The Weekender
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Wonderlust's biggest surprises

Wonderlust's biggest surprises

Apple's big iPhone and Apple Watch event from A to Z.

Lewis Wallace
September 16, 2023

With Apple’s big “Wonderlust” event in the rearview mirror, what stands out? Many of the rumors we’ve been following for the past several months panned out — but some definitely didn’t.

As always, Apple managed to uncork some surprises. Seems appropriate to lead this week’s newsletter with our roundup of the biggest Wonderlust surprises.

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

If you missed Wonderlust and don’t have time to read all the posts we cranked out, maybe you’ll like this video that condenses the event into just 90 seconds.
Craving that new Modular Ultra watch face? If you own an Apple Watch Ultra, you can get it right now.
If you didn’t place any preorders yet, check out these buying guides we put together. One pits the iPhone 15 Pro versus the iPhone 15 Pro Max; the other will help you decide whether you should upgrade your iPhone, Apple Watch or AirPods.
Some people are ragging on the Apple video that showcased the company’s environmental efforts, but I thought it was pretty brilliant. If nothing else, Tim Cook did a good job staring down Mother Nature!
On The CultCast this week, we tallied up our Wonderlust predictions. Listen to the podcast to see who won.

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Wonderlust event coverage

5 surprises from Apple's Wonderlust event

Apple still managed to surprise us here and there during Tuesday's Wonderlust event. Here are some features we weren't expecting.

Plus, more tidbits from the event:

iPhone 15 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max: Should you go big?

The differences between iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max increase over last year's models, with a 5x optical zoom exclusive to the larger phone.

Plus, more iPhone news:

Apple Watch Series 9 gets big power boost and new double tap gesture

Apple Watch Series 9 brings a faster S9 chip that boosts performance, improves SIri and brings a new way to perform common functions.

Plus, more Apple Watch news:

Whose 'Wonderlust' predictions came true? [The CultCast]

This week on Cult of Mac's podcast: We dissect Apple's "Wonderlust" event, and rate our predictions for new iPhones, Apple Watches and more.

News and explainers

Should you buy the iPhone 15, Apple Watch or AirPods?

Now that the products are available to order, you might be wondering if it’s time to upgrade. That depends on what devices you have, so I’ve put together a buying guide with helpful charts and a video to help you decide.

Why you might be interested in Apple's new USB-C EarPods

Apple's transition away from Lightning includes a USB-C version of EarPods. Here's why you might be interested in a pair.

No, Apple didn’t change the iPhone connector to make money

Apple didn’t change the Lightning connector to make more money selling you new cables and dongles. It’s a common conspiracy theory that doesn’t hold up to scrutiny.

iPhone 15 USB-C port doesn't hide any nasty secrets

Apple didn't tinker with the USB-C port in the iPhone 15 series to disadvantage standard cables. Use any one you want.

What's the difference between USB-C and Thunderbolt? [Updated]

With iPhone 15 models going with a USB-C connector -- and maybe Thunderbolt on at least one -- people need to know the difference.

Deals

Get a 4K dashcam that doubles as a backup cam

This 4K touchscreen dashcam has everything a safe driver needs. The 10-inch IPS touchscreen attaches easily to your rearview mirror.

Plus, more hardware deals:

The aloSIM eSIM is on sale for half off, only $25

Stay connected abroad for less when you get the aloSIM lifetime eSIM plan and $50 of data credit for just $24.99.

Sell your old iPhone, Apple Watch and more for upgrade cash

Cult of Mac's buyback program offers cash for old Apple gear. Sell your iPhone, Apple Watch and more to us. Get a quote today!

Hop on the AI train with this program for beginners

Get the 2023 Machine Learning for Absolute Beginners e-degree program for just $29.99, the best price online.

Reviews

Fantastic ‘Foundation’ season 2 finale promises hope for the future [Apple TV+ recap] ★★★★★

Apple TV+ sci-fi series "Foundation" ends its second season, going out on a remarkable high note fueled by momentum and emotion.

Tilting iPhone platform sets 100W multidevice GaN charger apart [Review] ★★★★☆

Coming out just after iPhone 15's release, Ugreen's unusual new 100W 2-in-1 GaN Desktop Charger could be your main charging station.

Even Jon Hamm can’t save ‘The Morning Show’ season 3 [Apple TV+ recap] ★½☆☆☆

Adding the "Mad Men" star to the cast of "The Morning Show" doesn't correct the drama's underlying deficiencies.

Setups

Try the cheap way to get an Apple display

Love Apple's screens but hate their high price tags? This user happily went vintage, adding two Cinema Displays for just $74.

'So we're doing dual Studio Display setups?'

This setup not only boasts dual Studio Displays, it sports two Macs -- an M2 Mac mini and an M1 Pro MacBook Pro.

Mac Studio hides under Studio Display-laden desk

Can you spot the Mac Studio? It’s stashed beneath a standing desk that’s showing off dual Studio Displays on 3D-printed stands.