Macworld

Macworld If you got a new Apple device this holiday season, it may be time to start using your three-month free Fitness+ trial. In a cryptic Instagram reel, Apple is teasing “something big” coming to its workout service. The 15-second spot shows people reading newspapers with Fitness+-related headlines, including, “The Countdown Begins,” “2026 Plans Still Under Wraps—For Now,” and Something Big is Coming to Apple Fitness+.” Other parts of the ad hint at “brand new content” and “major moves” coming soon. View this post on Instagram It’s not uncommon for Apple to announce new Fitness+ programs in early January. Earlier this year, Apple unveiled a new slate of programming on January 3 that included strength, yoga, and walking classes, as well as integration with Strava. Apple also teased these new programs with its Instagram account, but it was far less cryptic. In November. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Fitness+ was under internal review as Apple explored new paths for its struggling service. Additionally, a separate Health+ service has been rumored that fuses real-world medical professionals with Apple Intelligence to offer diagnostic advice. It’s not clear whether this “big” announcement is related to a change in Fitness+ or new content. Fitness+ costs $9.99 per month or $79.99 annually, and is also included in Apple One plans. It is available on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.

Macworld After a somewhat tame 2025 that was largely marked by processor upgrades, 2026 is poised to be a huge year for the Mac, possibly the biggest since Apple unveiled the very first Macintosh in 1984. It all starts with the rumored release of Apple’s first new MacBook in years and could end with a huge bang as the MacBook Pro gets a major overhaul. If you’re planning to buy a Mac in 2026, you’re in for a treat. Here’s what to expect from the Mac next year. Early 2026 M5 MacBook Air 2026 is likely to start slowly, as Apple’s most popular laptop is slated to get a chip upgrade to the M5 in the early part of the year. The current M4 MacBook Air was released in March 2025, so look for the M5 update to come around the early part of spring. The M5 MacBook Air will make its debut in the early part of 2026.Foundry There likely won’t be any surprises here. Apple released the M5 chip with the MacBook Pro in October 2025, and benchmarks show that the M5 offers a bit of a boost with CPU performance but makes bigger inroads with GPU speed. This update will be a chip upgrade; the rest of the laptop features will likely be the same as they are now. Learn more about the upcoming M5 MacBook Air. M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro The M5 Pro and Max versions of the MacBook Pro are expected in the spring of 2026, possibly at the same time as the M5 MacBook Air. And like the MacBook Air, the MacBook Pro upgrades are expected to be chip upgrades only. However, the chips could be significantly upgraded. The M5 MacBook Pro’s time in Apple’s lineup could be cut short due to the expected M6 release later in the year.Foundry According to reports, Apple will introduce a new chip design with the M5 Pro and Max, where the CPU and GPU are on separate blocks. This will allow for more customization options; for example, a customer can get a chip with the base configuration of CPU cores and maxed-out GPU cores. Learn more about the upcoming M5 Pro/Mac MacBook Pro. Low-cost MacBook Here’s where things start to get really interesting. Reports have swirled for months that Apple is developing a cheap MacBook that can compete in the market with Chromebooks and Windows laptops. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that this laptop will ship during the first half of 2026. The cheap MacBook will reportedly use an iPhone chip, possibly the A19 Pro. Reports have said it will have a slightly smaller display than the 13-inch MacBook Air, and we expect it could lack some features found in the MacBook Air, including multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports and HDR. With the current MacBook Air starting at $999, we expect this new model to cost as low as $699. Learn more about the low-cost MacBook. An A19 Pro could be at the heart of Apple’s rumored low-cost laptop.Apple Mid 2026 Mac Studio The M5 Max and M5 Ultra Mac Studio are on Apple’s 2026 release schedule, according to Gurman. Apple could release these Macs in March, but a June release at WWDC seems more likely. The Mac Studio has replaced the Mac Pro as Apple’s top-of-the-line workstation.Foundry The Mac Studio isn’t going to see a design change, and its update may be only with its chip. Reports state that Apple is using a new chip design with the high-end M-series chips that features the CPU and GPU on different blocks, allowing more customization options with CPU and GPU cores. Mac Studio customers may be able to, say, buy a model with a maxed-out GPU, for example. Learn more about the upcoming Mac Studio. Studio Display and Pro Display XDR According to reports, Apple is finally going to update its Studio Display, some four years after it debuted. Code numbers for the new Studio Display have been uncovered in a pre-release version of iOS 26, with references to a 120Hz refresh rate, support for SDR and HDR modes, and an A19 chip for controlling Spatial Audio and the built-in webcam. Apple debuted the original Studio Display alongside the Mac Studio in 2022, so it could be released at the same time. As for the Pro Display XDR, Gurman reported that Apple had two new displays in development, but it was unclear if both displays were different models of the Studio Display or if one was a Pro Display XDR. However, since it’s been more than six years since the Pro Display was released, it would make sense for Apple to update it at the same time with ProMotion. The Studio Display could get its first update since 2022.Filipe Esposito/Foundry macOS 27 Apple will preview macOS 27 at WWDC in June, and since macOS 26 featured major UI changes, reports say it will be a maintenance release with a focus on performance and stability and a minimal number of new features. One thing to keep an eye out for: Apple is rumored to launch its first touchscreen MacBook Pro (see below), so it’s possible macOS 27 has some subtle UI updates that make on-screen elements easier to use with a touch interface. Late 2026 Touchscreen MacBook Pro Despite a relatively minor speed bump early in the year, Apple may still have a huge update planned for the MacBook Pro in the second half of the year. Next year is the 20th anniversary of the MacBook, and Apple is reportedly planning a major celebration. Along with the M6 family of processors, Apple expected to introduce two key enhancements to at least the higher-end MacBook Pro models: An OLED touchscreen display and the first new design in five years. Learn more about the upcoming M6 MacBook Pro. The rest M5 iMac The M4 iMac was released about a year ago, but we haven’t gotten any reports about a 2026 update to the iconic all-in-one desktop Mac. Apple may have the iMac on a longer upgrade cycle, so an upgrade may not happen until the M6 is available. Depending on the timing, an M6 model could arrive in late 2026 or early 2027. When it comes to the iMac in 2026, the rumor mill is dry.Foundry We’ll probably start hearing rumors around WWDC time, but if you’re thinking about buying an iMac, the current M4 model is a great buy. Its M4 chip is speedy, it comes with 16GB of RAM, a 12MP Center Stage camera, and a Nano-texture glass option. M5/M5 Pro Mac mini According to reports by Gurman, the M5 and M5 Pro Mac mini are on Apple’s release schedule for 2026. Since the M6 is expected in the second half of 2026, the M5 Mac mini will probably be released in the first half of the year. The Mac mini will get an upgrade to the M5 and M5 Pro in 2026. Simon Jary / Foundry The current M4 Mac mini, which features the smallest footprint of any Mac, was released a year ago. Apple is unlikely to change the design that was only just introduced last fall, so the chip will basically be all that’s new. Learn more about the M5 Mac mini. M5 Ultra Mac Pro Gurman reported that Apple “has largely written off” the Mac Pro and believes that the Mac Studio addresses the needs of users who need workstation performance. It’s still running an M2 Ultra processor, and if it doesn’t get a 2026 or early 2027 update, we’ll be watching and waiting for when it disappears from Apple’s lineup. The Mac Pro appears to be on its last legs.Foundry

Macworld Which iPad Is Right for You? Choosing the best iPad in 2026 depends on how you’ll use it. If you want a powerful tablet for creative apps and pro workflows, an iPad Pro model delivers the most performance. If you want a balanced mix of speed and price for everyday tasks, the iPad Air is a great choice. For a compact, travel-friendly option, the iPad mini shines, and the standard iPad offers solid performance at the lowest price point. Which iPad should you buy? There are a lot of choices and it can be confusing. There are four different varieties of iPad, listed below, and each is available with or without 5G cellular, which costs extra and requires a data plan. That’s before we get into storage capacity, colors, and second-hand alternatives. Our in-depth buying guide assesses the whole range of iPads sold by Apple and explores all the factors that should influence your iPad buying decision such as value for money, how much storage you need, which size will be best for you, and whether or not to buy a cellular version. We also reveal whether an updated version of each device is likely to be launched soon–answering the question of whether now is a good time to buy an iPad. Best iPad to buy in 2025 The iPad that is best for you will depend on what you need from an iPad. If you just want an iPad for reading books, watching movies and TV shows, email, and web browsing – or for kids who will just be watching Bluey – then you don’t need all the bells and whistles. An iPad or iPad mini might be best here. If you are looking for an iPad that will do everything that a laptop can, then you might want to consider a model that is more powerful and supports additional components, such as one of Apple’s iPad keyboards or the Apple Pencil, the iPad Air might suit you. And if you will be using your iPad for gaming, video editing, photo editing, or anything high-powered and graphic intensive, then you should probably look at an iPad Pro. However, it isn’t as simple as that, as you will see if you read on. Below we will run through every iPad you can buy right now, so you can find the one that’s best for your needs. For each iPad we record the essential information, its pros and cons, which buyer should pick it, and whether now is a good time to buy. Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3, 2025): Best iPad for business users Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Since March 2025 the 11-inch iPad Air has an M3 processor that is powerful and energy-efficient (you may remember it from its widely praised performance in the Mac). The M3 pushes the iPad Air far ahead of the iPad mini and standard iPads with their A-series chips. The M3 also makes the Air an appealing alternative to the more expensive iPad Pro models, with their faster M4 processors. Like all recent iPads, the Air features an all-screen design with no Home button. As with the standard iPad and the iPad mini, biometric security is handled by a fingerprint sensor in the power button rather than Face ID, which is reserved for the Pros. It has superb cameras (the front-facing 12MP camera and Center Stage), supports a wide range of Pro accessories, and now features 5G. Pros: Beautiful design. Superb processing and graphics power. Cheaper than the iPad Pro. Cons: Screen doesn’t feature ProMotion. Who is the iPad Air best for: Tablet gamers and anyone who wants to be able to run the most demanding apps now and in the future. Pro users (business, creative, design) who can’t afford an iPad Pro. Is now a good time to buy? Absolutely. It was updated in March of 2025 and will be around for a while. But would the iPad Pro be better? Read: iPad Air vs iPad Pro, or look below. Read our full Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3, 2025) review Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, 2024): Best iPad for kids and portability Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $399 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket This generation of iPad mini launched in October 2024 and is available in four colors: Blue, Purple, Space Gray, and Starlight. The biggest draw of the iPad mini is probably its diminutive stature; with its 8.3-inch display it’s Apple’s smallest iPad. It’s perfect for carrying around in a bag or handing to children when they need entertainment. It might be small, but it is actually more powerful than the standard iPad thanks to its A17 Pro processor, which is a few generations newer than the A14 in the 10th gen iPad and supports Apple Intelligence. You also get a Liquid Retina screen, and 12MP/12MP rear/front cameras. Pros: Very portable and respectably powerful. The cheapest version now has a decent amount of storage (128GB, previously only 64GB). Supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) or Apple Pencil Pro. Cons: Small screen, which may not be great for those who get eyestrain or who like immersive films and games. Who is the iPad mini best for: The portability-conscious. Gamers on the go. Tablet photographers. Ebook readers. Kids. Is now a good time to buy? The iPad mini (A17 Pro) was released in October 2024 and an update isn’t expected until mid to late 2026. You’ll likely find it for a little bit lower than Apple’s MSRP at third-party retailers. Read our full Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) review Apple iPad (A16, 2025): Best budget iPad Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $299 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The 2025 iPad (A16) is the cheapest iPad at just $349/£329. It offers a lot of features for the price and it’s available in an assortment of fun colors. It has a 11-inch screen, a USB-C connector, and supports the Apple Pencil 1 or the Apple Pencil (USB). It’s also capable of 5G. Pros: Good price especially now it starts with 128GB storage. Cons: Apple picked an A16 chip for this iPad despite the A16 not supporting Apple Intelligence. This is likely to mean it will missing out on features. Still feels cheap due to the unlaminated screen (will Apple ever update this?). Not as thin and light as the iPad Air, or the iPad Pro for that matter. Who is iPad A16 best for: Anyone who needs a big screen (not a huge screen; they’ll want the 13-inch iPad Air (or iPad Pro) but is on a budget, and can cope without the latest in processing. It’s a good option for anyone who likes the look of the iPad Air, but not the price. Is now a good time to buy? Apple is unlikely to update this model until mid to late 2026. If you can wait until then we recommend you do though, because the A16 iPad doesn’t support Apple Intelligence features. If you want the cheapest iPad it’s a good deal, but it might be better to pay a little more for the iPad Air if you can afford to. Read our full Apple iPad (A16) review Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3, 2025): Best value big screen iPad Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $699

Macworld TL;DR: A like-new, Grade A refurbished MacBook Pro (2020) packed with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD is on sale for $399.97—an unbeatable new-year upgrade. You don’t have to wait any longer for the right moment to upgrade your laptop because this one is it. A near-mint Apple MacBook Pro (2020) is now just $399.97 (MSRP $1,580)—and at this price, it won’t linger in stock for long. This deal is ideal for anyone kicking off the year with bigger goals, tighter workflows, or a desire to stop battling the spinning beachball of doom. The 2020 MacBook Pro delivers the speed and reliability Apple users expect, thanks to a 10th-gen Intel Core i5 processor, a generous 16GB of RAM, and a fast 512GB SSD. The 13.3″ Retina display with True Tone is a win for designers, students, coders, and anyone who spends long hours staring at a screen. And with the Magic Keyboard, Touch Bar shortcuts, Touch ID, and four Thunderbolt 3 ports, it’s fully stacked for modern workflows—whether you’re editing video, running a bunch of apps, or juggling countless browser tabs. Plus, being Grade A refurbished, it arrives in near-mint condition with little to no visible wear. If you want a premium MacBook experience without the premium price, this is the steal of the season. Get this like-new Apple MacBook Pro (2020) for just $399.97 (MSRP $1,580) while you still can. Apple MacBook Pro (2020) 13″ i5 2GHz Touchbar 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Space Gray (Refurbished)See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld TL;DR: A one-time $27.99 turns your phone into a full-featured document scanner and PDF editor forever—no bulky hardware required. It’s 2026. We have self-checkout everywhere, AI writing emails, and smart fridges that text you when you’re out of oat milk—yet some people still rely on a giant plastic scanner that takes up half a desk and screams when it finally boots up. The iScanner lifetime app is now just $27.99 with code FLASH through Jan 11, and lets you say goodbye to your prehistoric hardware. iScanner turns any iPhone, iPad, or Android device into a portable, professional-grade scanner. Contracts, receipts, handwritten notes, math problems, ID cards—if you can point your camera at it, iScanner can digitize it beautifully. And because it’s powered by smart AI tools, it automatically detects borders, straightens pages, fixes shadows, and can recognize text in 20+ languages. Need to sign a PDF? Mark up a form? Merge pages? Lock files behind a PIN? You can do it all right inside the app—no laptop, no printer, no overpriced cloud service needed. Students, remote workers, realtors, accountants, travelers … anyone who deals with documents will wonder how they ever lived without it. The future is mobile. Your scanner should be too. Get lifetime access to the iScanner app while it’s just $27.99 (MSRP $199.90) with code FLASH through Jan. 11. iScanner App: Lifetime SubscriptionSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld For the last several years, the iPhone line has been stuck in a rut. Incremental improvements to performance and battery life are great, but the iPhones of last year sure seem a lot like the iPhones of 2021. That started to change in 2025. In the spring, a new strategy for more affordable iPhones, with the iPhone 16e replacing the old SE line. Then in the fall, the iPhone 17 models (more incremental improvements) were joined by the first really new iPhone in years: iPhone Air. But that’s just the start: In 2026, the iPhone shakeup will really kick into gear. Here’s what Apple is planning for next year: iPhone 17e In the spring, the successor to the iPhone 16e will be the iPhone 17e (naturally). Last year, when Apple updated its budget phone line from the seldom-refreshed “iPhone SE” to a numbered release “iPhone 16e,” it signaled that the “e” model would be a yearly update, and rumors say Apple will do exactly that. The iPhone 16e’s successor might look more like the iPhone 17.David Price / Foundry The iPhone 17e is likely to be a refreshed iPhone 16e: Expect a 60Hz display and a single rear 48MP camera, with an upgrade to the A19 processor and C1X modem, and twice the starting storage (256GB). And we’re almost certain to get MagSafe support after it was oddly left off this year’s model. But there could be two possible major upgrades as well: the notch may be replaced by the Dynamic Island, and the front camera may be upgraded to the new 18MP square-sensor front camera found in the iPhone 17 line. We expect the new phone to cost the same $599 as this year’s model. Therefore, it will still be hard to recommend it over the standard iPhone 17, which starts at $799 and will still have several features not found in the 17e, including ProMotion and a second ultra-wide camera. iPhone 18 Pro In the fall, Apple will introduce the iPhone 18 Pro, accompanied by a larger Pro Max variant. Visually, they should appear very similar to the iPhone 17 Pro, with a wide camera “plateau” on the back and three rear cameras, including wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto. These are expected to have larger apertures on the telephoto cameras, while the Pro Max variant will reportedly get a mechanically-adjustable aperture on the standard Wide camera. This should help allow users to take images where both the foreground and background are sharp when in good lighting, while allowing more light for nighttime shots. The iPhone 17 Pro’s new look will likely stick around for another year.Britta O’Boyle We’ve also seen a rumor that some of the Face ID sensors will find their way under the display, which will shrink the size of the Dynamic Island area or even reduce it to a simple “punch hole” camera design. A report in December claimed that the camera will move to the left corner for the first time, which could mean the Dynamic Island disappears altogether. We also expect the iPhone 18 Pro models to use Apple’s next-generation C2 modem as well as the N1 networking chip or its successor, too. Of course, there will be a new chip next year, as there is every year, but the A20 could be a bigger boost than usual. It’s said to be using a new Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging method that will move the chip’s RAM into the SoC package itself, which could bring significant boosts in performance and battery life. iPhone Fold The iPhone 18 Pro models won’t be what everyone is talking about next year, though. According to rumors, next year will finally be when Apple actually introduces a folding iPhone. We’ve heard the iPhone Fold is coming “in a couple of years” since at least 2018, but it looks like it really will arrive in 2026. The folding iPhone is said to be a “book” style folding phone with a 5.3-5.5-inch screen when folded and a 7.7-8-inch inside display. It should be less than 10mm thick when folded, and even thinner than an iPhone Air when unfolded. Most reports say the inside display will be widescreen rather than square like other folding phones. Furthermore, Apple has reportedly solved the creasing problem and has developed a “very strong” hinge. Apple’s folding iPhone will reportedly be more widescereen that offerings from Samsung and Google.Luke Baker Expect an A20 or A20 Pro and two rear cameras: wide and ultra-wide. There should be a pair of front cameras as well: one for when the iPhone is folded up and one for when it’s open. Face ID might not be a feature of either of them, though. The compact and ultra-thin design might necessitate a switch to Touch ID in the side button, as seen on the iPad Air. Above all, expect an eye-watering price. Most rumors suggest Apple will charge over $2,000 for the iPhone Fold (or whatever it’s called), with a figure of $2,400 not unrealistic. But even with a sky-high price tag, it’s still exciting that we may finally get a look at what Apple has been working on all these years. So, be sure to check out our article on everything we know so far about the folding iPhone for the latest rumors. iPhone Air 2? Will there be another iPhone Air? The rumors are mixed. Some say Apple has cut production of this year’s Air and delayed the second-gen model, others say it’s coming in 2026, and a report from The Information in December 2025 said it would release in spring 2027. So we don’t know. The biggest question is, why doesn’t the current version have a number? If Apple intended yearly updates, why not call it iPhone 17 Air? A next-generation iPhone Air seems likely, but it’s unclear whether it will be a minor refresh with an A20 chip and some other minor improvements or a massive upgrade with a second camera, one of our biggest complaints about the current iPhone Air. If it’s the latter, it’s likely to launch in 2027. The iPhone Air 2 might have a second camera—but might not arrive until 2027.Anyron Copeman / Foundry No iPhone 18 next year! Of course, the first folding iPhone will be the big Apple news of 2026, but just as significant is the shake-up to the iPhone release schedule. If the current leaks are accurate, there will be no iPhone 18 next year. Instead, Apple will release only the Pro models, the folding iPhone, and the iPhone Air successor next fall. The iPhone 18—the “base” model most popular with consumers—won’t be released until the following year. It will presumably join the iPhone 18e for a release around March of 2027; a springtime event for those who don’t want to spend $1,000 or more on a new iPhone.

Macworld If you got some new gear for Christmas and want to keep it safe, you can two one of two things: Never leave the house or track it with an AirTag. And since you have to go to work eventually, this 4-pack of AirTags at Amazon for just $65 is your best bet. It’s not quite an all-time low, but it’s just $2 away from the best price we’ve ever seen. AirTags are easily Apple’s most underrated devices, silently keeping tabs on the things they’re traveling with. Pairing and setup are a snap with an iPhone, and they’re small enough to disappear into a pocket or purse. If you lose something, you can launch the Find My app to track it with ease. If it’s nearby, you can play a chime to locate it, and if it’s actually lost, you can use the power of Apple’s Find My network to pinpoint its location anywhere in the world. Plus, every AirTag has a replaceable battery that lasts about a year and a cute design that will look great hanging from a set of keys. Speaking of which, you’ll need a keyring holder to attach it to a zipper or keys, which just so happens to be on sale at Woot! for nearly 65 percent off. AirTags normally cost $24 each, but this sale brings them down to just $16.25. So grab a 4-pack and a couple of keyrings and never worry about losing your favorite things again.

Macworld You went out and splashed the cash on a new MacBook, you’ve completed the hallowed unboxing ritual, and you’re ready to get started with your latest fascination. What now? We’ve got a few ideas of great things you can do with your fresh new computer, from loading it up with all the best apps to making it truly yours. Before long, you’ll have the perfect setup, whatever you want to do. Get your apps in order Your fresh Mac won’t be totally bereft of apps, and Apple does a pretty good job of loading it up with most of what you might need in day-to-day life. But there’s no doubt that you can augment Apple’s selections (or replace them entirely) with a wide array of excellent alternatives. You can find apps in the App Store or on third-party websites, although if you download apps from the latter, you’ll need to open the System Settings app and go to Privacy & Security in the sidebar, then scroll to the Security section. Ensure that “Allow applications from” is set to App Store & Known Developers rather than just App Store, otherwise macOS might prevent your new apps from running. To set a default app for a file type, Control-click a file and select Other.Foundry Then in the Application window that opens, select the app you want, check the Always Open With Box, and click Open.Foundry Once you’ve got a few apps loaded onto your Mac, you might want to change your default settings–your default browser, default email app, and so on. There are a few ways to do this. To change your default browser, go to System Settings > Desktop & Dock and choose an option next to “Default web browser.” For email, open Mail and go to Mail > Settings in the menu bar, click the General tab, then pick an app next to “Default email reader.” For other apps, you’ll want to open the Finder and right-click a file that will be opened by your chosen app, then click Get Info. From here, click the arrow next to Open With, and select Other. A window of your Applications folder will open; select the app you want to use, then click Away Open With. Set up automatic updates Updating your Mac is important, not just to ensure you get all the latest features, but to keep it safely protected with relevant security patches. Enabling automatic updates is a good way to do that, both for your apps and for macOS in general. To automatically keep macOS up to speed, go to System Settings > General > Software Update. Click the “I” button next to Automatic Updates and ensure all the toggles are switched on, then click Done. You can set your Mac to automatically download and install macOS updates. Foundry For apps downloaded from the App Store, open the App Store app and click App Store > Settings in the menu bar. Now, click the checkbox next to Automatic Updates. And if you have apps not downloaded from the App Store, you might want to look at a third-party app like Updatest or MacUpdate that can scan your Mac and download and install all the updates you need. Otherwise, you’ll have to check developers’ websites individually. Learn hidden trackpad gestures Apple’s Mac trackpads are the best in the business, and they come loaded with a ton of clever gestures that help you get more done. What you might not know is that Apple has a couple of hidden gestures that aren’t enabled by default–they can make a real difference to your day. To turn them on, open System Settings and navigate to Trackpad in the sidebar. Click the More Gestures tab, then pick an option from the dropdown menu next to App Exposé. This lets you see all the open windows of whichever app you’re currently using, with everything else hidden. There are other useful gestures in this menu window, so be sure to explore to see what you might need. In macOS’s Accessibility settings, you’ll find useful options for your trackpad.Foundry There are other gestures to enable elsewhere, and one of my favorites can be found by going to System Settings > Accessibility > Pointer Control > Trackpad Options. Here, enable “Use trackpad for dragging” and pick an option from the dropdown menu. This lets you move a file by double-tapping it on your trackpad and swiping, or by using a three-finger swipe, both of which are much easier than trying to hold the trackpad down while you move something. Set up the Time Machine Use any computer long enough, and there’s a good chance that, sooner or later, we’re all going to suffer a fatal crash or lose files. When that happens, you’ll be kicking yourself if you haven’t backed up your files. Luckily, backing up your Mac is very easy to do thanks to Apple’s Time Machine app, and all you need is an external storage drive to house your documents. First, connect your storage drive. Then open System Settings and go to General > Time Machine > Add Backup Disk. Select your drive and click Set Up Disk, then follow the on-screen instructions. Now, macOS will automatically back up your Mac on a regular schedule, provided your drive is connected. That makes sure everything is safe and sound, with Time Machine ready to come to the rescue whenever required. Lock down your privacy Compared to many of its rivals, Apple does an excellent job of taking privacy and security seriously. One of the ways it does so is through Touch ID, which lets you unlock your Mac, verify purchases, and more using your fingerprint, ensuring no one else can gain access to things they shouldn’t. Touch ID buttons come equipped on many MacBooks and Magic Keyboards, including all the latest MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. You can add more fingerprints to your Touch ID profile.Foundry When you initially set up your MacBook, you are taken through the Touch ID setup with one finger. However, you can add other fingers. Just go to System Settings > Touch ID & Password. There, click Add Fingerprint, enter your Mac’s password, then place your finger on the Touch ID scanner until it is fully registered. While you’re there, you might want to check your Mac’s privacy settings in the Privacy & Security section of System Settings. This contains many options, from location services and microphone access to sensitive content warnings and per-app controls. Go through these options and make sure you’re happy with your choices. Turn on FileVault If you have a Mac with an Apple silicon chip or a T2 security chip, your computer’s data is encrypted by default. However, that data is automatically decrypted when you use your Mac and is not locked behind any kind of password, making it potentially vulnerable. That’s where FileVault comes in. With this setting enabled, you can add an extra layer of protection by requiring your Mac’s login password to be entered before any data is decrypted. If you forget your password, you can also recover access by logging in with iCloud. FileVault can be found in System Settings > Privacy & Security. Scroll down to the Security section and click FileVault. Now enable the toggle next to FileVault (note you must be using an administrator account to do this). You’ll need to choose whether to use iCloud for recovery or to create a recovery key–it’s a good idea to pick the former if you use iCloud. And just like that, you’ve strengthened your Mac’s defenses against would-be attackers. Prolong your battery’s lifespan If you own a MacBook, you’ll want to protect its battery to ensure you get as much life out of it as you can for as long as possible. One way you can do that is by adjusting a few settings on your new Mac. Open System Settings and go to Battery in the sidebar. At the top, you can enable Low Power Mode based on a couple of different scenarios (such as when you’re on a mains adapter or on battery power), and this setting reduces your Mac’s energy consumption to keep the battery level as high as possible. Next, click the “I” button next to Battery Health, then enable the toggle next to Optimized Battery Charging to guarantee that your Mac charges as safely and efficiently as possible. This involves macOS learning your charging habits so that it can finish charging beyond 80 percent when you actually need the power. The Battery settings in macOS have several ways for you to get the most out of your battery life.Foundry Finally, click Options at the bottom of the Battery section. There are a few settings here that might aid your battery life, such as ‘”Slightly dim the display on battery” and “Optimize video streaming while on battery.” Enable those if you want to eke even more out of your battery. Protect your eyes Staring at a bright screen all day and all night puts undue strain on your eyes, but macOS gives you a few tools to lessen the impact. The first can be found in System Settings > Displays: switch on the toggle next to “Automatically adjust brightness.” By doing this, you know that your Mac’s brightness will never be too bright for your surroundings–thereby protecting your eyes–and shouldn’t put undue stress on your battery, either. Night Shift is another handy tool, and it automatically tweaks your screen’s colors to provide a warmer image after dark, which in turn softens the impact on your eyes. To get started, click Night Shift at the bottom of the Displays settings. Here, you can set a custom schedule for Night Shift or use the option that turns it on at sunset and off at sunrise. There’s also a slider to adjust the color temperature of the effect. You can create fun images with Image Playground.Apple Try Apple Intelligence Apple Intelligence was meant to be a huge leap forward for Apple, but it’s safe to say that the artificial intelligence (AI) system has had a bit of a sputtering start. That’s not to say you should avoid it, though, and there are actually plenty of great Apple Intelligence features you can (and sh

Macworld Got a new Mac? If this is the first one you’ve ever owned, a hearty congratulations! Your new Mac is easy to use and more powerful than it’s ever been. As easy as the Mac is to use, doing some things may not be instantly obvious (especially if you are coming from Windows). You owe it to yourself to make sure you’re getting the most out of your new investment. Here are a few things that you should do right away that will help you get started down the path toward being a Mac power user. Most of these will cost you absolutely nothing except a bit of time to set up. We have a separate guide to how to set up your Mac, we also explain how to move everything from your old Mac to your new Mac. And if you are moving to Mac from a PC read: How to move from PC to Mac. 1. Enter your Apple Account and password Foundry There’s a good chance that even if this is your first Mac, you already use an iPhone or an iPad. Just like those other devices, your Mac wants you to enter your Apple Account and Apple Account password. Enter your Apple Account and password to connect to iCloud on your Mac when you first set it up or later through the Apple Account system settings. By connecting to iCloud with your Apple Account, you can access all your photos, contacts, calendars, and much more on all your Apple devices without ever having to physically tether or sync them. Once all your Apple devices are linked this way, you’ll also be able to take advantage of features like being able to cut and paste between devices, use a mouse and keyboard to control more than one Mac, and make purchases on the Mac App Store. Depending on whether you are an iCloud subscriber, you will also be able to sync files to the cloud, including documents and everything you save to your Desktop. Because you can access everything in iCloud on any Apple device you own, you won’t need to have your Mac handy to edit a Pages document you are working on, for example. Find out about iCloud here: How to use iCloud and What is iCloud Private Relay. To find out how much iCloud costs, read iCloud storage plans and prices. If you haven’t created an Apple Account yet, now is the time to do so. Think of your Apple Account as your keys to the kingdom. For help, read How to create an Apple ID. You can get to your Apple Account by going to System Settings and clicking Apple Account at the top. 2. Use the Help menu Foundry If you’ve ever wondered why the Mac doesn’t come with a thick owner’s manual explaining how it works and how all the apps work, wonder no more: that manual is actually built right into the computer. The Help menu is so obvious that most of us overlook it altogether. But we do so at our peril because it can be a huge help. The Help menu sits right there in the menu bar, and it’s contextual: Its contents will change depending on which app is open. Clicking on the Help menu will bring up a search field, table of contents, lists of shortcuts, and other helpful tips and step-by-step instructions, often with visual cues to show you which menus to click on and what menu items to select. Any time you get stuck in an app and don’t know what to do next, click on the Help menu to get out of a jam. 3. Get familiar with the Apple Menu Foundry The Apple menu is in the upper left corner of your Mac’s screen. Clicking on the Apple icon gives you instant access to your Mac’s System Settings, the Mac App Store, and apps and documents you’ve recently opened (see Recent Items). You can also use the Apple menu to restart your Mac and shut it down. If an app misbehaves and stops working, the Apple menu also sports a special function that’s worth knowing: Force Quit. Force quit will immediately quit a stubborn application, so you can restart your computer and get back to business. 4. Get to know Spotlight Foundry Built right into macOS, Spotlight helps you quickly find things on your computer: documents, apps, images, contacts, maps, and files. What’s more, it can connect to the internet to search places like Wikipedia, news sites, movie listings, and much more. You can even use Spotlight to do calculations, like converting feet to meters or any sort of simple arithmetic you’d rather trust to the computer. Spotlight lives on your Mac’s menu bar; it’s the icon that looks like a magnifying glass, and clicking on it brings up the Spotlight search field. You can also open Spotlight by pressing Command and Space at the same time. Type anything into the search field, and Spotlight will search for it. Once you get the hang of it, using Spotlight is the fastest way to launch apps, find documents, and do tons of other stuff on your Mac really quickly. Over the years, it’s gained more and more features, including robust web and image search, and quick actions like timers built right in. In macOS Tahoe, Spotlight offers access to your clipboard and support for running Actions from Shortcuts. Learn more. 5. Customize the Dock Apple The Dock is that bar of icons that sits at the bottom of your Mac’s screen. Docks on new Macs will be filled with Apple’s own built-in apps, like Safari, Mail, Contacts, Calendars, and Notes, but you can customize them to your liking. Your Dock is the most important part of your Mac Desktop, so spend some time getting it just the way you want. You can tailor your Dock to show you only the apps you care about. Don’t use Maps or FaceTime? Drag them out of the Dock until the word Remove appears and let go. Use Mail more than anything else? Move it over to the left or right, instead. You can also add applications, folders, and files you need frequently simply by dragging them and dropping them into the Dock. To further reduce the space taken up by the Dock you can change the size of icons. To resize the Dock, click and drag on the bar that separates applications from folders and stacks. You can also change the size of icons, change the magnification of icons as you pass your cursor over them, turn off the bouncing animation, reposition the Dock to the left, bottom or right edges of your screen, and much more in the Desktop & Dock settings (macOS Ventura and later) or Dock & Menu Bar settings (macOS Monterey and earlier). 6. Personalize the way your Mac looks Foundry This is your Mac. Make it look the way you want it to. Change the wallpaper: Right-click the desktop and select Change Wallpaper, or open System Settings and select the Wallpaper option. You can pick from the beautiful images Apple provides or choose one of your own. Customize the interface: Open System Settings and choose Appearance. You can choose things like highlight colors and whether your interface changes to light or dark depending on the time of day, and more. Change the screen saver: In System Settings > Wallpaper, click on the Screen Saver button. You can pick from tons of screen savers, including some beautiful views of the Earth from the space station, underwater video, and more. Use Desktop Stacks: If you want to keep your Mac’s desktop tidy we recommend switching on Desktop Stacks, which will group all the files on your Desktop by category (you can choose whether they are sorted by kind, date, or tags.) To switch on Stacks click on the Desktop and choose View > Use Stacks from the menu. Now everything will be slotted into category-appropriate ‘Stacks’ on your Desktop rather than your Desktop being cluttered by thousands of screenshots and files. 7. Learn keyboard shortcuts and master gestures Foundry Apple’s user interface is set up with straightforward menus such as File and Edit, and most apps expose their major features through those menus as well. Need to print something? Just click on the File menu and select Print. But you can save yourself so much time by using keyboard shortcuts to do commonly used tasks instead. Instead of clicking on the File menu and selecting Print, for example, you can just hold down the Command key and press P. (If you are coming from a PC, mostly you will press Command where you used to press Control). Each app on the Mac has its own shortcuts. Opening Mac Help and searching for “keyboard shortcuts” will yield some references, we also recommend this article: These useful Mac keyboard shortcuts will help you work faster and smarter. If your new Mac includes a trackpad—either because it’s a laptop with a built-in pad, or you scored a Magic Trackpad to go with your new desktop—take some time to learn about the many gestures built into macOS, your new Mac’s operating system. One of the simplest ways to discover the various gestures available is right in System Settings. Once there, click on Trackpad. There, you’ll find three tabs’ worth of mouse shortcuts. Move the cursor over any of them, and you’ll get a video preview of how to trigger the gesture. Some may well improve your Mac computing experience; I, for one, love the three-finger double-tap on any word to bring up its definition. 8. Visit the Mac App Store Foundry The Mac App Store is a convenient and safe way to download software for your Mac, all using the same Apple Account and password you use for Music and iPhone apps. There are thousands of apps available, including many that won’t cost you a dime. The Mac App Store is much more important than just a way to download great new apps for your Mac. It’s also how Apple distributes essential app updates. To keep your Mac running in tip-top shape and to keep everything as secure as possible, download updates when you see notifications from the Mac App Store or set apps to automatically update like on your iPhone. On a new Mac, it’s right there in your D

Macworld Which iPad is best for students Choosing the right iPad for school isn’t just about specs, it’s about what you’ll actually use it for. If you want a balance of power and portability for classwork and media, the 11-inch iPad Air is an excellent all-rounder. If you prefer something more compact and great for reading and quick notes, the iPad mini fits the bill. And if price matters most, the standard iPad (A16) delivers solid performance without breaking the bank. Preparing for student life can be exciting and stressful. To make things easier, it’s good to know that you’ve got the right tech to help you with note taking, writing essays, and so you can kick back with Netflix and games when the work is done. The iPad has evolved in recent years to something that can now act as a laptop replacement for many students, with accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil making it one of the most versatile devices you can buy.  Choosing the best iPad can be tricky though. Apple currently offers a wide range of models with different prices and features, including the M5 iPad Pro updated in October 2025, the iPad mini A17 Pro that arrived in October 2024 and the and M3 iPad Air and iPad A16 that arrived in March 2025. Can students get discounts on iPads? The good news is that, yes, students can get money off an iPad when buying from Apple’s education store in their country. Apple offers money off new iPad purchases to students in higher education all year round. The best time for students to buy a new iPad from Apple is during the summer months because Apple gives qualifying students a free gift such as a pair of AirPods or an Apple Pencil with the purchase of certain iPads and Macs. So, if you’re a student about to start higher education, take advantage of the company’s “Back To School/Uni” event which runs during the summer months (between June and September in the U.S. and Canada, from July to October in the U.K and Europe and from January to March in Australia, New Zealand and other southern hemisphere locations). Read our guide to Apple’s Back To School offer. Another bonus if you’re a student: you can get Apple Music for half price with free Apple TV+ included. How to get an iPad student discount If you are a student you can buy a discounted iPad by clicking on the link for Apple’s Education Store where you live: Apple’s U.S. Education Store Apple’s U.K. Education Store (in the U.K. you will need to verify your student status via UNiDAYS). Apple’s Canada Education Store Apple’s Australian Education Store Depending on your location you may only need to sign up with details of your student status and course and prove your identity. Some countries have less stringent checks than others. In the U.K., for example, you need to be registered with UNiDAYS in order to even see the student prices. We explain how to do this in our article How to get an Apple student discount. To qualify for a discount you need to meet Apple’s conditions. You either need to be a student in higher education, or a teacher at a teaching institution. The only way to get a discount for a child still at school is to be home educating them or to be a teacher yourself. If you can’t get a student discount that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to get money off a new iPad though. Below we recommend the best iPads for students, and you will find links to the best prices at resellers where you are, some of which may be bigger discounts than those offered by Apple. Also read our round-up of the best iPad deals. How much can students save on an iPad? Students can save as much as $100 in the U.S., £100 in the U.K., $170 in Australia, and $150 in Canada if they buy from the Apple education store. You may find more money off at a third party reseller, see the best prices in the sections below. ProductU.S.U.K.AustraliaCanadaiPad (A16) MSRP$349£329$599$499iPad (A16) Student Price$329£309$559$469iPad mini (A17 Pro) MSRP$499£499$799$679iPad mini (A17 Pro) Student Price$449£449$719$609iPad Air (11-inch, M3) MSRP$599£599$999$799iPad Air (11-inch, M3) Student Price$549£549$919$729iPad Air (13-inch, M2)MSRP$799£799$1,299$1,099iPad Air (13-inch, M2) Student Price$749£749$1,219$1,029iPad Pro (11-inch, M5) MSRP$999£999$1,699$1,399iPad Pro (11-inch, M5) Student Price$899£899$1,529$1,249iPad Pro (13-inch, M5) MSRP$1,299£1,299$2,199$1,799iPad Pro (13-inch, M5) Student Price$1,199£1,199$2,029$1,649Apple’s discounted price for students compared to the usual price. Best iPad for students We recommend the 11-inch iPad Air for students because we think it offers a good size screen, supports Apple’s AI Apple Intelligence features and is therefore better future proofed than the standard iPad. Read on to find out whether the iPad Air will be best for you or if another iPad might suit you better. 11-inch iPad Air (M3, 2025): Best all-round iPad for students Pros M3 processor Nice selection of color options Cons It’s not cheap Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The 11-inch iPad Air (M3), with its 11-inch display, modern design, low weight (462g), great cameras, hugely powerful processor, and plenty of colors to choose from, is a great choice for students. Unfortunately, it’s a bit on the pricey side for a tablet, with the current prices starting at $599/£599 ($549/£549 for students). Still, it’s cheaper than a laptop and it’s the perfect combination of power, storage and features, for a price that isn’t unreasonable. This is why we can heartily recommend for those starting out on their studies.   The biggest feature of the model introduced in 2025 is the inclusion of the M3 processor. This is the same chip that has powered several Macs. In an iPad Air, it makes the device fly.  The camera is a 12MP Wide lens (also like on the iPad Pro), which can record video up to 4K/60fps, and as with other iPads on this list, the front-facing camera is a 12MP Ultra-Wide that allows for Center Stage and is sensibly positioned on the longer side of the chassis to allow landscape views for FaceTime calls. While the 2025 iPad Air is missing some of the flagship features of the iPad Pro, such as the 120Hz ProMotion screen, TrueDepth camera, four speakers, and the powerful M4 chip, it offers more than enough for the average user. If you want to turn your iPad into a laptop you can team it with a Magic Keyboard ($299/£299), or one of the other iPad keyboards we’ve looked at. If you prefer a larger display, there is also the 13-inch iPad Air (M2) that comes with all the same specs and features. It starts at $799/£799 (or $749/£749 for students). We highly recommend the 11-inch iPad Air (M2) for students who need premium performance and the best iPad you can buy without the Pro name. Read iPad Air vs iPad Pro to find out how the iPad Air compares to the iPad Pro. How much can students save on the iPad Air? MSRP: $599 / £599 / AU$999 / CA$799Student: $549 / £549 / AU$919 / CA$729 Students save: $50 / £50 / AU$80 / CA$70 Get the best deal on a new iPad Air. Read our full Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3, 2025) review iPad mini (A17 Pro, 2024): Best for note-taking and portability Pros Small and light More storage Centre Stage for FaceTime calls Cons May feel cramped depending on your needs Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $499 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If the most important factor to you is portability there’s one iPad in particular that you might want to consider. The iPad mini, updated in October 2024 with the Ap

Macworld TL;DR: A fully functional MacBook Air for $199.97 (MSRP $999) makes the perfect backup laptop (or budget upgrade) — light, fast, and dependable. Every household needs a backup laptop—the one you grab when your main machine dies mid-deadline, when your kid leaves their Chromebook at school, or when you simply don’t feel like lugging around your expensive daily driver. And for $199.97, that backup should absolutely be a MacBook. This refurbished 13″ MacBook Air (2017) hits the sweet spot: lightweight, reliable, and powerful enough for everyday tasks without feeling outdated. With its Intel Core i5 processor, 128GB SSD, and 12-hour battery life, it handles browsing, streaming, emailing, video calls, and light productivity. Need a travel laptop? A couch laptop? A “just in case” laptop? This one checks all the boxes. The bright 13.3″ display, smooth Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth support, and classic MacBook build quality make it a pleasure to use — especially given the price. And because it ships with free delivery and a Grade A/B refurbished rating, you’re getting excellent condition hardware without the guilt of buying brand-new. Backup computers don’t need to be clunky or cheap-feeling. They can be a MacBook Air. Just grab this refurb MacBook Air for $199.97 (MSRP $999) with free shipping before everyone else realizes that. Apple MacBook Air (2017) 13″ i5 1.8GHz 8GB RAM 128GB SSD Silver (Refurbished)See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld TL;DR: Microsoft Office 2024 works for Mac or PC, and a lifetime license is now only $150. One of the only benefits to using Microsoft 365 over older versions of Office is the new AI integrations, but that just changed. You can now get recent versions of Microsoft apps without a subscription by switching to a Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business Lifetime License. This version has all the new AI integrations, but instead of paying minimum $99.99 per year, it’s only $149.97 for life (reg. $249.99). This version of Office works for Mac or PC and comes with Word Excel PowerPoint Outlook This version gives you the most recent updates for the core apps. In Word, that includes Focus Mode, which hides extra toolbars, and Smart Compose, which uses AI to suggest text as you write. PowerPoint adds built-in presentation recording with voice, video, and captions. Excel gets dynamic arrays and AI-driven data insights that can pull trends from large spreadsheets and suggest chart types. Outlook improves search and includes an updated accessibility checker that flags unclear language, formatting issues, and missing elements. If you don’t want to pay every month for software you can own, don’t miss this deal. Right now, it’s only $149.97 to get Microsoft Office 2024 for Mac or PC. Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC Lifetime LicenseSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld One of the great aspects of the Mac is that it’s just about ready to go right out of the box. Yes, macOS takes you through a few steps to set up your new machine, but after that, you can get to work. And that’s probably what most people do, only adjusting macOS settings when absolutely necessary and using whatever accessories that came with the Mac.  However, if you don’t spend some time getting to know it, you’re not taking full advantage of your Mac. From the vital points of contact such as your mouse and keyboard, to pulling the curtain of macOS’s polished exterior to adjust settings and make hidden tweaks, you’re not far from being a serious power user.  Here are five things you can do that will make your Mac experience immediately better. These range from accessories to settings and tweaks that will improve usability. You’ll also find that you’re working more efficiently, saving time, and being more productive. Ditch Apple’s accessories The only Macs that include a keyboard and mouse are the iMac and Mac Pro. Regardless of what Mac you are buying, when you buy directly from Apple, the only choices you have are Apple’s own Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard. The Magic Mouse looks nice, but you can find a third-party mouse that’s more useful.Thiago Trevisan The Magic Mouse itself has a series of unfortunate attributes that make it less than ideal. Its charging port is on the bottom so you can’t use it while it charges. Furthermore, it is not the best ergonomically or most responsive technically. It lags and other quirky behaviors can often be experienced.  You’re better off going with a third-party mouse. (See our reviews of the best mouse for Macs). A popular favorite is the Logitech MX Master 3S, which comes in both grey and white. It works via Bluetooth, but the wireless USB dongle offers better connectivity (if you can spare a USB port). Keep in mind the Mac-branded version does not include this dongle, so look for the PC version that does. It works perfectly fine on a Mac since it is the same mouse.  The world of mice is vast, and you’ll find plenty of other options. Mice meant for gaming often work wonderfully on the Mac and have terrific ergonomics. They are often fine-tuned for precision, tactility, and responsiveness. Some, such as Logitech, even offer software for the Mac so that you can configure your mouse as you’d like.  Some brands, like Razer, work out of the box but don’t allow further tweaking since they do not offer Mac software for customization. Third-party apps, such as Mac Mouse Fix, can help you regain some of that control. Mapping key buttons such as back, forward, and even Mission Control can make for a more fluid workflow. We also have some tips on getting the most out of the second button on a mouse. Don’t limit yourself to the Magic Mouse.Thiago Trevisan If you are a MacBook Pro user and love the trackpad, consider picking up a Magic Trackpad for desktop use. You can even use it alongside any mouse. Video editors often use both to maximize the flexibility of mouse accuracy and the scrolling capabilities of the Magic Trackpad.  Keyboards are a similar story to mice–choice is abundant; see our favorite best Mac keyboards. Apple’s Magic Keyboard has Touch ID and works seamlessly with the Mac, but its shallow typing touch is lacking. You give up some convenience with third-party keyboards, but you gain a more satisfying typing experience.  Mechanical keyboards have been all the rage lately, and many work wonderfully with the Mac. The Keychron Q5 Max, for example, offers Mac keys, Bluetooth, and a buttery smooth tactile feel. Glorious offers products such as the GMMK Pro, which has Mac keys and a customizable experience. Logitech also makes the MX Keys S for the Mac, which pairs nicely with its MX 3S mouse. Many keyboards will have a toggle switch to go from PC to Mac, for keys to function as you’d expect. For more options, check out our roundup of the Best Mac keyboards we’ve reviewed. Other accessories to jazz up your setup include a good pair of speakers. While some displays will have them built-in, separate external speakers offer a much better audio experience. The Harman Kardon Sound Sticks, famously designed by Jony Ive, are still around and sound great. The Creative Pebble X can upgrade your sound without much wire clutter.  Mechanical keyboards like the Keychron Q5 Max are popular.Thiago Trevisan Add a second display The MacBook Pro has a gorgeous Retina display, but it still tops out at only 16 inches. An iMac is 24 inches, but in a production workflow, the screen can feel restrictive. A larger display or multiple displays can significantly improve your workflow.  The Apple Studio Display pairs wonderfully with the Mac and slots in significantly cheaper than the Apple Pro Display XDR. It also adds the capability to both charge the MacBook and connect the display via a single Thunderbolt cable. The Apple Studio Display has an excellent speaker system, and with its built-in camera, it can also minimize the number of devices that you’d need for a teleconferencing setup.  If you are thinking about getting a display, it doesn’t have to be one by Apple. Macs can support high-refresh-rate monitors at 4K and even 6K resolutions at 60Hz. The increased resolution alone of some options can be beneficial to your workflow, opening more on-screen pixels for your desktop.  If going from a 16-inch to, say, a 27-inch display isn’t enough to turbocharge your workflow, consider upping the monitor count. With a two-monitor setup, the main display can serve the function of activities that you need to do directly. This will be writing, browsing the web, working with Final Cut Pro, etc. The second monitor can serve the purpose of displaying more static information that is accessible via a simple glance. An ultrawide display is a good alternative to having two displays, but it may not support higher resolutions.Thiago Trevisan I like to use a second monitor for Mail or Messages, so I can quickly look at incoming messages. A third screen opens up even more possibilities–the third display can serve as another static place for stuff you reference throughout the day. It can also be where you can keep Finder open to move files around all screens, or even have a video playing without needing to minimize other apps. The Mac can also support an ultrawide display–some of which come with USB-C charging for your MacBook.  If you want to add additional monitors, you need to understand how many your Mac can support. We have a guide to connecting two or more external displays on M-series Macs, but the gist is that the more powerful the chip in your Mac, the more displays it can handle. Read our round-up of the Best Mac monitors we’ve reviewed.  If you don’t have the space or budget for multiple monitors, there are other workarounds, too. MacBook Air and Pro users can use their lap as a second monitor when connected to an external display. The iPad Pro can also serve as a second display, with continuity making the experience seamless. Continuity works across all your Apple devices, such as iPhone, Watch, and iPad. You can even use your iPhone as a webcam for video conferencing.  Universal control allows you to use the same mouse and keyboard directly on your Mac and iPad simultaneously, doubling its utility as a second screen.  Got an iPad Pro? Use it as an additional Mac display.Thiago Trevisan Unleash the hidden power tools in macOS  Becoming a Mac power user also means making the most out of macOS. Apple builds tremendous tools within the Mac operating system to make your workflow easier and faster.  The simplest keyboard shortcuts can make your everyday tasks move gracefully. For example, pressing Command+Space Bar quickly brings up Spotlight Search. A Mission Control shortcut can be mapped either to your keyboard or a button on your mouse. It is by far the easiest way to move around macOS with many apps open.  You can add lots of widgets to personalize and enhance your desktop.Foundry Widgets, especially when paired with large or multiple screens, can keep information handy for when you need it. Everything from stocks and news to the weather can be customized to save you time opening apps. For example, a widget displaying the battery status of a connected Apple device can be a huge help–your AirPods may need a charge, for example. It is an easy way to have one less surprise throughout your day.  Hiding your Dock can also be a clever way to free up screen space. If using multiple screens, simply hovering near the bottom of the screen with the mouse pointer will move the dock to that monitor. You can also automatically show and hide the Dock by going to your Mac’s settings under Desktop & Dock.  Expand your storage options At the most affordable standard configurations, Macs typically come with stingy internal storage sizes. You may need to fork up more dough for pricy upgrades. However, you can use the Mac’s Thunderbolt/USB-C ports to connect an external storage device. With a MacBook, you’ll want to use the external drives for files you don’t necessarily need all the time, unless you’re going to use a portable external drive and will carry it along with your Mac. Read: Best external SSD for Mac and Best Hard Drive for Mac. You can also use an external drive with Time Machine, macOS’s utility that can perform automatic backups of your Mac. If you do need to recover a file, it is easy to go back to a certain date, find it, and recover the file. Time Machine is handy if you work with large files that are too bulky for frequent cloud backups, such as video files. (There are other Mac backup options in our round-up of the Best software to backup your Mac). Managing external drive

Macworld Cables are pretty boring. They come in different lengths and a variety of colors, but for the most part, people just buy the cheapest they can find. But not all cables are created equal. The king of cables is Thunderbolt, offering at least 40Gbps transfer speeds. All Apple silicon Macs support at least Thunderbolt 3, with the M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro, M4 Pro Mac mini, and the latest Mac Studio delivering 240W fast charging and data speeds up to 120Gbps with Thunderbolt 5. Compare that to the average USB-C cable’s 60W and 480Mbps. Thunderbolt 5 cables are so high-end, in fact, that they’re only available in one color option, black. In fact, while some early Thunderbolt cables were available in white, most Thunderbolt 4 and all Thunderbolt 5 cables made over the past 5 years have only been available in black, even the ones made by Apple. But CalDigit is on a mission to change that. The same company that makes the TS5 Plus—Macworld’s favorite do-it-all Thunderbolt 5 docking station—has launched the first-ever white Thunderbolt 5 cable. Much like its white Thunderbolt 4 cable, the CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 (USB‑C) Pro Cable is available exclusively through the Apple Store for $30 in a braided white design that’s 0.5m (19.7 inches) long and weighs 0.9oz (26g). The cable comes with a two-year warranty, and CalDigit boasts that it can withstand 20,000 bends. CalDigit has made the first Thudnerbolt 5 cable in white.CalDigit Black might still be the better option CalDigit is also selling its Thunderbolt 5 (USB‑C) Pro Cable in standard black, in lengths of 0.5m ($29.95) and 1m ($59.99), with a 2m version expected in 2026. All versions of the cable are designed to work with iPhones, even through a protective case, unlike most existing Thunderbolt cables. They are compatible with MacBooks & iPads (Thunderbolt or USB-C) plus USB-C iPhones (iPhone 15 and later), and backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and 4, as well as USB4 and USB-C. The cable supports Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 v2 transfers speeds up to 120Gbps with Bandwidth Boost, or bidirectional 80Gbps, plus 240W of power delivery. It supports 8K displays resolution and 64Gbps PCIe technology with speeds up to 6,200MBps. It’s a great fit for a Mac Thunderbolt dock. Find more of the best Thunderbolt 5 cables in our extensive roundup. Thunderbolt 5 (USB‑C) Pro Cable (white) CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 (USB‑C) Pro Cable (White)

Macworld If you’ve got a few Amazon gift cards burning a hole in your drawer, this iPad deal will help you get the most bang for your buck: Amazon is selling the 13-inch blue M3 iPad Air with 5G and 128GB of storage for less than $780, a savings of $170, and the best price we’ve ever seen for this generation. In fact, it’s $20 cheaper than Apple charges for the same model without cellular. The M3 iPad Air is the closest you can get to the iPad Pro without spending more than four figures. It’s the only other iPad with a 13-inch screen and an M-series processor, and it’s ready for everything you want to throw at it, from lounging around and watching videos to creating movies with Final Cut or drawing with the Apple Pencil Po (also on sale for $35 off). In our iPad preview for 2026, we noted that we don’t expect the iPad Air to get much more than a chip refresh, so you don’t need to worry about regretting your purchase in a few months. So go save a bundle right now on this iPad Air before the price shoots back up.

Macworld Apple’s smart home efforts have generally lagged behind its rivals. While Amazon and Google have been putting out all sorts of smart doorbells, speakers, and home hubs, the iPhone maker has long limited its ambitions to its multi-functional line of Apple TVs and HomePods. This approach could finally change next year. In 2026, Apple is expected to expand its smart home footprint by releasing several new devices aimed at the smart home, including at least two entirely new device categories. Curious what’s coming? Here’s an overview of every Apple smart home product expected to debut in the year ahead. HomePad home hub Arguably, Apple’s most exciting smart home device in 2026 will be the rumored home hub, dubbed HomePad. For those unfamiliar, Apple has reportedly long been working on an iPad-like device that doubles as a home hub for your connected HomeKit, Matter, and Thread accessories. While iPads once functioned as Apple Home hubs, the HomePad’s utility will likely expand beyond basic accessory controls. Reports suggest that the HomePad will pack a 7-inch square touchscreen and the iPhone 16’s A18 processor. This would enable the device to handle Apple Intelligence features, including the context-aware Siri that should launch in the spring. Another standout feature could be an advanced, never-before-seen variant of the TrueDepth camera with support for multiuser facial recognition. Apple’s HomePad will reportedly merge an iPad with a HomePod to create a completely new device.Foundry If the leaks materialize, the 1080p ultra-wide camera will be able to identify users in the room and curate the displayed content dynamically. Siri on HomePod can already recognize different users’ voices, so a visual implementation of this feature would be the next logical step for Apple Home. Unsurprisingly, the bundled lens will also work with FaceTime, letting household members make and receive calls even when their iPhones aren’t around. Given that the HomePad will probably rely heavily on the new Siri’s voice commands, Apple may coordinate their release, which means it could arrive alongside iOS 26.4 in March or April. Security camera Along with the hub, Apple is also reportedly working on some smart home accessories, including at least one that could arrive in 2026: a HomeKit-enabled security camera. Like HomePods, the accessory will reportedly monitor the audio in your house and notify you when it detects fire alarms. Not much else is known about this peripheral, beyond the inclusion of multiple sensors and its ability to take photos. Apple Home already supports HomeKit security cameras, with iCloud+ even offering specialized perks for these third-party devices. The number of cameras you can use with the HomeKit Secure Video feature depends on your iCloud+ tier, with the 50GB, 200GB, and 2TB plans unlocking one, five, and unlimited camera slots, respectively. Perhaps the best part about this implementation is that you can store recorded footage in the cloud without it counting against your iCloud storage quota. Apple may be looking to release its first smart home accessory in 2026.Foundry Other neat tools include the ability to detect people, pets, and cars using the home hub’s on-device smarts, sharing the live stream with other users, and viewing ten days of activity right from the Home app.  It’s safe to assume that Apple’s rumored security cameras will support all of these existing perks and much more. After all, Apple tends to favor its devices and gives them exclusive advantages to entice customers to use its own products.  HomePod mini 2 Turning to more modest but still welcome updates, the second-gen HomePod mini could debut in early 2026. Beyond introducing new color options, the first-generation model hasn’t seen any meaningful upgrades since its initial 2020 launch. Despite the five-year gap, the HomePod mini 2 is unfortunately not expected to feature any groundbreaking changes. Perhaps the most noticeable boost will be the inclusion of the latest Apple Watch S10 chip. This would allow the small smart speaker to potentially support more advanced features launching with future firmware versions. Given the S10 chip’s constraints in the Apple Watch, however, it’s unclear whether the HomePod mini 2 will support Apple Intelligence, including the more advanced features of Siri 2.0. Will the HomePod mini finally get an update in 2026?Foundry Elsewhere, the HomePod mini 2 will likely pack Apple’s custom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, contributing to higher efficiency and smoother interoperability with other Apple devices. The speaker may also adopt the U2 ultra-wideband chip, which would increase the precision of spatially-aware features, such as Handoff with iPhone. Moving on to the most innovative aspect of the HomePod mini 2, the petite player could feature refreshed colorways to distinguish it from the current-gen model. Apple TV 4K 4 In a similar fashion, the Apple TV 4K could see a minor upgrade early next year, primarily revolving around a processing push. The fourth-generation model could boast the iPhone 15 Pro’s A17 Pro chipset, possibly unlocking some AI features on the large screen. It could also bring support for higher-end AAA games, given how powerful that processor is.  Like the HomePod mini 2, the Apple TV 4K 4 is also rumored to adopt the company’s in-house chip for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for an elevated connectivity experience. The set-top box could potentially see a price drop, too, to better compete against Amazon Fire TV and Google TV.

Macworld When you set up a new iPhone, iOS prompts you about some preferences for customizing certain things, such as the theme, access to location services, and Siri. Still, there are a lot of hidden features in iOS that many users don’t even know about—even those who have been using iPhones for a long time. Whether you’re setting up a brand new iPhone or have just restored yours, read on as we detail which settings you may want to change on your device to get the most out of it. Give your iPhone a name Did you know that your iPhone has its own name? It appears not only in the list of devices logged into your iCloud account, but is also visible to other people when you AirDrop to them. Changing the name of your iPhone to something more personal than “iPhone 17 Pro” is a good way to start after setting up your new device. To do this, go to Settings > General > About and tap Name. You can type whatever you want. Just keep in mind that other people will see the name you choose if you leave AirDrop turned on, so keep it clean. Make your iPhone yours by giving it a personal name.Foundry Limit Background App Refresh By default, iOS apps can keep their content updated in the background, even when you’re not using the app. This allows apps to be ready with the latest content available when you open them. However, keeping this feature turned on can drain your battery faster. Revisiting this setting is a good way to ensure that your iPhone won’t drain your battery or waste your cellular data plan if you don’t want it to. Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and tap Background App Refresh at the top of the list. You can choose from three options: Off: Turn off background updates completely (you will still receive notifications from your apps). Wi-Fi: Your apps will download new content only when your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network. Wi-Fi & Cellular Data: Your apps will download new content regardless of whether you’re connected to Wi-Fi or 5G. If you opt to keep this feature enabled, you can also limit it to specific apps. All you have to do is disable the apps that you don’t want to allow to download content in the background. Switch between light and dark modes automatically During iPhone setup, you can customize things such as text size and whether you want to use your iPhone in light or dark mode. However, there are many more options available when it comes to display settings, and revisiting them can make your experience better and more comfortable. You can set a schedule for when your iPhone switches to dark mode.Foundry For instance, your iPhone can automatically switch between light and dark mode. To do this, go to Settings > Display & Brightness and tap Options under the Appearance section. You can choose between “Sunset to Sunrise,” which will automatically select the best time of day for each theme, or set a custom schedule. Make Liquid Glass more opaque In the same Display & Brightness menu, you’ll also find a “Liquid Glass” option. By default, iOS 26 comes with Clear mode enabled, which makes the entire interface appear more transparent. Choose “Tinted” for a more opaque look with better contrast. Please note that this option is available on iOS 26.1 or later. So if you don’t see it on your iPhone, make sure to update it to the latest version of iOS. If you don’t love Liquid Glass, you can tone it down with the “Tinted” option.Foundry Turn on Always On (or not) Some iPhone models feature Always On Display, which keeps the display on and shows information even after you lock the screen. If you don’t like this mode or just want to turn it off to save some battery life, here’s how to do it. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and tap Always On Display. Here you can either customize how Always On Display works or turn it off completely. For instance, you can choose to turn off the wallpaper and keep only the clock in Always On mode. There’s also an option to show or hide notifications. If you don’t want Always On Display at all, just switch off the main toggle. Turning it off will make your screen go completely black when you lock your phone, just like in the old days. Not seeing the option? Always On Display was only available on Pro models starting with iPhone 14 Pro. However, all iPhone 17 models support the feature, including the base model and the iPhone Air. Save your eyes at night Here’s another hidden feature you’ll find in the Display & Brightness settings: Night Shift. Introduced with iOS 9, this feature essentially reduces the blue light from your display, making it appear warmer. The idea is to make the screen more comfortable for your eyes, especially at night. You can manually enable Night Shift from sunset to sunrise or set a custom schedule. There’s also a slider to adjust the intensity of the effect on the screen. Enable pro camera features If you want to take advantage of everything your iPhone has to offer when it comes to the camera, it’s definitely worth checking out the Camera section in the Settings app. Even if you don’t have an iPhone 17 Pro, there are lots of professional camera settings at your fingertips.Foundry By default, the iPhone is set to record 1080p videos. You can change the default resolution to 4K in the “Record Video” menu. There, you can also disable HDR video if you want. If you have an iPhone 12 Pro or later, you can also enable ProRAW under the “Formats” menu. After enabling ProRAW, you’ll see a button to turn it on or off in the Camera app when taking photos. You can also take a look at the “Composition” section in the Camera settings. Personally, I like to enable “Grid and Level” to help me take better photos. Disable Control Center on the Lock Screen Control Center on iOS lets users quickly access some useful settings, such as managing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, changing the volume, enabling Do Not Disturb, or even turning AirDrop on or off.  You can access Control Center from anywhere by swiping down from the top right corner of the screen. This works not only from the Home Screen or apps, but also from the Lock Screen. You can limit access to the Control Center in Settings.Foundry However, this also means that anyone who gets their hands on your phone can change settings in Control Center, but there’s a way to change that. First, go to Settings > Face ID. Scroll down until you find Allow Access When Locked. Then, turn off the “Control Center” option. You can also turn off other options to prevent them from being accessed from the Lock Screen, giving you more privacy and security. After turning them off, you can only access Control Center or other features from the Lock Screen after authenticating with Face ID. You’ll find extra levels of security if you dig through the Face ID settings.Foundry Turn on Stolen Device Protection Introduced in iOS 17, Stolen Device Protection adds an extra layer of security to your iPhone if it’s ever stolen, especially if someone also knows your passcode. When enabled, sensitive actions such as changing your Apple ID password, turning off Find My, or accessing saved passwords require Face ID or Touch ID, with no fallback to the passcode. In unfamiliar locations, iOS may also enforce a security delay before allowing these changes. To turn it on, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Stolen Device Protection and enable the feature. This is one of those settings you hope you’ll never need. But if your iPhone is lost or stolen, having it enabled can make a huge difference. Set up an Emergency Contact Setting up an emergency contact ensures that first responders, or anyone trying to help, can reach someone you trust if something happens to you. An Emergency Contact is a set-it-and-forget it feature that could save your life.Foundry Emergency contacts are accessible directly from the Lock Screen without unlocking the iPhone, and they’re also used by features like Emergency SOS and Medical ID. To add an Emergency Contact, open the Health app, tap your profile picture, then go to Medical ID > Edit. From there, you can add one or more emergency contacts and include other useful information such as allergies, medications, or medical conditions. It only takes a minute to set up, but it can be invaluable in a real emergency. Now you’re ready to get the most out of your iPhone Now that you know which settings are worth revisiting, you can make sure your iPhone is configured the right way from the start. A few thoughtful changes can improve everything from battery life and security to how comfortable your iPhone is to use throughout the day.

Macworld How to choose your iPhone in 2026 Before you jump into the specific iPhone models, think about what matters most to you: battery life for all-day use, camera quality for photos and video, screen size for media or gaming, and how much you’re willing to spend. These simple priorities will help narrow down whether you should choose a Pro model, a middle option like the standard iPhone 17, a lightweight iPhone Air, or a more budget-friendly choice. Deciding which iPhone to buy has always been tricky and no doubt you have many questions. Which screen size is best for you, and how much storage do you need? Should you save money by selecting an older model, or should you splash out on the latest iPhone? Which iPhone is the best compromise between specs and value for money? In this article, we talk you through each of the phones currently available from Apple, to help you decide which is best for you. We discuss iPhone prices, specs and features, paying particular attention to the cameras, screens and durability, and how the design of each handset differs, so you should leave feeling much more confident about which iPhone you should get. For more help with your choice see our full reviews of the latest iPhones (linked below) and our Best iPhone comparison chart where we compare all the new iPhones with the iPhones still being sold by Apple. Best iPhone 2026 For most people, Apple’s standard iPhone offers the best mix of performance, battery life, and price… but Pro models make sense if you care about photography or video. In terms of power and features, the ‘best’ iPhone is either the iPhone 17 Pro or 17 Pro Max, but these iPhoned aren’t necessarily the best for you due to their high price tag. Luckily there is a perfect iPhone for everyone, with each model offering the perfect compromise of features to price. For 2026 we think that the iPhone 17 is a good all-rounder thanks to the new features that bring it closer than ever to the pro models. Here is a quick-at-a-glance comparison of all the iPhones Apple currently sells, from the ultimate iPhone to the cheapest iPhone you can buy right now. Below this section you can read more about how each iPhone compares in terms of camera, battery life, screen, cost, and other important factors. 1. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max – Best battery life iPhone Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The iPhone 17 Pro Max is really just a larger iPhone 17 Pro. In past years, the Pro Max version would have some distinguishing feature (like better telephoto camera) but that hasn’t been the case for a few years. This means that, as with the iPhone 17 Pro, the three rear cameras have all been upgraded to 48MP. As with all of the iPhones 17 generation, the front facing FaceTime camera is now 18MP and supports Dual Capture, so you can film your reaction to what you are recording with the rear camera. The new design for 2025 improves thermal efficiency. The distinguishing features of the iPhone 17 Pro Max are better battery life thanks to its larger battery, and the large 6.9-inch screen. Read our full Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review 2. Apple iPhone 17 Pro – Best iPhone for photos Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The iPhone 17 Pro, like it’s bigger sibling, has been upgraded to improve thermal efficiency and now has an aluminium design (unlike the predecessor which was titanium). The color choices this time round are Deep Blue, Silver and the eye-catching Cosmic Orange. It offers slightly better performance and battery life than the standard iPhone 17. But the big difference between the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 is the photo and video capabilities. The 17 Pro (and Pro Max) support up to 8x zoom and each of the three rear cameras features a new 48-megapixel sensor (in 2024 the main and ultra wide lens did, but not the telephoto). The iPhone 17 Pro also supports high-end formats like ProRAW, HLG video, and video recording at up to 4K and 120fps. Read our full Apple iPhone 17 Pro review 3. Apple iPhone 17 – The best iPhone for most people Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The iPhone 17 is quite a big improvement on the iPhone 16, and closes the gap between the pro and non pro models more than ever because it offers a Pro Motion, Always-On screen. The iPhone 17 also has a bigger display at 6.3-inches, up from 6.1-inches on the iPhone 16. This means that the screen size now matches that of the iPhone 17 Pro again. Other big improvements for this generation include two 48MP cameras on the rear and a new 18MP camera on the front (shared by the other new iPhones that arrived in late 2025). One of the best things about the iPhone 17 is the fact that the entry-level model costs the same as the iPhone 16 did, but offers twice as much storage, so it’s effectively a discount on 2024’s price. Read our full Apple iPhone 17 review 4. Apple iPhone Air – Lightest iPhone Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The iPhone Air is a brand new format for the iPhone and the thinnest iPhone ever at just 5.64mm thick. If you want a slim iPhone then it’s the one for you. The frame is made out of titanium because it’s durable and tough, which is necessary for such a thin product. The other difference between the iPhone Air and the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro is the screen size, which is a larger 6.5-inches compared to their 6.3-inch screens. If you want a big screen and can’t afford the iPhone 17 Pro Max (with a 6.9-inch screen) then the iPad Air is the best option. There is only one camera on the rear, like the iPhone 16e, but, like the other iPhones arriving in late 2025, it offers 48MP. The front camera is 18MP and shares the features of the other late 2025 iPhones. Like the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max the iPhone Air features the A19 Pro chip, which is probably over kill for a phone like this, but will at least future-proof it. Read our full Apple iPhone Air (2025) review 5. Apple iPhone 16e – Best budget iPhone Best Prices Today: Retailer Price

Macworld TL;DR: Windows 11 Pro is just $9.97 (MSRP $199) for a limited time — upgrade your aging computer with a modern interface, improved performance, and advanced security for under $10. Let’s get something straight: A sluggish computer doesn’t mean you need to shell out for a new one. Sure, the thrill of unboxing fresh tech is real, but in this economy, stretching the life of the hardware you already own is the smarter play. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into an aging machine is upgrading the operating system — and right now, you can grab Windows 11 Pro for just $9.97. Maximize your computer’s functionality by adding Windows 11 Pro into the mix to get the best of both worlds. Windows 11 Pro features a seamless interface that helps increase productivity while being visually pleasing. Plus, you get access to a world of advanced security like biometric login, Smart App Control, and advanced antivirus defenses. Get the most out of gaming with DirectX 12 Ultimate graphics that allow you to play the game the way it was intended: with rich visuals and realistic graphics. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro is a great way to enhance your operating system for just $9.97. Regularly $199, you don’t want to miss this deal. Microsoft Windows 11 ProSee Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

Macworld Which iPhone Is Best for You? Choosing the right iPhone in 2026 comes down to what you actually use your phone for. If you want the best camera performance and biggest screen, an iPhone 17 Pro model will deliver the most capable experience. For the biggest screen the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the one to choose. If you prefer one-handed use and portability, the smaller iPhone Air might be ideal. And if you want excellent performance without premium pricing, the standard iPhone 17 strikes a strong balance of features. Picking out an iPhone used to be easier—just get the newest one with all the storage you can afford. We still recommend buying as much storage as you can afford, but the choice of which iPhone isn’t quite so simple. The best iPhone depends on your own personal preferences, so it’s not necessarily the case that the number one iPhone is the one you should buy. This group test compares all the iPhones Apple sells, so it will give you a good idea of which iPhone will suit you and your budget, and whether you can save money, or if it would be worth spending more to get better cameras, or a more capable processor. For even more help choosing the iPhone for you, our iPhone Buying Guide explains how each iPhone is different in terms of price, specs and features, cameras, screens, and durability. Every iPhone compared With Apple’s introduction of a new set of iPhones at the end of 2025 we have updated our advice about which iPhone is best in our comparison of all the iPhone models sold by Apple. While the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are the flagship iPhones, with the most power and the best features, they aren’t necessarily the best iPhone for the majority. We believe that for 2025-2026 the iPhone 17 is a great choice because, compared to its predecessor, it offers more storage, better cameras, and many of the features previously available only on the Pro iPhones, such as Always On and Pro Motion. 1. Apple iPhone 17 – Best iPhone for most people Pros Twice the storage for the same price Larger 6.3-inch screen Both rear cameras are 48MP 30 hour battery life Cons Only pale color choices Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The iPhone 17 retains a similar design to the iPhone 16, but in closer comparison there is a significant difference: the screen is larger at 6.3 inches compared to the iPhone 16’s 6.1-inch display. The iPhone 17’s dimensions are also slightly larger than the older model. The new phone is available in Lavender, Mist Blue, Sage, Black and White with an aluminium frame. No bold ‘look at me’ colors here. The ProMotion and Always-On screen are now present, as found on the Pro models. It has a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and a minimum brightness of 1 nit allowing for the always-on feature that was previously only available on the Pro models. The new Ceramic Shield 2 on the front is three times more scratch-resistant, claims Apple. It also features an anti-reflective coating.  The 18MP Centre Stage front camera features a new square sensor that enables photos in any orientation without requiring the user to rotate the phone. Both rear cameras are now 48MP. The main camera integrates an optical-quality 2x Telephoto and the new 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera (up from 12MP) captures up to four times the resolution of the previous generation. It also features 0.5, 1x and 2x optical zoom and macro photography capabilities – this means that, unlike the Air, the iPhone 16 can ‘unzoom’ back to 0.5x.  The iPhone 17 features a A19 chip with a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU alongside the N1, Apple’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip which should improve Personal Hotspot and AirDrop, and the C1X, a cellular modem designed by Apple.  Battery life is 30 hours (video playback), an increase of eight hours compared to the iPhone 16. Should you run out of battery charging the iPhone 17 is quicker than ever: according to Apple, using Apple’s new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter ($39) can add a 50 percent charge to the iPhone 17 in 20 minutes. Just 10 minutes of charge results in about 8 hours of video playback, perfect when you are in a rush to leave the house. The entry-level model offers 256GB of storage, double that of the previous generation for the same price. Starting at $799 for 256GB storage, 512GB storage is priced at $999.  Who should buy the iPhone 17? The iPhone 17 is a good allrounder and the best iPhone for most people. It’s got a bigger display, ProMotion and Always On, a more powerful chip, two 48MP cameras on the rear, the new improved selfie camera, and twice the storage for the same price as 2024’s iPhone 16. As long as you aren’t desperate for a telephoto camera, or a super thin phone, there is no reason to look elsewhere. iPhone 17 further considerations: Starting at $799 for 256GB storage this is a good iPhone at a good price. If you already have an iPhone 16 you probably don’t need to upgrade, but if you are deciding whether to upgrade to the iPhone 17, iPhone 16 (128GB for $699) or iPhone 16e (128GB for $599) we recommend paying the extra money; not only will you get a better phone, you’ll get twice as much storage! Read our full Apple iPhone 17 review 2. Apple iPhone 17 Pro – Best phone for photography Pros Battery life improvements Camera improvements Cons The screen is no longer a reason to pick the Pro Aluminium instead of Titanium Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket iPhone 17 Pro has a 6.3-inch display with 120Hz ProMotion and Always-On, like the iPhone 16 Pro, but it now offers 3,000 nits peak brightness, 1 nit minimum brightness, up from 2,000. All the late 025 iPhones offer 3,000 nits max, Pro Motion and Always On, though, so these aren’t the differentiators they once were.   The phone comes in Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue, and Silver with an aluminium frame. The 16 Pro was titanium, as is the iPhone Air due to it being more durable. Apple’s switched back to aluminium on the Pro iPhones for better thermal performance. Heat management is via a new internal vapor chamber that has deionised water sealed inside for cooling. Heat is thus drawn away from the A19 chip and distributed around the iPhone. The heat management should mean the iPhone can sustain high levels of performance for longer periods of time. The iPhone 17 Pro should still be durable though: There is the new Ceramic Shield 2 on the front for 3x better scratch resistance and a Ceramic Shield on the back. The A19 Pro processor features a 6-core CPU and a 6-core GPU (one more GPU than the Air). It includes Neural Accelerators built into each GPU core, a larger cache, and more memory than A18 Pro.b You’ll also find the N1, the Apple-designed wireless networking chip that enables Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, and the C1X, Apple’s new cellular modem.  On the front is the same 18MP Center Stage front camera with square sensor. The main difference it the three 48MP Fusion cameras on the rear and the fact that the optical zoom can extend to 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, and 8x for the equivalent of eight lenses, according to Apple. Video is Dolby Vision 4K at 120fps, with support for ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, and Genlock. The plateau (as Apple is now calling it) doesn’t just house the camera. Apple has placed other internal components inside the ‘plateau’ – Apple’s name for the camera housing. By placing more components in there Apple has made room for a larger battery. Additionally, the antennas are incorporated around the edge of this plateau, a move that Apple claims makes it “the highest-performing antenna system ever in an iPhone”. Hopefully, this will also mean Apple avoids another antennagate. This better thermal design and larger battery mean that battery life is 31 hours of video playback. That’s up from 27 hours on the predecessor. Like the iPhone 17, the iPhone 17 Pro fast-charges up to 50% in 20 minutes with the new 40W adapter. Who should buy the iPhone 17 Pro? The iPhone 17 Pro is designed for those looking for advanced photography a