Apple TV+ sci-fi is ready to binge 🛸

December 11, 2021

Perhaps my biggest gripe about Apple TV+ is the fact that it releases most of its shows in dribs and drabs.

I understand why. Apple wants to serve up fresh content each week to make the streaming service seem vital. And Cupertino probably thinks it's cooking up some healthy anticipation. But I absolutely hate waiting for the next episode when I'm hooked on a show.

It's not so bad when it's Ted Lasso or some other lighthearted comedy. But when it's a sci-fi show, waiting for weekly installments makes it too hard to stay in the zone and keep on top of various plot developments.

Anyway, if you find yourself in that same boat, you can safely stream three impressive Apple TV+ sci-fi shows in their entirety now:

  • Dr. Brain, a mind-bending South Korean thriller about a neuroscientist who discovers a way to communicate with the dead -- and uses his brain-sync technology to track down killers.

  • Invasion, a much more tried-and-true series about incredibly destructive aliens who pay Earth an unwelcome visit.

  • And Foundation, a sprawling sci-fi epic based on Isaac Asimov's classic novels.

The first two just wrapped up this week, and Foundation's first season finished last month. If you're a sci-fi/action fan and looking for something to fully binge this weekend, give one of them a try. (If you've been watching weekly like me, check the recaps of this week's shows below.)

Otherwise, dive into the latest Apple news, reviews and how-tos.

No matter what, enjoy your weekend.

– Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Apple TV+ recaps and reviews

Apple TV+’s exciting new South Korean sci-fi series Dr. Brain draws its first season to a thrilling close this week. Sewon has one last brain sync to perform — and it’s the most important operation he’s ever conducted.

Plus, more Apple TV+ recaps and reviews:

News and opinion

Next year should bring revamps for iPad Pro, MacBook Air and Mac mini, as well as an Apple silicon boost for Mac Pro. And then there's the next-generation Apple Watches (plural) and the long-rumored mixed-reality headset ...

Plus, more Apple rumors:

Ever wondered what your favorite wireless headphones might look like during a weird acid trip? Find out right here (while sober) with these mesmerizing CT scans of AirPods.

Apple set aside massive amounts of money to boost the country’s economy and “technological prowess,” according to a new report.

Here's a detailed look at what the long-rumored vehicle might look like. But seriously ... suicide doors?!?

Myst, the vintage game from Cyan, takes home top accolades thanks to an incredible transformation.

How-tos

Lots of carriers track things like the websites you visit, the apps you use and your location. Verizon’s “Custom Experience” and “Custom Experience Plus” programs is just one example, but it offers a prime example of what to look out for.

You don’t need cables to stream video from your iPhone or iPad to a TV. Apple’s AirPlay 2 system is wireless and easy to use. That’s been true for years — what’s changed is the necessary equipment has become very affordable.

Get into the festive spirit by making it snow inside the Apple Store app while you do some last-minute shopping.

The update enables faster syncing and better performance — particularly for larger files — with no need for emulation anymore.

Deals

Looking for some sweet holiday gifts that won’t break the bank? The Cult of Mac Store has a massive collection of affordable stocking stuffers, sure to put a smile on the face of any Apple fan, for under $20 each.

Protect your iPhone with one of these tough, tempered-glass protectors from Limited77. Get yours today to save 20% — and enjoy the same discount on all other Limited77 accessories for iPhone and Apple Watch in the Cult of Mac Store

The Black Friday Mega Lifetime Bundle gives you unlimited access to three e-learning platforms, with thousands of classes on every topic you could imagine. Plus an awesome VPN!

Turn your Mac into an all-in-one media machine with The 2022 Mac Power User Bundle.

If you've got a gamer on your list who wishes they could hit the course more often, but doesn’t have the time or spare cash, here's the answer.

Reviews and recommendations

The Adonit Dash 4 is an iPad stylus well-suited for writing or drawing. And it offers something the Apple Pencil doesn’t: iPhone compatibility.

Have you ever lost your Apple TV remote? What an annoyance. But Elago’s new accessories for the Apple TV — a neat bunch of cases for your remote-control device as well as a mounts for it and your Apple TV hardware — help prevent loss.

The STM Goods MagPod is a beefy iPhone tabletop tripod that magnetically attaches to the handset. And it can do double duty as a handle.

Setups

With the new M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBook Pro models selling like hotcakes, a lot of people are wondering how to incorporate their new laptops into their computer setups. Is it enough just to use the laptop, or should it be used with an external keyboard, mouse or trackpad, as well as an external display?

Premium gaming setups are known for eye-popping visuals — but they need great sound, too. This one gets there with a killer display but also a raft of high-end audio gear. The headphones, in particular, may make you green with envy.

This setup revolves around premium audio-visual gear many people would be psyched to get their hands on.