Category: Uncategorized

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

In the Apple Silicon era, MacBooks have become more affordable than ever – with brand new models starting as low as $599. With looming global tariffs, these great deals could potentially be coming to an end soon – so if you’re in the market for a new MacBook for any reason, now may be one of the best ever times to purchase.

Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 update is also dropping support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions) – so if you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.

M1 MacBook Air

Apple has launched 4 MacBook Airs since entering the Apple Silicon era, with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still utilizes a more familiar wedge design from the Intel era, although a lot of users might prefer that.

The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, remains an excellent laptop for its price. It boasts blazing fast performance thanks to the M1 chip, a stunning retina display (though with thicker bezels compared to the newer MacBook Airs), a great keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like an airplane that’s about to take off when you open it in public.

Since the M1 MacBook Air is the oldest on this list, it’s also the cheapest. One caveat with the M1 MacBook Air is that it’s harder to find new ones with more than 256GB of storage, so if you need a lot of storage, you’ll have to buy a newer Air. On the bright side, it does remain to be the only Apple Silicon MacBook to come in a proper Gold color.

You can buy the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all 3 colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing lasts through August 30th, so don’t miss out!

• 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: $599 at Walmart

M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.

M2 MacBook Airs have mostly cleared out of stock, and thats unfortunately also becoming the case for M3 models – though there are still a few, particularly with the 15-inch MacBook Air.

15-inch models with M3 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

Some deals require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best deals come in on higher trims, allowing you to get higher-end specs at a much more affordable price.

M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a refreshed MacBook Air with M4 chip. This computer is mostly similar to the previous model, except it now features a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.

13-inch models with M4 chip:

• 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

15-inch models with M4 chip:

• 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
• 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at Amazon

Despite being the latest and greatest, there are already some incredible deals on the M4 MacBook Air, mostly thanks to its already lower starting price.

M4 MacBook Pro

Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.

Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as affordable as the MacBook Airs listed, if you want that amazing display and the extra ports, there are still some good deals to find. All of the models listed below are M4 and M4 Pro chip models, providing the latest and greatest performance and features.

Some all time lows have just been reached with the M4 MacBook Pro, allowing for an incredible deal on this top-notch machine.

14-inch models:

• M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1499 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1699 on Amazon ($300 off!)

16-inch models:

• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2206 on Amazon ($294 off!)
• M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of memory: $2581 on Amazon ($318 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of memory: $3099 on Amazon ($400 off!)
• M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 48GB of memory: $3554 on Amazon ($445 off!)

If you’re rocking an older MacBook model, there couldn’t be a better time to upgrade. M5 models aren’t due until next spring, so you have some time to purchase these models while still having the latest and greatest.

---

My favorite Apple accessory recommendations:

Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram

Taking a look back at this week’s news and headlines from across the Apple world, including iPhone 17 Pro release dates, new iPhone 17 design cues, iOS update warning, the low-end MacBook, Apple’s Cards anniversary shake-up, F1 movie finds more success, and a naive UK request denied.

Apple Loop is here to remind you of a few of the many discussions around Apple in the last seven days. You can also read my weekly digest of Android news here on Forbes.

Apple CEO Tim Cook delivers remarks before the start of an Apple event at Apple headquarters (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Getty Images

Hanging Up The iPhone 17 Pro

Following the controversy around last year’s FineWoven case for the iPhone, Apple is expected to bring a new product to market. The TechWoven case will change the materials for a more robust choice, and also add a new feature that is both low-tech and incredibly useful:

“The cases also have MagSafe compatibility, it’s claimed, which is not a surprise, but the second claim is something unprecedented: lanyard holes. Other manufacturers have made it possible to attach lanyards, but not Apple. The box, which also mentions that the case has built-in Camera Control, is “compatible with Crossbody Strap.”

(Forbes).

The iPhone Launch, Pre-Order, and Release Dates

But when will we see this new design? Apple has traditionally decided on an early September launch date, but there is some wiggle room. David Phelan takes a look at what happens once the launch date is public, and when you can expect the various landmarks to show up:

“Working backwards… I’d guess that Apple will announce its event via invitations on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025,” Keach believes. I agree. I’ll go further and suggest you look out for an announcement of the keynote date at around 8 a.m Pacific, 11 a.m. Eastern, 4 p.m U.K. on that day

“As soon as that announcement is made, everything else falls into place. To add more flesh to the bones of the schedule, it means, if it is Sept. 9, that pre-orders will open on Friday, Sept. 12. Usually, this will take place at 5 a.m. Pacific, 8 a.m. Eastern, 1 p.m. U.K.”

(Forbes).

“Update Now” Warning For New iOS Patch

Before the step up at the end of September to iOS 26 (as Apple syncs up the release date to the yearly calendar), there’s a final push on iOS 18. v18.6.2 has arrived, just one week after 18.6.1 and appears to be a security patch for the iPhone and a vulnerability in the ImageIO framework:

“While the last iPhone update, just six days before this one, had a specific Apple Watch-related feature in mind (to restore the blood oxygen monitoring feature to watches that had seen it vanish or never appear in the first place, this update is about a security update. It’s worth noting that the previous update had zero security aspects.”

(Forbes).

The MacBook Goes Low

For as long as I can remember, Apple’s entry-level MacBook has been $999. Sure, there are some tweaks, such as the educational discount or Walmart’s curious offer of brand new MacBook Air M1 models from 2020 on sale in-store at a lower price, but Tim Cook’s Apple has refused to push anything below a thousand dollars. Yet the rumors around a $699 MacBook due in 2026 are building. And it’s all down to the iPhone’s chipset:

“Tim Cook and his team will launch this MacBook with the A18 Pro chipset… As the iPad market shows, the A17 Pro is more than capable of lighter computing, and certainly the email answering, web browsing and office working that is comfortable on a laptop or Chromebook will be just as comfortable running on an Axx MacBook rather than an Mxx model.

(Forbes).

Changing The Card

This week is the sixth anniversary of the Apple Card’s general availability in the US. The credit card tied to your Apple ID offered several offers and deals to users, not least the lack of fees and the daily cashback option. Changes are coming, though, and the biggest will be a new financial partner:

“Specifically, The Wall Street Journal last month reported that Chase Bank parent company JPMorgan was in “advanced talks” with Apple about replacing Goldman Sachs as the Apple Card’s financial partner. Goldman Sachs is in the process of winding down its consumer lending business, which has lost billions of dollars in recent years, and Apple is reportedly willing to let them out of their contract that is supposed to run until 2030.”

(MacRumors).

Another Green Flag Lap

Apple’s investment in F1: The Movie is proving to be a bountiful choice. The fictional season of Formula 1, heavily featuring Brad Pitt, is on course to break $600 million in ticket sales before the end of the week. With the theatrical run slowing down, it’s time for Apple TV to offer up the majestic motorsport moments for purchase or rental:

“F1: The Movie launched in theaters on June 27, and it had a highly successful box office run. The film earned more than $500 million globally, making it Apple’s highest-grossing theatrical release to date. Apple did a second theatrical run in August… It is not yet clear when F1: The Movie will be available for Apple TV + subscribers.”

(MacRumors).

And Finally…

A naive request from the British Government to force a backdoor into Apple’s encryption services that only the Government could break has been quietly pulled back.

“Over the past few months, I’ve been working closely with our partners in the UK, alongside @POTUS and @VP, to ensure Americans’ private data remains private and our Constitutional rights and civil liberties are protected. As a result, the UK has agreed to drop its mandate for Apple to provide a “back door” that would have enabled access to the protected encrypted data of American citizens and encroached on our civil liberty.”

(Tulsi Gabbard via 9to5Mac).

Apple Loop brings you seven days worth of highlights every weekend here on Forbes. Don’t forget to follow me so you don’t miss any coverage in the future. Last week’s Apple Loop can be read here, or this week’s edition of Loop’s sister column, Android Circuit, is also available on Forbes.

Taking a look back at this week’s news and headlines from across the Apple world, including iPhone 17 Pro release dates, new iPhone 17 design cues, iOS update warning, the low-end MacBook, Apple’s Cards anniversary shake-up, F1 movie finds more success, and a naive UK request denied.

Apple Loop is here to remind you of a few of the many discussions around Apple in the last seven days. You can also read my weekly digest of Android news here on Forbes.

Apple CEO Tim Cook delivers remarks before the start of an Apple event at Apple headquarters (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Getty Images

Hanging Up The iPhone 17 Pro

Following the controversy around last year’s FineWoven case for the iPhone, Apple is expected to bring a new product to market. The TechWoven case will change the materials for a more robust choice, and also add a new feature that is both low-tech and incredibly useful:

“The cases also have MagSafe compatibility, it’s claimed, which is not a surprise, but the second claim is something unprecedented: lanyard holes. Other manufacturers have made it possible to attach lanyards, but not Apple. The box, which also mentions that the case has built-in Camera Control, is “compatible with Crossbody Strap.”

(Forbes).

The iPhone Launch, Pre-Order, and Release Dates

But when will we see this new design? Apple has traditionally decided on an early September launch date, but there is some wiggle room. David Phelan takes a look at what happens once the launch date is public, and when you can expect the various landmarks to show up:

“Working backwards… I’d guess that Apple will announce its event via invitations on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025,” Keach believes. I agree. I’ll go further and suggest you look out for an announcement of the keynote date at around 8 a.m Pacific, 11 a.m. Eastern, 4 p.m U.K. on that day

“As soon as that announcement is made, everything else falls into place. To add more flesh to the bones of the schedule, it means, if it is Sept. 9, that pre-orders will open on Friday, Sept. 12. Usually, this will take place at 5 a.m. Pacific, 8 a.m. Eastern, 1 p.m. U.K.”

(Forbes).

“Update Now” Warning For New iOS Patch

Before the step up at the end of September to iOS 26 (as Apple syncs up the release date to the yearly calendar), there’s a final push on iOS 18. v18.6.2 has arrived, just one week after 18.6.1 and appears to be a security patch for the iPhone and a vulnerability in the ImageIO framework:

“While the last iPhone update, just six days before this one, had a specific Apple Watch-related feature in mind (to restore the blood oxygen monitoring feature to watches that had seen it vanish or never appear in the first place, this update is about a security update. It’s worth noting that the previous update had zero security aspects.”

(Forbes).

The MacBook Goes Low

For as long as I can remember, Apple’s entry-level MacBook has been $999. Sure, there are some tweaks, such as the educational discount or Walmart’s curious offer of brand new MacBook Air M1 models from 2020 on sale in-store at a lower price, but Tim Cook’s Apple has refused to push anything below a thousand dollars. Yet the rumors around a $699 MacBook due in 2026 are building. And it’s all down to the iPhone’s chipset:

“Tim Cook and his team will launch this MacBook with the A18 Pro chipset… As the iPad market shows, the A17 Pro is more than capable of lighter computing, and certainly the email answering, web browsing and office working that is comfortable on a laptop or Chromebook will be just as comfortable running on an Axx MacBook rather than an Mxx model.

(Forbes).

Changing The Card

This week is the sixth anniversary of the Apple Card’s general availability in the US. The credit card tied to your Apple ID offered several offers and deals to users, not least the lack of fees and the daily cashback option. Changes are coming, though, and the biggest will be a new financial partner:

“Specifically, The Wall Street Journal last month reported that Chase Bank parent company JPMorgan was in “advanced talks” with Apple about replacing Goldman Sachs as the Apple Card’s financial partner. Goldman Sachs is in the process of winding down its consumer lending business, which has lost billions of dollars in recent years, and Apple is reportedly willing to let them out of their contract that is supposed to run until 2030.”

(MacRumors).

Another Green Flag Lap

Apple’s investment in F1: The Movie is proving to be a bountiful choice. The fictional season of Formula 1, heavily featuring Brad Pitt, is on course to break $600 million in ticket sales before the end of the week. With the theatrical run slowing down, it’s time for Apple TV to offer up the majestic motorsport moments for purchase or rental:

“F1: The Movie launched in theaters on June 27, and it had a highly successful box office run. The film earned more than $500 million globally, making it Apple’s highest-grossing theatrical release to date. Apple did a second theatrical run in August… It is not yet clear when F1: The Movie will be available for Apple TV + subscribers.”

(MacRumors).

And Finally…

A naive request from the British Government to force a backdoor into Apple’s encryption services that only the Government could break has been quietly pulled back.

“Over the past few months, I’ve been working closely with our partners in the UK, alongside @POTUS and @VP, to ensure Americans’ private data remains private and our Constitutional rights and civil liberties are protected. As a result, the UK has agreed to drop its mandate for Apple to provide a “back door” that would have enabled access to the protected encrypted data of American citizens and encroached on our civil liberty.”

(Tulsi Gabbard via 9to5Mac).

Apple Loop brings you seven days worth of highlights every weekend here on Forbes. Don’t forget to follow me so you don’t miss any coverage in the future. Last week’s Apple Loop can be read here, or this week’s edition of Loop’s sister column, Android Circuit, is also available on Forbes.