iOS 15 is boring (and that's a good thing)

June 19, 2021

Sweeping change is overrated, especially when it comes to something you use every day -- like your iPhone.

This year's iOS update doesn't bring a ton of mind-blowing new features. But when you're trying to execute a simple task, sometimes you don't want your mind blown. You want "it just works" ... or maybe "it just works the way I'm already comfortable with."

iOS 15's iterative changes indicate just how mature the iPhone is. And that's a very good thing.

That's the gist of Cult of Mac writer Ed Hardy's reasoning. Get his full take in this week's top story. We've also got more info on what is actually new in iOS 15, along with some tasty how-tos and reviews.

Enjoy!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

News and opinion

iOS 15 is kind of boring. It brings some welcome new features, but nothing that will change the way you use your iPhone forever. Some people might find the lack of earth-shaking new features dull. But actually, it's kind of awesome.

Plus, more on Apple's latest software:

As governments around the world scrutinize Apple’s App Store policies, Congress is pondering legislation that could stop the company from preinstalling default apps on iPhones.

Looking for a fun brain-teaser this weekend? Look no further than Letter Rooms, a letter-jumblingly fun word game created by award-winning developer Klemens Strasser, maker of Subwords, Asymmetric and Elementary Minute.

Plus, more gaming news:

This year's screen will have thinner bezels and a “new lamination technique that brings the display closer to the front cover.” And that rugged Explorer Edition? You'll be waiting a little longer for that ...

How-tos

The one-year free trial comes to an end later this month, which means you will be charged soon to keep your subscription going. If you don’t want to use Apple TV+ going forward, you need to cancel it now.

The new feature plays relaxing audio tracks to help you stay calm and focused, and to block out background distractions. Here’s how to use it on iPhone and iPad.

Ready to start testing macOS Monterey? You can already get your hands on the developer beta — so long as you have a compatible Mac.

Deals

The Cult of Mac Store is offering big discounts on great accessories from Bucardo, Elago, Elkson, Just Mobile, Limited77, Mifa, Monowear, Mujjo, Strapa and SwitchEasy. Our Father's Day Sale ends at 11:59 p.m. PDT Sunday, so get shopping now!

Looking for the ultimate multitasking device? Check out this Teamwork 2-in-1 wireless charger. It can safely and effectively charge your iPhone and Apple Watch — or any other Qi-compatible device — at the same time. And it's on sale for 49% off.

You’ve got your AirTags. Now you just need a way to attach them to the gear you never want to lose again.

Get your tickets now for your chance at winning a PlayStation 5, an Xbox X Series, a Nintendo Switch, an Oculus Quest 2 VR headset, a massive Sony LED TV, a Bose QuietComfort 35 Series 2 gaming headset and various other extras.

Reviews

Adonit Prime is a stylus for iPhone or iPad that combines a premium form with top-quality function. It’s for anyone not satisfied with everyday styli — anybody who wants one that stands out from the crowd.

Apple TV+ went fishing for its own Glow but instead landed the transparent, overcooked and overdetermined Physical. Star Rose Byrne tries as hard as she can to enliven this mishmash of cliches. However, its grotesque, fetishistic anti-nostalgia goes nowhere fast.

Sanho 6-in-1 hub clips to an iPad and adds a collection of ports, allowing the tablet to make use of a variety of popular accessories, from mice and headphones to external displays.

Our widowed protagonist comes face to face with the bane of her existence in this week’s episode of Lisey’s Story, the Stephen King miniseries currently giving Apple TV+ a welcome shot of weird.

Instead of having to attach with adhesive, the pop-up phone handles cling tightly to magnets built into Apple’s handsets.