Welcome to my blog
Join me on my journey as I share my insights and experiences on all things Apple, Business and Entrepreneurship!
Join me on my journey as I share my insights and experiences on all things Apple, Business and Entrepreneurship!
So happy to see that Apple is going back to its ability to allow users to upgrade and customize their Mac Pro tower experience. There was much much love for the old Cheese Grater style Mac Pro and many are still in use because of their overall upgradeability and customization. Not saying that the Trash Can approach was bad. It was in line with their motto, think different. Coming up with a new and unique approach to power computing.
Wow things move quickly from year to year. No surprise here. MacOS Catalina brings a whole new level of cool back to the Mac in my honest opinion. I am so happy that Apple has decided to break out iTunes into multiple apps. iTunes back in the day was so awesome, easy to use and simplistic. Now it tends to be a power hungry and semi confusing app to use as its the defacto app for everything. How about that annoying feature that automatically launched iTunes when your phone was...
--- This year was a year of Growth here at Grove Technologies. Our company changed brand, re-defined its core strategy and competency. During this time of transition we learned a lot about what we want to accomplish moving forward and the new direction that we will be moving in. That said I want to thank all of the passionate and amazing clients that trust us with their technology. We are proud to be able to claim that we are helping further many social justice, climate and advocacy movements as well...
Poll a room of Apple experts about the one topic they can't stop talking about and many will launch into frustrated rants about how too few people back up. Backups are always important, since you can never predict when your Mac or iPhone will be lost or stolen, melt in a fire, or just break. But one time when backups are especially important is before you upgrade to a major new operating system. If you're thinking "What could go wrong?" the answer is, "Lots," and wouldn't you like to be...
Feeling left behind because you don't have the latest iPhone or iPad? Don't worry, because Apple has a present for you in the form of iOS 12. The new operating system promises to increase performance, particularly for older devices as far back as the iPhone 5s and iPad Air. This means that your device will be able to run more smoothly and efficiently, making it feel like a newer model again.
With last year's macOS 10.13 High Sierra, Apple made no sweeping changes, instead focusing on refinements and bug fixes. In keeping with the company's alternating cycle of releases, this year's macOS 10.14 Mojave boasts a range of new features that build upon the previous version. As expected, these additions are incremental rather than revolutionary, allowing users to gradually adapt to the updated functionality without feeling overwhelmed by drastic changes.
When Should You Upgrade to macOS 10.14 Mojave, iOS 12, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12? --- It's that time of year again, when an Apple user's thoughts drift to new versions of macOS, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Apple announced the new versions in June, and public betas have been available since. But once Apple makes macOS 10.14 Mojave, iOS 12, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12 available for free download, you'll need to decide when to install each.
For many years, Apple has sold macOS Server (previously called OS X Server) for those who wanted to run various Unix-based Internet services on a Mac. Server became popular because it put an easy-to-use graphical interface on top of the Unix apps, allowing Mac users to avoid complicated configuration files and reducing the need to work at the command line. This made it accessible to a wider range of users, including those without extensive technical knowledge, who still wanted to manage their own servers.
At Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference keynote on June 4th, the company unveiled the first developer versions of all four of its operating systems: macOS 10.14 Mojave, iOS 12, watchOS 5, and tvOS 12. They won’t be available until this fall, likely in September or October, but here is a glimpse of what you can expect from these upcoming updates. The new features and improvements will be detailed further at the conference, giving developers a head start on preparing their apps for the new operating systems.
You’ve probably heard of Apple Pay, but have you set it up so you can use it to pay for purchases at checkout? If not, give it a try, since it’s one of those living-in-the-future Apple technologies that feels like science fiction every time you use it. Simply put your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch within an inch or so of a compatible payment terminal (look for an Apple Pay or contactless payment logo), put your finger on the Home button to use Touch ID (or double-press the iPhone’s side...
AirPort products have not seen a significant update since 2012, and the Time Capsule has not received an update since 2013. In 2016, news sites began reporting that Apple had reassigned its developers who were working on AirPort to other projects, which some interpreted as a sign that the product line was nearing the end of its life cycle.
Back in March of 2018, Apple stated it had set out to acquire a digital magazine subscription service called Texture, which is run by Next Issue Media LLC. Texture is already available on the iPhone and iPad via the "Texture – Unlimited Magazines" App, but this acquisition could bring the service in house to Apple News, potentially expanding its reach and offerings within the existing platform.
According to the New York Times, Apple has significantly outspent both YouTube and Facebook on original programming for the debut of its TV and movie platform. This investment suggests a commitment to quality content from the outset. We could see the new platform launched in the spring of 2019, marking a major entry into the streaming market.
In recent years there has been a lot of talk about smartphone addiction among children and young adults, with investors applying pressure to smartphone makers such as Apple.
In just a little over three months, the World Wide Developer Conference will be underway again. Auto-mation is a key update that will be presented during this event. The conference will provide attendees with an opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in technology and how they can be applied to their own projects.
At its "Let's Take a Field Trip" event held last Tuesday at a local Chicago public school, Apple premiered its newest, sixth generation 9.7 inch iPad model. The new model starts at $329 for the 32GB model, but schools benefit from educational discounts to purchase at $299 each. Next level models include a second Wi-Fi + Cellular model with the same 32-GB storage capacity at $459 and a 128-GB versions at $429 for the Wi-Fi version and $559 with cellular.
At a special education event on March 27th, Apple introduced a new 9.7-inch iPad that offers faster performance, support for the Apple Pencil, and a few new camera-related features. The company also released new versions of the iWork apps—Pages, Numbers, and Keynote—that let users draw, sketch, and write with the Apple Pencil. These updates aim to enhance the device's capabilities in educational settings, where the iPad is often used for note-taking and creative projects.
Apple and IBM are integrating IBM's machine learning AI called Watson into iOS. Watson is designed to enhance the capabilities of iOS enterprise apps by providing them with more advanced features and functionality. This integration aims to make iOS enterprise apps smarter and more efficient in processing complex data, ultimately improving user experience and productivity.
According to a report from the Financial Times last Tuesday, pulling data from California's Department of Motor Vehicles, Apple’s self-driving program has expanded from 3 vehicles in April 2017 to 45 as of 2018, just behind GM’s Cruise with 110 cars. Car companies behind Apple are Tesla with 39 vehicles and Uber with 29. Uber had shut down its testing after an Arizona fatality this past month where a pedestrian was killed by a self-driving vehicle. Alphabet, Google's parent company, had initially planned to launch a ride-hailing service in Arizona....
After months of anticipation, Apple’s new HomePod smart speaker finally shipped in mid-February. Reviews of its audio quality have been positive, and for the most part, it works both as advertised and as you’d expect. However, there were some surprises, most good but some bad. Whether you have a HomePod on your credenza (which may be a bad spot for it!) or you’re still deciding if you want to buy one, here are ten things you should know:
The new expansion enables users to develop machine learning tools using Watson technology, specifically through Watson Services for Core ML. This allows them to create and integrate various capabilities into their applications, including analyzing images, classifying visual data, and training models with Watson services. These services can then be deployed on Apple mobile devices via MobileFirst apps.
Here's the expanded paragraph: Don’t panic, Apple is not about to launch B52’s against North Korea or anything like that. They just decided to call their wireless charging accessory “AirPower”, a name they announced with the launch of the iPhone X last year. However, it seems they've pushed back its release date again, initially saying it would be available in 2018 but now giving no clear indication when it will actually ship.
Research company IDC posted the market share results for 2017 wearables earlier this month announcing the Apple smart watch accounts for 1 in 5 smartwatches sold.
Since macOS 10.11.2 (macOS Sierra), the keychain app has undergone updates aimed at enhancing security measures. As a result, the keychain repair utility was removed to prevent potential vulnerabilities, specifically to thwart malware from exploiting this feature and gaining unauthorized access to stored passwords. This change is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen system defenses against malicious activity.
Apple's iPhone sales garnered a record 51% of market share worldwide, dominating smartphone sales and outperforming the entire industry based on premium iPhone X sales. The global marketplace reached a high of $120 billion in the fourth quarter of 2017, with Apple leading the charge. This significant milestone was driven by strong demand for the latest iPhone models, particularly the flagship iPhone X.
This is part of Apple's strategy to produce a model for everyone. In 2018, Apple is said to be planning to release three new iPhones, which would cater to different needs and preferences of various consumers. The move aims to make high-end technology more accessible to a broader audience.
This past week Apple changed its corporate address to One Apple Park Way, moving its entire workforce from One Infinite Loop to its new Apple Park campus that opened last year and is located just a short distance away. The move marks a significant shift for the company as it consolidates its operations in one location.
So far it seems to be a hit on the audio quality, with a notable shakedown from a Reddit user who claims the sound quality from the Apple HomePod surpasses that of a more expensive KEF speaker. This comparison has sparked some interest in the community, but it's worth noting that individual experiences may vary depending on personal preferences and listening environments.
Apple continues to update iOS regularly now beyond just major annual events with new features available on iOS 11.3, including power management for older iPhone models whose batteries are aging. This change aims to provide a more stable experience for devices that may be experiencing battery-related issues. The updates also include other minor improvements and bug fixes.
Just as Congress was finalizing the last details of the new US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced by President Trump, Apple promises a significant investment back into the economy. The timing of this announcement is notable, coming as it does on the heels of major legislative changes that are expected to have far-reaching impacts on businesses and individuals alike.
Apple has recently released fixes for older Macs running macOS Sierra and OS X El Capitan that also face critical vulnerabilities through the Meltdown and Spectre security flaws.
Don't panic, it's not just any link. It's a specific link to a GitHub page: "iabem97.github.io". If you received this link via the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad, they may crash or restart, and the Messages app will then become unusable.
Apple has started preorders for its new HomePod as of yesterday. Priced at $349, the audio accessory focuses on delivering high-quality sound, offers integration with Siri's AI capabilities, and provides access to Apple Music's vast library of 45 million songs. The device is designed to work seamlessly within existing Apple ecosystems, allowing users to control it with their iPhone or iPad.
Apple sold nearly 20 million Macs in 2017, a significant milestone that's great news for us Mac enthusiasts. As the platform continues to grow in popularity, we can expect even more developers to create new apps and games tailored specifically for macOS. This means users will have access to an increasingly diverse range of software options, making their Mac experience even more enjoyable.
According to Bloomberg, this large change is expected to happen in early 2018 via a new project internally referred to as 'Marzipan.' This blurring of lines between macOS and iOS platforms is expected to help software makers start using the Mac App Store more and also most importantly allow for the creation of a single application that works with a touchscreen, mouse, and/or trackpad. The implications of this shift are still unclear, but it's likely to have significant effects on app development and user experience.
We have received many concerns and questions regarding the nature of the latest two exploits. Here is more information on what they are exactly, what they do, and what you need to do about it. We understand that this information may be unfamiliar to some users, so we will provide a clear explanation of each exploit's functionality and any necessary steps to mitigate potential issues.
You may have heard about "Spectre" and "Meltdown" in the news in the last week of 2017. These are hardware-based exploits that take advantage of the way CPUs process data, potentially allowing a hacker to gain unauthorized access to your sensitive information. This vulnerability affects many modern computer systems, including those used for personal computing, cloud services, and enterprise networks.
With Apple expected to bring back over $252 billion into the country following the recent change in U.S. corporate taxes, the company is well positioned to buy high-performing companies in industry sectors that Apple wants to expand into. Top of the list for Citi analysts is Netflix, the video streaming service, which could potentially complement Apple's existing media offerings and provide a new revenue stream through its large user base.
Scam sites have been known to overtake Windows computers all the time, but with increasing Mac adoption, there have been scammers now attempting to fool users with serious malware. Some scams have tried to convince users that something is wrong with their computer and list a fake phone number to call and demand unreasonable amounts of payment (some fake company that is never Apple). This is an example of a phishing site where scammers are attempting to trick you into paying money by either causing problems to your computer or...
It is the season for giving, and we're happy to share some of our free apps with you. Here's a rundown of what's available to install on your Mac:
Although Tim Cook has previously stated that merging macOS and iOS won't happen due to user experience issues, looking at the development of Swift, which is Apple's own programming language developed primarily for iOS, this looks like a real possibility for third-party apps. The fact that Swift can be used across both platforms suggests a level of compatibility that could facilitate integration, potentially paving the way for unified app development.
With the introduction of Apple Pay Cash, Apple makes it easy to have quick person-to-person money transfers, similar to apps like Square Cash or Venmo. This feature allows users to send and receive money directly from their iPhone or Apple Watch, eliminating the need for intermediaries. The feature is now available for beta testers in the US via iOS 11.2 and watchOS 4.2.
Here at Grove Technologies, we previously provided an overview of the iMac Pro's specifications in our announcement from June of this year.
The popular app Pixelmator recently launched a Pro version on November 29, Pixelmator Pro for the Mac. With an updated editing workflow and easy-to-use editing tools, image editing features that are now powered by machine learning, Pixelmator Pro also features a convenient single-window interface. This streamlined approach aims to simplify the editing process, allowing users to focus on their work without unnecessary clutter or complexity.
Recent detailed sales report via Strategy Analytics shows that Apple took the top spot for most smartphone shipments in the United States during Apple's fiscal Q4 for 2017, beating out Samsung. This marks a significant milestone for the company, with Apple's market share continuing to grow despite increased competition from other major players in the industry.
Apple today announced the release of watchOS 4.2, which now supports Apple Pay Cash, Apple's peer-to-peer payments service that allows users to transfer money directly between themselves. This update enables seamless transactions on Apple Watch, providing a convenient way for friends and family to send or receive cash without the need for traditional payment methods.
On November 2, Apple announced its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2017, which ended on September 30, 2017. The company reported strong earnings and profit during this period.
The bug in macOS High Sierra (version 10.13) allows for unauthorized access to a Mac running High Sierra without requiring a password, posing significant security risks. Furthermore, it enables an attacker to gain elevated privileges by accessing the machine as the Root user, thereby acquiring full administration rights and potentially compromising sensitive data or system settings.
Today is Black Friday and that means big sales and discounts at retailers all over the country and online. Many brick and mortar stores reopened last night, offering significant discounts to waiting throngs of people ready to buy. Apple too is offering special deals on Black Friday with a **one-day Black Friday sale**. Retailers selling Apple products are offering discounts throughout the four-day holiday weekend, including some that will be available in-store only.
I have been using Macintosh computers for a long time. As long as I can remember it's always been said that Macintosh computers are not vulnerable to malicious intent. While malware, spyware, and now ransomware plague the Windows and Linux landscape, Mac has always been a trusted alternative. In fact, Apple themselves highlighted this very sentiment during their "I'm a Mac" commercial campaign, which ran many years ago, showcasing the perceived security benefits of choosing a Mac over other platforms.
This could make the iMac Pro the first Mac to feature an A series Microprocessor, which are the same chips found in iPhones. The use of these processors would mark a significant departure from Apple's traditional approach to designing its own processors for its computers.
This could have repercussions across the board if the case is successful. As it stands now, if you have your iPhone or iPad repaired by a non-Apple authorized service provider, such as an independent repair shop, Apple can and does refuse to honor any subsequent warranty claims or provide repairs for that device.
This latest iOS update addresses a specific issue where the letter "I" is occasionally replaced with another character, resulting in unexpected text entry. See our previous blog for more information on this problem and how it has been resolved. The update aims to provide a stable and reliable typing experience for users.
At the end of last week Apple's support forum was lit up by users complaining of the letter "I" mysteriously being replaced with another character. This bug affected iPhones, iPads, and the iPod touch, causing frustration for those who relied on their devices to communicate effectively. The issue seemed to appear out of nowhere, leaving many wondering what could be causing it.
The KRACK attack is a hack on wireless networks allowing hackers to decrypt Wi-Fi traffic. This means the hacker can intercept sensitive information, eavesdrop on communications, perform man-in-the-middle attacks, hijack connections, and potentially gain access to secure areas of the network.
iOS 11 is reported to have been installed on nearly 55% of iOS devices after only one month of being launched.
With the tech industry getting increasingly enthusiastic about Augmented Reality, it's natural to wonder where Apple stands in this emerging field. The company has been relatively quiet on its plans for AR, fueling speculation and curiosity among industry observers. As a result, many are left wondering if Apple will make a significant move into this space or maintain its focus on other areas of innovation.
On Thursday, Apple announced the launch of its new Chicago store on Michigan Avenue and new events to be hosted at the new Apple store. The company has confirmed that the store will offer a range of services and products, including workshops and training sessions for customers. Details about the specific events and activities are expected to be released in the coming days.
Not being a massive Microsoft aficionado I cannot say that I am a major fan of what has been called the Wintel environment.
Apple is known for having stricter standards than other companies and associated software platforms, both for security reasons and maintaining the company's standards for product development. This approach has been a hallmark of Apple's philosophy since its inception. However, in recent years, the company has opened up its platform and ecosystem increasingly to third-party developers while still maintaining high standards.
However, most owners have bemoaned the lack of functionality, citing specific examples such as making calls directly from the Apple WATCH, or streaming music to the device without needing a separate iPhone. Some users have also expressed frustration with the limitations on using third-party apps on the WATCH, which they feel holds it back from reaching its full potential.
High Sierra is now available in the App Store for most Macs from 2009 onwards. If it's not available to you in the App Store, it's likely that this update is not compatible with your Mac. You can check manually on our website to see which models are supported. To confirm, simply visit the support page and look up your specific model to determine if High Sierra is an available update for you.
The new iPhone X is the most technologically advanced smartphone in the world, with its A11 Bionic Chip, TrueDepth camera, facial recognition software, and OLED screen. It features a 5.8-inch Super Retina HD display and supports wireless charging capabilities. The device also includes a dual-camera setup with Portrait mode and optical image stabilization.
Widely anticipated, Apple's new iPhones launched last Tuesday, September 12 in the new Steve Jobs Theater on the company's new campus. The event marked a significant milestone for the tech giant as it showcased its latest innovations to a packed audience. Here we take a closer look at the iPhone 8 series.
--- Many diehard CrashPlan users were shocked to find out that their favorite secure storage backup option Crash Plan is leaving the consumer market.
Being predominantly known for its excellent hardware, it's reasonable to assume that a significant portion of Apple's revenue comes from selling hardware products, such as the Macintosh. The company's focus on designing and manufacturing high-quality devices has contributed to its reputation in this area. As a result, many people associate Apple with its line of computers and other electronic gadgets.
Earlier this year, Apple announced that its new corporate headquarters, initially referred to as Campus 2, was nearing completion and would be ready to house over 12,000 employees. The project has since been officially renamed Apple Park and is now open for business. Construction continues on adjacent buildings and parklands through the summer, with ongoing work expected to wrap up by the end of the season. View aerial drone footage here.
Parallels 13 has just been released by Parallels International GmbH, one of the major reasons to upgrade will be version 13 is Optimized for macOS High Sierra. This optimization enables seamless integration and compatibility with Apple's latest operating system. Version 13 of Parallels promises faster access to your Windows files up to 47% faster compared with Parallels 12, making it easier than ever to work across platforms.
Yes please! I can count on one hand the number of times I've been to the cinema in recent years. Getting popcorn without having to make it myself is a nice bonus, but what really appeals to me is the comfort and familiarity of watching a film from my own home. It's just easier that way - no need to worry about finding parking or dealing with crowds, I can simply settle in and enjoy the movie.
One of the most widely anticipated features in Apple’s new iPhone set to be released this fall is facial recognition, where the iPhone can recognize approaching people quickly. The advanced facial recognition technology is expected to replace existing Touch ID fingerprint scanner, approving quick log-ins and payments as well. The new software is also expected to work with third-party apps similar to TouchID and will recognize multiple faces.
The World Wide Developers Conference from Apple did not disappoint when it came to software, with iOS 11 being rolled out in Fall of 2017. We are currently on the 5th Public Beta, which, if you're feeling adventurous, can be installed and tested on your iDevice right now.
Apple released macOS High Sierra, its latest version of its desktop operating system earlier in June at WWDC in San Jose, CA. The beta version of the software was available to developers to download immediately and now a public version will be available this month at beta.apple.com. The software will be available as a free software update from the Mac App Store this fall. A developer preview is already available for those who want to get started early, but it's recommended that only experienced users attempt to install it.
Apple has cut the price of iPads in a bid to increase sales, as such sales are now up over 10% on iPads in 2017 compared with the tail end of 2016. This tactic on reducing iPad prices is the oldest trick in the book with iPad sales flagging in comparison to growing iPhone sales in recent years, however this increase in iPad sales has not increased revenues greatly for Apple as the price cut has hit profit margins.
You may expect "iPhone 8" to be the name as it follows all of the names Apple has given to previous iPhones. However, with some of the new nomenclature being used for other Apple products, it would be reasonable to expect a name such as iPhone Pro - you have to admit it has a nice ring to it. The shift in naming convention does raise questions about whether this is indeed an incremental update or something more significant.
Apple has blocked ad blocker Apps that work outside of Safari, a move that aligns with its long-standing policy in the App Store terms for developers. This stance reflects Apple's recognition of advertising as a primary revenue stream for many app developers. The company has consistently maintained this position, prioritizing the monetization strategies used by developers to sustain their apps and services.
Recently, Apple started sharing interactive HomeKit experiences at 46 Apple retail stores so that customers could try out the smart home platform and get familiar with HomeKit. New stores keep being added, allowing more people to experience the capabilities of HomeKit firsthand. Having HomeKit available to test out with different devices and environments makes it easier for customers to understand how it could work for them in their own homes.
High Sierra the new macOS being released later this year will be the last macOS to support 32-bit apps. This year you will need to look at which apps you cannot live without if you want to continue upgrading macOS after High Sierra, making sure you have versions of the apps you need that will run on a 64 bit system because as of macOS 10.14 32-bit apps will no longer be supported.
Earlier last month, Apple previewed watchOS 4 at WWDC. The new watch software features a proactive Siri watch face that contains information you find relevant every day and a new way of experiencing music. The update also offers an updated Workout app with enhanced tracking capabilities and introduces GymKit, which helps you connect your workout to existing cardio equipment for more accurate results. View Apple’s Preview here.
Apple launched the first public beta of macOS High Sierra at the end of June, which means you can download and install it without being in the Apple developer program. This is beta software so it is not the best idea to install this on your everyday Mac as bugs will be present and your apps may not work. Be aware that installing a beta version can also cause issues with system stability and compatibility with certain hardware configurations, which could lead to data loss or other problems if you're...
The HomePod is powered by Siri intelligence and can interact with your messages, relay sports scores, the news, provide translations, and control your home. It also allows you to make hands-free calls, set reminders, and send messages using voice commands. Additionally, it integrates with other Apple devices to provide a seamless experience across all your connected products.
For its 10th edition of the iPhone first, Apple is expected to have a dramatic redesign. Since 2012, Apple has unveiled new iPhone editions in the first or second week of September consistently. Expectations remain that Apple will follow this schedule, announcing its new iPhone model in roughly 80 days from now, which would be consistent with previous years' releases.
The new update to the ageing HFS+ file system will bring higher performance, better data integrity, and a significantly improved Time Machine. This update aims to address long-standing issues with the current file system, providing a more stable foundation for future development. The changes are focused on under-the-hood improvements rather than cosmetic overhauls.
Earlier this month at WWDC, Apple shared its new 10.5 inch iPad Pro model with a larger display and ProMotion technology. The updated device is part of the company's ongoing efforts to refine its tablet lineup.
For some time now, Mac users have often opted for an iMac with all the necessary upgrades for their workstation rather than the Mac Pro. This is largely due to the fact that its latest re-incarnation in the "dustbin" case has been shunned for its lack of upgradeability, making it less appealing as a long-term solution for professionals who require flexibility and customization.
Apple has entered the smart speaker market, a space already occupied by the well-established Amazon Echo and Google Echo, with its new HomePod, scheduled for release in December 2017. The company's device stands out from the competition by prioritizing superior sound quality that is both immersive and high fidelity.
