What's next for Apple? 🔮

May 14, 2022

This year's Worldwide Developers Conference is just around the corner. If you're not familiar with the event, it might sound kind of boring. But in reality, Apple's annual WWDC keynote lays out the company's highest priorities for the coming year.

Come June 6, we'll get a closer look at everything new coming in iOS, macOS, iPadOS and watchOS. And that will give us a very clear picture of what's next for Apple.

If you want a sneak peek at WWDC22, our top story's for you.

Elsewhere in The Weekender:

That should keep you busy ...

-- Lewis Wallace, managing editor

News and opinion

We’re less than a month away from WWDC22, and that's an excellent time to look ahead to the unveiling of Apple's next operating systems. Here's a sneak peek at what's coming.

Apple's tiny gadget changed the way we listen to, buy and store music. Here is a definitive guide to the history of the iPod.

Plus, more on the death of iPod:

Six months after its launch, people are still griping about Apple Watch Series 7, saying it wasn’t worth the upgrade. Many have moaned that it lacks new features, with some even suggesting it was a last-minute rush-job on Cupertino’s part. Personally, I don’t believe a word of it.

Apple is reportedly testing an iPhone with a USB-C port and planning to launch a USB-C adapter that can be used with devices with Lightning connectors.

Plus, more Apple leaks and rumors:

The former Apple design chief reveals his favorite picks “for making, for marking, for measuring, and carrying with you every day." You won't believe the list -- or the price tags.

A brief demo during Google I/O shows how real-time speech translation could transform communication.

Plus, more from Google I/O:

How-tos

Apple’s new Focus feature is like Do Not Disturb on steroids. It works on Mac, iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch, and is much smarter than the Do Not Disturb of old. Our how-to will explain how to get the most out of it.

Apple pushed out firmware bump 4E71 for AirPods Pro, AirPods 2, AirPods 3 and AirPods Max this week. Here's how to make sure you've got it.

Deals

For anyone who wants to use their iPad like a desktop computer or laptop, with proper ergonomics in mind, the SwitchEasy MagMount Magnetic iPad Stand can help. And you can get it for $20 off the regular price in the Cult of Mac Store through May 16.

Ready to take advantage of your computer's hidden features? There are well over 1,000 you can unlock with the right software. This MacPilot Lifetime License is the key to getting more from your Mac.

Exploring the world will feel far more rewarding when you can speak the local language. Pick the app that suits you, and get learning before you pack your bags.

Whatever industry you work in or interests you have, everyone needs their own website. Why pay more than you need to for a top-rated web host?

Reviews

Apple TV+’s first foray into folk horror is also a welcome return to BBC-style costume dramas. It stars Tom Hiddleston and Claire Danes, and it holds a lot of promise in its deviously clever premise.

Plus, more Apple TV+ recaps and reviews:

When it comes to kicking back and playing a game on my iPhone, I love loading up Outlanders and seeing how long my community of villagers lasts before everything falls apart and society implodes.

Just like your watch face says something about your personality, so does your watch strap. The color, texture and pattern all mean something to you -- and to those who catch a glance of your wrist. That’s where the AlphaPremier collection comes in.

Clip the Backbone One to your iPhone to get the physical buttons and sticks you’ve been missing. It has a lot in common with an Xbox controller, while being designed specifically for iPhone gaming.

Setups

Two recently arrived Studio Displays replace a pair of gaming monitors in this setup. They look great, but they've got some serious competition.

A cool aspect of Mac mini and Mac Studio are the third-party USB-C hubs festooned with ports and storage capacity that also offer a place for the computers to sit. Like this one.

Who needs a MacBook when you can toss a Mac mini in your bag?