Apple’s USB SuperDrive, a staple for Mac users since 2008, is now out of stock and unlikely to return. This marks the end of an era for the external CD/DVD drive, which was introduced alongside the original MacBook Air and has remained largely unchanged since its debut.

Key Takeaways

• Apple’s USB SuperDrive is no longer available on the Apple Store in the US, Canada, and Australia.
• The device was introduced in 2008 and has been a consistent part of Apple’s lineup for 16 years.
• The SuperDrive is still available in some regions and through third-party retailers.
• The device is not compatible with Blu-ray discs and requires a USB-A to USB-C adapter for modern Macs.

The End of an Era

The Apple USB SuperDrive was introduced in 2008 to complement the MacBook Air, the first MacBook without a built-in CD/DVD drive. Over the years, it became a go-to accessory for those needing to play or burn CDs and DVDs. Despite the decline in optical media usage, the SuperDrive managed to stay in Apple’s product lineup for 16 years.

Availability and Compatibility

As of now, the SuperDrive is listed as "Sold Out" on the Apple Store in the US, Canada, and Australia. However, it remains available in some regions like the UK and Brazil. For those still interested, the device can also be found on third-party platforms like Amazon and Best Buy. It’s worth noting that the SuperDrive has a USB-A connector, making it less compatible with modern Macs without an adapter. Additionally, it does not support Blu-ray discs.

A Look Back

The SuperDrive was a significant product for Apple, marking the transition away from built-in optical drives. It was introduced as an external solution for the MacBook Air and later became a necessity for other Mac models as Apple phased out built-in optical drives by 2013. The device was praised for its sleek design and functionality, even though it never received updates for newer media formats like Blu-ray.

Alternatives and Future

For those looking for alternatives, several third-party options are available. Brands like LG and Dell offer Blu-ray drives that are compatible with modern Macs. These alternatives are often more affordable and offer better compatibility with current media formats. As the SuperDrive fades into history, it will be remembered as one of Apple’s longest-selling products, alongside iconic devices like the Apple II computer.

Conclusion

The discontinuation of the Apple USB SuperDrive marks the end of an era for optical media on Macs. While the device will be missed by some, the shift towards digital media and cloud storage makes its retirement a logical step. For those still in need of an optical drive, third-party options provide a viable alternative.

Sources

• Apple’s Old-School SuperDrive Is Out of Stock and Unlikely to Return – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• Apple’s SuperDrive for reading disks seemingly discontinued, 9to5Mac.
• Apple stops selling its SuperDrive after 16 years: Here’s where to still buy one | Macworld, Macworld.
• One of Apple’s Longest-Selling Products Is Entering Retirement, How-To Geek.
• Report: Apple’s external DVD drive is up burning discs in dongle heaven | Ars Technica, Ars Technica.

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a severe warning for Apple users, highlighting multiple vulnerabilities in various Apple products. These vulnerabilities could potentially lead to data breaches, spoofing, and other security risks if not addressed promptly.

Key Takeaways

• CERT-In has flagged multiple vulnerabilities in Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and more.
• Users are urged to update their software to the latest versions to mitigate these risks.
• The vulnerabilities could allow attackers to access sensitive information, execute arbitrary code, and bypass security restrictions.

Detailed Advisory

The advisory, dated August 2, 2024, identifies several Apple software versions that are affected by these vulnerabilities. The affected software versions include:

• iOS and iPadOS: Versions prior to 17.6 and 16.7.9
• macOS: Versions prior to 14.6 (Sonoma), 13.6.8 (Ventura), and 12.7.6 (Monterey)
• watchOS: Versions prior to 10.6
• tvOS: Versions prior to 17.6
• visionOS: Versions prior to 1.3
• Safari: Versions prior to 17.6

Potential Risks

CERT-In has highlighted that these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to:

1. Access sensitive information
2. Execute arbitrary code
3. Bypass security restrictions
4. Cause denial of service (DoS)
5. Perform spoofing attacks

Immediate Actions Required

CERT-In urges all Apple users to promptly install the latest software updates provided by Apple to address these vulnerabilities. The advisory underscores the critical nature of these security flaws and the need for immediate action to protect against possible attacks.

Previous Warnings and Ongoing Monitoring

This is not the first time CERT-In has issued a warning for Apple users. In May 2024, a similar advisory was released, flagging high-level risks associated with Apple products. The agency continues to monitor the situation and advises users to stay informed about the latest security updates.

Recommendations for Users

To enhance the security of your Apple devices, CERT-In recommends the following steps:

• Regularly monitor communications from Apple for updates and advisories.
• Exercise caution when accessing potentially malicious websites, links, or files.
• Keep your passwords strong and regularly back up your data.
• Ensure your devices are set to automatically update to the latest software versions.

Conclusion

The vulnerabilities flagged by CERT-In pose significant risks to Apple users. Immediate action is required to update software and mitigate these risks. Users are advised to stay vigilant and follow the recommended security practices to protect their devices and sensitive information.

Sources

• Centre issues ‘severe’ warning for iPhone users, flags ‘multiple vulnerabilities’ in Apple products | Latest News India – Hindustan Times, Hindustan Times.
• Security alert for Apple users: Govt issues ‘high risk’ advisory for several devices; check the full list – The Economic Times, The Economic Times.
• "Attacker Could Access…": Centre’s Warning For iPhone, Mac Users, NDTV.
• India’s CERT-IN flags ‘multiple vulnerabilities’ in software of Apple devices including iPhone, VisionPro headset, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch, The Hindu.
• Apple Prepping The M4, M4 Pro And M4 Max For Its New MacBook Pro Range Later This Year, With Updated Mac mini And iMac Models Expected Too, Wccftech.

Apple has expanded the support for Apple Account Cards in its Wallet app to users in Australia and Canada. This feature, which was first introduced in the United States over two years ago, allows users to manage their Apple credit balance directly from the Wallet app.

Key Takeaways

• Apple Account Cards are now available in the Wallet app for users in Australia and Canada.
• The feature requires iOS 17.6 or later.
• Users can add the Apple Account Card to their Wallet app to view and use their Apple credit balance.
• The Apple Account Card replaces the older iTunes Pass.

Expansion to New Regions

Apple Account Cards were initially launched in the United States with iOS 15.5. The feature has now been extended to Canada and Australia with the release of iOS 17.6. Prior to this, the feature was only available in the US and Japan.

How to Add Apple Account Card

Adding an Apple Account Card to the Wallet app is straightforward:

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
2. Tap the "+" button.
3. Under "Available Cards," select "Add Apple Account."
4. Ensure you have an Apple Account balance to add the card.

Once added, users can view their Apple Account balance directly from the Wallet app and use it for purchases at the App Store, Apple Store online, and physical Apple Stores using tap-to-pay.

Benefits of Apple Account Card

The Apple Account Card offers several advantages over the older iTunes Pass:

• Ease of Use: Users can make purchases using tap-to-pay at Apple Stores without needing an employee to scan a QR code.
• Convenience: The card provides a quick look at the Apple Account balance, making it easier to manage and use for various Apple-related purchases.

Conclusion

The expansion of Apple Account Cards to Australia and Canada marks a significant step in enhancing the user experience for Apple customers in these regions. With the ability to manage and use their Apple credit balance directly from the Wallet app, users can enjoy a more seamless and integrated experience.

Sources

• Wallet App Support for Apple Account Cards Now Live in Australia and Canada – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• Apple Account Card in Wallet app now available in Canada and Australia – 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.

Apple has reportedly used chips designed by Google to train two key components of its artificial intelligence (AI) software infrastructure, according to a research paper published on Monday. This decision marks a significant departure from the industry norm of using Nvidia’s highly sought-after AI processors.

Key Takeaways

• Apple used Google’s tensor processing units (TPUs) instead of Nvidia’s GPUs to train its AI models.
• The company utilized 2,048 TPUv5p chips for its device AI model and 8,192 TPUv4 processors for its server AI model.
• Apple’s reliance on Google’s cloud infrastructure is notable given Nvidia’s dominance in the AI processor market.
• The research paper did not mention any use of Nvidia hardware.
• Apple unveiled new AI features at its June developer conference, including the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology.

Apple’s Strategic Shift

Apple’s decision to use Google’s TPUs instead of Nvidia’s GPUs is a notable shift in the tech landscape. Nvidia, which commands roughly 80% of the AI processor market, is known for its graphics processing units (GPUs) that are widely used in AI applications. In contrast, Google offers its TPUs through its Google Cloud Platform, requiring customers to build software within its ecosystem to utilize the chips.

Details from the Research Paper

The research paper revealed that Apple used two flavors of Google’s TPUs, organized in large clusters, to train its AI models. Specifically:

• Device AI Model: Utilized 2,048 TPUv5p chips.
• Server AI Model: Deployed 8,192 TPUv4 processors.

Apple’s engineers noted that even larger and more sophisticated models could be developed using Google’s chips.

Market Implications

Apple’s reliance on Google’s cloud infrastructure is significant, especially given Nvidia’s market dominance. Nvidia’s GPUs are typically sold as standalone products, whereas Google’s TPUs are accessible only through its cloud platform. This strategic choice by Apple could signal a shift in how tech companies approach AI model training.

New AI Features

At its June developer conference, Apple unveiled a range of new AI features, including the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology into its software. These advancements highlight Apple’s commitment to enhancing its AI capabilities, potentially setting the stage for more innovative applications in the future.

Stock Market Reaction

Despite the groundbreaking revelations, Apple’s stock saw a minor dip of 0.1%, closing at $218.24 in regular trading on Monday. This slight decline suggests that investors are still digesting the implications of Apple’s strategic choices in the AI domain.

Conclusion

Apple’s decision to use Google’s TPUs for training its AI models marks a significant departure from industry norms and could have far-reaching implications for the tech landscape. As Apple continues to innovate and integrate advanced AI features, it will be interesting to see how this strategic shift influences its market position and future developments.

Sources

• Apple used Google’s chips to train two AI models, research paper shows | Reuters, Reuters.
• Apple used Google’s chips to train two AI models, research paper shows | Reuters, Reuters.

Apple’s entry-level AirPods have once again dropped to their Prime Day low price of $69.99. This discount is available at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, making it an excellent opportunity for those who missed the initial sale.

Key Takeaways

• Price Drop: The second-gen AirPods are now available for $69.99, a $60 discount from their original price.
• Availability: The deal is available at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.
• Features: These AirPods offer hands-free Siri access, audio sharing, and quick switching between Apple devices.
• Limitations: They lack modern features like active noise cancellation and multipoint pairing.

Overview of the Deal

Amazon Prime Day brought a slew of discounts on various Apple products, including the second-gen AirPods. These entry-level earbuds quickly sold out during the event. Fortunately, they are now back on sale at the same low price of $69.99 at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.

Features and Performance

While the second-gen AirPods may not match the latest AirPods Pro or even the third-gen AirPods, they still offer excellent wireless performance and reliable battery life. Users can enjoy up to five hours of music playback or 24 hours with the included Lightning charging case. Additional features include hands-free Siri access, audio sharing, and the ability to quickly switch between Apple devices.

What You Miss Out On

Despite their attractive price, the second-gen AirPods do have some limitations. They lack modern perks such as active noise cancellation and multipoint pairing. However, given their current price and ease of use, these drawbacks are relatively minor.

Other Deals to Consider

If you’re in the market for more tech deals, here are a few additional discounts worth noting:

• Nanoleaf’s Shapes Ultra Black Triangles Smarter Kit: Available at Best Buy for $175.99, a $44 discount. This limited-edition set features modular LED light bars that can display 16 million colors and work with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home.
• Nothing Ear Noise-Canceling Earbuds: Priced at $129 at Amazon, a $30 discount. These earbuds offer wireless charging, IP54 dust and water resistance, multipoint connectivity, and ChatGPT integration (if you’re using a Nothing phone).
• PlayStation 5 “Slim”: On sale at Amazon for $449, a $50 discount. The digital-only counterpart is available at Walmart for $399, also a $50 discount. Both models come with 1TB of built-in storage and can handle games at 4K graphical fidelity.

Conclusion

The return of the second-gen AirPods to their Prime Day low price is a great opportunity for those looking to get a reliable pair of wireless earbuds without breaking the bank. With features like hands-free Siri access and quick device switching, these AirPods are a solid choice for anyone in the Apple ecosystem.

Sources

• Apple’s entry-level AirPods have already returned to their Prime Day low – The Verge, The Verge.

Apple has released the iOS 18.1 developer beta, introducing a suite of new AI features under the banner of Apple Intelligence. This update promises to enhance user experience with advanced capabilities in Siri, writing tools, and more, but is limited to specific devices.

Key Takeaways

• Apple Intelligence features are available in the iOS 18.1 developer beta.
• Only certain devices, such as iPhone 15 Pro and newer, support these features.
• New AI capabilities include improved Siri, writing tools, and more.

Apple Intelligence: A New Era for Siri

The iOS 18.1 beta marks the beginning of a new era for Siri, featuring a revamped design and enhanced capabilities. Siri now appears as a glowing light around the entire display, replacing the previous floating orb. This new design is available on iPhone and iPad, while Mac users will see a more constrained look in the top-right corner.

Enhanced Context and Flexibility

Siri is now better at maintaining context between requests. For example, if you ask about a sports team’s game time and follow up with a question about the team’s pitcher, Siri will understand the context without needing additional information. The assistant is also more forgiving when users misspeak or change their minds mid-request.

Typing Mode and Product Knowledge

A new feature allows users to invoke Siri in typing mode by double-tapping the Home bar, making it easier to interact with Siri in any app. Additionally, Siri has been trained on a model that includes Apple support documentation, making it an expert on Apple products and software features.

Writing Tools and Smart Replies

Apple Intelligence introduces advanced writing tools that can rewrite, spellcheck, grammar check, and summarize text in various apps like Messages, Notes, Mail, and Pages. Smart replies are also available in Mail and Messages, offering quick, context-aware responses.

Privacy and On-Device Processing

Apple Intelligence is designed with privacy in mind. It uses on-device processing to handle personal information without collecting it. For more complex tasks, Apple employs Private Cloud Compute, ensuring that data is never stored and is used only for specific requests.

Device Compatibility

The new AI features are limited to specific devices. To use Apple Intelligence, you need:

• iPhone 15 Pro or newer
• iPads with M1 chip or later
• Macs with M1 chip or later

Older devices will not support these features, as they require the processing power of Apple’s latest hardware.

Future Updates and Features

While the current beta includes several new features, some capabilities like ChatGPT integration, Image Playground, and advanced Siri functionalities will be rolled out over time. Apple plans to release regular updates to expand the range of available features.

Conclusion

The iOS 18.1 developer beta offers a glimpse into the future of Apple devices with its new AI capabilities. While the features are currently limited to specific devices, they promise to significantly enhance user experience through improved Siri interactions, advanced writing tools, and robust privacy measures.

Sources

• Apple Intelligence Now Available in New iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia Developer Betas – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• iOS 18.1 with Apple Intelligence only available for specific devices, 9to5Mac.
• This is the new Siri with Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.1 beta 1 – 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.
• Apple Intelligence Preview – Apple, Apple.
• iOS 18.1 update: Every iPhone model that will support Apple’s new AI features (for now) | ZDNET, ZDNET.

Apple’s much-anticipated AI features, branded as Apple Intelligence, will not be available with the initial release of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. The rollout has been postponed to October, a few weeks after the new operating systems’ launch in September, due to stability concerns and regulatory issues.

Key Takeaways

• Apple Intelligence delayed until October.
• Initial release of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 unaffected.
• Stability concerns and EU regulations cited as reasons for delay.
• AI features to be available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and devices with M1 chip or later.

Delayed Rollout of Apple Intelligence

Apple’s new AI features, collectively known as Apple Intelligence, were initially slated to launch alongside iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 in September. However, the company has decided to delay the release until October. This decision comes after concerns about the stability of the new features and the need to comply with new European Union regulations.

Stability Concerns

According to reports, Apple has chosen to delay the rollout to ensure that the new AI features are stable and reliable. The company plans to make Apple Intelligence available to software developers for testing through beta versions of iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1. This will allow developers to identify and address any issues before the public release.

Regulatory Hurdles

Another significant factor contributing to the delay is the new tech regulations in the European Union. The EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) requires companies like Apple to ensure that their devices are compatible with rival products and services. Apple has expressed concerns that these interoperability requirements could compromise the integrity of its products and pose risks to user privacy and data security.

Features of Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is designed to enhance user experience by leveraging generative AI to create text, images, and other content on command. The features will be available on the following devices:

• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPad and Mac devices with the M1 chip or later

Some of the key features include:

• Prioritization of notifications
• Updated Siri capabilities
• Tools for summarizing content like web pages and voice notes
• iPhone Mirroring on MacOS Sequoia, allowing the phone’s screen to be viewed and interacted with on Mac computers

Future Updates

Apple has announced that additional Apple Intelligence features will be rolled out near the end of 2024 and into early 2025. The company aims to continuously improve and expand its AI capabilities to enhance the user experience across its range of devices.

Conclusion

While the delay of Apple Intelligence may disappoint some users, the decision underscores Apple’s commitment to delivering stable and reliable features. By addressing stability concerns and complying with regulatory requirements, Apple aims to ensure that its new AI capabilities meet the high standards that users have come to expect.

Sources

• Apple’s new AI features to be delayed after iOS 18 release: report | Fox Business, Fox Business.
• Bloomberg: Apple Intelligence is running late, won’t arrive with new iPhones – GSMArena.com news, GSMArena.com.
• Apple’s artificial intelligence features to be delayed, Bloomberg News reports, Yahoo Finance.
• Apple’s AI Features Will Be Delayed, Inc.com.
• Apple’s artificial intelligence features to be delayed, Bloomberg News reports | Reuters, Reuters.

Apple has reached a historic tentative agreement with its first-ever unionized store in Towson, Maryland. This landmark deal, which is set to be voted on by employees in early August, marks a significant milestone in the tech giant’s labor relations history.

Key Takeaways

• Historic Agreement: First-ever union contract for Apple store employees in the U.S.
• Pay Increases: Average pay raises of 10% over the contract term.
• Job Protections: Enhanced scheduling protections and a clear disciplinary process.
• Future Bargaining: Agreement to negotiate future benefits.

Background

The Towson Apple store, located in Baltimore County, became the first Apple store in the United States to unionize in June 2022. Represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ Coalition of Organized Retail Employees (IAM CORE), the union has been in negotiations with Apple since May 2023. The union represents approximately 85 employees at the Towson location.

Details of the Agreement

The tentative agreement, which spans three years, includes several key provisions aimed at improving working conditions for the employees:

• Pay Increases: Employees will receive an average pay raise of 10% over the term of the contract.
• Starting Pay: An increase in starting pay for many job positions.
• Scheduling Protections: Enhanced protections for both full-time and part-time employees.
• Disciplinary Process: A clear and fair disciplinary process with added protections and accountability.
• Severance Clause: Introduction of a severance clause to improve job security.
• Contracted Employees: Limits on the use of contracted employees.

Union’s Perspective

The union’s negotiating team expressed pride in reaching this historic agreement, emphasizing that it gives members a voice in their futures. They highlighted the importance of building on this success to empower more Apple store employees across the country.

"Together, we can build on this success in store after store and grow the power IAM CORE has started here in Maryland," the union’s negotiating team stated.

Next Steps

The employees at the Towson store are scheduled to vote on the agreement on August 6, 2024. If ratified, the contract will set a precedent for other unionized Apple stores in the U.S., potentially influencing labor relations in the tech industry.

Broader Context

This agreement comes amid a broader wave of unionization efforts across various industries in the United States. Notable examples include unionization efforts at Amazon, Chipotle, and Starbucks. However, securing contracts has been a significant challenge for many newly formed unions.

The Towson Apple store’s successful negotiation of a tentative contract could serve as a model for other unionized workplaces striving to achieve similar agreements.

Conclusion

Apple’s tentative agreement with its first-ever unionized store in Towson, Maryland, represents a historic milestone in the company’s labor relations. With significant pay raises, job protections, and a commitment to future bargaining, this contract could pave the way for improved working conditions for Apple employees nationwide.

Sources

• Union for Apple workers in Towson reaches ‘historic’ contract with tech giant, The Baltimore Banner.
• Unionized Apple Store workers to vote on three-year agreement, AppleInsider.
• Apple Store Workers in Maryland reach ‘historic’ union contract with Apple – 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.
• Apple reaches tentative agreement with first-ever unionized store in US, The Hill.
• 
  Apple reaches its first-ever union deal with workers at a Maryland store – CBS News, CBS News.

Apple has announced a reduction in iPhone prices in India, following the Indian government’s decision to cut import duties on smartphones. This marks the first time Apple has reduced prices on its current-generation Pro models in the country.

Key Takeaways

• Apple has reduced iPhone prices in India after the government cut import duties on smartphones from 20% to 15%.
• The price cuts range from ₹300 for base models to ₹6,000 for Pro models.
• This is the first time Apple has reduced prices on current-generation Pro models in India.
• Despite the price cuts, iPhones remain significantly more expensive in India compared to the U.S.

Background

The Indian government recently announced a reduction in import duties on mobile phones and some key components from 20% to 15%. This move is expected to benefit major smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, which imports its iPhone Pro and Pro Max models while manufacturing other models locally.

New iPhone Prices

Apple has updated its website with the new prices for various iPhone models. Here is a comparison of the old and new prices:

iPhone Model	Storage Variant	Old Price (₹)	New Price (₹)
iPhone 15	128GB	₹79,900	₹79,600
	256GB	₹89,900	₹89,600
	512GB	₹109,900	₹109,600
iPhone 15 Plus	128GB	₹89,900	₹89,600
	256GB	₹99,900	₹99,600
	512GB	₹119,900	₹119,600
iPhone 15 Pro	128GB	₹134,900	₹129,800
	256GB	₹144,900	₹139,800
	512GB	₹164,900	₹159,700
	1TB	₹184,900	₹179,400
iPhone 15 Pro Max	256GB	₹159,900	₹154,000
	512GB	₹179,900	₹173,900
	1TB	₹199,900	₹193,500
iPhone 14	128GB	₹69,900	₹69,600
	256GB	₹79,900	₹79,600
	512GB	₹99,900	₹99,600
iPhone SE	64GB	₹49,900	₹47,600

Market Impact

The price reduction is expected to make iPhones more accessible to Indian consumers, although they remain significantly more expensive than in the U.S. For example, the base iPhone 15 Pro model costs $999 in the U.S. but is priced at ₹1,55,000 ($1,550) in India.

Strategic Move

Apple’s decision to cut prices comes at a time when the company is facing a slowdown in demand in China. By making iPhones more affordable in India, Apple aims to boost its market share in one of its fastest-growing markets. The company has already seen a 42% increase in revenue from India, reaching $8.7 billion in 2023.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Apple plans to start assembling its next-generation Pro models in India. This move is expected to further reduce costs and make iPhones more affordable for Indian consumers. Other tech giants like Google are also planning to start manufacturing their smartphones in India, indicating a growing trend of local production in the country.

Sources

• Apple reduces iPhone prices in India, here are all the new prices – Times of India, Times of India.
• iPhone prices cut in India in new first for Apple, following tax cuts – 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac.
• Apple Lowers iPhone Prices in India After Country Reduces Taxes, PYMNTS.com.
• Apple cuts iPhone price in India amid China slowdown | TechCrunch, TechCrunch.