Welcome Home live blog: Follow the latest rumors before Apple
Macworld On Tuesday at 9 am ET, Apple will launch a new crop of products as part of its Welcome Home launch . While were not expecting a proper keynote presentation to announce the new stuff, there should be a lot to see, with no fewer than three new products expected to arrive Tuesday morning. Heres what you can expect from the announcement. Welcome Home: How to tune in Since this isnt a special event, but rather an Experience for members of the media, Apple isnt streaming a keynote on its site or YouTube channel. However, you can check out all of the new stuff right here as its announced, as well as on Apple.com and Apple Newsroom . Welcome Home: What we expect As the Welcome Home tagline suggests, Tuesdays announcements will all be related to Apples smart home. While two of the products are expected to be relatively minor updates, they will all be part of a significant push into becoming a major player in the smart-home market, with Siri AI at the forefront. Heres whats coming: Apple TV 4K : Its been four years since the 3rd-gen Apple TV 4K arrived, and Apple is finally ready to release a new model. Its expected to have a faster chip with Apple Intelligence support. HomePod mini : Apples smaller HomePod hasnt received an update since its 2020 debut, so to say the 2nd-gen model is overdue is an understatement. However, its not expected to get much more than a new chip and a new array of colors. Smart home hub : Tuesdays big announcement will be the debut of Apples long-rumored smart-home hub. There will reportedly be two versionsone that sits on a table and another that hangs on a walland it will run a new interface powered by Siri AI. A new HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K should arrive on Tuesday. Foundry Welcome Home: Latest news and updates Theres been a flurry of last-minute rumors about Apples slate of announcements, mostly from a report by Mark Gurman at Bloomberg . Here are the latest news and rumors: Apple TV 4K: The update to Apples set-top box is expected to have an A19 chip with 8GB of RAM. Thats double the RAM and a big step up from the current models A15 Bionic processor. HomePod mini: Like the Apple TV 4K, the 2nd-gen HomePod mini is expected to sport an S10 processor, which is actually only two versions ahead. However, it will be powerful enough to support Apple Intelligence and Siri AI. HomeView: Apples smart home display will reportedly be named HomeView, which, according to Mark Gurman, reflects how the device is meant to be used: as a display that people look at and control primarily with their voice. Delayed launch: Gurman reports that while the Apple TV and HomePod mini will likely ship this month, the smart hub isnt due to arrive until mid-November, about a month after its unveiling. Focus on hardware: Gurman reports that Apples HomeView hub will support a limited selection of Apple applications and wont have an app store for third-party developers. Instead, Apple will reportedly rely on an array of third-party accessories that connect to the HomeView and can be controlled through Siri, the Home app and other Apple devices. ADT partnership: MacRumors connects some dots to infer that Apple and ADT may enter into a partnership to promote Apples smart-home efforts. According to a job posting and conversations with people at the company, ADT has been training its employees on iPhones and has begun requiring NDAs for some training. ADT previously partnered with Google to monitor systems using Nest Hubs and Google Assistant. Apple Welcome Home Launch 55 mins ago , By Michael Simon Take our poll! While we wait to see what Apples new smart home hub will will look like, let us know what youre most excited to see tomorrow morning with our poll on either X or Threads . Link copied SHARE 7 hours ago , By Michael Simon What's old is new again According to two Mark Gurman, Apple will release the HomeView smart hub in four classic metallic colors: Space Gray, Starlight, Silver, and pink, which sounds a lot like the iPhone 6 lineup, which came in Space Gray, Gold, Silver, and Rose Gold. I dont know about you, but i miss the days of gorgeous metallic colors and cant wait to see what the HomeView looks like. Apple Link copied SHARE 9 hours ago , By Michael Simon Apple TV and HomePod mini preorders this week In a follow-up video to his PowerOn newsletter, Bloombergs Mark Gurman reports that Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini preorders should begin this week. That likely means preorders will begin on Tuesday or Wednesday, leaving Friday at 8 am ET for iPhone Duo. Link copied SHARE 10 hours ago , By Michael Simon Are Apple events old news? After Tuesdays launch, Apple is expected to announce another round of new products in late October , including a brand-new, never-thought-wed-ever-see-it touchscreen MacBook Pro. Surely Apple has to hold an event for this, right? Not so, according to the latest rumors. Apple will reportedly announce the new touchscreen Mac, along with the M6 iMac and MacBook, and refreshed iPad mini, via another website launch and accompanying hands-on experience for members of the media. Its no coincidence that this is the third such Experience this year. All three could have been events with dramatic reveals of three impressive new products: MacBook Neo, HomeView smart hub, and the touchscreen MacBook. In fact, the last time Apple held an event other than WWDC or to announce a new iPhone was the Let Loose event in May 2024 when the M4 iPad Pro arrived. Is the age of the Apple event over? It very well could be. Link copied SHARE 13 hours ago , By David Price Is Apple serious about the smart home? Our latest Apple Breakfast column considers this weeks announcements and examines what Apple needs to do to convince customers it takes the smart home seriously . Until now, the Home ecosystem has been a loose coalition. Because the accessories are made by third parties, they dont have a strong unified look or a consistent level of polish. Whats needed is for Apple to take control. An important element of tomorrows launch will be the products that arent made by Apple: the accessories by LG, Schneider, and potentially other companies which have been prepared with this event in mind, and with Apples (hopefully close) involvement. These products wont, we understand, carry the Apple brand. But they must embody the Apple ethos. Link copied SHARE 16 hours ago , By Michael Simon Welcome Home: Live Blog Welcome to the Welcome Home live blog! Stay tuned for updates throughout the day leading up to Tuesdays announcement. Keep this page open in a Safari tab and youll know all about whats new as soon as it arrives. Link copied SHARE
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Best Antivirus for Mac (2026): Tested
Macworld It wasnt long ago that Macs were considered secure enough on their own. But as Apple devices have grown in popularity, macOS has become an increasingly attractive target for attackers . Todays threats are less about traditional viruses and more about phishing, fake updates, malicious downloads, and scams designed to trick users into installing malware themselves. At the same time, AI tools are accelerating vulnerability discovery and exploit development, making rapid patching more important than ever. Apple includes built-in protections such as XProtect and Gatekeeper, and macOS security is stronger than ever. However, these defenses mainly target known threats and cant fully prevent social-engineering attacks or credential theft. Modern antivirus tools with features like anti-phishing protection, malicious site blocking, behavior monitoring, and password and identity safeguards therefore remain essential for Mac users. To see which ones actually defend against todays threats, weve tested the leading antivirus apps for Mac and you can see our recommendations below. Get the best Mac antivirus: Intego ONE Weve tested the top Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios, performance benchmarks, and independent lab results, alongside usability, performance and reliability checks. Use this guide to find the best antivirus for your needs. Below are our expert picks for 2026, including the best overall, best value, and best free options. Best Mac Antivirus in 2026: At a Glance The best antivirus for Mac in 2026 is Intego ONE , thanks to its Mac-specific design, strong protection, and low performance impact. Norton 360 and Bitdefender are also top alternatives. Scroll down for full reviews and testing results. How we test Mac Antivirus We test Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios and independent lab data from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. Starting with a clean macOS system, we downloaded malware samples and visited malicious websites to measure protection against online and offline threats, including Windows-based malware. We also assessed system performance, ease of use and macOS integration, along with features like ransomware protection, VPNs and firewalls. Only products that deliver strong protection without slowing down your Mac make our top recommendations. Best Mac Antivirus: Benchmarks Antivirus AV-Test Protection AV-Comparatives Score Our Malware Detection Performance Impact (Our Tests) Scan Speed Overall Score Intego 6 / 6 Approved 99% Low Fastest 4.7 / 5 Norton 360 6 / 6 Approved 100% Medium Medium 4.7 / 5 Avast One 6 / 6 Approved 99% Medium Medium 4.5 / 5 Moonlock 5.5 / 6 Not available 100% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 Surfshark 6 / 6 Approved 100% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 Avira Free 5.5 / 6 Approved 97% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 AVG Internet Security 6 / 6 Approved 99% Low Medium 4.5 / 5 Bitdefender 6 / 6 Approved 100% Low Fast 4.5 / 5 ESET 6 / 6 Approved 95% Low Fast 4 / 5 Avira 6 / 6 Approved 97% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 We compared independent lab results with our own real-world testing to identify the best Mac antivirus software for 2026. Best Mac Antivirus: Our top picks tested and ranked Weve tested and reviewed the best Mac antivirus software below. Our summaries explain how each product performed, why it ranks where it does, and its key features with links to our full, in-depth reviews. Updated July 3, 2026. 1. Intego ONE Best antivirus for Mac users Pros Extremely fast malware scanning Excellent firewall control options Strong macOS-focused protection Cons No phishing protection or parental controls Price When Reviewed: Intego ONE Essential from $2.50 a month/one device/first year, then $3.33 a month or $29.99 for the first year and then $39.99 a year. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Intego (annual) $29.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Intego ONE is a powerful Mac-focused security suite with excellent malware detection, extremely fast scan speeds, and strong firewall controls. Designed specifically for macOS, it works alongside Apples XProtect and Gatekeeper protections. The Complete plan also includes a VPN and a companion iPhone app with useful security and privacy checks. Why we picked it as our top choice Intego ONE stands out for its outstanding malware protection, exceptionally fast scans, and powerful firewall controls. In our tests, it detected almost every threat from more than 130 malware samples and scanned more than 877GB of data in under 10 minutes. Recent updates have also improved performance during malware cleanup and resolved several earlier bugs. Key strengths include: Excellent malware detection, including ransomware protection. Extremely fast scans, processing millions of files in minutes. Powerful firewall with detailed network monitoring and customizable rules. Improved quarantine performance and system responsiveness. Useful iPhone VPN and security checks with the Complete plan. Clean, user-friendly interface designed specifically for macOS. Intego delivers excellent real-world protection while giving Mac users more control over network activity than many competing security suites. Key features Antivirus : Full, quick, and custom scans, scheduling, and automatic USB scanning (Essential, Advanced & Complete). Firewall : Network monitoring, connection alerts, and customizable allow/deny rules (Essential, Advanced & Complete). VPN : Access to 51 global server locations, with Lightway protocol options on Mac (Complete). SmartClean : Disk cleanup, application uninstaller, and system optimization tools (Advanced & Complete). iPhone security : VPN, Wi-Fi security checks, connection speed tests, and security and privacy assessments (Complete). Whos it for? Intego ONE is ideal for Mac users who prioritize excellent malware protection, fast performance, and detailed control over network activity without the complexity of more technical security applications. Intego is ideal if you: Want strong, Mac-specific malware and ransomware protection. Need advanced firewall controls and network monitoring. Prefer fast scans with minimal performance impact. Want a VPN and basic security checks for your iPhone as well as Mac protection. Considerations & drawbacks No dedicated phishing protection, spam filtering, or parental controls. Quarantine cleanup can still leave occasional files requiring attention. The interface cannot be resized or expanded to full screen. The iPhone VPN lacks advanced features such as a kill switch and multiple protocol choices. No Windows or Android protection. Verdict Intego ONE remains our top antivirus recommendation for Mac users, combining excellent malware detection, remarkably fast scans, and powerful firewall controls. Recent improvements have addressed several earlier performance problems, while the addition of iPhone VPN and security tools makes the Complete package more appealing. It lacks some extras offered by competing suites, particularly phishing protection, but its core Mac security performance is outstanding. Read our full Intego ONE review 2. Avast One Best for malware and phishing protection Pros Excellent malware protection Outstanding Email Guard Capable VPN Comprehensive security suite Cons Excessive upselling and fragmentation Basic AI Assistant Occasional malware detection gaps Some interface limitations Price When Reviewed: Premium Security: $49.99 first year / renews at $77.99/yr, Ultimate: $49.99 first year / renews at $109.99/yr Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Avast $49.08 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Avast One is a comprehensive security suite for Mac that combines antivirus protection with phishing defense, a VPN, and privacy tools in a single application. It helps protect against malware, malicious websites, and email threats while keeping system impact low, making it a strong all-round security solution for everyday users. Why we picked it Avast One impressed with excellent malware detection, outstanding phishing protection, and a capable VPN that has little impact on Mac performance. Features such as Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site provide effective real-world protection against spam, phishing, and fraudulent websites. Key strengths include: Excellent malware protection Outstanding phishing and spam filtering Effective VPN with low system impact Comprehensive security feature set Strong web and email protection Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site work particularly well together, providing some of the strongest real-world phishing and scam protection weve seen. Key features Real-time malware protection Email Guard for phishing and spam detection Web Guard and Real Site website protection Integrated VPN AI Assistant for security advice Whos it for? Best for Mac users who want a feature-rich security suite with particularly strong phishing protection. Avast is ideal if you: Want all-in-one security rather than a basic antivirus Need excellent phishing and email protection Want a built-in VPN Prefer security software with minimal performance impact Value comprehensive web protection Considerations & drawbacks Frequent upselling throughout the app Confusing, fragmented subscription options AI Assistant provides limited value Missed some malware installers during testing Some interface limitations Verdict Avast One is one of the strongest all-round security suites for Mac, combining excellent malware protection, first-rate phishing defenses, and a capable VPN. Its confusing subscriptions, constant upselling, and underwhelming AI Assistant prevent it from being an easy recommendation, but its core protection is excellent. Read our full Avast One review 3. Norton 360 Best all-round, multi-platform security suite Pros Virus Protection Promise Instant reassurance for scams Includes Nortons VPN and Password Manager Cons Some features Windows only Price When Reviewed: Standard (3 devices): $39.99 for first year, usually $94.99 a year; Deluxe (5 devices): $29.99 for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Norton Security (first year, 1 device) $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Norton 360 is one of the most comprehensive security suites available for Mac, combining antivirus protection with a wide range of additional features, including a VPN, password manager and AI-powered scam detection. A well-known and trusted name in cybersecurity, Norton also offers its Virus Protection Promise, meaning youll get your money back if it cant remove a virus from your device. Why we picked it Norton stands out for its all-in-one feature set and excellent lab performance, making it ideal for users who want complete protection across multiple devices. Key strengths include: Top scores in AV-Test and AV-Comparatives (June 2025) All-in-one suite: antivirus, VPN, password manager and more AI-powered Genie Scam Protection for real-time threat advice Strong cross-platform support (Mac, iOS, Windows, Android) Good value considering the breadth of features The addition of Nortons Genie Scam Assistant is particularly impressive, offering real-time help with suspicious emails and messages a useful tool as phishing attacks become more sophisticated. Key features Real-time antivirus, anti-malware and ransomware protection Built-in VPN for secure browsing Password manager Genie Scam Protection (AI assistant) Dark web monitoring (on select plans) Multi-device support Whos it for? Best for users who want a full-featured security suite across multiple devices. Norton is ideal if you: Want an all-in-one security solution Use multiple devices (Mac, iPhone, Windows, Android) Value extra features like VPN and identity protection Want real-time help spotting scams Considerations & drawbacks macOS version feels less fully featured than Windows version Some features (e.g. cloud backup) are not available on Mac Interface and settings can feel complex for beginners In our testing, missed a small number of threats and struggled with some file types (e.g. ZIP files) Browser protection didnt block all suspicious links in testing Bottom line If you want a feature-rich, all-in-one security suite, Norton 360 is one of the best options available. While its not as Mac-focused as Intego, it offers excellent protection, powerful extras and strong cross-platform coverage, making it a great choice for households with multiple devices. Read our full Norton 360 review 4. MacPaw Moonlock Great antivirus protection for beginners Pros Excellent malware detection Fast scanning performance Useful built-in VPN Helpful security guidance Clean, focused interface Cons Leaves some support files behind No phishing website blocking No scan time estimates Trial requires payment information Price When Reviewed: 1 Mac: $54 per year; $13.50 a month; $150 one time payment (licences for more Macs available) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price MacPaw (annual) $45 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Moonlock is MacPaws dedicated antivirus and security app for Mac, combining malware protection with a VPN, system security checks and educational guidance. It aims to keep Macs protected from malware and online threats while helping users understand and improve their overall security without unnecessary complexity. Why we picked it Moonlock impressed with excellent malware detection, effective real-time Active Protection, a capable VPN and helpful educational resources. Rather than simply blocking threats, it also teaches users better security habits, making it particularly approachable for less technical Mac owners. Key strengths include: Excellent malware detection and removal Active Protection blocks threats before installation Built-in VPN with solid performance Helpful security education and guidance Flexible purchase options, including a one-time licence We particularly like how Moonlocks Security Advisor focuses on helping users develop better security habits through clear, practical guidance. Key features Quick, Balanced and Deep malware scanning Real-time Active Protection Built-in VPN Network Inspector for blocking traffic from selected regions System Protection and Security Advisor with security recommendations Whos it for? Best for Mac users who want strong malware protection with straightforward security tools and guidance rather than an overwhelming all-in-one suite. Moonlock is ideal if you: Want effective malware protection with minimal fuss Appreciate built-in security guidance and learning resources Prefer a clean, Mac-focused security app Want integrated VPN protection Like the option of a one-time purchase instead of only subscriptions Considerations & drawbacks Security Advisor is more informational than practical Menus and navigation can be confusing Scan scheduler only allows 15-minute intervals VPN defaults to the nearest server automatically Some features and options are buried in the interface Bottom line Moonlock delivers excellent malware protection backed by effective Active Protection, a capable VPN and useful security guidance. While its interface and menus need refinement, its a strong first standalone security suite from MacPaw and well worth considering for Mac users seeking straightforward protection. Read our full MacPaw Moonlock review 5. Surfshark One Best for privacy and multi-device protection Pros Supports unlimited devices Excellent malware protection Includes VPN, identity and privacy protection Cons Cheaper options available Price When Reviewed: Surfshark One, 24 months at $2.49 a month with 3 free months (Total for 27 months: $67.23); 12 months at $3.39 a month with 3 free months (Total for 15 months: $50.85); or $17.95/month. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Surfshark $50.85 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Surfshark One+ Antivirus is best suited to Mac users who want antivirus protection, a VPN, and privacy tools combined in one affordable package. It performs especially well for home users, remote workers, and small offices that prefer a simple all-in-one solution instead of managing several separate subscriptions. The software integrates smoothly with macOS and causes very little slowdown during everyday use. Why we picked it The best aspect of Surfshark One+ is the combination of strong malware protection and an excellent built-in VPN. During testing, the antivirus engine detected nearly all malware samples, while the VPN delivered stable connections and advanced privacy features normally found in standalone VPN services. Key strengths include: Excellent malware detection Powerful VPN with advanced features Low system impact on Macs Affordable introductory pricing Strong privacy and identity tools The biggest advantage of Surfshark One+ is its overall value. Users receive antivirus protection, VPN services, identity monitoring, and privacy features in one subscription, making it a convenient and cost-effective cybersecurity package. Key features Real-time malware protection Surfshark VPN with MultiHop and Dedicated IP Identity breach monitoring Alternative ID privacy feature Surfshark private search engine External drive scanning Whos it for? Surfshark One+ is best for users who want strong Mac protection alongside privacy-focused tools and VPN functionality. Surfshark One is ideal for: Remote workers and travelers Home users wanting simple security Privacy-conscious Mac users Considerations & drawbacks Weak phishing and scam-site browser protection Slow full-system scans Some beta tools feel unfinished Browser extensions can be unreliable Renewal prices rise significantly after discounts Verdict Surfshark One+ Antivirus is a strong choice for Mac users who want reliable malware protection, a feature-rich VPN, and privacy tools in one affordable package. While weak browser phishing protection prevents it from being among the very best security suites, it still offers excellent overall value for everyday users. Read our full Surfshark One review 6. Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Customizable, user-friendly protection Pros Clean, customisable and easy to navigate Low system impact Cons Missed some threats in our testing Limited extras Price When Reviewed: $24.99 per year for 1 device (usually $49.99), $29.99 per year for 3 devices (usually $69.99) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Bitdefender (first year, 1 device) $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is a malware protection app that combines real-time antivirus scanning with tools such as ransomware protection, a browser extension and a basic VPN. It helps protect your Mac from malicious software while offering a straightforward, customizable interface that integrates well with macOS. Why we picked it Bitdefender impressed with its clean, customizable interface, straightforward scanning options and the ability to quickly scan external drives. The generous trial period and good macOS integration also make it easy to try and use, particularly alongside Apples built-in Gatekeeper protection. Key strengths include: Clean, customizable and easy-to-use interface Simple scanning of external drives and removable media Works well alongside macOS Gatekeeper Generous free trial period Good range of core security tools One standout strength is how easy it is to scan external drives on demand, making it particularly useful for users who regularly connect USB drives or other removable storage. Key features Real-time malware protection with Bitdefender Shield On-demand and scheduled malware scanning External drive and removable media scanning Browser extension for web protection Included VPN (200MB daily limit) Whos it for Bitdefender is best for Mac users who want an easy-to-use antivirus with a customizable interface and straightforward malware scanning. Bitdefender is ideal if you: Prefer a simple, uncluttered security app Frequently scan external drives or USB devices Want security that complements macOS protections Like being able to customize the interface Want a generous trial before subscribing Considerations & drawbacks Malware can slip through if Bitdefender Shield is disabled Occasional freezes during full-system scans Safari anti-phishing protection is limited Included VPN is restricted to 200MB per day and frequently encourages upgrades Overall malware protection still has room for improvement under some circumstances Verdict Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac delivers a polished interface, useful core features and convenient scanning tools, especially for external drives. However, inconsistent malware blocking under certain conditions, occasional scan freezes and limited web protection prevent it from being among the strongest Mac antivirus solutions. Read our full Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac review 7. AVG Internet Security for Mac Best for ease of use Pros Easy to use Strong malware protection and removal 60-day trial available Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: $3.89 a month for 1 Mac ($46.68 for the first year, then $77.99 a year), or $4.99 a month for 10 devices ($59.88 for the first year, then $99.99 a year). Best Prices Today: Retailer Price AVG $46.68 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide AVG Internet Security for Mac is a reliable, feature-rich option that combines strong protection with a clean, easy-to-use interface. Best known for its free antivirus, AVGs premium suite builds on that foundation with broader security tools and consistently strong lab performance. In independent testing, AVG achieved top scores from AV-Test (Protection, Speed and Usability) and maximum ratings from AV-Comparatives across Mac malware, Windows malware and potentially unwanted applications confirming its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Why we picked it AVG stands out for its balanced mix of protection, usability and features, making it a strong choice for users who want dependable security without complexity. Key strengths include: Top scores in independent lab tests (AV-Test and AV-Comparatives) Strong malware and phishing protection Clean, intuitive interface Effective malware removal capabilities Generous 60-day trial and 30-day money-back guarantee While it doesnt dramatically outperform rivals in any one area, AVG delivers consistently solid performance across the board. Key features Real-time malware and threat protection Web and phishing protection Email security tools Ransomware protection Scheduled and on-demand scans Whos it for? Best for cautious Mac users who want reliable, no-fuss protection with the option to try before they buy. AVG is ideal if you: Want strong protection without a steep learning curve Prefer a clean, easy-to-navigate interface Like the flexibility of a long free trial before committing Considerations & drawbacks Mac-only (separate products needed for other platforms) Scan activity could be communicated more clearly Missed some test scenarios (e.g. fake installer in our testing) Doesnt stand out as strongly as top competitors AVG uses the same core engine as Avast Verdict AVG Internet Security for Mac is a well-rounded and trustworthy antivirus solution. It may not lead the pack in any single category, but its strong lab results, ease of use and solid protection make it a dependable choice for most Mac users. Read our full AVG Internet Security for Mac review 8. Avira Prime Best for Mac cleanup and privacy tools Price When Reviewed: From $59.99 for first year, then $109.99 a year. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Avira Prime (first year, 5 devices) $59.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Avira Prime combines strong malware protection with a comprehensive collection of privacy, cleanup, and system maintenance tools. Building on Aviras free antivirus software, Prime adds a VPN, cookie management, password storage, and disk optimization features, making it a good choice for Mac users who want more than basic antivirus protection. Why we picked it Avira Prime impressed us with its reliable malware detection, customizable scanning options, and useful maintenance tools. Its antivirus engine provides strong protection without significantly affecting Mac performance, while features such as Cookie Cleaner, Junk Cleaner, and Uninstaller offer practical ways to improve privacy and reclaim storage space. Key strengths include: Strong malware detection and protection against unwanted software. Fast Quick Scans and customizable scheduled scans. Automatic USB scanning and support for external drives. Excellent Cookie Cleaner with detailed control over tracking cookies. Effective Junk Cleaner that can recover several gigabytes of storage. VPN, password management, and application removal tools. Avira Prime offers a particularly useful combination of security and system maintenance, with enough customization to suit both beginners and more experienced Mac users. Key features Antivirus : Full, quick, and custom scans, scan scheduling, and external drive protection. VPN : Phantom VPN with international server selection and expanded data access compared with Avira Free. Cookie Cleaner : Identifies tracking cookies and allows selective removal. Junk Cleaner : Finds and removes unnecessary files to reclaim disk space. Uninstaller : Removes installed applications, including less visible system-level software. Passwords : Password storage and management tools. Startup Apps : Basic management of applications that launch automatically. Whos it for? Avira Prime is best suited to Mac users who want strong antivirus protection alongside useful privacy and system maintenance tools. Its particularly appealing to anyone who likes Avira Free Security but wants access to its additional features. Avira is ideal if you: Want antivirus protection combined with Mac cleanup tools. Need customizable scans, including external drive scanning. Want greater control over tracking cookies and unwanted files. Prefer a security subscription covering Macs, PCs, and mobile devices. Value having a VPN and password manager included in the same package. Considerations & drawbacks Some malware samples escaped detection during testing. Full system scans can take a long time. The VPNs launch process is unnecessarily cumbersome. Startup Apps offers fewer controls than dedicated alternatives. Comprehensive identity monitoring requires an additional subscription. Renewal pricing is considerably higher than the introductory price. Verdict Avira Prime is a strong choice for Mac users who want effective antivirus protection alongside practical privacy and cleanup tools. Its customizable scans, Cookie Cleaner, and Junk Cleaner are particular highlights, while the included VPN and password manager add value. The awkward VPN integration, limited startup management, and identity-monitoring upsell prevent it from being a top recommendation, but its a capable and versatile security suite worth considering. Read our full Avira Prime review 9. ESET HOME Security Best for power users seeking control Price When Reviewed: Essential: $49.99 a year for one device; Premium: $79.99 a year for one device; Ultimate $179.99 a year for five devices Best Prices Today: Retailer Price ESET (first year, 1 device) $34.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide ESET Cyber Security is a Mac security suite that combines antivirus, anti-phishing, spam filtering, ransomware and identity protection with a powerful built-in VPN. It focuses on delivering strong malware protection and extensive customization for security-conscious Mac users who want deep control over their security software. Why we picked it ESET impressed us with its excellent malware protection, highly configurable VPN, and administrator-level customization. It runs lightly in the background while providing strong real-time protection, making it particularly appealing to experienced Mac users who value configurability over simplicity. Key strengths include: Excellent malware protection with over 95% of malware samples blocked or quarantined Feature-rich VPN with multiple protocols, router support and Kill Switch Extensive administrator-level customization and security controls Minimal impact on everyday Mac performance Strong real-time protection that quietly removes threats in the background Its standout strength is the combination of outstanding malware protection and one of the most configurable VPN implementations bundled with Mac antivirus software, giving advanced users an exceptional level of control. Key features Real-time antivirus and malware protection Anti-phishing and spam filtering Ransomware and identity protection Built-in VPN with WireGuard, IKEv2, UDP, TCP, Stealth and WStunnel support Advanced VPN features including router support, Kill Switch and automatic connection rules Whos it for? Best for advanced Mac users and administrators who want deep control over their security software alongside excellent malware protection and a capable VPN. ESET is ideal if you: Want administrator-level security customization Need excellent malware protection with minimal performance impact Value a powerful built-in VPN with advanced networking features Prefer security-focused software over all-in-one maintenance utilities Are comfortable configuring advanced security settings Considerations & drawbacks Discord compatibility issues caused update and launch failures during testing Scheduled scans failed to execute reliably Logging tools are limited and lack useful export options Scan progress indicators provide little feedback during long scans Interface and settings are aimed at experienced users rather than beginners Verdict ESET Cyber Security Ultimate delivers excellent malware protection, an outstanding bundled VPN and exceptional configurability while remaining light on system resources. Although software bugs and a few usability issues prevent it from feeling fully polished, its a compelling choice for experienced Mac users who prioritize security and control over simplicity. Read our full Eset Home Security review Other Mac antivirus software we tested Macworld reviews many more antivirus products than you see in our ranking above. Not appearing in our top six doesnt mean a product isnt going to do a good job of protecting your Mac, merely that it failed to stand out among the best of the competition. Youll find some more top contenders below, with links to our full reviews for more details. We wouldnt advise installing any Mac antivirus without first checking our antivirus software reviews . (For PC antivirus, see our sister site PCWorlds guide to the best Windows antivirus .) Malwarebytes Premium Security We recommend: Malwarebytes for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: Standard plan $59.99; Plus plan $79.99; Ultimate plan starts at $279.99 (currently $139.99) a year for three devices Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Malwarebytes (first year, 1 devices) Why we recommend it : Malwarebytes for Mac is a user-friendly tool that delivers fast malware detection, external drive scanning, VPN and identity tools. Whos it for : Its best for casual users seeking set-it-and-forget-it defence, not power users needing granular control or all-surface threat coverage. Read our full Malwarebytes Premium Security review McAfee Total Protection We recommend: McAfee Total Protection Read our review Price When Reviewed: Single: $29.99 (1 device) for first year, usually $89.99; Essential: $39.99 (5 devices) for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: $29.99 at McAfee Total Protection (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it : McAfee Total Protection covers the bases with solid antivirus, real-time scanning, and a basic VPN feature, but stumbles with vague alerts, an outdated WebAdvisor protection system, and noticeable performance hits. Whos it for : Its a decent all-in-one for casual users wanting broad protection, but power users or privacy hawks might want something leaner, faster, and easier to configure. Read our full McAfee Total Protection review Is free antivirus for Mac good enough? Free antivirus software can provide basic protection, but it often lacks advanced features such as ransomware protection, firewalls and real-time web security. Paid options offer more comprehensive, all-round protection. Apple includes built-in security tools like XProtect and Gatekeeper , which block known malware and unverified apps. However, in our testing, it was still possible to install Mac malware or suspicious software if warnings were ignored, showing that Apples protections alone are not foolproof. Free third-party antivirus tools offer an advantage in that they are updated more frequently and can protect against a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans and ransomware . The core antivirus engine is often the same in both free and paid versions. The difference lies in the extra features included in premium suites, such as web and phishing protection, VPNs, identity monitoring, parental controls and customer support. Ultimately, you get what you pay for. If security is a priority, a paid antivirus offers the most complete protection. However, if youre on a tight budget, a free antivirus is still better than relying solely on Apples built-in security tools. If youre on a really tight budget, a free antivirus is still going to do a better job of protecting you than Apples security tools. For some low-priced AV options, check out the best Mac antivirus deals for the best prices. Whats the best free Mac antivirus? Here are the best free antivirus for Mac apps we have reviewed: Apple Gatekeeper & XProtect Review | Built into macOS Avast Security for Mac Review | Download Avira Free Antivirus for Mac Review | Download AVG Antivirus for Mac Review | Download Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac Review | Download Intego VirusBarrier Scanner Review | Download Malwarebytes Antivirus for Mac Review | Download Best Mac Antivirus: Specs Comparison Developer Product Name Malware Protection Ransomware Protection Adware Prevention Anti Phishing Protection Email Protection Firewall VPN iOS Version Parental Controls Support Trial /Free version Intego Intego ONE Excellent, Mac focused Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes No Email/Phone 30 day trial and free option Surfshark Surfshark One Strong Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Chat/Email 30-day money back guarantee AVG Internet Security for Mac Good Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Email 60 days Avast Premium Security Very good Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Email/Forum 60 days McAfee Total Protection Good Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Phone/Chat 30 days/money-back guarantee Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Email 30 days Norton Norton 360 Very strong Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Phone/Chat 30-day money-back Avira Avira Prime Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Email 30 days Bitdefender Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Email/Chat 30 days MacPaw Moonlock Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes No Email 7 days Pocket Bits LLC BitMedic Pro Antivirus Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes No Email/Support Form 7 days Sophos Sophos Home Premium for Mac Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Chat/Email 30 days ESET ESET HOME Security Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Email/Phone 30 days Malwarebtyes Malwarebytes Premium Security No Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Email/Forum 14 days Why you can trust Macworld for antivirus advice Macworld has been testing Mac software since the launch of the Mac in 1984, giving us decades of experience and deep expertise in Apples ecosystem. We understand how Macs work and how best to protect them. While Apple includes built-in security tools to combat malware, todays threat landscape means additional protection is often worthwhile. Our antivirus reviewers have decades of industry experience, including hands-on work supporting users and solving real-world IT and security issues. Our recommendations are based on a combination of independent lab data, structured testing and real-world usage not just specifications or vendor claims. We regularly review and update our rankings to reflect the latest threats, software updates and performance improvements. How we test Mac antivirus software To identify the best antivirus software for Mac, we combine hands-on testing, real-world threat simulation and independent lab data. Our goal is to assess how effectively each product protects your Mac without compromising performance, usability or value. Real-world testing environment : We begin with a clean installation of macOS, which is then cloned for each antivirus product. Each app is installed and tested in isolation to ensure results are not affected by other software particularly important as antivirus tools can sometimes flag each other as threats. We simulate real-world attack scenarios by: Downloading known malware samples Visiting malicious and phishing websites Testing suspicious files and drive-by downloads Running malware in controlled conditions This allows us to evaluate how well each product detects and blocks both online and offline threats, including Mac-specific malware, adware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). We also assess how effectively each tool detects and handles Windows-based malware, which can still pose a risk when sharing files. Independent lab validation: To support our findings, we reference results from leading independent testing organisations: AV-Test AV-Comparatives These labs evaluate antivirus software against large sets of known malware and potentially unwanted applications, measuring detection rates, false positives and overall protection. Where lab data is unavailable, we carry out more extensive in-house testing using real malware samples. Performance impact : Antivirus software should protect your Mac without slowing it down. We measure performance by assessing: System responsiveness during full and quick scans Impact of real-time protection on everyday tasks Background CPU and resource usage We prioritise solutions that deliver strong protection with minimal noticeable slowdown, since overly demanding software is more likely to be disabled by users. Features, usability and user experience : We spend time using each product to evaluate how intuitive and practical it is in daily use. This includes: Ease of installation and setup Interface design and macOS integration Clarity and relevance of alerts and notifications We also assess additional features, including: Ransomware protection Web and phishing protection Firewalls and network monitoring VPNs and privacy tools Password managers and parental controls Importantly, we consider whether these features are genuinely useful or simply added complexity. Value for money : We evaluate pricing and overall value, including: Subscription costs and renewal pricing Number of devices covered Features included at each tier Our focus is on products that offer a strong balance of protection, performance and features at a reasonable price. Should I get an antivirus for my Mac? Scenario Recommendation Low-risk user (App Store only, trusted devs, automatic updates on) Apples built-in tools are sufficient. High-risk user (downloads from various sites, torrents, handles sensitive data) Paid antivirus is strongly recommended. Business user (handles client data, shares files with Windows PCs) Paid antivirus is recommended for an extra safety layer. User wanting extra features (VPN, password manager, phishing protection) Paid antivirus is worthwhile for the bundled features. Best Mac Antivirus: FAQ 1. Do Macs need antivirus software? Yes while Macs are generally more secure than Windows PCs and include built-in protections like XProtect and sandboxing, which helps limit how far malware can spread, these measures are not enough to defend against modern threats such as phishing, adware and ransomware. Adding a dedicated antivirus tool helps close those gaps, provides broader coverage against evolving threats and extra layer of security when browsing the web or downloading files. For more detail, see our guide to whether Macs need antivirus , along with our Mac security tips and advice on how to remove a virus from a Mac . Do iPhones need antivirus software? You may be considering a Mac Antivirus that also offers to protect your iPhone, but is that protection really necessary? Apples iOS is designed with strong built-in security, including app sandboxing, strict App Store review processes and system-level protections that prevent traditional viruses from infecting your device. This makes it very difficult for malware to spread in the same way it can on other platforms. So, no iPhones generally dont need antivirus software. However, iPhones are not completely risk-free. Threats like phishing attacks, malicious websites and data breaches can still affect users. Instead of installing an antivirus app the best advice is to keep iOS up to date, avoid clicking on suspicious links, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and dont download anything unless you are sure it is safe. 2. How does antivirus software protect your Mac? Mac antivirus software protects your device using a combination of on-demand scans and real-time (always-on) protection. On-demand scanning checks files when you run a manual or scheduled scan. This can take time, especially on systems with lots of data, and may temporarily use more system resources. For best results, scans are often scheduled to run at convenient times. See how to scan a Mac for malware Real-time protection works continuously in the background. If malware arrives for example via an email attachment or downloaded file the antivirus can detect and block it immediately. Suspicious files are typically quarantined , meaning they are moved to a secure location where they cant cause harm while you decide whether to delete or restore them. The effectiveness of these two layers of protection is the most important factor when choosing antivirus software, but additional features can also make a difference. Many Mac antivirus tools now include ransomware protection , which prevents unauthorised apps from accessing sensitive folders such as Documents or Photos. Only trusted apps are allowed access, and you can customise these permissions. Web protection is another key feature, often delivered via browser extensions. This helps block malicious websites, phishing attempts and unsafe downloads, reducing the risk of accidentally exposing personal information. 3. Should my Mac antivirus include a VPN? Yes, a VPN can be a useful addition to Mac antivirus software. It encrypts your internet connection, helping protect your data especially on public Wi-Fi. However, built-in VPNs are often limited, so a dedicated VPN service usually offers better performance and features. Some Mac antivirus packages include a built-in VPN (virtual private network), although VPNs are also widely available as standalone products. For many users, VPNs are appealing because they can mask your location and allow access to region-restricted content, such as streaming services. More importantly, a VPN improves security by encrypting your internet connection, which is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks. This helps protect your data from interception and reduces the risk of cyberattacks. While we generally recommend a dedicated Mac VPN service for the best performance and features, a VPN included with antivirus software can still be a useful extra. Just be aware that bundled VPNs often come with limitations, such as data caps or reduced functionality, and may prompt you to upgrade to a full subscription. 4. What is the best value Mac antivirus? Value means different things to different users. For some, its the best free option; for others, its a reasonably priced product with the most useful features. We define value as the best overall balance of protection, performance and features and for protecting a single Mac, we believe Intego offers the best value. That said, there are ways to save money on even the top antivirus products. Most Mac antivirus apps are sold as annual subscriptions, often with significant discounts for the first year. When that period ends, you can switch providers to take advantage of new introductory offers, or opt for longer-term plans (such as two- or three-year subscriptions) to reduce the overall cost. Many antivirus suites also cover multiple devices, including Windows PCs and Android smartphones. If you have several devices in your household, a multi-device plan can offer excellent value. For the latest offers, see our guide to the Best Mac Antivirus deals , which includes the most affordable options. 5. How to spot fake Mac antivirus software? Because many of us are waking up to the idea that malware is a threat to the Mac, malware writers have made it their business to play on that fear. There have been cases of malware writers disguising their viruses as antivirus apps two notable examples are Mac Auto Fixer and MacDefender. Its important to always read reviews on reputable sites such as Macworld before installing any software on your Mac or MacBook. At the same time, dont believe everything you read. MacKeeper is a great example of an antivirus program that has got a bad rap, but its worked hard to repair its reputation. It has gained Apple Notarization, which means the software has been checked by Apple for malicious components, and the company has garnering certification from various bodies to prove it isnt a PUP (potentially unwanted program), including an AV-Test certificate. That said, we havent recommended it here, and thats simply because we feel that there are better options available. If you have already installed MacKeeper and wish to try one of our alternative recommendations, we explain How to uninstall MacKeeper . 6. What cant Mac antivirus protect you from? Using a Mac antivirus product, especially one that includes tools to improve your online privacy, may lull you into believing youre completely safe from personal and private information leaking out and that you no longer need to keep your wits about you. Thats not quite the case. While theres no reason to panic, you should still practice caution and there are a few more issues you should consider when using Mac antivirus, too. First, an antivirus for Mac product may upload the complete text of files flagged to the cloud, where it can be analyzed by separate tools hosted there. This practice is normal and sensible: some malware can detect when a running process may examine it, and will then engage in subterfuge. Antivirus software makers also can access their massive databases to examine files with characteristics that trigger their algorithms certain elements that match known malware. As a result, security researchers discover new viruses, worms, Trojans horses, and the like. However, helping the greater good means youll have to be comfortable with trusting a third-party with your file contents. Where appropriate, we noted privacy policy issues in individual reviews. Second, this software may also rely partly or entirely on cloud-based checks of URLs, malware, and the like. Accordingly, an antivirus package might upload every URL you visit, metadata about files, signatures of files, information about your computers hardware, a list of running or installed applications, and more. Companies vary on their disclosure of such policies, and may not let you opt out of this kind of sharing. We note issues in each review as appropriate. Third, antivirus software makers also get a sense of what behavior is happening on your computer thats being monitored or blocked, and may use that information for their own purposes. In some cases, you can opt out of this information gathering. 7. What virus cleaner does Apple recommend? Apple has never recommended a third-party virus cleaner, and has instead focused on the Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions found within macOS, which are regularly updated with operating system updates. 8. How good is Apples virus protection? Its actually very good, and there isnt much that gets past it in the way of viruses and malware, given its Xprotect and Gatekeeper features but these can be overridden, and questionable software can be installed and activated if the user knows what theyre doing. Still, the protection is present, its updated well, and Apple keeps a good eye on things, but new viruses and malware are sent out from bad actors all the time, and this is where a good third-party application can come in handy. We have tested Apples own solution against a range of malware samples . While it did a reasonable job overall, we found instances where questionable applications could be installed without any warning. A helpful analogy is to think of Apples built-in antivirus system, XProtect, as the lock on your Macs front door, while a paid antivirus solution acts more like an alarm system with security cameras. Third-party tools update their virus definitions including not just viruses, but also adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware several times a day, often more frequently than Apples protections, providing real-time defense against new and emerging threats. During our testing of Apples malware protections, recovery options were limited. In some cases, the only solution was to wipe the Mac and restore from a backup made before the risky behavior hoping nothing had already spread. Apple does not offer dedicated malware removal support or guarantees if an infection occurs, nor does it protect against cross-platform threats across multiple devices. Paid antivirus software typically includes these services, along with additional features such as web and phishing protection, vulnerability patching tools, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, secure cloud backup, and dark web monitoring. That said, macOSs built-in security may be sufficient for low-risk users who install apps only from the App Store or trusted developers, keep automatic updates enabled, avoid pirated software, do not disable Gatekeeper, have limited exposure to risky email attachments, and do not handle sensitive client data. Ultimately, investing in a reputable security suite for Mac adds an extra layer of protection and for many users, its a case of being safe rather than sorry. 9. Is there free virus protection for Mac? The Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions serve as free virus protection for macOS, but you can also get basic virus protection from many of the well-known antivirus providers, we have some recommendations above. 10. How to choose the best Mac antivirus for your needs There are a lot of Mac antivirus programs to choose from. What you want is one that offers a familiar and easy-to-use interface that works well on a Mac a key reason why we recommend Integos antivirus. You should also look for antivirus with a good detection rate not just for Mac viruses, but also for PC viruses, unless you want to be passing viruses on to friends and clients running Windows. Low impact on system resources is also critical, especially if your Mac isnt the most powerful model. Consider the type and number of devices you want to protect are you looking for an app to cover one Mac, or Mac, iPhone, iPad and even a PC? Your budget matters here, too: do you prefer a subscription model or a one-time payment? Mac antivirus vendors typically offer different add-ons, and it is certainly a case of you get what you pay for: free products will have fewer bells and whistles, but the most comprehensive Mac security suites will include password managers, parental controls, cloud storage and more. The underlying antimalware engine will usually be the same for all security products from a particular company, so you can save money if you dont need all those extra features. 11. Whenare Applesbuilt-inprotections sufficient For many users, Apples layered security XProtect, Gatekeeper and Rapid Security Responses is more than adequate. If you fit into the low-risk category described below, you can probably rely on macOS alone. You only download apps from the Mac App Store or trusted developers . Gatekeeper ensures that only notarized software from identified developers can run, and XProtect scans these apps for known malware on launch. You keep automatic updates enabled . Apple regularly updates XProtects malware definitions in the background, and with macOS Tahoe, Background Security Improvements can now install critical patches silently without requiring a restart. You avoid pirated software, torrents, and cracks. These are common vectors for malware that can bypass Apples checks if a user overrides warnings. You do not handle sensitive client data or work in a high-risk environment . For casual home use, the built-in tools are generally enough to block the most obvious threats 12. When paid Antivirus is worthwhile Despite Apples strong foundation, there are clear gaps that third-party software fills. You frequently install software from various internet sources . In our hands-on testing, we have found that it is still possible to install malware by ignoring or bypassing Gatekeeper warnings. Our testers were able to install trojans, fake apps, and software that requested access to the microphone, webcam, and keystrokes. You want protection against phishing and malicious websites . Apples XProtect primarily focuses on known malware files. It does not offer the same level of real-time web and phishing protection that suites like Avast One or Bitdefender provide. You need more frequent updates and broader threat coverage . Third-party tools update their virus definitions several times a day, often more frequently than Apples updates. They also cover a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware. You want features like a firewall, VPN, password manager, or identity monitoring . Apple does not offer a dedicated, configurable firewall for macOS (it relies on the built-in one) and does not include a VPN, password manager, or dark web monitoring in its security suite. Paid suites bundle these features. You share files with Windows users. An unprotected Mac can unknowingly harbor Windows viruses that wont affect macOS but can be passed on to friends and colleagues. A good antivirus will detect and clean cross-platform threats.
What happens to Google and Apple accounts when the owner dies?
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Citron has brought back the iconic 2 CV as an electric concept car
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This M5 Pro MacBook Pro is actually down to a normal price ($600 off)
Macworld Apple MacBook Pro M5 Pro View Deal (function () { document.querySelector(#sticky-promo-block a).addEventListener(click, function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest(#sticky-promo-block).querySelector(p.promo-title).textContent; const data = { event: stickyConversionUnitClick, eventCategory: Sticky Conversion, eventAction: Click, eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log(Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: , data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); If youve been on the hunt for a big discount on the MacBook Pro, theyre not so easy to find. Usually you need to spend well over $3,000 to get anything more than a couple hundreds bucks off the price, but todays deal wont force you to spend more than you want: This M5 Pro MacBook Pro is on sale for $2,399 , which usually costs $2,999. Thats $600 off or about 20 percent, an impressive discount and pretty close to a sale price we might have seen before the June price hikes. The M5 Pro chip pairs a 15-core CPU with a 16-core GPU. In plain terms, photo edits, video exports, and big projects move quickly without slowing everything else down. With 24GB of unified memory, it juggles dozens of apps at once. The 2TB SSD gives you room for years of photos, videos, and files. Youll get Apple Intelligence, macOS 27 Golden Gate, and updates for years and years to come. Of course, the 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display reaches 1600 nits peak brightness, so it stays clear even if youre using the laptop out in the yard. There are three Thunderbolt 5 ports on this laptop that are ready to handle fast drives and external displays, so you can multitask in peace. The all-day battery life will make it easy for you to actually use your laptop anywhere you want without worrying about an outlet. So, if you need a laptop that can do everything, this MacBook Pro is the one for you. Grab it for $2,399 while you still can.
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Amazon has current-generation MacBook Pro models at up to $600 off today
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Score this 100W 3-port MacBook/iPhone charger with a 240W USB-C cable for just $24 today (60% off)
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LG Deal Days: Up to $1,200 off latest mini LED and OLED TVs + $200 gift cards, 10% back, more
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Best earbuds for iPhone 2026: Top picks for sound, comfort
Macworld Wireless headphones or earbuds (whatever you call them) are essentially the standard now, with Bluetooth earbuds being convenient and the sound quality difference to wired not being that noticeable to typical people (we realize audiophiles know). The market is huge, but here are the best wireless earbuds weve tested for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Macs. If you do want a wired connection some of these do offer it in addition to Bluetooth, but we also have a round-up of the best wired headphones and a comparison of over-ear headphones read our comparison of AirPods Max vs other over-ear headphones . We also have a comparison of all the AirPods . When testing these best earbuds we considered some of the important factors to consider when choosing headphones. Such as whether they support ANC, which is Apples codec, or the aptX codec that is now used with many Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, but isnt supported by Apple (although there are some earbuds, such as the B&W Pi8 below that include a transmitter for aptX support. We explain what to look for when choosing earbuds below. Best headphones and earbuds for iPhone 2026 PROMOTION Baseus MC2: All-Day Ease, $49.99 now! The best earbuds are the ones you forget youre wearing. MC2 stays easy on your ears with CloudComfort 2.0. Enjoy up to 55 hours of listening and IP67 protection for sweat, rain, and everyday plans. Use code MC2OWSPR at checkout. Unlock the Lowest Price 1. Apple AirPods Pro 3rd-generation (2025) Best earbuds for iPhone Pros Excellent comfort and secure fit Improved sound and bass Outstanding active noise cancellation Accurate workout heart-rate tracking Cons Few major new features Charging case stores less Limited upgrade over Pro 2 Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $199 View Deal $199 View Deal $229.99 View Deal $234 View Deal $249 View Deal $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Apple AirPods Pro 3 are premium true wireless earbuds from Apple. Released in September 2025, they add heart-rate monitoring, foam-infused eartips, stronger ANC, improved sound, longer battery life and IP57 water resistance. Why we like them The AirPods Pro 3 refine an already excellent formula with noticeably better comfort, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound and longer battery life while keeping the same launch price. Heart-rate tracking is a useful bonus, making them an easy recommendation for most Apple users. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for iPhone users wanting premium wireless earbuds with excellent noise cancellation, secure all-day comfort and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. Theyre especially appealing for fitness enthusiasts who can benefit from the new built-in heart-rate monitoring. What are the biggest strengths More comfortable foam-infused eartips with five sizes Excellent fit that stays secure during exercise Improved sound with deeper bass and wider soundstage Significantly stronger ANC and better Transparency mode Accurate heart-rate monitoring during supported workouts Longer battery life without a price increase What are the compromises Few genuinely new audio innovations Uses the same H2 chip as before Charging case stores less reserve power Existing AirPods Pro 2 owners gain limited benefits New eartips arent compatible with older models Heart-rate tracking only works during workouts What is battery life like Battery life increases to around eight hours with ANC enabled, while the case provides roughly 16 additional hours. A five-minute charge delivers about one hour of listening time. How good is the ANC Active Noise Cancellation is substantially improved, thanks to new microphones, redesigned eartips and computational enhancements. Apple claims twice the ANC of the previous generation, with noticeably better Transparency mode too. Verdict The AirPods Pro 3 arent a revolutionary upgrade, but they successfully improve almost every aspect of Apples best earbuds. Better fit, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound, longer battery life and useful heart-rate tracking make them easy to recommend. AirPods Pro 2 owners may not need to upgrade immediately, but everyone else gets one of the best premium wireless earbuds available. Read our full Apple AirPodsPro 3 review 2. Apple AirPods 5 Best AirPods for most people Pros Excellent sound quality with richer bass Impressive ANC for an open-ear design Convenient wireless charging and volume controls Lower price than AirPods 4 with ANC Cons Fit varies by user Battery life remains average ANC cannot match AirPods Pro Price When Reviewed: $149 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $149 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple AirPods 5 (with Wireless Charging Case) are open-fit wireless earbuds featuring the H2 chip, improved Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, Conversation Awareness, and Personalized Spatial Audio. The $149/139 version adds wireless charging, touch-sensitive volume controls, and a Find My speaker in the case. Why we like them The AirPods 5 bring better sound and stronger noise cancellation to Apples familiar open-ear design, while costing less than the AirPods 4 with ANC they replace. In the review from our sister website, Macwelt , the AirPods 5 were found to deliver a slightly richer, warmer sound than their predecessors and surprisingly effective noise cancellation, making them an excellent alternative to the more expensive AirPods Pro. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for iPhone users who dislike silicone ear tips but still want effective ANC and premium features. Theyre particularly well suited to everyday listening, commuting, and anyone who wants many of the AirPods Pros features without paying $249. The Wireless Charging Case version is the better choice for most buyers. What are the biggest strengths Rich, detailed sound with slightly warmer bass than AirPods 4 Excellent ANC for an open-ear design, particularly against steady background noise Adaptive Audio and improved Transparency mode Convenient swipe controls for adjusting volume Wireless charging via Qi or an Apple Watch charger Find My speaker built into the charging case What are the compromises Open design limits noise isolation compared with AirPods Pro Fit remains unchanged from AirPods 4 and depends on ear shape Higher-frequency sounds, including keyboard clicks, remain noticeable Battery life trails many competing earbuds No heart-rate monitoring or AirPods Pro hearing-health features Discounted AirPods Pro 3 can narrow the price gap What is battery life like Apple rates the Wireless Charging Case model for up to five hours with ANC enabled, or seven hours with noise control off. The case extends ANC listening time to 22 hours. Macwelts testing achieved approximately four hours and 45 minutes indoors, dropping to four hours and 15 minutes when traveling with higher volume settings and Spatial Audio enabled. How good is the ANC Noise cancellation is particularly impressive for earbuds that dont seal the ear canal. Macwelts testing found that the AirPods 5 effectively reduced steady background sounds, including road noise and computer fans. Apple claims up to 50 percent better noise cancellation than AirPods 4 with ANC. However, sharper sounds still get through, and the AirPods Pro 3 provide significantly stronger isolation. What about the cheaper AirPods 5? Apple also sells the standard AirPods 5 for $129/119. These include the same H2 chip, sound improvements, and ANC, but have a USB-C-only charging case without wireless charging or a Find My speaker. They also lack the stem-based volume controls and have slightly shorter battery life, offering four hours with ANC and 20 hours with the case. For just $20/20 more, the Wireless Charging Case model is worth the upgrade, although the cheaper version remains excellent value. Verdict The AirPods 5 (with Wireless Charging Case) are among the best open-ear wireless earbuds available. They combine richer sound, impressively effective noise cancellation, useful smart features, and convenient wireless charging at a lower price than their predecessors. Battery life is still fairly modest, and the unchanged fit wont suit everyone, but theyre an excellent everyday choice for iPhone users who prefer an open design. With the added convenience of volume controls and wireless charging for just $20 more than the standard model, theyre the AirPods 5 wed recommend. Read our full AirPods 5 review 3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Best noise cancellation Pros Class-leading noise cancellation Detailed, lively sound Secure, comfortable fit Excellent companion app Cons Wireless charging costs extra Spatial audio drains battery Premium price Price When Reviewed: $299.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $299 View Deal $299 View Deal Bose $299 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are premium true wireless earbuds from Bose, featuring class-leading active noise cancellation, immersive spatial audio, customisable ear tips and stability bands, plus app-based fit testing. Why we like them The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds combine outstanding active noise cancellation with detailed, engaging sound that reveals subtle musical details. Theyre comfortable thanks to multiple ear tip and stability band options, while the Bose app helps achieve the best possible fit for consistently excellent listening. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for frequent travellers, commuters and anyone who wants exceptional noise cancellation without sacrificing sound quality. They also suit listeners who value a secure fit and dont mind paying a premium for top-tier performance. What are the biggest strengths Industry-leading active noise cancellation dramatically reduces aircraft engines and other low-frequency sounds. Rich, detailed audio with impressive clarity across bass, vocals and instruments. Comfortable, secure fit with multiple ear tip and stability band combinations. Helpful Bose app includes a Seal Test for optimal fit. What are the compromises Premium pricing compared with many rivals, even with regular discounts. Wireless charging requires purchasing a separate optional charging case. Immersive Audio mode is only moderately convincing for spatial sound. Battery life falls noticeably when using spatial audio features. What is battery life like Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, dropping to roughly four hours when using Immersive Audio. The charging case supplies approximately three additional full charges. How good is the ANC The active noise cancellation is among the very best available, suppressing deep aircraft engine noise so effectively it can seem almost silent, making travel and commuting significantly more comfortable. Verdict The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds remain one of the strongest premium true wireless options thanks to exceptional active noise cancellation, detailed sound quality and a secure, comfortable fit. Theyre expensive and the optional wireless charging case feels unnecessary at this price, but frequent discounts make them easier to recommend, especially for travellers and regular commuters seeking best-in-class ANC. Read our full Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review 4. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Best earbuds for serious fitness Pros Secure, comfortable earhook fit Excellent workout stability Heart rate monitoring Strong battery endurance Cons Missing AirPods Pro features Heart rate limitations Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $179.95 View Deal $179.95 View Deal $249 View Deal $249.99 View Deal $249.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are premium fitness-focused true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple-owned company. They feature Apples H2 chip, secure earhooks, built-in heart rate monitoring, and USB-C charging. Why we like them The Powerbeats Pro 2 combine an exceptionally secure fit with improved sound, effective noise cancellation and class-leading workout comfort. Heart rate monitoring adds genuine fitness appeal, while Apples H2 chip delivers fast pairing, excellent transparency mode and seamless integration across Apple devices, making them superb exercise companions. Who are they best for Theyre best for runners, gym-goers and anyone wanting earbuds that stay securely in place during intense exercise. Apple users will benefit most, though Android owners also receive a stronger feature set than they would with AirPods. What are the biggest strengths Secure earhooks stay firmly in place during workouts. Smaller, lighter design improves comfort over long sessions. H2 chip enables excellent transparency mode and strong ANC. Built-in heart rate monitoring works with supported fitness apps. Long battery life and fast charging reduce downtime. Improved Android support with dedicated Beats features. What are the compromises Lacks several AirPods Pro software features, including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. Heart rate monitoring is limited to supported apps. Apple Watch overrides earbud heart rate readings. Sound has a brighter presentation than Apples AirPods Pro, which offer a more balanced listening experience. Wireless charging supports Qi only, not MagSafe or Qi2. What is battery life like Battery life is excellent, with up to 10 hours of listening per charge, or around 8 hours using ANC or transparency mode. The charging case provides approximately 3.5 additional charges. How good is the ANC Active noise cancellation is a major improvement over the original model, delivering strong everyday performance. Transparency mode is particularly impressive, sounding natural and approaching the excellent standard set by Apples AirPods Pro. However, the newer AirPods Pro 3 offer stronger noise cancellation, making them a better choice for listeners who prioritize blocking out background noise. Verdict The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are among the best fitness earbuds available, combining a secure earhook fit, long battery life, heart rate monitoring and excellent Apple ecosystem integration. While they lack several AirPods Pro software features, including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, theyre an outstanding choice for workouts and active lifestyles. The AirPods Pro 3 offer stronger noise cancellation and more advanced everyday features, but the Powerbeats Pro 2 are the better choice for serious exercise, thanks to their secure earhooks and longer total battery life. Read our full Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review 5. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5 Best for audiophiles (who like jogging) Pros Excellent sound quality Compact, comfortable design Bluetooth 6.0 Dolby Atmos Cons Expensive Only average battery life ANC cant match Apple Price When Reviewed: $299.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $299.95 View Deal $299.95 View Deal $299.95 View Deal $299.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5 is a strong upgrade for an already impressive set of earbuds. Its expensive, but the sound quality is excellent, and brings updates to both Bluetooth and spatial audio. The improved design also provides a better fit, IP54 weather-resistance, and a new case with wireless charging. Why We Like Them The Momentum True Wireless 5 (TW5) improves on its predecessor in several ways. The sound quality is excellent, with support for the AAC codec for Apple devices and aptX Adaptive/Lossless for Android. This model also gets an update to the latest Bluetooth 6.0, and supports Dolby Atmos for spatial audio. The design is improved too, with smaller earbuds that fit more comfortably, along with an IP54 rating for water and dust-resistance. Even the charging case is improved, with a more compact design, and support for both USB-C and wireless charging. Who Are They Best For? The Momentum True Wireless 5 earbuds are a little pricey, at $299.99/249.99, so they will mainly appeal to audiophiles who are prepared to pay a little extra for Sennheisers impressive sound quality. However, the earbuds also boast a sturdy IP54 rating that makes them suitable for exercise and outdoor use, while effective noise-cancellation will appeal to travellers. What Are The Biggest Strengths? 5Hz 21KHz frequency response Bluetooth 6.0, with AAC, aptX Adaptive/Lossless Slim, comfortable design Dolby Atmos for spatial audio What Are The Compromises? Battery life could be better Active noise-cancellation is good but not the best Expensive, costing more than Apples AirPods Pro How Long Is Battery Life? Sennheiser quotes an impressive 12 hours of battery life for a single charge, while the charging case lets you recharge for a total of 40 hours of music. However, using noise-reduction does reduces the battery life quite a bit, lasting for around six hours on a single charge. How Effective Is The ANC? Noise-cancellation is definitely better on this model, effectively blocking both low-frequency sounds such as an aircraft engine as well as voices and higher-frequencies. Even so, Apple and Bose still lead the way with the most effective noise-cancellation for long journeys. Verdict We like everything about the Momentum True Wireless 5 apart, perhaps, from the increased price of this new model. The sound quality combines firm bass with clarity on higher frequencies, and the addition of Bluetooth and Dolby Atmos ensures that the TW5 is right up to date with the latest audio technologies. Battery life and noise-cancellation leave a little room for improvement, but the Momentum True Wireless 5 will appeal to audiophiles who appreciate lossless and high-res audio. 6. Beats Studio Buds+ Best alternative to AirPods Pros Fun transparent design Improved sound quality Effective active noise cancellation Strong battery life Cons No wireless charging Missing Apple ecosystem features AirPods Pro sound better Price When Reviewed: $169.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $89.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal $119.99 View Deal Adorama $169.95 View Deal $169.95 View Deal $169.99 View Deal $169.99 View Deal Beats $169.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The Beats Studio Buds + are true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple subsidiary. Released in 2023, they feature a distinctive transparent design, USB-C charging and support for Apple and Android. Why we like them The Beats Studio Buds + combine stylish design, improved sound quality, capable active noise cancellation and long battery life at a price similar to standard AirPods. Physical buttons are easier to use than AirPods controls, while Android compatibility makes them a genuinely flexible choice across different devices. Who are they best for Theyre best for people who switch between Apple and Android devices, or anyone wanting effective ANC, comfortable earbuds and eye-catching styling without paying AirPods Pro prices. Theyre less suited to users deeply invested in Apples ecosystem. What are the biggest strengths Unique transparent design with alternative colours Better sound than previous Studio Buds Improved ANC and transparency performance Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes Physical button controls are intuitive Strong battery life and competitive pricing What are the compromises No wireless charging, unlike the $149 AirPods 5 Lacks Apples H1 or H2 chip Misses automatic device switching No personalised spatial audio or Conversation Boost No in-ear detection for auto pause AirPods 5 offer newer Apple audio features at a lower list price ANC and sound quality trail AirPods Pro 3 What is battery life like Battery life is rated at up to six hours with active noise cancellation enabled or nine hours without it. The charging case provides roughly three additional full recharges. How good is the ANC Noise cancellation is noticeably improved over the original Studio Buds and performs well for the price. However, it still falls short of the more advanced and adaptive AirPods Pro system. Verdict The Beats Studio Buds+ remain a good alternative to Apples standard AirPods, particularly for listeners who prefer silicone ear tips and want compatibility with both iPhone and Android. They deliver enjoyable sound, effective ANC and impressive battery life, although the newer AirPods 5 offer more advanced Apple-specific features at a lower starting price. With substantial discounts often available, the Studio Buds+ can still be an excellent buy. Read our full Beats Studio Buds+ review 7. Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 Best premium sound Pros Exceptional sound quality Innovative smart charging case aptX Lossless support Comfortable redesigned fit Cons Premium price tag Average battery life Large earpieces Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $375 View Deal $399 View Deal Bowers & Wilkins $399 View Deal $499 View Deal $933.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium true wireless earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins. Their standout smart charging case doubles as an aptX transmitter for wired devices and Apple products. Why we like them The Pi8 combine superb hi-fi sound with a genuinely innovative charging case that unlocks higher-quality aptX audio from Apple devices and wired sources. Their redesigned fit improves comfort, while powerful 12mm drivers deliver rich, detailed sound that stands out from most premium wireless earbuds. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for audiophiles and frequent travellers who prioritise outstanding sound quality over price. Apple users wanting better-than-AAC wireless audio and anyone regularly using in-flight entertainment systems will especially appreciate the versatile smart case. What are the biggest strengths Outstanding, detailed and dynamic sound quality Unique smart case retransmits wired audio wirelessly Supports AAC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless Comfortable redesigned shape with four ear-tip sizes Large 12mm drivers deliver powerful, refined performance Excellent low-frequency noise reduction for travel What are the compromises Significantly more expensive than many rivals Battery life is respectable rather than class-leading Earpieces remain relatively large ANC trails AirPods Pro for higher-frequency sounds Smart case benefits may be unnecessary for casual listeners Pi6 offers similar experience for less if aptX retransmission isnt needed What is battery life like? Battery life reaches up to 6.5 hours per charge with ANC enabled, while the smart charging case extends total listening time to around 20 hours between mains charging. How good is the ANC? Noise cancellation is very effective, especially against low-frequency sounds like aircraft engine rumble. However, it doesnt suppress higher-frequency background noise quite as effectively as Apples AirPods Pro. Verdict The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium earbuds aimed squarely at listeners who value sound quality above all else. Their excellent audio performance, comfortable redesign and genuinely innovative smart charging case justify much of the high asking price. Battery life and ANC are good rather than class-leading, but the Pi8 remain among the most compelling luxury true wireless earbuds available. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 review 8. Beats Powerbeats Fit Best workout earbuds with wingtips Pros Secure flexible wingtip fit Strong workout stability Long total battery life Works well with Android Cons No wireless charging Older H1 chip ANC trails AirPods Pro 3 Price When Reviewed: $199.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $199.95 View Deal $199.95 View Deal Beats $199.95 View Deal $199.95 View Deal $199.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The Powerbeats Fit are true wireless sports earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. They feature flexible wingtips, Apples H1 chip, USB-C charging, Adaptive EQ, and up to 30 hours battery. Why we like them The Powerbeats Fit are designed for active lifestyles, offering a secure fit that stays comfortable through runs, gym sessions and workouts. They deliver dependable Apple ecosystem features, solid sound quality, good battery life and broad compatibility with Android devices, making them more versatile than many sports earbuds. Who are they best for? Theyre ideal for runners, gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts who need earbuds that stay firmly in place during exercise. Theyre also a smart choice for users who switch between Apple and Android devices and value stability over premium audio performance. What are the biggest strengths Flexible wingtips provide an exceptionally secure workout fit. Comfortable design remains stable during running and training. Up to 30 hours total battery life with charging case. Excellent Apple integration including Siri, Find My and automatic device switching. Better Android support than AirPods. What are the compromises No wireless charging; USB-C cable only. H1 chip limits audio and feature improvements. Noise cancellation is noticeably weaker than AirPods Pro 3. Missing XXS ear tip option. Sound quality isnt as detailed or immersive as Apples latest earbuds. What is battery life like Expect up to seven hours of listening from the earbuds alone, extending to around 30 hours with the charging case. Thats excellent for travel, commuting and multiple workout sessions. How good is the ANC? Noise cancellation is solid for everyday use, reducing background distractions effectively. However, it performs closer to the original AirPods Pro than AirPods Pro 3, whose ANC is significantly more powerful. Verdict The Powerbeats Fit are an excellent choice for anyone who prioritises comfort and stability during exercise. Their secure wingtip design, lengthy battery life and Apple-friendly features make them dependable workout companions. While sound quality and ANC fall behind the AirPods Pro 3, theyre more versatile across platforms and remain one of the strongest sports-focused true wireless earbuds available. Read our full Powerbeats Fit review 9. Apple AirPods Pro 2nd-generation (2023) Best value if discounted Pros Excellent sound quality Outstanding noise cancellation Class-leading transparency mode Useful Apple ecosystem features Cons No lossless audio Premium purchase price Stem controls feel fiddly Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $173.99 View Deal $243 View Deal $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The AirPods Pro 2 might have been officially discontinued by Apple when the AirPods Pro 3 arrived, but we still see them for sale offering outstanding value for most buyers. Thats why they are still on our list. Despite the arrival of the new AirPods Pro, these are still premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. They feature the H2 chip, USB-C charging case, hearing health features, swipe volume controls and seamless integration with Apple devices. Why we like them The Beats Studio Buds+ combine stylish design, good sound quality, effective active noise cancellation and long battery life. Although the newer AirPods 5 now include ANC at a lower starting price, the Beats offer a more traditional in-ear design with silicone tips for a better seal, intuitive physical controls and stronger Android compatibility. They can also be excellent value when discounted. Who are they best for They are best for iPhone, iPad and Mac users wanting premium everyday earbuds with strong ANC, comfortable all-day wear and effortless Apple ecosystem integration. Frequent travellers, commuters and users interested in hearing health features will benefit most. What are the biggest strengths Richer, clearer sound with significantly stronger bass Excellent Active Noise Cancellation for travel and commuting Best-in-class Transparency mode with Adaptive Transparency Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes, including XS Handy swipe volume controls on each earbud Deep Apple ecosystem integration with useful smart features What are the compromises More expensive than many rivals Better pure sound quality available elsewhere No lossless, hi-res or LE Audio support Stem swipe controls can be awkward Most advanced features require Apple devices Six-hour battery trails some competitors What is battery life like Battery life is rated at up to six hours of listening from the earbuds on a charge, with around 24 hours total using the charging case. Apple Watch charging is also supported. How good is the ANC Active Noise Cancellation is excellent, blocking substantially more outside noise than the original AirPods Pro. Adaptive Transparency intelligently reduces sudden loud sounds while still allowing important environmental sounds to remain audible. Verdict The AirPods Pro 2 remain among the best premium wireless earbuds for Apple users. They combine impressive sound quality, highly effective ANC, exceptional transparency mode and excellent ecosystem integration in a comfortable, refined package. While audiophiles can find better-sounding alternatives and battery life isnt class-leading, the overall user experience is polished, reliable and difficult to beat within Apples ecosystem. As long as you can find them on sale. Read our full AirPods Pro 2 USB-C review 10. Beats Solo Buds Best budget earbuds Pros Surprisingly clear, punchy sound Excellent 18-hour battery life Secure, comfortable ear fit Compact, pocket-friendly case Cons No active noise cancellation Charging case lacks battery Missing premium smart features Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $49.99 View Deal $69.95 View Deal $69.95 View Deal $69.95 View Deal $69.99 View Deal Adorama $79.95 View Deal $79.99 View Deal $79.99 View Deal Beats $79.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices The Beats Solo Buds are affordable true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. Released in mid-2024, they feature a tiny USB-C charging case, four ear tip sizes and 18-hour battery life. Why we like them The Beats Solo Buds deliver impressive value with punchy, enjoyable sound, an exceptionally long battery life for earbuds, and a secure fit thanks to four sizes of silicone ear tips. Theyre comfortable, easy to control using physical buttons, and outperform older standard AirPods in several key areas. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for budget-conscious listeners who want reliable everyday wireless earbuds with long battery life and comfortable fit. Theyre particularly well suited to Apple users, but also work well with Android devices, making them a versatile affordable option. What are the biggest strengths Clear, punchy sound that exceeds expectations for the price. Outstanding 18-hour battery life from the earbuds. Secure fit with four sizes of silicone ear tips. Compact, lightweight case thats easy to carry. Physical button controls are simple and reliable. Excellent value compared with similarly priced rivals. What are the compromises No active noise cancellation or transparency mode. Charging case has no built-in battery for top-ups. Lacks automatic device switching and multipoint Bluetooth. No in-ear detection for automatic play/pause. Call voice isolation isnt as strong as premium earbuds. No personalised Spatial Audio features. What is battery life like Battery life is excellent. The earbuds are rated for up to 18 hours on a single charge, outperforming many rivals, although the charging case must be plugged into USB-C to recharge them. How good is the ANC There isnt any active noise cancellation. Instead, the silicone ear tips provide passive noise isolation, reducing some outside sound, but they cant match dedicated ANC earbuds in noisy environments. Verdict The Beats Solo Buds prove you dont need to spend a fortune for enjoyable wireless earbuds. Their clear sound, secure fit and exceptional battery life make them an excellent value buy, especially for everyday listening. While youll miss premium features like ANC, multipoint Bluetooth and a battery-equipped charging case, theyre an easy recommendation for budget-conscious shoppers Read our full Beats Solo Buds review 11. Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless Best value noise-cancelling earbuds Pros Excellent value for money Comfortable lightweight fit Impressive sound quality Effective everyday ANC Cons ANC not class-leading Average battery endurance Limited long-haul suitability Price When Reviewed: $199.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $129.99 View Deal $158.99 View Deal $159.95 View Deal $199.95 View Deal $219.95 View Deal $219.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Designed as a more affordable alternative to its Momentum earbuds (above), Sennheisers Accentum True Wireless are in-ear wireless earbuds made by German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature 7mm drivers, IP54 water and dust resistance, AAC and aptX support, plus adjustable EQ. Why we like them The Accentum True Wireless deliver impressive sound quality and capable active noise cancellation at a much lower price than many premium rivals. Theyre comfortable enough for extended listening, include useful app customisation features, and provide a balanced combination of performance, practicality and affordability for everyday listening. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for listeners wanting premium audio features without paying flagship prices. Great for commuters, casual travellers and everyday users who value comfort, strong sound quality and reliable noise cancellation more than maximum battery life. What are the biggest strengths Outstanding value compared with premium rivals. Rich, detailed sound from the same 7mm drivers used in the Momentum range. Lightweight, comfortable design with four ear-tip sizes. IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday outdoor use. Handy companion app with five-band EQ and adjustable transparency mode. What are the compromises Active noise cancellation doesnt match the very best premium earbuds. Six-hour battery life is respectable rather than exceptional. Charging case provides only around 2.5 additional charges. Better suited to daily commuting than long-haul travel. Lacks the outright premium performance of Sennheisers Momentum earbuds. What is battery life like Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, while the charging case provides roughly two and a half extra charges, making it well suited to everyday use. How good is the ANC Active noise cancellation performs well for everyday commuting and reducing typical background noise, although it doesnt block sound as effectively as more expensive flagship competitors in particularly noisy environments. Verdict The Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless strike an excellent balance between price and performance. They offer impressive sound quality, comfortable all-day wear, practical features and effective everyday noise cancellation without the premium price tag. While battery life and ANC arent class-leading, theyre more than good enough for most users, making these an easy recommendation for affordable everyday wireless earbuds. Read our full Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless review 12. Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 Best mid-range sound Pros Rich, detailed sound quality Comfortable long-wearing fit Strong battery endurance Competitive premium pricing Cons ANC trails top rivals No wireless charging No spatial audio Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $119 View Deal B&W $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins, featuring 12mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, IP54 durability and multipoint connectivity. Why we like them The Pi6 deliver the refined, engaging sound quality Bowers & Wilkins is known for at a more accessible price than the flagship Pi8. Theyre comfortable for extended listening, offer useful app customisation, solid battery life and excellent overall value despite a few premium feature omissions. Who are they best for? Theyre ideal for listeners who prioritise sound quality over cutting-edge features. Frequent commuters, music lovers and anyone wanting premium wireless earbuds around AirPods Pro pricing will appreciate their balanced audio, comfortable fit and dependable battery performance. What are the biggest strengths? Detailed, dynamic sound with excellent balance Large 12mm drivers inspired by B&W headphones Comfortable fit with four ear-tip sizes Eight-hour battery life with ANC enabled Multipoint Bluetooth connection for two devices IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday use What are the compromises? ANC is good, not class-leading No Qi wireless charging support No Pi8 smart charging case No spatial audio functionality App lacks full EQ presets Higher-frequency sounds remain noticeable with ANC enabled What is battery life like? Battery life is impressive, offering up to eight hours of playback with active noise cancellation switched on. The USB-C charging case provides an additional 24 hours of listening time. How good is the ANC? Noise cancellation performs well against low-frequency sounds such as engine rumble but is less effective with voices and higher-frequency noise, leaving rivals from Bose, Sony and Apple with the advantage. Verdict The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are an excellent choice if your priority is premium sound quality without paying flagship prices. Their engaging audio, comfortable design and long battery life make them highly appealing, even if the ANC, wireless charging and feature set dont quite match the very best competitors. For music-first buyers, theyre easy to recommend. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 review Were comparing all the best earbuds with Apples own offerings: the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC. Also included are various options from Apple-owned subsidiary Beats, which by association benefits from a lot of Apple-specific features. But just how well do they compete with headphones from the likes of Bose, Sennheiser, Bowers & Wilkins and Sony? How to choose earbud headphones There are a few factors to consider before you hit that buy button. Type Earbuds, or in-ear headphones, typically fall into three main categories: Earbuds the type of headphones included with every iPhone and iPod and sit loosely in your outer ears. Although earbuds dont produce outstanding sound, theyre compact and relatively inexpensive. Apples stock buds are actually decent as earbuds go; youre not going to get a huge upgrade in sound quality by simply replacing them with a different model. Still, there are a few alternatives out there that provide modest improvements if youre looking for a new set. Recommendations: In-Ear-Canal Headphones : These headphones, also known as canalphones, use silicone or foam eartips that fit snuglyand fairly deepin your ear canals. Like earplugs, they block most external noise, so theyre great for travel and noisy environments. Theyre also capable of producing stunning audio quality. On the other hand, some people find canalphones to be uncomfortable, and the best ones come with an equally stunning price tag. If you decide to spend the big bucks on a set of high-end canalphones, we enthusiastically recommend going all-in and getting custom eartipstips custom-made for your particular ears. The process requires an audiologist visit to get impressions taken of your ears, but the benefits include substantially better comfort. (On some models, you may gain better noise isolation and better sound quality, as well.) A step above custom eartips are custom in-ear monitors, which place the actual headphone circuitry in larger, custom-made earpieces. Canalbuds : Canalbuds, which occupy a middle ground between earbuds and in-ear-canal models, have become quite popular. Compared to canalphones, canalbuds generally use smaller eartips that sit just inside the ends of your ear canals instead of deep inside them. Good canalbuds easily best earbuds in terms of audio performance and noise isolation, but fall short of good canalphones in those areas. On the other hand, canalbuds tend to be more comfortable than true canalphones because they dont sit so deep and dont fit so tightly; theyre also usually less expensive. (See our in-ear-canal-headphone primer, linked above, for more information on canalbuds.) Battery life This is crucial as many in-ear headphones have tiny batteries that help to keep the weight down but may only last for a few hours. That might be fine if you just want to listen to some music while youre working out, but wont be much use on a long journey by train or plane. However, some in-ear headphones, such as Apples AirPods, also include a charging case that can top up the battery, so thats something you should check on before buying any in-ear headphones. Noise canceling Some headphones are specifically designed for people who travel a lot or use headphones in noisy conditions and provide active noise-canceling (ANC) option that helps to block out background noise on trains and planes although this can add quite a lot to the overall price of the headphones. Note this isnt to be confused with passive noise isolation (or often referred to as canceling), which is just the way physically having headphones in/on blocks sound like putting earplugs or ear defenders on. Sound quality Wed always recommend trying out any new headphones in a store or showroom whenever possible, but we realise thats not always practical or hygenic. Compatibility Most wireless headphones support Apples preferred AAC Bluetooth codec, ensuring good compatibility with iPhones, iPads and Macs. Many also support additional codecs such as aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LDAC or LC3/LE Audio, which can deliver higher bit rates, lower latency or improved efficiency when paired with compatible Android phones and other devices. Apple devices have never supported Qualcomms aptX family of codecs, instead relying on AAC for Bluetooth audio. While this has often been attributed to Apples preference for controlling its own audio ecosystem, it also means Apple users cant take advantage of newer Qualcomm codecs such as aptX Adaptive or aptX Lossless when using third-party headphones. That isnt necessarily the drawback it once was. AAC remains a very capable codec, and Apples implementation is widely regarded as one of the best, delivering consistent sound quality and excellent battery efficiency. However, Android users with compatible devices may be able to enjoy higher-resolution or lower-latency wireless audio through codecs such as LDAC or aptX Lossless. For Apple users, the most important thing is that headphones support AAC, as this provides the best wireless experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. If a pair also supports codecs such as aptX Adaptive or LDAC, thats a useful bonus if you also own Android devices or other compatible hardware. There are a few exceptions. Some premium headphones and earbuds, such as the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8, include a smart charging case that can act as a wireless audio transmitter. By connecting the case directly to a USB-C or 3.5mm audio source, it can stream audio to the earbuds using aptX Adaptive, bypassing the Bluetooth limitations of the source device and potentially improving sound quality and reducing latency. Its also worth noting that all of the Bluetooth headphones featured here work with Apple Watch, making them ideal for workouts, runs and listening on the go.
No Man's Sky is coming to iPhone and iPad as the App Store celebrates Indie Games Week
Sifu, Vampire Crawlers, Dome Keeper and Little Kitty, Big City are also hitting iOS.
The tech behind your car's adaptive cruise control
Despite the fact that it functions using a basic camera-and-radar system, adaptive cruise control has proven to have significant influence over driving habits.
We just spotted a deal at Amazon that drops Samsungs 256GB P9 Express microSD card to $59.99 shipped. This model originally debuted at $55, but it has more recently been fetching around $80. Todays deal delivers a 25% discount and takes $20 off its current rate to mark one of the lowest prices weve tracked since the hikes hit. We did see it briefly fall to around $40 back in June, but it hasnt seen any discounts since then, making todays price one of the better chances weve seen to snag it lately. Its still a great price for doubling your Switch 2s storage without paying full price, so be sure to check it out after getting more details below. more
Last-minute leak reveals key details about Apple
Macworld Tomorrows Welcome Home Apple event sorry, experiencewill center on the smart home. And at the core of that home sits Apples new home hub, from which all the other devices will be monitored and controlled. Thanks to a last-minute report we now know, or at any rate have been told, a great deal about what Apple has in store for this vital product. In the latest instalment of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg leaker Mark Gurman claims to reveal a wide range of key details about Apples imminent smart home hub, including its name, launch timeframe, design, usage, and software. He also discusses the other products that Apple will announce alongside it, including the new Apple TV and HomePod mini. Firstly, the hub wont be called HomePad or HomeHub, as some pundits had expected, but HomeView. Gurman credits this scoop to MacRumors , which on Friday spotted suspicious trademark activity by a shell company. He says this branding reflects how the device is meant to be used. Its a product you mainly look at (and speak to using Siri AI) rather than interacting with it directly via touch, even though the latter input method is possible using the small touchscreen. He believes that a name like HomePad would have led customers to expect more of a touch-centered experience, similar to the iPad. On the software front, dont expect an App Store for third-party software, or indeed a wide range of first-party applications. Rather, the HomeView will support a limited selection of Apple applications. Perhaps this will change in the future, bearing in mind that the original iPhone didnt have an App Store either, but in this case it appears to be more of an intentional decision to focus on simplicity of use. Design-wise, the HomeView (as weve known for some time ) will come in two versions. A countertop version with a metal speaker base will come in many of Apples classic colors: Space Gray, silver, Starlight, and pink. But the wall-mounted version will only come in Space Gray and silver. In both cases, the device will run an A18 processor and serve as the Siri command center for an Apple-powered household. For the first month or so of this new era for the smart home, however, Apple-powered households will be without their command center. The hardware will land in stores at different times: the new HomePod mini and Apple TV on October 30; the HomeView in mid-November; and the LG accessories later this year at the earliest. This seems a little uncoordinated, but Apple has shown an appetite in recent years for announcing things before theyre ready. Indeed, the iPhone Duo, unveiled as long ago as September 9, wont go on sale until October 23. The announcements are scheduled for October 13 at 9 am ET. You can follow the latest breaking news as it happens with our Welcome Home live blog , which is already up and running.
How long can you expect an Amazon Kindle to last?
Amazon will support your Kindle for a while, but it should last much longer than that if you take care of it.
Switch 2 deals: Final Fantasy VII remake $25, Switch Sports Resort discount, Zelda, more
Alongside the ongoing pre-order discount on Nintendo Switch Sports Resort ahead of release next week and the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake deal, this morning we are highlighting a chance to bring the epic beginning to the Final Fantasy VII remake to your Switch 2 down at $24.99 Prime shipped . Regularly $40, this is nearly 40% off and a deal that lands on par with the Prime Day all-time low from last week. It now sits alongside a host of hangover Switch 2 game deals youll find waiting down below. Secure you Switch Sports Resort pre-order discount while you still can, more Zelda Ocarina of Time remake pre-order discount now live at Amazon more
Google brings Health Guardian to the Fitbit Air and Edge, and expands automatic activity tracking
The company announced new health features for its wearables along with a new band for the Fitbit Air.
Google teams up with menstrual health tracker Flo to develop new wellness hardwareand sync apps
Flo Health users will able to sync their cycle data with the Google Health app starting early next year.
Google's sleek new Fitbit Edge is packed with health features and a replaceable battery
The Fitbit Edge will be in stores starting October 27 for $179.99.
What you can do when your Ethernet cable gets stuck
Ethernet cables are popular among PC gamers and people who favor a wired connection. However, they can get stuck, and this is what you can do if that happens.
Clearance deal on Black Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 3 with Milanese Loop live again at $199 off
While we did catch some notable $99 drops on select Apple Watch Ultra 4 models during Prime Day, stock was extremely limited and the deals continually disappeared on us. That said, the now previous-gen Ultra 3 is still a wonderful option if you can land it at the $200 off clearance price Amazon has up for grabs right now. more
How is Microsoft's Magnetic Connect different from Apple's MagSafe for MacBooks?
Magnetic Connect and MagSafe for MacBooks have a lot in common, but the Magnetic Connect charger brings more versatility.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 review: The best Switch 2 controller out there
Everything is within reach on 8BitDo's Ultimate 2, even for small hands.
A PS5 homebrew update gives old PS2 discs a reason to leave the shelf
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As Prime Day pricing starts to jump back up on Apple gear, we are taking stock of the all-time low prices still live across the official Apple iPhone 18 Pro/Max case lineup starting from $41.50 shipped this Olive 18 Pro Silicone model has actually dropped even lower to $39 . more
Today only, as part of its Deals of the Day lineup , Best Buy is offering a handful of JLab PC gaming gear at up to 50% off . The sale includes the brands popular mice, keyboards, and more, with prices starting at just $19.99 shipped . Weve seen some of these some of sale before with relatively lighter deals, but this is the first time a bunch of them are discounted together in a lineup, making this a great time to cash in and snag them for your battlestation if you were planning to upgrade. Head below for more details. more
AirPods Pro 3 currently $50 off at Amazon, AirPods Max 2 $120 off
The Apple Prime Day deals were already on the way out last week, and now even more so. There are, however, still notable discounts floating around including the solid $120 price drop on the 2026 AirPods Max 2 and you can still land apples wonderful AirPods Pro 3 within $20 of the fall Prime Day price. more
WhatsApp users may soon be able to schedule messages
WhatsApp is finally allowing message scheduling, a feature that's been available on Telegram since 2019.
Premium Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Box Set hits 2026 low at over $200 under orig. price
The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Box Set Buy for $101.50 (Reg. $133, Orig. $300+) What we love Now at the lowest price of the year, youre looking at a premium deluxe illustrated box set of the classics here. Alongside the super classy bindings that will look brilliant on the bookshelf, this set includes exclusive new paintings and dozens of drawings appearing for the very first time, together with three removable art cards and two foldout maps. more
M6 Mac mini all-time lows starting to disappear, get in there at $150 off while you still can
The up to $150 price drops on the new M6 Mac mini lineup have been quite popular around here, and while Amazon has given us an extended shot at the Prime Day lows, they are starting to jump back up get in there while you can. more
Massive $600 price drop hits Apple
We caught more than our fair share of notable Mac deals for Prime Day last week, not the least of which new all-time lows on the M6 Mac mini that are still live right now. However, the price just plummeted on Apples most affordable 2TB M5 Pro MacBook Pro at Amazon it is now $600 off the list price. more
Macworld Apples September event may not have been Apples final event of 2026. Apple has confirmed a special Welcome home Experience for Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 9am ET (2pm BST). Selected journalists have been invited to attend the gathering in New York, suggesting Apple is preparing to introduce new products focused on the smart home. Apple hasnt confirmed what it will announce, but rumors point to its long-awaited HomePad smart display, a new HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV 4K. The gathering could follow the format of Apples March Experience, with product announcements made separately and journalists invited to try the new devices. October 13 may not be Apples final launch this month: Bloombergs Mark Gurman reports that a separate Mac and iPad announcement is planned for October 27. Apple typically has four main event windows each year: a spring event, WWDC in June, the iPhone event in September , and sometimes a further event in October. The company rarely confirms dates far in advance, and theres no guarantee it will hold an event in every window. That leaves Apple fans and anyone considering a new Apple device wondering when the next event will happen and what might be announced. Fortunately, Apples annual schedule is fairly predictable, while reliable rumours often provide additional clues about whats coming. That means we can make informed estimates about the timing of future keynotes and the products most likely to appear. Heres everything we know about the next event Apple will hold and beyond. When is Apples next event? Next Apple Experience: October 13, 2026. Confirmed by Greg Joswiak on X . Apples Greg Joswiak has indicated on X that an Apple event or rather a Special Experience will take place on Tuesday, October 13. The theme appears to be Welcome Home, as you can see from this image: Apple Bloombergs Mark Gurman had claimed on X that Apple would launch its next big thing on October 13, referring to new smart-home products . The last time Apple held an October event was the Scary Fast event that took place on October 30, 2023. What could Apple launch at the next event? The rumored lineup centers on Apples first smart-home display, often called HomePad . Bloombergs Mark Gurman describes a 6-inch screen mounted above a speaker base on a manually tilting arm, plus a separate wall-mounted version. Updated HomePod mini and Apple TV 4K models with faster processors are also expected. Is Apple planning a second October event? Bloombergs Mark Gurman also reports that Apple plans another launch on October 27 , featuring Apples first touchscreen MacBook , an M6-powered 14-inch MacBook Pro, an M6 iMac and an OLED iPad mini . According to the report, Apple plans a video presentation and an in-person press gathering. The precise format remains unclear. Apple event calendar 2026: What has Apple launched this year? Timescale Event theme Dates Products March Special Experience 2-4 March Launched: iPhone 17e, MacBooks Neo, Pro & Air, iPad Air June WWDC June 8 Unveiled plans for: iOS, macOS, other software, AI and Siri September iPhone event September 9 Launched: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Duo, new Apple Watch, AirPods 5 October Apple Experience: Welcome home October 13 (date confirmed) Possible: HomePad, HomePod mini, Apple TV October Reported Mac and iPad launch October 27 unconfirmed Rumored: touchscreen MacBook, M6 14-inch MacBook Pro, M6 iMac and OLED iPad mini Spring 2027 TBC TBC Expected: iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, iPhone Air 2 Apple has held three events so far in 2026, although the first was not an event in the traditional sense. On March 4, the company invited select media to hands-on experiences in multiple locations. In the run-up to that date, Apple launched several products via press release, including the iPhone 17e , M4 iPad Air , and M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro , M5 MacBook Air and the MacBook Neo . The second event was WWDC , which began with a keynote on June 8. At the WWDC keynote Apple outlined the upcoming changes to its operating systems, including iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate . In August Apple issued press releases to announce the new Mac mini and Mac Studio . At the September 9 event Apple unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max , a foldable iPhone Duo , a new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 , and AirPods 5. Calendars at the ready. Foundry FAQ 1. How far in advance does Apple announce an event? Apple usually announces its events around one to two weeks before they take place, although the timing varies. The October 13, 2026 Experience was announced just five days in advance. Apple also sometimes chooses to announce products via press release without holding an event. 2. What time does the next Apple event start in U.S., U.K. and other global time zones Apple has invites some members of the media to an Apple Experience in Tribeca, New York on October 13 at 9:00 am. That is 6 a.m. PDT in San Francisco and 2 p.m. BST in London. These are the times for the invited-media gathering; Apple has not confirmed a public broadcast. No start time has been announced for the separately reported October 27 launch. 3. What time do Apple events normally start in U.S., U.K. and other global time zones? The October 13 timing differs to Apples usual events, which tend to start at 10am PT or 1pm ET. That translates to the following times in the countries where most of our readers live: U.S. : 10 am PDT, 11 am MDT, 12 pm CDT, 1 pm EDT Canada : as above, plus 2 pm ADT U.K. : 6 pm Europe : 7 pm CEST, 8 pm EEST India : 10:30 pm IST Australia : next day 1 am AWST, 2:30 am ACST, 3 am AEST New Zealand : next day 5 am NZST The timings are generally the same for all Apple Keynotes, but can be slightly different if Apple holds the event during the period of a couple of weeks when the clocks have changed in the U.S. but not elsewhere (in 2026 the clocks will change in the U.S. on November 1, while in the U.K. they change on October 25). Sometimes Apple holds events at different times, for example, in October 2023 the event was held in late afternoon in San Francisco, which meant it was midnight in the U.K. If Apple doesnt hold an event and instead just issues a press release, that usually happens around 8 am PT, 11 am ET and 4 pm U.K. time. Apple keynotes usually last between one and two hours and feature the CEO alongside various other Apple executives. WWDC and the September event tend to be longer keynotes; the spring and late-fall events can be slightly shorter. For example, the September 2024 event was 1 hour 38 minutes. 4. How often does Apple hold events? There can be as many as four Apple events in a year: Spring Event WWDC in June iPhone Event in September Late Fall Event in October This event calendar is by no means set in stone, though, with the spring and October events being less regular. Some years, Apple doesnt hold a spring event at all. In 2025 Apple only held two events, preferring instead to announce new products via press release. 5. Will there be a live stream at the next Apple Event? Apple has not confirmed a public livestream for the October 13 Experience. It could publish product announcements and videos separately from the gathering for invited journalists. We do have a Welcome Home Live Blog where we will include the October 13 Event information as it happens. 6. Does Apple ever announce products without an event? Apple frequently announces products without a keynote event, often opting for press releases or multi-day announcement windows. In recent years, the company has increasingly reserved its large-scale media events for major flagship launches, such as the primary iPhone lineup in September, while using press releases for iterative updates or chip bumps that may not warrant a full hour-long presentation. 7. How to watch an Apple event Apple has not confirmed whether its October 13 Experience will be livestreamed. Unlike a traditional keynote, the gathering could be a hands-on showcase for invited journalists, with announcements published separately on Apples website. Apple events are typically broadcast across several digital platforms, allowing viewers to tune in from almost any device. While the company previously restricted access to its own hardware or the Safari browser, these barriers have been removed in recent years. You can access live Apple presentations through the following official channels: YouTube : This is often considered the easiest way to watch. Apple streams its keynotes live on its official YouTube channel, which can be accessed via any web browser or the YouTube app on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Apple.com : The company hosts a dedicated Events page on its official website. For the best experience on a PC, it is recommended to use Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 or later. Apple TV App : The stream is available within the Apple TV app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV hardware. Keynotes are usually listed in the apps lineup a day or two before the event begins. Apple Podcasts : Apple also showcases its events through the Podcasts app on Apple devices, where you can watch the video presentation. You may also like to tune in to our Live Blog which will provide minute-by-minute text updates and analysis as products are announced. Following the end of the event, detailed breakdowns will also be available on the Macworld Podcast, which can be found on Spotify, Soundcloud, and Apple Podcasts. Will Apple have a October event in 2026? Apple Apple appears to be gearing up for a smart-home launch on October 13. The company is hostingselectedmediaatanAppleExperienceinNewYork from 9am that day. This event appears to be similar format to Apples March launches. The last time Apple held a late fall event was on October 30, 2023, and before that on October 18, 2021. So while a late fall event would not be unprecedented, it has become relatively uncommon. What to expect from Apples October 13 Experience? Apples October 13 launch could feature smart-home products, including the rumored HomePad smart display , an updated HomePod mini and a new Apple TV 4K. The HomePod mini and Apple TV are expected to gain faster processors that could support Siri AI features. It is not yet clear whether all three products would arrive together. A separate Mac and iPad launch is reportedly planned for October 27. A touchscreen MacBook , M6 14-inch MacBook Pro, M6 iMac and OLED iPad mini are rumored. For more on the possible timing and products, read: Apples October event: Latest rumors and what to expect . Will Apple hold a spring event in 2027? John Ternus: Apples new CEO. Michael Simon / Foundry Apples spring events have become increasingly unpredictable. The company has not held a traditional spring event since May 2024, although it did invite members of the media, including Macworld, to a Special Apple Experience in 2026. Rather than a keynote presentation, the March 4, 2026 gathering was a hands-on showcase that followed three days of product announcements, including the MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, and M5 MacBook Air. Will Apple take a similar approach to spring product launches in 2027? Its certainly possible. The format appeared to work well, allowing each product announcement to receive its own media coverage rather than competing for attention during a single event. Apple is expected to release three iPhone models in spring 2027 or it could be two new iPhones, with the Air and iPhone 18 merging. iPhone 18 (base model) iPhone 18e iPhone Air 2 Apple may also update the MacBook Air with an M6 processor in spring 2027. When is WWDC 2027? Foundry When is the WWDC keynote? In 2026 the WWDC keynote was on Monday June 8. In 2025 it started on Monday June 9. We expect WWDC will start on Monday 7 June in 2027. WWDC generally runs from the Monday to Friday in the second week of June. What Apple could launch at WWDC WWDC is Apples big developer event at which it reveals plans for the operating systems that run on Apple hardware. In June 2027 we expect Apple to unveil details of iOS 28, iPadOS 28, macOS 28, updates to watchOS, tvOS, HomePod software, and an update to Apples realityOS. Apple sometimes announces new hardware at WWDC, usually the high-end models targeted at power users, so we could see new Macs. Following the keynote on Monday, developer events and sessions will run throughout the week. You can read more about WWDC date, times and everything you need to know in a separate article. What did Apple launch at past events? So far in 2026 Apple has held an experience, which rather than being an event in the traditional sense, was a chance for journalists to get a look at products Apple had launched in the days prior, including MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e. The company also hosted the WWDC keynote on June 8, at which it revealed its plans for Apple Intelligence and Siri in iOS 27, macOS 27 and the other operating systems. Plus Apple held its iPhone launch event on September 9 at which the iPhone 18 Pro and Max, iPhone Duo, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and AirPods 5 launched. In 2025 Apple only held two events. The first was its Worldwide Developers Conference ( WWDC ) on June 9, at which it introduced the new features coming in the next version of its operating systems, and the second was the huge September 9 Apple Event where it launched new Apple Watches , new AirPods Pro and the new iPhones for 2025 . Apple doesnt have to hold an event to launch new products though. Prior to WWDC, Apple launched a new iPhone 16e via press release on February 19, a new iPad and iPad Air via press release on March 4, and a new MacBook Air and Mac Studio on March 5. Apple then went on to launch a new M5 MacBook Pro and M5 iPad Pro in October. No event was held to mark these launches. In 2024 , Apple held three events: one on Tuesday, May 7, at which it launched new iPads; a keynote to kick off WWDC on June 10; and an event on September 9 at which Apple unveiled the new iPhone 16 , Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods 4 . In October 2024 there was no event, but Apple did announce new products (iMac, Mac mini and MacBook Pro) via press release. In 2023 there were three events: WWDC in June, an iPhone event in September, and Apples second fall event on October 30 (or after midnight on October 31 if you werent in the U.S.). In 2022 Apple held three events: a spring event on March 8, WWDC on June 6, and the iPhone 14 launch on September 7. In other years Apple has held four events though. Foundry When were Apples past events? Spring Apple events have been held on the following dates: 2026: Experience Wednesday March 4 2025: No event 2024: Tuesday May 7 2023: No event 2022: Tuesday March 8 2021: Tuesday April 20 2020: No event 2019: Monday March 25 2018: Tuesday March 27 2017: No event 2016: Monday March 21 2015: Monday March 9 2014: No event 2013: No event 2012: Wednesday March 7 WWDC events have fallen on the following dates: WWDC 2026: June 8 (8-12) WWDC 2025: June 9 (9-13) WWDC 2024: June 10 (10-14) WWDC 2023: June 5 (5-9) WWDC 2022: June 6 (6-10) WWDC 2021: June 7 (7-11) WWDC 2020: June 22 (22-26) WWDC 2019: June 3 (3-7) WWDC 2018: June 4 (4-8) WWDC 2017: June 5 (5-9) Here are the past few Apple September event dates: 2026: Wednesday, September 9 2025: Tuesday, September 9 2024: Monday, September 9 2023: Tuesday, September 12 2022: Wednesday, September 7 2021: Tuesday, September 14 2020: Tuesday, September 15 2019: Tuesday, September 10 2018: Wednesday, September 12 2017: Tuesday, September 12 In the past, Apple has held a second fall event on the following dates: 2026: Tuesday,October13AppleExperience 2025: No event 2024: No event 2023: Monday, October 30 2022: No event 2021: Monday, October 18 2020: Tuesday, October 13 and Tuesday, November 10 2019: No event 2018: Tuesday, October 30 2017: No event 2016: Thursday, October 27 2015: No event 2014: Thursday, October 16 2013: Tuesday, October 22 2012: Tuesday, October 23 2011: Tuesday, October 4
New HomePod rumors: HomePod mini 2, HomePad and touchscreen HomePod
Macworld Apple has confirmed a Welcome home Experience in New York on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 9 a.m. ET (6 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. BST). A new HomePod mini and Apples first smart-home display are expected to feature alongside an updated Apple TV 4K. Invited journalists will attend a New York gathering. Well cover the announcement in our Welcome Home live blog . For much of 2025 and 2026, Apples revamped Siri was the thing holding those products back. Thats no longer the case: Siri AI has now arrived with Apples OS 27 updates, removing one of the biggest obstacles to launching the new hardware. The HomePod mini 2 appears to be particularly close, with Apple code discovered in September 2026 revealing images of the unreleased speaker and its five colors, while Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported in July that a new HomePod mini, Apple TV and smart home display are among Apples upcoming home products. The naming is less straightforward. HomePad, Smart Home Hub, Personal Hub and HomePod Touch are all placeholder names being used for different rumored products or concepts, rather than confirmed Apple names. In this article, were using HomePad, Smart Home Hub and Personal Hub for the standalone smart display reportedly being developed for smart-home controls, Siri AI and video calls, while HomePod Touch refers specifically to reports about a HomePod-style speaker with an integrated touchscreen. There may ultimately be some overlap between these products, and some of the rumored concepts could be combined, renamed or never released at all. Below, we separate what is currently known about each device and when it is likely to arrive. What are the new HomePod products? Apple is reportedly developing several new HomePod and smart-home products. The names below arent official Apple names; where necessary, were using placeholder names to distinguish between the different rumored devices. Placeholder name What is it When HomePod mini 2 New HomePod mini with the same basic design, new colors, faster processor and Siri AI support. October 13 announcement expected HomePad /Smart Home Hub 6-inch smart display with Siri AI, Home controls, apps and camera; tabletop and wall-mounted versions expected. October 13 announcement expected HomePod 3 Next-generation full-size HomePod with faster hardware and Siri AI support In development, but reportedly not imminent HomePod Touch HomePod with a built-in 6-inch touchscreen. Uncertain; no firm launch window Robotic home screen Display mounted on a robotic arm 2027 or beyond Security camera Apple-designed home security camera Timing uncertain LG smart-home accessories Reported Apple/LG collaboration on a doorbell, lock, thermostat and security cameras October 13 announcement rumored; availability potentially months later Why have Apples new Home products taken so long? Apples next generation of smart-home products appears to have been delayed largely because of Siri. The company was developing a much more capable version of Siri for Apple Intelligence, while the processors inside the current HomePod mini and second-generation HomePod werent designed to run Apples latest AI features. That created a problem for new HomePod hardware. Apple was reportedly preparing products such as a new HomePod mini and smart home display around the capabilities of the redesigned assistant, but Siris delayed development meant the hardware couldnt launch as originally expected. That situation has now changed. Siri AI arrived with Apples OS 27 updates in September 2026, removing one of the main dependencies that had been holding back Apples smart-home plans. Recent reports suggest the HomePod mini 2 and Apples smart home display are among the products closest to release . The full-size HomePod appears to be on a different timetable, however. Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported in September that Apple is testing a new full-size HomePod with Siri AI support, but said it doesnt appear to be imminent. That means we no longer expect the HomePod 3 to necessarily arrive alongside the HomePod mini 2. HomePod mini 2 rumors Well start off with the rumors about the HomePod mini 2. The HomePod mini is Apples smaller, more affordable smart speaker. The new model is expected to offer a new selection of colors, a major processor upgrade and improved connectivity. Foundry When is the HomePod mini 2 expected to launch? Launch : October 13 announcement expected Apple introduced the original HomePod mini in November 2020, so it is now nearly six years old and overdue for an update. Rumours of a successor have circulated for more than a year. In January 2025, reports suggested a launch toward the end of 2025 , and Bloombergs Mark Gurman subsequently said that new HomePod mini and Apple TV models were expected in fall 2025 . Those products never materialised. Attention then shifted to spring 2026, with reports suggesting Apples new smart home devices would launch alongside its redesigned Siri. However, that timetable also slipped as Apple continued work on its AI-powered assistant. The HomePod mini 2 is expected to be announced at Apples October 13 Welcome home event. Apple has invited media to an Experience, but has not yet confirmed what will launch. What changes are coming to the HomePod mini 2? Black, blue, green, pink, and white color finishes. The current HomePod mini is available in Midnight, White, Blue, Yellow and Orange. In September, MacRumors spotted Apple code that revealed five colors for the new model: black, blue, green, pink, and white. Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported in September 2025, that Apple has tested additional colors for the next-generation model, including red, but it appears that red didnt make the final cut. Otherwise, the HomePod mini 2 is expected to retain the same compact, spherical design as the current model, with no major external changes rumored. Instead, Apple is reportedly focusing on upgraded internal hardware, including an S9 or newer chip capable of supporting Apples latest Siri AI features. Other changes coming to HomePod mini 2 Beyond the color changes revealed in Apple code, the main expected hardware upgrade is a newer processor capable of supporting Siri AI. Reports also point to newer Apple networking and Ultra Wideband hardware, along with possible audio improvements. Siri AI support :A newer processor should allow the HomePod mini 2 to support Apples latest Siri AI features, something the current S5-based model wasnt designed for. Improved connectivity :Reports have pointed to Apples newer in-house networking hardware, Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip. Audio improvements :Apple is expected to upgrade the speakers audio hardware and processing. Other internal upgrades :Further hardware refinements are possible. HomePad/Smart Home Hub rumors Launch : October 13 announcement expected Strategy : A new smart-home display category for Apple HomePad release date Apples first smart-home display, provisionally called HomePad, is expected to be unveiled at the confirmed October 13 Welcome home Experience. Invited journalists will attend a New York gathering, but Apple has not confirmed a public livestream. Product announcements could appear on its website alongside the media experience. Well cover the announcement in our Welcome Home live blog . The product had originally been expected earlier in 2026, but its launch was repeatedly pushed back while Apple completed the Siri AI technology that arrived with its September OS 27 updates. Gurman previously reported that the hardware had been ready for some time, with Siri the main reason for the delay. Apples own software has also provided evidence that the product is approaching launch. References discovered in macOS identify J490/HomeAccessory17,1 and J491/HomeAccessory17,2, which are believed to correspond to the tabletop and wall-mounted versions of Apples smart home hub. What is the HomePad? The HomePad also referred to as Apples Smart Home Hub or home display is expected to be a compact 6-inch smart display designed to act as a central interface for the home . It would combine Siri AI, smart-home controls, FaceTime, media playback and Apple services in a device intended to remain plugged in on a countertop, desk, bedside table or wall. The latest reports suggest that it will be considerably smaller than many earlier concept images implied. A six-inch square display would measure only about 4.25 inches across each side, making it much more of a close-up personal device than an iPad-sized family display. It is likely to be more desk scale than room scale. Apples new Siri AI is expected to be central to the HomePad experience. Its delayed development appears to have been one of the main reasons the hardware did not launch earlier. Foundry / ChatGPT HomePad design, features and specs Reported features include: 6-inch display: The latest Bloomberg report points to a six-inch display with rounded corners, making the device considerably smaller than many earlier renders suggested. iMac G4-style tabletop design : The standard model is reportedly mounted above a circular metal speaker base on a polished metal arm, with a design said to be reminiscent of the classic iMac G4. Colors : Leaker itspdfu has suggested Rose Pink, Silver, Space Gray and Starlight based on Photo Face setup assets. Tilting display : The screen is reportedly designed to tilt forward and backward manually. Wall-mounted version : A second model is reportedly designed to mount on a wall, with a thin square base containing the speakers and microphones. No battery : The device is expected to remain plugged in, reportedly using USB-C for power. Siri AI: Apples new Siri technology is expected to be central to the device. Smart-home controls: It should act as a central interface for Home accessories. FaceTime and communication : A front-facing camera is expected to support FaceTime calls. User recognition : The device is reportedly designed to recognize household members by face and voice, then display that persons own calendar, reminders, notes and other information. Visitor mode : Reports suggest it will be able to hide personal information when guests are using the device. iPhone authentication : A nearby iPhone may be used for stronger authentication when required. Other software clues and reports suggest the device could also offer: Apple apps and services : Reports specifically mention Calendar, Messages, Photos, FaceTime, Notes, Reminders, Music, Podcasts and smart-home controls. Entertainment : The device is also expected to function as an entertainment hub for streaming music and video, as well as making FaceTime calls via a built-in camera. New home-focused software : The device is reportedly running a new interface combining elements of Apple Watch, Apple TV and iPhone/iPad software, including widgets, clock faces and photo displays rather than simply running iPadOS. No App Store expected at launch : Current reports do not mention an App Store, suggesting the HomePad may initially operate more like a dedicated smart-home appliance than a general-purpose iPad. Other clues about HomePad software: Kitchen integration : A new CookingKit framework and expanded food sections in Apple News indicate that kitchen assistance, such as searching for recipes by ingredient, could be a primary selling point. Advanced home control : Code found in the iOS 26 Home app describes an Adaptive Temperature feature, which could allow the HomePad to offer more granular control over smart thermostats, including energy-saving optimizations based on local electricity rates. HomePod 3 rumors The larger HomePod is more expensive than the HomePod mini, delivering richer, louder audio with deeper bass and spatial audio. The next generation is expected to get a processor upgrade, improved connectivity and better sound. Michael Brown/Foundry When is the HomePod 3 expected to launch? Release date : Unknown; not expected imminently Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported in September 2026 that Apple was testing a new full-size HomePod with Siri AI support, but that the release did not appear to be imminent. What changes are coming to the HomePod 3? Unlike the HomePod mini 2, there are relatively few leaks about hardware upgrades coming to the full-size HomePod. However, its expected to receive the same core internal upgrades needed to support Apples AI ambitions. Expected improvements include: More powerful chip : The current HomePod uses the S7 chip from the Apple Watch Series 7. A next-generation model is expected to adopt a significantly faster Apple silicon chip, potentially the S9 or newer, to support Apple Intelligence features. Siri AI support : The upgraded hardware should allow the HomePod to run Apples new Siri AI features that arent supported by the current S7-based model. Improved Connectivity : Rumours point to Apples in-house networking chip, together with Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip for improved performance and smart home integration. Audio Enhancements : Apple is also expected to refine the speaker system with upgraded drivers and audio processing. In September, a post by itspdfu , who has a history of posting leaks online, said that audioOS27, the operating system for HomePod devices, supports Siri AI. The same source claimed that a future HomePod could also include new animations for its top display. Beyond these internal upgrades, some reports suggest Apple is experimenting with a HomePod featuring a built-in display. That device is expected to be a separate product rather than a standard HomePod 3, and we cover those rumours in the next section. HomePod with touchscreen (HomePod Touch) rumors Apple has been rumored to be working on a HomePod with a screen for years, although exactly what form that product will take remains unclear. Older reports have described a HomePod-style speaker with an integrated touchscreen, sometimes referred to unofficially as a HomePod Touch. There is considerable uncertainty here because some older reports about a HomePod with a display may describe the same product that more recent reports characterize as Apples HomePad or smart home hub. We are treating the HomePod Touch separately here only where reports specifically describe a HomePod-style speaker with an integrated screen. Foundry and Apple When could the touchscreen HomePod launch? Possible launch : Unknown Apple has been working on redesigning the HomePod to include a display for some time. Back in March 2023, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed Apple would unveil a redesigned HomePod featuring a 7-inch panel. Kuo initially expected this product to arrive in the first half of 2024, but that timeline slipped. In December 2024, he reported further delays had pushed the launch to after WWDC 2025 , citing software development challenges. Then, in March 2025, Kuo suggested the device had been delayed again, due to Apple Intelligence setbacks . Those predictions have all passed without a product appearing. Siri AI has since arrived, but there is currently no firm report giving this touchscreen HomePod a new launch date. It is therefore possible that earlier reports referred to a product that has evolved, been delayed further, or overlaps with Apples separately reported HomePad project. HomePod with display incoming? Foundry What could the touchscreen HomePod be like? Display size: 6 and 7-inch touchscreens. Software : Custom touchscreen operating system running apps like Weather, Calendar, Photos, HomeKit as well as Apple Music One of the biggest limitations of todays HomePod is that almost every interaction relies on Siri. A built-in display would provide a more direct way to control music, manage smart home devices and access information, putting Apples device in direct competition with the Amazon Echo Show and Google Nest Hub. According to current rumours, Apples display-equipped HomePod will feature a 6-7-inch touchscreen and run a touch-optimised version of homeOS, allowing it to function as both a smart speaker and a smart home hub. Unlike existing HomePods, it is expected to use a far more powerful A-series chip possibly an A18 or similar to support Apples redesigned AI-powered Siri and the more demanding graphical interface. Rumoured features: Large touchscreen : A 6-7-inch display for controlling smart home devices, viewing photos, checking the weather, following recipes and interacting with apps. Powerful Apple silicon : An A-series chip is expected to replace the S-series processor used in current HomePods, providing the performance needed for Apple Intelligence and the touchscreen interface. Smart-home controls : A touchscreen HomePod would logically offer easier access to Home controls, although reports about apps and a dedicated smart-home interface may refer instead to Apples separate HomePad project Improved connectivity : Apples in-house networking chip, Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip are all rumoured. FaceTime camera : Reports suggest Apple may include a built-in camera for FaceTime and other video-based features. These could instead relate to Apples separate HomePad project. Possible modular design : Some less-established reports have suggested that a display could dock with a speaker base. This has not been corroborated by the more recent reports describing Apples HomePad. If accurate, this would represent Apples biggest expansion of the HomePod lineup since its debut, transforming it from a voice-first speaker into a full smart home controller. Amazon Echo Show beside the HomePod mini, Ben Patterson/Foundry Apple robotic home display rumors Possible launch : 2027 or later Strategy : A premium smart-home device with a movable display Apple is also developing a much more ambitious smart-home device that shouldnt be confused with the HomePad expected first (see above). As far back as April 2021, Mark Gurman described a high-end device combining a HomePod speaker, a touchscreen, and a camera mounted on a robotic arm that could follow the user around the room during video calls. Gurman has made various references to this over the years. The device, previously identified as J595, is reportedly an iPad-like display attached to a motorized robotic arm . The arm would allow the screen to move and reposition itself, potentially following a person around the room during FaceTime calls or turning toward whoever is speaking. Bloomberg has described it as a higher-end smart-home command center that could combine videoconferencing, home controls and security functions. Unlike the stationary HomePad, this appears to be a significantly more complexand probably more expensiveproduct. Earlier reports have suggested a price that could reach around $1,000. The robotic display is also believed to be further away than the HomePad . Previous reports placed it in late 2026 or 2027 at the earliest, and Apples more recent software leaks have focused on the J490 and J491 stationary home hubs rather than J595. What could the robotic display do? Reported capabilities include: A large display mounted on a motorized arm. Automatically turning toward the person using it. FaceTime and other video calling. Siri AI and smart-home controls. Cameras and gesture recognition Reports suggest cameras could support FaceTime, security monitoring and potentially recognition of users or gestures. Apple has also previously filed patents describing HomePod-related gesture controls, although patents do not necessarily indicate features destined for a shipping product. Associated LG accessories There is a rumor that LG accessories could accompany Apples smart-home launch Bloombergs Mark Gurman reports that Apple is working with LG on a doorbell, smart lock, thermostat and security cameras . These accessories could be announced on October 13, but reportedly would not reach customers for several more months. The products are expected to carry LG branding, with LG handling manufacturing and support. They are separate from the Apple-branded accessories also rumored to be in development. A separate leak from itspdfu points to an LG temperature and humidity sensor. What chips will power the new HomePods? The biggest limitation of todays HomePods isnt their speakers its their processors. The HomePod mini still uses the Apple Watch S5 chip introduced in 2019, while the second-generation HomePod runs on the newer, but still relatively modest, S7 chip from the Apple Watch Series 7. Those chips are powerful enough for music playback, Home controls and existing Siri functions, but they were not designed to run the new Siri AI capabilities introduced with Apples OS 27 generation. That hardware gap helps explain why Apple is expected to introduce new HomePod hardware rather than bringing the full Siri AI experience to the existing models. HomePod mini 2 & HomePod 3 Gurman has said the main hardware change he has specifically reported for the new HomePods is a faster chip, although he has not identified which processor Apple will use. HomePod with a screen The display-equipped HomePod is expected to require substantially more processing power than Apples existing smart speakers. Because it will reportedly run a touch-based operating system alongside Apple Intelligence, most analysts expect it to use an A-series processor, with an A17 Pro or A18 among the leading predictions. Apple has not confirmed the chip, and these reports remain speculative. Whatever processors Apple ultimately chooses, the goal appears to be the same across the entire HomePod range: replacing ageing Apple Watch chips with modern Apple silicon capable of delivering the full Apple Intelligence experience. New HomePod Prices The prices for the HomePods increased in June 2026: HomePod: $349/349 (was $299/299) HomePod mini: $129/129 (was $99/99) Apple raised HomePod prices in June 2026, so we wouldnt expect the new models to return automatically to the previous $99/$299 price points. However, a HomePod with a built-in screen could command a higher price. It may launch as a separate product altogether, potentially starting around $399/399, or higher, depending on features. Buying advice: Should you wait or buy a HomePod now? Wait if: You are considering a HomePod mini and can postpone your purchase until after October 13. A replacement is expected at Apples gathering, so waiting will let you assess any announcement before choosing between the current and new models. Buy now if: You need a HomePod immediately and find a worthwhile discount. The current HomePod and HomePod mini still work well as speakers and smart-home hubs, but their older processors mean they arent designed for Apples newer Siri AI capabilities. If you want a screen: Wait. Apples first dedicated home display appears much closer than the more speculative touchscreen HomePod. What is on Apples Smart Home Roadmap October 13, 2026 : Apples Welcome home Experience is confirmed. HomePod mini 2 and the HomePad smart display are expected announcements, alongside an updated Apple TV 4K. Beyond 2026: A new full-size HomePod is being tested, but Bloomberg reports that it does not appear imminent. 2027 or later: Apples more ambitious robotic home display could follow. Timing unknown: Apple is also reportedly developing home-security camera hardware.
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Parents at an elementary school next to Teslas Fremont car plant want more time to question a plan that could raise emissions from the factory, Matthew Brown reported forSFGate. Lila Bringhurst Elementary sits less than 1,000 feet from the plant. Tesla has applied to change emission limits on two aluminium melting furnaces and add new [] This story continues at The Next Web
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Welcome to 9to5Toys News Weekly your go-to spot to catch up on the latest new product releases, features, and hands-on reviews. This week we are starting with your last chance to get in on the massive Best Buy Techtober sale and the October Walmart Deals event , however Amazon also debuted its all-new iPad-like Android Alexa Tablets starting from $230 alongside the worlds longest-lasting 5kWh portable power station , this new 45W Burgundy Smart Display charger , the NVIDIA RTX Spark-powered Copilot+ PCs , and more. more
You can still score Prime Day all-time lows on the latest Apple Watch models, deals from $199
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Giant Best Buy Techtober sale ends later today, get in there while you still can
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Pay $19.97 once and get the Mac tools Apple left out
Macworld TL;DR: MacMagic packs cache cleanup, hidden-file toggles, PDF merging, and batch renaming into one Mac app. Get a lifetime upgrades license for $19.97 (reg. $99.99). Ever needed to reveal a hidden file or merge two PDFs, only to end up in Terminal or juggling separate apps? Get a MacMagic lifetime upgrade license for $19.97 (reg. $99.99) while this price is live. MacMagic from Koingo pulls the features macOS leaves out into one interface. It clears oversized app caches and logs to free up disk space and shows or hides hidden files in Finder with a click. The small fixes that add up Force Delete handles stubborn files that refuse to leave your Mac. You can combine and compress PDFs, batch rename files using dates or metadata, and batch convert images between more than 100 formats. It also includes a quit-and-restart Finder option to instantly refresh Finder, free up RAM, and speed up operations. The tool also includes a plain-text editor and a QR code generator to round it out. The license runs on macOS 11 or later, covers up to five Macs, and includes updates. Redeem your code within 30 days of purchase. Verified buyers give MacMagic an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. If youd rather own one toolkit than keep a folder full of single-purpose utilities, this is the one to keep in your Dock. Grab MacMagic for a one-time $19.97 (reg. $99.99) before the deal wraps. MacMagic: Lifetime Upgrades License See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.
This $23.99 Find My tracker is thin enough to live in your wallet
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