The Weekender
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Change this iPhone setting today!

Change this iPhone setting today!

Plus: Mac's 40th birthday, Apple car news, Photos tips and more.

Lewis Wallace
January 27, 2024

A new feature in iOS 17.3 makes it much more difficult for iPhone thieves to blow up your life. It’s called Stolen Device Protection, and it’s a pretty smart way of adding an extra layer of security.

Unfortunately, it’s switched off by default. Do yourself a favor and turn it on today. It just takes a second!

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

The Mac turned 40 this week, and we put together a mini-documentary about the computer that changed everything.
It’s quick and easy to tag pictures in the Photos app so you can find your friends, family members and pets. Here’s how to get started.
Am I nuts for going “nearly nude” with my iPhone 15 Pro Max?
Apple revealed big changes coming to the App Store to comply with EU mandates. Yes, the iPhone will be much more open, at least for Europeans, but Apple’s approach isn’t pleasing everyone. In fact, some developers are enraged.
Finally, this week brought some fresh (and mostly disappointing) news about the Apple car.

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

How-tos

How and why to use iPhone Stolen Device Protection

Stolen Device Protection offers increased safety for your private info if someone steals your iPhone and its passcode. Here's how to use it.

How to update AirPods firmware: Everything you need to know

Apple pushed out firmware update 6A321 for AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro 1. Here's how to make sure you've got the bug fixes.

How to tag photos on iPhone with people and pets

Tag photos on your iPhone with the names of your friends, family and pets so you can easily find pictures of them later on. The Photos app will detect pictures of people automatically — you just need to give them a name.

How to get the latest HomePod software update

HomePod Software 17.3 is out. Here’s how to make sure your Apple smart speaker has the latest software version.

News

What to try first in iOS 17.3

Find out how iOS 17.3 Stolen Device Protection prevents theft of personal information and more. Get ready to collaborate on Apple Music playlists!

Plus, more Apple software news:

Why I'm going 'nearly nude' with my iPhone 15 Pro Max

iPhone with no case? Have I lost my mind? Definitely not. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is big enough without adding extra bulk. Plus ... titanium!

Evolution of the Mac: 40 years of innovation

The 40-year history of Macintosh computers is a roller coaster of ages golden and dark. This is how it all happened.

Plus, more on the Mac’s big birthday:

Finally, Apple car coming in 2028

Apple has had to slam the brakes on its hopes for a car with full self-driving capabilities. But the change might allow the EV to debut in 2028.

Devs call Apple’s new iPhone sideloading rules 'malicious compliance' and 'ludicrously punitive'

A noted Apple critic used the terms "malicious compliance" and "hot garbage" to describe the company's elaborate rules for sideloading apps.

Plus, more on App Store changes:

Google admits Chrome Incognito mode does almost nothing

The description of Chrome's Incognito mode will soon be changed to make it clear that Google tracks people using it.

Leak reveals alleged 12.9-inch iPad Air design

CAD renders leak, purportedly showing the 12.9-inch iPad Air design. The larger midrange tablet is rumored to arrive later this year.

Plus, more Apple rumors:

Why iPhone 15 Pro Max is better than Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra packs cutting-edge hardware, but the iPhone 15 Pro Max still trumps it in some key areas.

Deals

Save big on 15-inch MacBook Air with AppleCare+

The 15-inch MacBook Air, aka the world's slimmest 15-inch laptop, is discounted by $200 on Amazon to a low price of $1,099.

Plus, more deals on Apple gear:

Grab a pair of clip-on mics to capture high-quality audio with your iPhone

Enjoy professional-grade audio in any content you capture, whether that's a video, interview or podcast, with these clip-on mics for iPhone

Price cut: Apple TV-compatible remote gives you the buttons you crave

Maximize your experience with a proven alternative Apple TV remote. You can purchase the Function101 Button Remote for only $24.97.

Convert PDFs easier than ever with this software loved by users, $24.97 for life

PDF Converter Pro is a highly rated PDF editor that works on both Mac and PC. Right now, you can grab a lifetime license for just $24.97.

Save on Dollar Flight Club, then save on air travel for the rest of your life

Turn your dream vacation into reality with a lifetime subscription to Dollar Flight Club Premium Plus+ for only $59.97 (regularly $1,690).

Reviews and recommendations

Matrix Ultimate charges your gadgets at home and on the go [Review] ★★★★½

If you want just one charger for iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods at home and on the road, try Alogic's Matrix Ultimate 3-in-1.

Elago's fluoro rubber Apple Watch bands are durable, comfortable, just $18.99

Elago's lineup of Apple Watch bands offers supreme comfort, immense durability and brilliant blue and red color options.

Plus, more great Apple Watch bands from the Cult of Mac Store:

Charging stand turns Apple Watch into tiny retro computer

Elago's W9 Stand for Apple Watch Ultra and all other series transforms your wearable into a retro computer while it charges.

Magnetic cable management system clears clutter for less than $14

When you have too many cables cluttering up your desk, you need a good cable management system. Check out this one from Elago.

Setups

No regrets on move from monster PC to M3 MacBook Pro

This setup’s mastermind feels nothing but joy after replacing a powerful desktop PC with a base M3 Max MacBook Pro for a more-mobile option.

Day or night, you can't go wrong with stereo HomePods

We wonder why we don't see more paired HomePods (as opposed to HomePod minis). Hmm, could it be the price?

User trades 4K display for a second MacBook Pro

This setup lost one of its two 4K external displays and gained a second M2 Max MacBook Pro.