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Get moving with iPhone's stealth health feature
An interesting new feature in iOS 14 is running under the radar. It's called Mobility Metrics, and it tracks several things that offer insight into your overall fitness, coordination and health.
Find out where to look for these metrics, and what to make of them, in our in-depth how-to.
Also this week, we've got several hot rumors about upcoming Apple gear (and a possible March 16 event), plus loads of Apple TV+ reviews and first looks at upcoming shows.
Finally, if you're a fan of Apple lore, don't miss our exclusive interview with Del Yocam, the company's first COO and a mentor to Steve Jobs. He's got some interesting stories to tell.
Happy Saturday,
Lewis Wallace, managing editor
How-tos
Using its built-in sensors and some extremely smart software, the iPhone in your hip pocket captures data and analyzes how you walk at all times. Then, the Health app serves up seven key measurements that provide an overall picture of your strength, coordination and cardiovascular health.
iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 are now available to anybody who wants to try them for free. Here's how to get your hands on them ahead of their wider release. (You know you've got your heart set on all those hot new emoji.)
When you sell an iPhone, Mac or other Apple computer, it’s critical to turn off Activation Lock or else the buyer won‘t be able to use the device. It’s easy to do when you still have the product, and not that much harder if you’ve already sold it. Here’s what you need to know to.
News and opinion
iPad fans should mark their calendars. Apple will reportedly unveil faster iPad Pro models, a significantly redesigned iPad mini and AirTags item-location trackers next month.
Plus, more Apple product news and rumors:
Long before Tim Cook brought his operations wizardry to Apple, Del Yocam lent his logistical prowess to Cupertino. Apple’s first chief operating officer, he helped transform the company from a chaotic, scrappy startup into a streamlined manufacturing powerhouse.
Apple TV+ will premiere a series based on the classic book The Mosquito Coast in April, and the first dramatic trailer dropped Friday. And then there's '80s comedy/drama Physical ... better bust out those leg warmers!
Plus, more Apple TV+ news:
Find out how a tinkerer turned the world’s smallest commercially available Windows PC into a Hackintosh the size of a paperback.
Deals
Don't let data loss happen to you. Grab a lifetime sub to the trusted Disk Drill Pro 4 at a steep discount.
Plus, more software deals:
Keep your iPhone topped off and ready to rumble with this handy stand.
Plus, more hardware deals:
Are you really capturing the best pictures possible? Learn how to take stunning iPhone photos with the extensive pro tips in this mobile photography course.
Reviews
The alternate-history space race extravaganza roars back for a second season. Things are different on the moon but they’re very much the same in the drama department.
Plus, more Apple TV+ reviews:
The Apple Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard for iPad are amazing but they prevent putting the tablet into most cases, so it has to be “naked” when not clipped to the keyboard. That’s no problem for the SwitchEasy CoverBuddy, a protective case that Apple’s clip-on keyboards can work right through.
Goldenerre’s newest band for Apple Watch makes high-quality leather look absolutely fabulous. The Starburst strap, available in silver or rose gold, is perfect for those who don’t like metal bracelets, but still want their smartwatch to look spectacular.
Tilting up the base of your MacBook makes it easier to type. And it elevates the screen to be nearer eye level. The Twelve South ParcSlope is a simple, sturdy laptop stand that offers both benefits. And you can use it with your iPad, too.