleanMyMac can do It’s not the cheapest cleanup app available for the Mac, but CleanMyMac provides dozens of different tools for deleting old files and data. It groups all those tools into five main categories that focus on different tasks – Cleanup, Protection, Performance, Applications and My Clutter. It’s worth exploring each set of tools to see how the program works but, for convenience, there’s also a Smart Care feature that gives your Mac drive a quick check-up and summarises the result of its scans for all five categories. The Cleanup tools focus on deleting junk: old files and documents that are taking up valuable space, or old system files that are no longer needed. Foundry The Protection tools dig a bit deeper and can scan for malware that might cause a threat to your Mac. While the app works well with macOS’ Gatekeeper function in working to prevent malware installation on your Mac, it’s still possible to install a good amount of questionable software. Yes, the Malware Removal module was able to detect and quarantine several threats (such as OSX.EvilEgg, DazzleSpy, and parts of the AdWind malware), but it left segments of AdWind installed in tests, as well as missed the questionable WaveBrowser, a mock version of Adobe Flash Player Install Manager, Adobe album and the infamous MacSecurity app, which had to be removed with another application. This was disappointing considering MacPaw’s well-marketed and hyped use of the Moonlock Engine for this purpose. CleanMyMac isn’t a dedicated anti-virus program so it doesn’t provide the same level of protection as the programs featured in our Best Antivirus for Mac round-up. Also read: CleanMyMac offers virus removal, but is it any good? The Performance tools help with routine maintenance, clearing out the DNS cache that is used for web browsing, re-indexing Spotlight and Mail to speed up search results, and keeping track of your Login and Background items (which you can also do using System Settings on your Mac). A common task that many people ask about is how to completely delete applications from their Mac, as many applications leave behind old files and bits of data even after you delete the application itself. The Applications tools in CleanMyMac can help with that task, deleting app leftovers and installation files, and also reminding you of any old applications that you may not have used recently. Finally, there’s My Clutter, which can scan either individual folders or your entire Mac drive to locate old files that you haven’t used for a long time, or particularly large files that take up a lot of space. This latest version gains some new features here, including the ability to identify duplicate files, or photos that look very similar so that you can delete them if you want to. There are also some diagnostic tools, including the ability to identify apps that are using a lot of battery power on your laptop. Foundry Using CleanMyMac The most important change that arrived with version 5.0 was the redesigned interface. Previous versions of CleanMyMac could use each set of tools to scan your Mac automatically, but would then throw long lists of files and data onto the screen and leave you to decide which files you wanted to keep or delete – which could be confusing for many users who don’t have the necessary level of technical knowledge. CleanMyMac 5.0 simplified things by displaying the results of its scans as a series of tiles that give you a quick summary of each scan. So the Application tools will display tiles that break the results down into app leftovers that are left behind when you delete applications, or installation files that are used when you first install a new app. Other tiles will tell you about apps that are waiting for updates, or old apps that haven’t been used for a long time. If you want more information then each tile has a Review button that can display the entire list of relevant files, or you can simply hit the Remove button and allow CleanMyMac to automatically delete everything for you. CleanMyMac Updates There have been a number of updates to CleanMyMac since our review of version 5.0 in 2024, some of which were simply maintenance updates that dealt with bugs and other problems. However, there have also been what MacPaw refers to as ‘major updates’ that introduced new features. Version 5.0.5 updated the app’s Performance module, with a new option Purgeable Space, which scans your entire hard drive for old files, cache files, or temporary files and downloads that you can delete to save space. Some new accessibility features arrived with version 5.0.7, with the ability to use the VoiceOver feature in the macOS to read out information within the app for people who have visual impairments. There’s also an option called Reduce Motion that does exactly what it says, reducing the animation and other visual effects during scans to reduce discomfort or distraction. An older feature got an update in version 5.1, when the Space Lens was revamped to provide a visual guide to the use of storage on your Mac. This feature (which is only available in the Plus version of the app) displays all the folders on your Mac as a series of ‘bubbles’ of different sizes, indicating the amount of storage space taken up by each folder. You can then click on each bubble to explore the various files and sub-folders that it contains and decide which ones you may want to delete in order to save space. Foundry CleanMyMac extended its space-saving features onto the cloud with a new Cloud Cleanup feature in version 5.2.1 (only available with the Plus version). This allows you to use CleanMyMac to scan your cloud storage on iCloud Drive, Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive. The app can scan these online drives just as it can scan your Mac’s local drive and allows you to quickly delete files that you don’t need, or perhaps delete files from your Mac and just leave a backup on your cloud drive instead. Foundry Some people may not feel comfortable giving a third-party app access to their private cloud accounts, though, in which case you can save some money by opting for the Basic version of CleanMyMac that doesn’t include this particular feature. How to buy CleanMyMac Perhaps the most significant change is the new pricing structure that was introduced in July of 2025 that includes separate ‘Basic’ and ‘Plus’ versions of the app. The Basic version offers a limited set of features for less technically inclined users, while the Plus version offers the full range of features, including some of the latest feature updates from 2025 (you can compare the two versions here). The Basic version of CleanMyMac costs $9.95/£8.95 per month, which, to be honest, seems a little steep for an app that you may only use every few weeks. However, there’s also an annual subscription available that seems a lot more reasonable, costing $47.50/£27.00 per year. And, if you don’t like paying subscriptions for software, then you can also buy the Basic version for a single ‘One Time’ fee of $119.95/£101.95. As you’d expect, the Plus version of the app is more expensive, costing $15.95/£14.95 per month, or $71.40/£45.00 annually, while the

Macworld As our iPhones have gotten more refined, mature, and sophisticated, so too have the attacks seeking to steal the information that’s on them. In response, Apple has announced “the next major chapter” in its Security Bounty program. Notably, Apple is doubling its top award from $1 million to $2 million, specifically for “exploit chains that can achieve similar goals as sophisticated mercenary spyware attacks.” Apple says it is also “doubling or significantly increasing rewards” in other categories as well, including $100,000 for a complete Gatekeeper bypass and $1 million for broad unauthorized iCloud access, neither of which has ever been exploited. Additionally, Apple is introducing Target Flags to its Security Bounty program as a new way for researchers to objectively demonstrate exploitability for top bounty categories. Researchers who submit Target Flags reports will be eligible for “accelerated awards,” which are paid out before a fix becomes available. Target Flags are available for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, visionOS, watchOS, and tvOS, and cover a wide range of areas. Finally, the 2026 Security Research Device Program now includes all iPhone 17 models with Apple’s latest security advances, including Memory Integrity Enforcement for the A19 and A19 Pro chips, designed to stop memory corruption bugs before they reach the user. The program is available to applicants with proven security research track records on any platform.  Apple says its latest security program updates will go into effect as of November 1.

Macworld It’s no longer true that the best games aren’t available to play on the Mac. Recently we’ve seen many many A-list games arrive on the Mac, including Assassins Creed: Shadows, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Civilisation V11, Cyberpunk 2077 and Resident Evil.  You can see reviews of our favorite A-list games that can be played on the Mac below. These are what we believe are the greatest Mac games out there, and you’ll find out reviews together with links to the Mac App Store, Steam and other reputable vendors, so you can buy them right away. Best Mac Games 2025 There aer so many great games available to play on the Mac. Everyone has different tastes though, so we’ve tried to include something for everyone below. So whether you love RPGs, fighting games, action-adventure, first-person shooters, strategy games or puzzle, read on to find something to play. 1. Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition – An all-time great RPG Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Cyberpunk 2077, despite its troubled 2020 launch, sold more than 30 million copies. Now CD Projekt Red has made Cyberpunk: 2077 available for the Mac—on the App Store, Steam, and Epic Games Store. The game is set in the Blade Runner-inspired Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour, and body modification.  Initially, the first-person viewpoint suggests a straightforward FPS, but it’s actually a deep and challenging role-playing game that boldly steps into the future, avoiding tired fantasy clichés.  Your character – who can be male or female – is a hacker known as V, and you start the game by choosing one of three ‘lifepaths’ that fill in V’s background. You can assign experience points to attributes such as intelligence, reflexes, technical ability and ‘cool’, with each attribute giving you access to different skills that you can develop throughout the game. And, of course, there are plenty of body modifications and upgrades that you can collect along the way too.  V is sent on a mission to steal a prototype chip called the Relic, but then ends up with the Relic implanted inside their own head. It turns out that the chip stores the digital personality of a dead anti-corporate rockstar called Johnny Silverhand (played by Keanu Reeves). Johnny soon starts to take over, forcing you to find a way to save your own personality before it is overwritten. Night City provides a huge open world that you can explore. There’s a varied cast of characters that you can meet and plenty of jobs that you can pick up. There are few games on the Mac that create the same sense of freedom – you can spend hours exploring before tackling the main quest.  The action can get pretty violent, and there’s lots of bad language too, so it isn’t for younger gamers. The team at CD Projekt Red say that it will run on Macs with a basic M1 processor – but you’ll need macOS 15.5 and at least 16GB of memory (there’s no support for Intel Macs). There are presets that adjust graphics settings for different Mac models to get the best performance from the game. Read our full Cyberpunk 2077 (Mac) review 2. Resident Evil 7 Biohazard (Mac) – Creepy, unsettling and full of jump-scares Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple Silicon, with Resident Evil: Village at the end of 2023, quickly followed by Resident Evil 4 in 2024. The latest addition to the range is Resident Evil 7 Biohazard. Biohazard requires a Mac with an M1 or later, running macOS 13.0 or later. Biohazard also runs on the iPad, as long as it has an M1 processor and iPadOS 17, and even the iPhone, with iOS 17 and an A17 processor. It is cheaper than other games in the series, costing just $19.99/£15.99 on the Mac App Store. The game can be downloaded for free and run in demo mode, called ‘The Beginning Hour’, as an introduction to the main game. If you like the demo, you can buy the full game as an in-app purchase, and there’s an expansion pack available for another $19.99/£15.99. The game introduces Ethan Winters (who also appeared in Village), who searches for his wife, Mia, who vanished mysteriously three years ago. He receives an email from Mia asking for his help and gives him an address in a swampy backwater town in Louisiana. The game switches to an isolated first-person view, making every shadowy corridor seem even more oppressive and creepy. The game also makes clever use of the found-footage genre of horror movies, with Ethan finding old VHS tapes around the house that help fill in some of the background. There’s also a time-travel effect, where you can take actions during video segments in the past that impact on the present. Capcom recommends a game controller, but it’s possible to play with a keyboard and mouse if you prefer. Read our full Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (Mac) review 3. Assassin’s Creed Shadows – Action-packed with stunning visuals Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Shadows is the first game in the long-running Assassin’s Creed series that has been released on the Mac. It’s set in Japan during a civil war in 1579 as the warlord Oda Nobunaga attempts to conquer and forcibly unite the country’s warring factions. You to play as two separate characters, each with their own different skills and fighting styles. Naoe is a shinobi (ninja) who specialises in stealth and agility. Yasuke, a samurai who can block and parry his foes’ attacks. It’s pretty violent but you can tone down the settings for blood and dismemberment if you want. This one isn’t for kids. The game does take a little while to get going, as it effectively has two introductions to allow you to get some practice with the different fighting styles of Naoe and Yasuke. Things soon pick up, though. Shadows provides plenty of quests and combat to keep you busy. For the most part, it’s all about the wall-to-wall combat, with lots of sneaking and parkour-style running and jumping to add variety. There are four difficulty settings available – which will be helpful for Mac users who haven’t played any of the Assassin’s Creed games before. What most impressed me were the game’s 3D graphics. The early cut-scenes were very impressive, with some of the most detailed and photo-realistic effects that I’ve ever seen on a Mac. With many games, though, and when the cut-scenes finish you find that the actual in-game action tends to offer a lower level of visual detail, but, with Shadows, the game just continues smoothly at the end of these cut-scenes and maintains the excellent visual quality throughout the game. Read our full Assassin’s Creed: Shadows review 4. Death Stranding Directors Cut (Mac) – Apocalyptic, cinematic Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product

Macworld Picture this: you’re rushing out the door, and suddenly, you can’t find your keys (like every other morning). Well, if you had an AirTag attached to the keys, it would be so much easier to find them. Today’s deal gets you a four-pack of AirTags for $65, a savings of $34, and the best price we’ve ever seen. These AirTags are sleek, versatile, and even have a replaceable battery, thus enabling you to use them for many, many years. You can attach them to your keys (with a keyring accessory), pop one into your luggage or your backpack, a purse, your dog’s collar—whatever you want to keep track of. If you lose sight of something, you can use the Find My app and make the AirTags chime so you can find it nearby. When out of Bluetooth range, the Find My network will help you pinpoint the AirTag’s exact location as it pings off of other iPhones, even if it’s halfway around the world. So grab a four-pack of Apple AirTags for $65 while this deal’s still available at Amazon. Get four AirTags for just $65Buy now at Amazon

Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating Pros Comfortable and unobtrusive design Always-on display Excellent battery life Great price Cons Still missing some health features Our Verdict With its always-on display, bigger and better-performing battery, fast charging, improved scratch resistance, new health features, expanded gesture support, on-device Siri, and 5G, the Apple Watch SE 3 is an enormously impressive upgrade on an already appealing product. I don’t hesitate to recommend it. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) Retailer Price $239.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple makes the best smartwatches on the market, but what if your budget doesn’t stretch to the $399 Series 11? (Let alone the $799 Ultra 3.) You consider the Apple Watch SE, which starts at just $249. Particularly now that Apple has launched the substantially upgraded 3rd-gen model. In our in-depth Apple Watch SE 3 review, we put the device through a battery of tests and help you decide if this is the best Apple Watch for you. Apple Watch SE 3 design: Reassuringly familiar Historically, the Apple Watch SE tends to trail a few years behind the main line when it comes to design, and that remains the case here: in terms of chassis and screen size, for example, the SE 3 has more in common with the Series 6 from 2020 than the Series 11 released last month. But that’s less of an issue in this market than for smartphones, for example, because smartwatch design evolves extremely slowly, and the aesthetic changes between the Series 6 and now have been relatively minor tweaks to the formula rather than radical revamps. So we’re still looking at a squarish rectangular chassis with rounded-off corners. The edges are still smart brushed metal, and this still contrasts attractively with the glossy screen on the front and the smooth matte surface of the underside. And the Action button remains an Ultra exclusive, so we get the same two controls as before, both on the right-hand edge: the Digital Crown dial and the discreet side button below it. There’s nothing surprising about any of this, but it looks good and is intuitive to use. The SE 3 feels comfortable and unobtrusive on the wrist (which is particularly important for sleep tracking) while the controls fall naturally under your fingers without having to look. Perhaps we’ll get an Apple Watch Air next year, and perhaps the SE will inherit that design a few years after that. But for now this will do just fine. The Apple Watch SE 3 has a reasonably low profile on the wrist, and feels great.David Price / Foundry Apple Watch SE 3 display: Always on, at last So the physical design of the SE 3 remains largely the same as its immediate predecessor, and this includes the screen. It’s the same size as on the SE 2 (either 1.57 inches or 1.78 inches measured diagonally, depending on whether you go for the 40mm or 44mm model) and a little smaller than the screen you get on recent Series watches (1.77 or 1.96 inches). That extra fifth of an inch does make a difference, and it’s a little easier to see what you’re doing and accurately tap onscreen buttons on the bigger models. There is one important screen change from the SE 2, but you won’t notice it until the watch goes to sleep. This year, the SE, for the first time, gets an always-on display. That doesn’t mean it remains lit up in exactly the same way all the time, but rather that, even when it’s inactive, it displays something. Each watch face has a sleep version, which is dimmer and less colorful and features fewer animated elements, and this means you get the essential information without draining the battery too much. You can then wake the watch up as normal (by rotating your wrist or tapping the screen) and you’ll promptly see the usual face again. I use the California analog face, for example, and when the watch goes to sleep, I lose the red circle in the middle, the second hand, and a lot of the brightness. But I can still read the time, date, and local temperature, and see the progress of my fitness rings. It’s an excellent compromise. Just bear in mind that California happens to be one of the best faces for always-on functionality; some faces that rely on cool animations suffer a lot more when dimmed. David Price / Foundry Having an always-on screen is a big upgrade for the Apple Watch SE. It’s in the nature of the device, as a fitness wearable, that it often gets used in odd or awkward positions where you can’t easily rotate a wrist or spare a hand to touch the screen, and being able to check key data regardless of this is helpful to a degree you probably won’t appreciate until you try it. The only possible downside is its impact on battery life, but, as we’ll see later, that isn’t a concern here. The screen has also been upgraded to feature tougher Ion-X glass, which Apple claims is 4x more crack-resistant than the previous generation. That’s reassuring to hear, but difficult to test scientifically. I can certainly confirm that my SE 3 picked up precisely zero scratches in two weeks of constant and not especially careful use, but that doesn’t mean yours will be immune to harm. David Price / Foundry Apple Watch SE 3 features: New possibilities In theory, the Apple Watch has the potential, barring photography, to be almost as versatile as an iPhone or iPad, thanks to the huge range of third-party apps it can install and run. In practice, it’s more limited. Games, with a few honorable exceptions such as Lifeline, which come up with inventive ways around the small-screen problem, are something of a non-starter, and most of the watch’s useful functions revolve around either notifications (where being on your wrist at all times is a great convenience) or health and fitness. On the latter front, the SE range gains some new medical features with this update. The SE 3 offers nightly wrist temperature tracking, retrospective ovulation estimates, and sleep apnea notifications, all new additions to the SE line. Wrist temperature can be used to feed into broader health insights, and is intended to monitor averages over the long term; it takes some menu diving even to see the previous night’s absolute temperatures rather than variance from the baseline, and absolutely don’t expect to use this as a spot-check thermometer. Sleep apnea notifications tell you, as the name suggests, if you’re exhibiting signs of that condition. And I wasn’t in a position to test the ovulation feature. These are nice options to have in your health-monitoring toolbox, but all three have been available on the Series line since 2023 (and in some cases further back than that) and I suspect that for most users they will make only a small difference to the overall experience. You will get far more out of the stalwart health and fitness features that have been available for a decade: workouts, calorie tracking, step counting. At this stage in the Apple Watch’s evolution, it’s perhaps inevitable that the most useful health features have already been added: a heart sensor right from the start (and then improved in 2018), sleep tracking in 2017, a mindfulness app in 2020. Anything added to a product 10 years after it first launched is likely to be a nice-to-have rather than a crucial upgrade. Mind you, it must be said that there remain gaps in the SE’s health feature set. It still doesn’t offer an ECG sensor, even though the Series 4 got that in 2018. Similarly, it can’t measure blood oxygen, which the Series 6 could manage in 2020. Most users would regard these as bigger priorities than the upgrades given to the SE this year… and clearly a deliberate decision by Apple. David Price / Foundry Outside of the realm of health and fitness, there are new software-based controls. The new wrist-flick gesture added in watchOS 26, for example, is supported by the SE 3 (and no other SE model), as well as the older double-tap. Wrist flick lets you dismiss notifications and return to your watch face using that gesture alone, which is handy when you don’t have a hand free to tap the screen. I’m still getting used to it, but I can already see it becoming a key part of how I interact with my Apple Watch. Double tap, on the other hand (or on the same hand, to be exact: it lets you tap a finger and thumb of your watch hand together twice to answer a call or reply to a message), has been available since I got a Series 9 more than two years ago, and I simply don’t use it, which says everything for its utility. The SE 3, unlike its predecessors, offers on-device Siri, which should mean voice interactions (which no longer have to go via the companion iPhone) are smoother and faster. I’m used to the Series 9, which also has on-device Siri, so I won’t pretend to have noticed much of a difference, but I can confirm that Siri on the SE 3 is objectively fast and helpful. And this matters: being able to start a workout, set a timer, or get your current step count without having to interact with the Apple Watch’s small screen is a genuine time-saver, so any boost to this function is appreciated. And while we’re talking about audio, the SE 3 has the ability to play media via its tiny (and tinny) speaker, which struck me as somewha

Macworld Apple product launches are no longer as exciting as they used to be. The iPhone’s evolution has slowed down, and M-powered Mac and iPad upgrades are largely limited to processor boosts. The hardware has matured across the product line, and enticing introductions only occur sporadically. For example, the new MacBook Pro is expected to arrive as early as next week with little more than a barely-noticeable chipset bump. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find Apple still has a few tricks up its sleeve, with these exciting announcements we expect before the year’s end. AirTag: Tamper-proof speaker and U2 chip The AirTag is one of Apple’s most popular accessories; it’s affordable, widely available, and highly effective at finding lost items. Unfortunately, it’s also the go-to tracker for many criminals seeking to conveniently stalk their victims via the extensive Find My network. While Apple has implemented stronger anti-stalking measures on iOS and Android, bad actors are coming up with creative ways to bypass them. When AirTags are separated from their owners for prolonged periods of time, they beep to alert unsuspecting people around them. To prevent this, stalkers are buying modified AirTags that have had their speakers extracted—making it more challenging for victims to detect them. A U2 chip could make the AirTag more useful than ever.Foundry Rumored to launch before the end of 2025, the AirTag 2 will reportedly make it harder for modders to remove the embedded speaker, with the tracker possibly ceasing to work if someone tampers with its safety features. Whether creeps will come up with new ways to modify the AirTag 2 remains to be seen, but the change will be a welcome one. Another exciting perk coming to the AirTag 2 could be Apple’s second-generation ultra-wideband chip. While chipset upgrades tend to be boring, this one could meaningfully elevate the AirTag’s successor in two key ways. For starters, the U2 chip is significantly more energy-efficient than the first-gen model. As such, the AirTag 2 could double the battery life from 1 year to 2 years. More importantly, the new UWB chipset considerably increases the discoverability range, helping users locate lost items from afar. An A17 Pro processor could turn the Apple TV 4K into a bonafide gaming console.Foundry Apple TV 4K: A17 Pro processor Apple TV 4K 3 is my all-in-one entertainment device. I use it to watch movies, YouTube videos, and occasional news, in addition to streaming Apple Music, FaceTiming my friends, and working out with Fitness+. One thing I dislike about it, however, is its limited game library. There are some excellent titles on the tvOS App Store, but newer, more demanding releases tend to be missing—primarily due to the set-top box’s constraints. Fortunately, this year’s Apple TV 4K 4 will reportedly pack the iPhone 15 Pro’s A17 Pro brain. It’s a mighty chip that can handle some AAA games, potentially popularizing tvOS as a gaming platform for casual users. It could also unlock Apple Intelligence features, including the ChatGPT integration. A second selfie cam could make the iPad Pro Apple’s most versatile video calling device.Foundry iPad Pro: Dual selfie cams To encourage landscape use with a Magic Keyboard, Apple moved the latest iPads’ front cameras to the longer landscape edge like a MacBook. However, this makes video calls awkward for users who prefer portrait orientation, not to mention left-handed people who could inadvertently cover the lens with their palms. To remedy the situation without backtracking, the iPad Pro M5 will reportedly feature two selfie cameras—one on each of the two edges. If the rumor materializes, iPadOS 26 would automatically utilize the correct lens based on the iPad Pro’s orientation. This move turns it into an even more versatile device that caters to everyone’s needs. Vision Pro: New head strap and M5 chip Vision Pro isn’t selling well for a number of reasons—a steep price, limited functionality, short battery life, etc. Reviewers also unanimously agree that it’s too heavy and that wearing it for extended durations can cause discomfort. Over the next few years, Apple will work to perfect its spatial computing headset and bring it to the masses. Starting with this year’s Vision Pro 2, the company will reportedly offer a more comfortable head strap, which could lift some of the pressure and minimize neck pain. Vision Pro 2 could bring a better head strap and a more powerful chip.Dall-E/Petter Ahrnstedt The other notable Vision Pro 2 upgrade will likely be a three-generation chip bump from the M2 to M5. While the short-term impact of this change may not be visible, the boost could power advanced spatial computing features debuting with future visionOS updates that the M2 SoC can’t handle. The current Vision Pro is essentially a 3D iPad that can mirror a nearby Mac. With enough processing power, visionOS could eventually transition into a more comprehensive operating system that offers macOS-like workflows natively. Given the intensive nature of spatial computing and its immature present state, spec bumps will make a real difference down the road.

Macworld If you want to unblock regional content on streaming services like Netflix, iPlayer, and Prime, or access websites that aren’t available in your region, or without ID, a VPN is an essential tool. A good VPN will work with all your Apple devices, including a Mac, iPad, iPhone, and even an Apple TV in some cases. VPN services can also give you online privacy as well as letting you securely connect to open Wi-Fi networks in cafes, hotels, airports and other places. It’s something well worth packing when you go on vacation. VPNs tend to have complex pricing structures, with long-term contract pricing and offers that seem to offer huge discounts, making identifying a good deal more complex than it is with other types of software. We have tested the Best Mac VPNs and Best VPN for iPhone and iPad and we use them daily, so we know which ones offer the best features and we know which ones offer the best value for money. In this article, we will help you find the cheapest VPN to suit your needs. Every month we assess the best VPN for Mac deals so we can keep an eye out for the best discounts on offer right now and let you know the latest prices and best deals so you can find the VPN that suites you at the best price. Before we share the best VPN deals you may be hoping that you can get a VPN for free… Best free VPN There are a few free VPNs on offer but our advice is usually to be very cautious about them. Companies that give stuff away will be making money somehow, and you can’t be sure they aren’t selling your data. One decent VPN that does offer a free tier is Proton VPN (read our review). You can use Proton VPN for nothing, as long as you’re happy with U.S., Japan, and Netherlands as your server locations. It’s also limiting in that you can only connect a single device, and speeds are slower than the paid plans, but the free version is available on all platforms and if you like it you can always subscribe to get the whole package which will unblock a host of features, including an ad and tracker blocker and improved speed of up to 10 Gbit, as well as an expanded 10-device limit. There’s Port Forwarding for downloads and gaming, too, as well as a Kill Switch for disconnecting should the VPN drop out. Get Proton VPN free Best VPN deals and cheap VPNs VPN providers tend to offer year-round discounts, however with most deals you will be locked into a monthly fee for a couple of years, so we recommend setting a reminder in your calendar to cancel and look for a new deal to replace the one you had at the end of the contract period. Deals change all the time. The deals below save a significant amount compared to paying for each of these services on a rolling monthly subscription. We some great VPN deals for shoppers in the U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia below. One deal to take a look at is FastestVPN’s Lifetime plan – which with 93% off is an absolute bargain as you pay once and have access to the VPN for life. It’s a one-off $40 (approx £33). The company says that the full price would be $600. Read How to use a VPN on a Mac for more information, and if you still aren’t sure why you need a VPN read: Should I use a VPN on my Mac/iPhone? 1. NordVPN Pros Incredibly easy to use Plenty of server options 2-Year Plan $3.09 a month1-Year Plan$4.99 a monthMonthly Plan$12.99 a month NordVPN is a fully featured VPN option that’s secure, easy to use, and unbelievably fast compared to its competitors. Read our full NordVPN review 2. Surfshark Pros Simple to use No device limits Starter 2-Year Plan (+ 3 free months)$1.99 a monthStarter 1-Year Plan (+ 3 free months)$3.19 a monthStarter Monthly Plan$15.45 a month Surfshark is a great VPN option that’s as easy to use as the best of them, while maintaining security across an unlimited number of devices – something we don’t see often. Read our full Surfshark review 3. Private Internet Access Pros Lots of power features Privacy-minded Great value 2-Year Plan (+4 free months)$2.19 a month6-Month Plan$7.50 a monthMonthly plan$11.99 a month Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a robust feature set that makes it one of the more impressive VPNs out there. Read our full Private Internet Access review 4. CyberGhost Pros Simple to use Decent speeds Plenty of servers 2-Year Plan (+ 2 free months)$2.19 a month6-Month Plan$6.99 a monthMonthly Plan$12.99 a month CyberGhost takes a lot of the complexity out of VPN usage, for better and for worse. On the one hand, some users may want more power-user features. It’s fully refundable for 45 days, according to the company. Read our full CyberGhost review 5. hide.me VPN Pros Dedicated streaming servers Impressive free tier Cons Slightly clunky UI 2-Year Plan (+ 2 free months)$2.69 a month1-Year Plan$4.57 a monthMonthly plan$9.95 a month Hide.me is a solid VPN with a great free tier, but the UI isn’t particularly intuitive. Read our full hide.me VPN review 6. ProtonVPN Pros Simple to use Free plan Great speed Cons Setup on macOS was a little fiddly Only sells in $, € and Swiss Franks 2-Year Plan$2.99 a month1-Year Plan$3.99 a monthProton VPN FreeFree account, 1 device Proton VPN’s free tier, ease of use, and impressive speeds put it right near the top of our VPN recommendations. There is a free tier of Proton VPN, but if you want a bit more flexibility and a few more features prices start at $4.49/€4.49 a month for two years. The Swiss-based company doesn’t seem to like pounds, so it’s dollars or euros, unfortunately. Read our full ProtonVPN review How to find the best VPN deal VPN subscriptions typically work out cheaper if you commit for a year or longer, which saves a lot of money. Prices rarely exceed $6/£6 per month with multi-year subscriptions and are often closer to $2/£2… or even less. Many major VPN providers offer discounts through the year, and sometimes even offer permanent discounts. These discounts can look impressive at first. It’s not uncommon to see a countdown timer telling you when the deal ends – but these are almost always to induce FOMO – the fear of missing out – in order to persuade you to sign up immediately. Large discounts are par for the course with VPN services, especially when you’re subscribing for several years. This makes it all the more important to look into the various providers and what each has to offer, before jumping into a long-term commitment. All VPNs we’ve tested offer cross-device coverage too, so you can use them on your Mac, iPhone, iPad and more. For our recommendations of Mac Antivirus Software t

Macworld With Apple already including built-in antivirus protection for Macs you might be wondering “Do Macs need antivirus software?” especially when confronted by pricy monthly subscriptions for services. In this article we’ll explain why you need an extra layer of protection and how to get the best cheap Mac antivirus software with the best deals. Mac security software adds another layer of protection to what Apple already provides, with features that can help to protect your identity, passwords, and financial details. These are the things that criminals are after, and they’ll often use cunning ways to extract them rather than spending time trying to break past Apple’s defenses in macOS. Although some of the packages here are solely focused on macOS, others will also protect Android and Windows devices you might also own, and that makes the price of protection much cheaper per computer. Our best deal this month is our top choice of Mac Antivirus Software: Intego Mac Internet Security X9 – you can get it for $24.99/£20.99 a year for one Mac, normally $49.99/£49.99 a year get the deal here. Intego Mac Internet Security X9 Read our review Best Prices Today: $24.99 at Intego There are lots of other great options if you are looking for cheap antivirus software for Mac. We’ve evaluated antivirus for Mac solutions from several companies, including free and low-cost options as well as some more feature-packed alternatives. See our round-up of the Best antivirus for Mac and our guide to How to remove a Mac virus for free, where we also run through the best free options. Here we will share the best free antivirus options as well as the best deals we have seen on the paid-for antivirus solutions. Best free antivirus for Mac Several companies offer free antivirus software for Mac, one of our top recommendations is Intego VirusBarrier Scanner (read our review), we also liked Avast Security for Mac (read our review). However, you should always be cautious using a free antivirus and don’t expect all the features of the paid-for options. Intego VirusBarrier Scanner (read our review) – free virus scanner. Get it here. Avira Free Antivirus for Mac (read our review) – is free and also includes a VPN. Get it here. AVG Antivirus For Mac (read our review) – free version offers basic features. Get it here. Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac (read our review) – is free to use. Get it here. Malwarebytes Antivirus for Mac (read our review) – has a free version as well as a paid version. Get it here. Avast Security for Mac (read our review) – offers a free option alongside the Premium plan. Get it here. Cheapest antivirus deals for Mac You’ll find the following Mac antivirus recommendations in our round-up of the Best antivirus for Mac. We’re just presenting the lower-priced options here, but if you look at the roundup you may find alternative deals that suit you better. 1. Intego Mac Internet Security X9 Pros Built for Mac Easy to set up Cons No protection from phishing links in email First year, 1 Mac, Internet Security X9$24.99First year, 1 Mac, Mac Premium Bundle$29.99First year, 1 Mac, VirusBarrier X9 only$19.99See all plans & pricing at Intego Intego Mac Internet Security X9 offers a useful set of security utilities that help keep your Mac safe and running smoothly and its user-friendly interface is right at home with Apple’s macOS aesthetic. We have a special deal for Intego Mac Internet Security X9, which bundles Intego VirusBarrier and NetBarrier, so you can get it for $24.99/£20.99 a year ($2.08/£1.75 a month) for one Mac: get the deal here. Intego also regularly discounts the Mac Premium Bundle that includes Mac Internet Security X9 as well as NetBarrier, Washing Machine, Content Barrier and Personal Backup apps. The deal is currently: $29.99/£23.99 a year ($2.50/£2 a month). Get the deal here. There’s also a deal to get Intego VirusBarrier X9 for $19.99/$17.99. Get the deal here. Read our full Intego Mac Internet Security X9 review 2. Norton 360 Pros Fast, good performance and stability Minimal performance impact Cons Unable to scan .zip archives 1 year, 3 devices$41.881 year, 5 devices$53.881 year, 3 devices (Amazon)$29.99 The user interface is clean and friendly and the program ran both its foreground and background tasks briskly, with no crashes or slowdowns. There are some differences between the UK and US versions of Norton 360. In the U.S. you pay $39.99 for Norton 360 Standard which gives you protection for three devices, or $29.99 to protect one device with Norton AntiVirus Plus. In the U.K. it’s £24.99 for Norton 360 Standard for just one device. Norton also has a deal on Norton 360 Deluxe, which is $49.99/£29.99 for the first year. That version covers 5 devices (including Macs, PCs and iOS devices). But the best deals are on Amazon. For example, at Amazon U.S. Norton 360 Deluxe (covering three devices) is $29.99 for a year get the deal here. In the U.K. there’s a deal on Amazon U.K: get cover for three devices for just £10.50. Get the deal here Read our full Norton 360 review 3. McAfee Total Protection Pros Good, customizable set of security tools Background scanning feature Cons Can be laggy 1 year, 1 device$29.991 year, 5 devices$39.99PCWorld Software Store$19.99 McAfee Total Protection offers some good tools with good background protection and customization as well as an easy means of keeping your devices secure. You can get the Basic McAfee Total Protection for one device for $29.99 a year, or cover five devices for $39.99 for one year in the U.S. – get the U.S. deal here. McAfee Total Protection Basic is £34.99 a year for one device for the first year in the U.K. or £39.99 for five devices – get the U.K. deal here. Read our full McAfee Total Protection review 4. Avast Premium Security Pros Impressive malware detection and network tools Easy to specify antiviral scan types and target volumes Cons Descriptions of suspect files lack detail First year, 1 Mac$34.68 (usually $77.99)First year, 10 devices$44.28 (usually $99.99) This suite offers a good suite of tools at a good price. The best functions such as VPN, disk cleanup, and anti-tracking tools are only available on the “Ultimate” subscription tier. Avast will cover for one Mac for $34.68/£29.99 for the first year as part of its spring sale. Read our full Avast Premium Security review 5. Surfshark One Pros Good speed and performance Impressive anti-virus/anti-malware shielding Identity alert and protection Cons Multi-year contracts Occasional trouble accessing Google services 15 months, 1 Mac$50.8527 months, 1 Mac$67.231 month, 1 Mac17.95 Su

Macworld Before you even start the setup on your new iPhone 17—be it an iPhone 17 or Air, 17 Pro or 17 Pro Max— you should consider what type of case you need to protect it in. However good Apple’s new Ceramic Shield 2 shell is, it won’t be up to protecting your phone if dropped or scraped. A case just makes sense—and can look fantastic, too. Cases come in more shapes and sizes and with more functionality than you’d believe. Hit these links to jump straight to our recommendations, reviews and tests to find the perfect case for your iPhone 17, Air, 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max. Or read on for more case advice before reaching the product charts. Best clear iPhone 17 cases Best-looking iPhone 17 cases Best protective cases for iPhone 17 Best leather and leather-alternative iPhone 17 cases Best iPhone 17 cases with wallet Best iPhone bags Best iPhone 17 camera grip cases Do I need an iPhone case for iPhone 17? You may have heard that Apple’s new-generation Ceramic Shield 2 front cover promises 3x better scratch resistance, and for the Pro and Pro Max models Ceramic Shield also protects the back of iPhone, delivering 4x better resistance to cracks than the back glass on previous models. Does that mean that you no longer need a case? A case will keep your iPhone looking at it’s best, which will be a benefit when and if you come to sell it. Also, note that neither the plain iPhone 17 nor Air feature the same level of back protection. Do I need an iPhone case for iPhone Air? The iPhone Air is so thin it seems a shame to bulk it up in a protective case. It’s also tough at resisting bending but it is still just as vulnerable to drops and everyday dings. Most cases reviewed here have a variant for the iPhone Air but there are especially thin cases such as the super-slim Thinborne iPhone 17 Case and Pitaka Ultra-Slim Case, or consider the Nomad Magnetic Leather Back that misses the sides altogether and protects just the back. Why you need an iPhone case The primary function of a phone case is to protect your high-cost but fragile device from physical damage—caused by accidental impacts such as shocks from drops and scrapes that can leave your phone with a cracked screen, scratches, dents, a shattered back or internal harm. In fact, research shows that within 10 weeks of purchase, half of all new phone users will drop their handset. D’oh! Just being pulled from your pocket many times a day causes gradual wear that adds to the unseen damage from UV exposure and other environmental factors. Environmental protection safeguards against water and dust damage that can degrade or destroy your precious phone. Putting your iPhone into a case doesn’t make it indestructible, but it will reduce the risk of everyday or unexpected damage that might otherwise save a costly repair or full replacement. Which type of iPhone case to choose As nice as Apple makes its phones look there are only a handful of colors, so a case also offers aesthetic personalization through design (there are thousands to choose from) and customized style. Love the Cosmic Orange iPhone Pro but want to save money with the basic iPhone 17 model? Why not just buy a bold orange case for the 17, such as the Beats iPhone 17 Rugged Case in Sierra Orange? Choosing the right case material (be that silicone, leather, Graphene or Kevlar) is also key—depending on whether you are after better grip, more robust protection or luxurious leather. Cases can also add functionality, with handy features such as stands for hands-free viewing or wallet holders for carrying cards and cash. If you ever wirelessly charge your phone, make sure the case is MagSafe compatible—most are these days. Best clear iPhone cases for iPhone 17, Air, 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max If covering up Apple’s iPhone offends your inner Jony Ive, look for a clear, transparent case that keeps the iPhone’s looks as wonderful as they were straight out of the box. Why pick out a Sky Blue iPhone Air or Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro Max, only to cover it up in a black plastic case or something with badly drawn flowers on it? With a Clear case, you get decent protection without ruining the look of the phone—although Apple has rather mucked this up with its own version; see review below. If you want a plain black case or flowery pattern instead of Apple’s small palette of colors, we have plenty for you to choose from further down this feature. 1. Apple iPhone 17 Clear Case with MagSafe – Simple but flawed clear iPhone 17 case Pros Made by Apple Shows off iPhone 17’s color Cons Basic protection Ugly on Pro / Pro Max Open bottom section Expensive Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 29g Camera edge: 2mm Button covers: Plastic Colors: Clear Available for: iPhone 17 | iPhone Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max Amazon: All iPhone 17 models Amazon UK: iPhone 17 | iPhone Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max This simple, rigid iPhone 17 protective case from Apple is thin and light. By design, clear cases shouldn’t disguise the color of your iPhone that you chose when you purchased it. The Apple Clear Case is made from a blend of optically clear polycarbonate and other flexible materials, with a scratch-resistant coating on both the inside and outside. While it’s more protective than silicone cases and features a robust-looking 2mm camera lip, you can find tougher cases, which we have reviewed below. While the Clear Case for the basic iPhone 17 is as you’d expect, Apple has somewhat ruined the idea of a “clear” case for its Pro and Pro Mac versions of the iPhone 17, which feature a slab of white plastic at the back under the camera area. It’s white whatever color of iPhone 17 Pro or Max that you own. This is because Apple added its second-generation Ceramic Shield glass as a separate panel on the back of the Pro models—it’s on only the front of all the 17 family. To keep the back design visually balanced, the Apple logo was repositioned slightly lower. The white slab on Apple’s clear case is related to this adjustment and the alignment of the MagSafe magnets. Customers are already complaining that Apple should have created cases with a block in the color of the phone. If your iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max is orange or deep blue that slab of white is, well I’ll say it, ugly. The bottom of the Clear Case is nearly fully open, which reduces the level protection. For the iPhone Air Apple has another not really clear solution: the iPhone Air Bumper. This protects the edges of the phone and matches the Air’s color but leaves the back exposed. With a raised bezel it will also stop the screen touching the surface when laid flat. You can choose the bumper color to match your iPhone Air or select another color if you are feeling adventurous. Apple also sells the iPhone Air Case with MagSafe in Frost or Shadow, with a 0.9mm back panel that’s reinforced with a polycarbonate frame. The inside is lightly frosted, while the exterior is finished to a high gloss. At 29g it’s super light, and while the rigid case adds a little bulk, it’s worth a little compromise for that layer of protection. All materials and coatings are optimized to prevent yellowing over time. There are also cheaper clear cases, which we have also tested for you. But the Apple badge is a sure sign of quality, as you’d expect. 2. ESR Classic Hybrid Magnetic Case – Best budget clear iPhone 17 case Pros Shows off iPhone’s color Affordable Stash Stand option Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $9.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket MagSafe compatible: Yes Weight: 42g (with Stash Stand) Raised edge: 1.2mm Camera edge: 0.8mm to 2mm Button covers: Plastic Colors: Clear, plus frosted pink, blue, black and green Available for: iPhone 17 | iPhone Air | iPhone 17 Pro | iPhone 17 Pro Max Amazon: All iPhone 17 models If you want see-through protection for your new iPhone 17 ESR’s Classic Hybrid Case—with 1.5mm back—features shock-absorbing Air Guard corners that can protect from drops up to 11ft. ESR claims