Master the Siri Remote

June 18, 2022

If you find yourself stymied by Apple TV's updated Siri Remote, our new in-depth guide will save you some frustration. It explains exactly how -- and where -- that puzzling scroll wheel works.

I hope the handy how-to makes your weekend streaming a little more fulfilling. (And if you don't own one yet, don't miss this deal on the Apple TV 4K. It's down to its lowest price yet!)

Enjoy,

Lewis Wallace, managing editor

P.S. Speaking of streaming, have you watched new Apple TV+ movie Cha Cha Real Smooth? Our reviewer paints it as a real stinker -- potentially the year's worst movie. Just wondering if you agree ...

How-tos

With its iPod-style scroll wheel, the second-generation Siri Remote promised to make scrolling through content effortless. In reality, the scroll wheel turned out to be hard to use, and lacked support from third-party apps like YouTube. But don’t throw your remote at the TV just yet. When you get the hang of its quirks, the Siri Remote scroll wheel works surprisingly well.

Shopping for an iPad can be overwhelming. Apple sells five iPad models in a wide range of sizes and capabilities, and each has its strengths and weaknesses. Our updated guide makes it easy to choose the right one.

iOS 16 brings some awesome, radical new features: a completely redesigned Lock Screen, a shared Photo Library for families, editing and un-sending iMessages, advanced new features in Maps and more. If you can't wait till September, here's how to get it now.

News and opinion

iOS 16 packs plenty of new features like a revamped Lock Screen, enhanced Messages and Mail app, Live Text for videos and more. However, while iOS 16 supports iPhone 8 and newer, not all the new features will be available on older iPhones.

The iPhone 14 series could bring the smartphone’s biggest front camera upgrade in years,

Plus, more Apple rumors:

Many of the best features of iPadOS 16 like Stage Manager are only coming to the M1 iPads.

The people who invented the iPhone are trying to invent what comes after the iPhone, and it sounds bonkers.

The Professional Learning series will cover subjects like photo storytelling, making music and learning the Swift programming language. And best of all, they’re free. All you need is an iPad.

It will be the exclusive streaming destination for all MLS games, starting with the 2023 season. Unlike Friday Night Baseball on Apple TV+, watching many soccer games will require a separate subscription.

However, there's still no word yet on an exact date when the redesigned MacBook Air with M2 will go up for preorder.

Deals

Father’s Day is the time to show your appreciation for dear old dad — or hip young dad, as the case may be. Maybe he’d appreciate accessories for his beloved Apple products. The Father’s Day Sale in the Cult of Mac Store features a great selection of deals!

Looking to buy the Apple TV 4K? Amazon has an irresistible deal that drops the streaming box to its lowest-ever price.

Plus, more deals on Apple gear:

Keep the slim form factor and terrific portability of your tablet while keeping it safe by slipping it into an Elago Smart Folio Case.

For Father’s Day this year, skip the tie and get Pops something he can use for the rest of his life: a lifetime license to Microsoft Office for Mac. It’s the gold standard when it comes to software. And if he doesn’t own the latest version, he’s missing out. We’ve got a hot deal on

Plus, more software deals:

Tired of carrying two or more chargers for work or travel? Consider the fast, lightweight, four-port Aergiatech P1114 140W GaN wall charger.

Is it really a vacation if you spend half the time recovering from the stress of planning it? Dollar Flight Club can find you amazing deals on domestic and international airfare.

Plus, more membership deals:

Reviews

The Lululook Foldable Magnetic iPad Stand is ready to help turn your tablet into a small desktop computer. Your iPad attaches to it magnetically, and you can easily adjust the height and viewing angle.

Plus, more hardware reviews:

The Rainbow Ligero looks like no other band you’ve seen. As with Juuk’s other metal Apple Watch bands, the Rainbow version’s striking looks provoke an immediate reaction. Its bold colors — red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple — shimmer on the wrist.

Only moments ago Cooper Raiff was a niche figure, someone you could avoid with a little effort. But now, he is the filmgoing public’s problem, thanks to Cha Cha Real Smooth, which premiered Friday on Apple TV+.

Plus, more Apple TV+ recaps and reviews:

Marco Arment’s podcast client recently received its biggest redesign yet. Now Overcast is better than ever!

Setups

If you’re tired of being just another drab presence on conference calls or online gaming tournaments, maybe it’s time to bring the party. No, we’re not saying you should send everyone jello shots beforehand. But you might try a sassy RGB microphone like the one in this setup.

In a world of ever-increasing monitor sizes (and weights), you need a pretty tough, supportive desk — especially if it’s a motorized one for sitting or standing. Otherwise, the whole thing might wobble all over the place under the combined, imbalanced weight of your fabulous gear.

We’ve seen plenty a hybrid Mac/PC setups, but today’s featured setup takes another course to gaming satisfaction.