Review: Kanex USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter solves the WiFi dead zone problem for the 12-inch MacBook [feedly]

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Review: Kanex USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter solves the WiFi dead zone problem for the 12-inch MacBook
// 9to5Mac

Adapters for adding thicker ports are nothing new for Apple's modern line of notebooks. Even the high-end Retina MacBook Pro decidedly excludes a direct Ethernet connection, and Apple's MacBook Air and new ultrathin 12-inch MacBook are especially too thin for a wired connection to the Internet without relying on an adapter in the middle.

While modern WiFi is fine for most everyday situations, even Apple acknowledges that a wired connection is necessary in some instances. To remedy this, it sells a $29 USB Ethernet Adapter and a faster $29 Thunderbolt to Ethernet Adapter. The 12-inch MacBook has neither port, however, additionally requiring Apple's $19 USB-C to USB Adapter to work with the slower adapter.

Fortunately with USB-C being a new industry standard, accessory makers like Kanex are ready with solutions like the $29.95 USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter made for the new 12-inch MacBook and other USB-C computers…

Key Details: Adds gigabit Ethernet to Apple's 12-inch MacBook Useful for WiFi dead zones Plug-and-play compatibility, no setup required Cable length measures 11.5 inches Available in white like Apple adapters Also works with Google Chromebook Pixel

At first glance you may mistake Kanex USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter for some sort of mystical Lightning to Ethernet adapter for iPhones and iPads, but at its core it's a USB 3.0 dongle with a super thin connector end met with a rather thick brickish end with an Ethernet port.

This is absolutely the first time my MacBook has been connected to a wired Internet connection since it shipped in April. That seems crazy but it's handy to have a way to connect directly on occassion. Busy work days when streaming a spotty Apple live stream, when on the phone with technical support with my Internet service provider, and if I need to connect to another machine over the Ethernet line to name a few.

Kanex's USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter looks very similar to Apple's own adapters, although the plastic shell is a shade closer to gray than Apple's bright white cables and adapters; my first thought is that this might combat discoloring over time. The RJ45 end of the adapter is a bit bulkier than Apple's standard USB adapters, measuring 1.25-inches wide by 2.5-inches long by 0.25 inches thick.

The overall length of Kanex's USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter measures 11.5-inches in total. In comparison, Apple's USB Ethernet Adapter measures 8-inches long, or 12.75-inches long when attached to Apple's USB-C to USB Adapter. The length of your data cable is what's most important when connecting directly to a router or modem, but Kanex's adapter lets the RJ45 end hang freely from the USB-C end with flexibility.

While most of the adapter resembles the USB-C Charge Cable bundled with the new MacBook, the RJ45 end of it makes it obvious why the ultra thin notebook doesn't include an Ethernet port: it's much thicker than even the thickest part of the entire MacBook. The thickness is comparable to two iPhone 6s stacked.

Not apparent until you see it in action, Kanex's USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter hides two status indicator lights inside — something you won't find in either of Apple's USB Ethernet adapters. Both indicator lights glow soft green when connected. One presumably shows connection in general as it remains solid when connected, although it remained green when I removed the Ethernet cable between the modem and the router. The other indicator light pulses at various speeds based on data transfer speeds. A mostly idle machine shows a slower flash while opening multiple Safari tabs creates a constant flash until all the pages have loaded.

Kanex's USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet works entirely as expected with the only surprise being the green status indicator lights. If flashing lights are too distracting and un-Apple for you, you can pay the premium and buy separate USB-C to USB and USB to Ethernet Adapters, but Kanex's solution is one of the first available and provides a gigabit ethernet port for the same price that Apple sells its Thunderbolt Gigabit Ethernet adapter.

If you're looking to add access to an RJ45 port on your new MacBook for frequent or occasional use, especially during conference season (and for quickly downloading new software betas), Kanex's solution is a fine one for a reasonable price. The biggest issue comes when you need to use both ethernet and power, as the MacBook features only one port; a hub-style adapter like Anker revealed this week would be ideal in this instance, although it may be reaching edge-case territory.

Manufacturer: Kanex	MSRP: $29.95	Compatibility: 12-inch MacBook

Filed under: AAPL Company Tagged: 12-inch MacBook, 12-inch MacBook accessories, Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, internet, MacBook, MacBook accessories, MacBook Ethernet, MacBook Gigabit Ethernet, USB-C, USB-C adapter, Wi-Fi, wifi

Check out 9to5Mac for more breaking coverage of AAPL Company, MacBook, and Wi-Fi.

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When Marnie Was There review: is this Studio Ghibli's last-ever movie? [feedly]

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When Marnie Was There review: is this Studio Ghibli's last-ever movie?
// The Verge

All indications are that When Marnie Was There will be the last Studio Ghibli feature film for a long time, if not forever. And if that does turn out to be the case, the legendary animation house isn't going out with a bang. Written and directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, When Marnie Was There has no castles in the sky, warrior princesses, or adorable magical animals; it's one of the quietest, most understated movies Studio Ghibli has ever made.

On the surface, When Marnie Was There has few of the hallmarks of Ghibli's best-known films, and it doesn't reach the creative heights of Hayao Miyazaki (Kiki's Delivery Service, My Neighbour Totoro, The Wind Rises) or Isao Takahata's (Grave of the Fireflies, Only Yesterday, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya) greatest achievements. But as it burns slowly through to an emotional climax, it captures exactly what we'll lose if the studio does go away.

When Marnie Was There opens in the tradition of similarly subdued Ghibli movies like Only Yesterday and Whisper of the Heart, placing its main character in a hyper-detailed, authentic depiction of a modern Japanese city. Anna is a troubled 12-year-old girl living in Sapporo, and after she suffers an asthma attack, her foster parents send her away to breathe clean air with relatives in rural Hokkaido. The seaside setting is beautiful, but Anna doesn't get along with the locals any better than she did in Sapporo, preferring to sit by herself and draw.

Studio Ghibli's unparalleled artistry is in full effect

That all changes when Anna comes across Marnie, an ethereal blonde girl living in a strange mansion across a marsh. Marnie takes a deep interest in Anna right from their first meeting, and her non-judgmental nature helps Anna open up to someone for the first time. There's something otherworldly about Marnie — Anna has seen a girl like her in dreams before, and at first doubts whether she's a real person at all. But the connection between them proves so strong that Anna is loath to break it over her uncertainty whether Marnie actually exists. Anna needs Marnie and knows it.

Studio Ghibli's unparalleled artistry and attention to detail are in full effect here, as the animators' painstaking efforts to capture the nuance and emotion in simple human actions pays off once again. Whether it's Anna slightly quickening her pace to avoid having to talk to a stranger, or the way her eyes fall and shoulders drop slightly when a relative joins her on a solo errand, Yonebayashi's direction nails what it feels like to be a kid who just wants to be left alone — making Anna's eventual happiness at building a friendship with Marnie all the more moving. Less successful are the occasional gaudy CGI embellishments and depth-of-field effects, which don't do anything but distract from the artwork.

© 2014 GNDHDDTK

When Marnie Was There is based on the book of the same name, which was written by British author Joan G. Robinson and set in Virginia. Unlike many Ghibli movies, however, Yonebayashi grounds the movie firmly in real-world Japan, making some interesting decisions in adapting the characters' ethnicity. Marnie appears non-Japanese in appearance and name, but Anna is more ambiguous in both regards; she has a particularly strong reaction when another girl compliments her on her pretty, "foreign" blue eyes, reinforcing her sense of isolation despite the kind intent. In the end, Anna's outsider status telegraphs the ultimate connection between her and Marnie, but also adds a cultural dimension rarely seen in mainstream Japanese movies.

When Marnie Was There is the second film Yonebayashi has directed for Studio Ghibli, following 2010's beguiling The Secret World of Arrietty, and the main thing the two share is a supernatural thread that never overpowers the narrative. The family in Arrietty lives an entirely normal life aside from their self-evident 4-inch-high stature, and the movie never addresses or explains it; meanwhile, Anna is unsure of Marnie's nature from the start but accepts her as a true friend without reservation. Both films are strong examples of light magical realism, with simple mystic elements that free up the writing to explore universal themes of personal growth and discovery. When Marnie Was There's ending is easy to see coming, but that doesn't make Anna's journey any less satisfying or heartfelt.

© 2014 GNDHDDTK

Yonebayashi left Studio Ghibli earlier this year, however, saying, "I want to try an action-oriented or fantasy film, which are totally opposite from Marnie." That's disappointing — Japan is not exactly lacking for fantasy anime, and Yonebayashi's departure means Hayao Miyazaki's son Goro is the only person left on Ghibli's books with directorial experience. (Goro made his debut with the disastrous Tales from Earthsea in 2006, regaining some stock with 2011's generally well-received From Up On Poppy Hill.) But for the first time in memory, Ghibli has no upcoming films on its slate. "At this point, we're not making a new film," Hayao Miyazaki told the LA Times in November. "I think we will not be making any feature films to be shown in theaters."

If Miyazaki is right, When Marnie Was There's melancholy, elegiac tale takes on a new poignance. Studio Ghibli is the most important producer of hand-drawn cel animation today, and has built up a diverse yet remarkably consistent body of work in its three decades of existence. Its films have the power to move and enchant people like no other, and When Marnie Was There is a tender distillation of what sets Studio Ghibli apart from the anime world.

When Marnie Was There opens in New York and Los Angeles today, with a wider expansion to come. It's being shown in dubbed English, or Japanese with English subtitles.

© 2014 GNDHDDTK

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Apple's streaming TV service might not be imminent after all [feedly]

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Apple's streaming TV service might not be imminent after all
// Macworld

Apple's long-rumored streaming video service could be slipping away once again, as the company reportedly struggles to get TV programmers on board.

Apple wanted to launch the service in the fall with roughly 25 channels, priced around $30 to $40 per month, unnamed industry sources said in March. A new report from Re/code says Apple has hit a couple of roadblocks.

The biggest hurdle involves local broadcasts from networks such as ABC, CBS, and Fox. Apple is reportedly intent on carrying these networks, but the negotiations for streaming can get complicated because the networks don't own all their local stations. Some markets rely on affiliates or a franchise system, which leads to rights issues and the need for new infrastructure in certain cases. For these reasons, even the networks themselves can't easily offer live TV streaming in every market.

To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here

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LOL: Fanboys wonder if Apple Watch will help them pick up chicks in this hilarious forum thread [feedly]

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LOL: Fanboys wonder if Apple Watch will help them pick up chicks in this hilarious forum thread
// BGR

The Apple Watch really is an impressive device that hits so many notes earlier smartwatch offerings were unable to manage. The design is sleek, the build is solid and premium, the display is gorgeous, and the interface is smooth and beautiful. It's certainly not perfect — in fact, some things about the Apple Watch are positively infuriating — but there's no question that Apple has done an impressive job when it comes to bridging the gap between fashion and wearables.

One thing Apple likely hasn't done, however, is create a device that will go a long way in helping single men attract members of the opposite sex.

Continue reading...

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Apple Watch on pace to beat iPhone’s first-year sales [feedly]

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Apple Watch on pace to beat iPhone's first-year sales
// Cult of Mac

Apple Watch sales are holding steady.

Apple Watch orders are currently coming in at a rate of around 30,000 units per day — according to analytics provided by Slice Intelligence, which combed through the e-receipts of around 14,000 online shoppers who used Slice's services.

Although there was, unsurprisingly, a big drop-off from launch day, numbers appear to have been pretty consistent since then. So far, Apple has sold upwards of 2.5 million Apple Watches — more than the iPod, iPhone, or iPad sold during the same period of time in their first year.

It should, of course, be noted that Slice's numbers are in no way official. E-receipts based on a subsection of customers in one country isn't going to offer an accurate view of overall Apple Watch sales, and obviously doesn't take into account places like China where the Apple Watch is proving popular.

The steady interest does indicate that early word-of-mouth hasn't put people off buying the Apple Watch, however, although it similarly shows that the device has a long way to go before it becomes a must-have wearable.

Interestingly, KGI analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently cut his 2015 expectations for Apple Watch sales from 30 million to 15 million after research indicated that the device appeals to mostly men.  Discounting the 1 million orders reported for the first day of Apple Watch sales, this would mean 38,000 devices selling per day for the first year.

At the end of the day, given that the iPhone sold 6 million units in its first year, and now sells around 10 million+ in the first weekend new models are on sale, I'd expect this number to pick up substantially in future.

But the early figures are nothing to be ashamed of!

Source: Quartz

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3 new iOS 9 features were just revealed in a huge new leak [feedly]

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3 new iOS 9 features were just revealed in a huge new leak
// BGR

9to5Mac's Mark Gurman has been all over iOS 9 leaks this week and he's back with a new report today that outlines more features the new software will deliver. In the preface to his article, Gurman makes clear that this is not going to be the most exciting iOS release. In fact, he says that Apple is putting most of its work into adding stability improvements for the platform, which went through several less-than-stellar releases with iOS 7 and iOS 8. That said, he did highlight three features we can expect to see at WWDC this year.

Continue reading...

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Apple Watch bands hit stores in limited supply [feedly]

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Apple Watch bands hit stores in limited supply
// Cult of Mac

Apple Watch sport with black fluoroelastomer band.

The Apple Watch won't be available in stores for at least a few more weeks, but if you want to get a head start on your collection of band color options, hurry to your local Apple Store now. They've finally got Apple Watch bands!

I ordered an extra Sport band weeks ago after deciding the white I got wasn't for me. I'm still waiting for it, and figured I'd probably be waiting for weeks. So as soon as I heard that some stores have bands in stock, I jumped in my car and sped to my Apple Store faster than Mad Max Rockatansky fleeing from Immortan Joe and the War Boys.

Unfortunately, bands are in pretty limited supply and only a few colors are available, but I lucked out and they had just what I needed. Here's what it's like to buy an Apple Watch band at the Apple Store:

Limited supplies

Apple Watch bands are finally on store shelves

Unlike the Apple Watch display units that are closely monitored at all time, there was no fanfare for the Apple Watch bands. They're on display among other Apple accessories on shelf walls. You don't need any assistance to buy one, but if you'd like to check out the different band colors before making your purchase, you need to set up a hands-on appointment.

Black, white, green and blue Sport bands were the only options available at the Scottsdale Quarter store I visited in Scottsdale, Arizona. A store employee said other options like the Milanese loop and the Classic Buckle should be available soon. Some stores already have those options in stock. Each color option only had about eight units left in both the 42 mm and 38 mm sizes. Buying the bands is just as quick as any other accessory: Pull up the Apple Store app on your phone, scan the bar code, pay with Apple Pay and you're out.

Packaging

The Apple Watch band box is super-thin, especially compared to the giant plastic box the Apple Watch ships in. Once you open up the box, the package is divided into three panels: an instructional panel at the top, the Apple Watch band with the medium/large size in the middle and the extra small/medium band inside the bottom.

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The charging secret behind Apple Watch retail displays [feedly]

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The charging secret behind Apple Watch retail displays
// Cult of Mac

The only charging Apple Stores want to worry about is charging your credit card.

If you wonder how the Apple Watches on display in retail stores differ from those you can buy, some new photos that surfaced online answer the question.

And it involves a built-in Lightning charger.

Anyone who has seen an Apple Watch for sale in-store will have spotted that not only do the Watches in question allow customers to handle the devices to their heart's content (an important factor when buying a wearable), but that the Watches don't run out of battery power.

As seen in the below pictures, that's thanks to special in-store straps that work with the Watch's hidden diagnostic port. The straps secure the Watch to its stand so customers can't walk off with them and also keep them constantly charged throughout the day, via a built-in Lightning cable.

In all, it's a great setup that provides some much-needed security, but also insures that even a day of heavy usage on the part of customers won't run down the devices' batteries.

Source: Blogdoiphone

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Apple Watch Bands Now Available in Select Apple Stores [feedly]

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Apple Watch Bands Now Available in Select Apple Stores
// MacRumors

Apple Stores in the United States, United Kingdom and possibly other launch countries began stocking standalone Apple Watch bands for purchase as confirmed by MacRumors and multiple users on social media. The photo below shared by Twitter user Apple Radar shows an Apple Store in Miami stocking the Sport Band in multiple colors, and he says that the Classic Buckle is also available.


Apple is selling individual Sport Bands for $49, while the Classic Buckle, Milanese Loop and Leather Loop retail for $149 each. The Modern Buckle is costlier at $249 and the Link Bracelet is the most expensive Apple Watch strap available at $449. The prices listed are based on the United States and will vary in international countries based on local currencies and exchange rates.

Apple Watch bands can also be ordered online through the Apple Online Store.

(Thanks, Alireza!)


Recent Mac and iOS Blog Stories
• Despite Popular Kickstarter, Pebble Seeks $5 Million Loan 'To Stay Afloat'
• iPhone 5c With Touch ID on Apple's Website Fuels Unlikely Refresh Rumors
• Apple iPhone Lightning Dock Review: Simple Design With Broad Compatibility, but Some Stability Concerns
• SwiftKey Keyboard for iOS Gains New Theme Store
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• Olloclip Debuts New Telephoto + Wide-Angle 'Active Lens' for iPhone 6 and 6 Plus
• Automatic Unveils New App Gallery and Car Adapter With Real-Time Data Support
• How to Answer and Make Phone Calls on Apple Watch

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Apple files patent for ‘hotspot device’ that could make the Apple Watch even more useful [feedly]

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Apple files patent for 'hotspot device' that could make the Apple Watch even more useful
// iPhone Hacks

An Apple patent tends to crop up pretty frequently, and sometimes it details something that many people want to see become a real product. Continue reading →
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Apple to Remodel Flagship Regent Street Store in United Kingdom [feedly]

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Apple to Remodel Flagship Regent Street Store in United Kingdom
// MacRumors

Apple is planning to remodel its flagship Regent Street retail store in United Kingdom per a recent application filed with the City of Westminster in England. The company has contracted award-winning architecture firm Foster and Partners to design the layout of the new store and commissioned Donald Insall Associates to conduct a historic building report that justifies the renovations in the iconic shopping area.

A view of the current Apple Store facade facing Regent Street (Foster and Partners)
The proposed renovation will consist of the partial removal of the existing mezzanine floor at the front of the store, the relocation of three columns to create a more spacious feel, the removal of the existing main glass stairs leading up to the mezzanine level and replacement with two new staircases, and re-configuration of the back of house at the basement level with improved staff facilities.

"The proposal looks to enhance the ground floor sales area by removing the front part of the mezzanine and creating a double height entrance," reads Foster and Partners' project rationale. "This partial removal of the mezzanine also enhances the transparency from the street and floods the store with natural light. The interior front facade, with its full height arches, clad in natural Portland stone, can now be appreciated in its full extend. Moreover the visual connection between the two levels of retail is dramatically improved. This is key to the customer journey and the efficient use of the overall retail area."

Foster and Partners will also be removing the four Apple logos found on the store's facade in order to allow more natural light inside and preserve the historic look of the building. The store's overall square footage will be reduced by 4,400 square feet, or around 25% of the current size, and the interior will consist of terrazzo floor, GFRC cladding on the walls and oak timber for all fittings and fixtures.

Floor plan for remodeled Regent Street store interior (Foster and Partners)
Apple plans to open a temporary store at 235 Regent Street to continue to serve customers during the remodeling process. The temporary location will be located at the basement level of the same building as the permanent store for a maximum of three years, accessible by a carefully designed lobby at ground level with a minimal steel staircase and a fully accessible lift.

Apple's flagship Regent Street retail store opened in November 2004 and attracts over 4 million visitors per year. The iconic store was last expanded and remodeled in mid-2006 to become the largest Apple Store location at the time. Apple has contracted Foster and Partners for several other projects in recent months, including the design of Campus 2 and remodeling of Apple's flagship San Francisco store.


Recent Mac and iOS Blog Stories
• Despite Popular Kickstarter, Pebble Seeks $5 Million Loan 'To Stay Afloat'
• iPhone 5c With Touch ID on Apple's Website Fuels Unlikely Refresh Rumors
• Apple iPhone Lightning Dock Review: Simple Design With Broad Compatibility, but Some Stability Concerns
• SwiftKey Keyboard for iOS Gains New Theme Store
• Apple Rejects 'Breaking' App Due to One Small Mention of Android in a Screenshot
• Olloclip Debuts New Telephoto + Wide-Angle 'Active Lens' for iPhone 6 and 6 Plus
• Automatic Unveils New App Gallery and Car Adapter With Real-Time Data Support
• How to Answer and Make Phone Calls on Apple Watch

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EA is rebooting Need for Speed later this year [feedly]

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EA is rebooting Need for Speed later this year
// The Verge

Need for Speed is back — but this time it's going back to basics. After going through a bit of an identity crisis following a number of spin-offs and sequels, which tackled everything from street racing to simulation-style driving, EA says it's rebooting the series with a new game due to launch later this year. Simply called Need for Speed, the game will feature "deep customization, authentic urban car culture, a nocturnal open world, and an immersive narrative to pull players deep into the game," according to the publisher. That's about all we know about the game right now — it's being made by Ghost Games, the Swedish studio behind Need for Speed: Rivals — but expect to hear more about it at E3 next month. The new Need for Speed will be launching this fall on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.

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Future of iPad: Dual-app viewing mode, then J98/J99 ‘iPad Pros,’ multi-user support [feedly]

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Future of iPad: Dual-app viewing mode, then J98/J99 'iPad Pros,' multi-user support
// 9to5Mac

Facing slowing growth for the first time since the iPad's 2010 debut, Apple is working on several significant software and hardware updates to reinvigorate the tablet over the next year. Apple is developing a dual-app viewing mode, 12-inch iPads codenamed "J98″ and "J99," as well as support for multi-user logins, according to sources briefed on the plans. First planned for debut last year, the split-screen applications feature for the iPad could be introduced as soon as June at Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference, while multi-user login support and the 12-inch iPads will apparently arrive later…

Apple had originally intended to debut side-by-side app support with iOS 8 on the iPad Air in 2014, matching the cornerstone feature of Microsoft's Surface and Surface Pro tablets. In the lead up to WWDC 2014, the feature was deemed too unpolished for public consumption and pulled from iOS 8.0, with tentative plans to appear in iOS 8.1. However, Apple reprioritized its software engineering resources to finish up the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, and Apple Watch, opting to cut the split-screen app feature for the time being, and reassign the majority of the engineers who were working on it.

Sources now say that Apple plans to show off the side-by-side feature for iOS 9 using currently available iPad models. The latest plans suggest that the split-screen mode will support 1/2, 1/3, and 2/3 views depending on the apps. When split, the screen can either display two different apps side-by-side, or multiple views of the same app. This would enable iPad users to see two separate Safari tabs, or compare a pair of Pages documents at the same time. Sources are quick to warn, however, that the feature could still be pulled before next month's conference, as additional polish would be needed to bring it to the same level as other features that will be making their way into the first iOS 9 beta next month.

While Apple has tested the feature with plans to release it for current iPads, we are told that the feature was actually developed with a larger, 12-inch iPad in mind, so it could potentially be held back for a debut with the new hardware. Sources have confirmed that Apple is testing jumbo-sized iPads internally codenamed "J98″ and "J99," which are apparently larger versions of the Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad Air 2, save for additional speaker holes. Dubbed "iPad Pro" in prior reports, the larger device's launch date is yet to be locked down, as the tablet is still waiting for its software to be finished up, and new hardware components to be readily available.

While current "iPad Pro" prototypes are said to run a version of iOS that looks like a larger variant of the iPad mini and iPad Air version, Apple's goal is to further tweak iOS for the bigger iPad so users can better leverage the additional screen real estate. Besides split-screen apps, Apple is considering redesigning core apps and features, including Siri and Notification Center, to be better presented on the larger display. This new iPad is also rumored to have additional keyboard and USB support, and basic manufacturing schematics for the device leaked late last year.

Another significant iPad feature in the pipeline is support for multiple users, according to sources. This feature will allow several users to share an iPad, but have access solely to their own apps, documents, and media, like on a Mac. As of earlier this year, Apple had planned to ship multiple user support in iOS 9, but sources now indicate that the feature has been pushed back from its planned WWDC Keynote debut and is unlikely to be ready for iOS 9.0 this fall. However, the feature is still in simultaneous development with iOS 9 as Apple executives believe it to be critical to the enterprise and education sectors. Consequently, it could be released later this year as a .1 or .2 upgrade to iOS 9, alongside the "iPad Pro," or next year.

For iOS 9, we have reported that Apple is planning transit directions support for Maps, a font change to the Apple Watch's San Francisco typeface, and a new Home app to support HomeKit. We first reported in February that iOS 9 will also have a major focus on stability, optimization, and security fixes.

Filed under: AAPL Company, iOS, iOS Devices Tagged: Display, iOS 10, iOS 8, iOS 9, iPad, ipad air, iPad mini, iPad Pro, Mac, Microsoft Surface, multi-user, Retina Dispay, Split View, split-screen, Two-Up

Check out 9to5Mac for more breaking coverage of AAPL Company, iOS Devices, and iPad.

What do you think? Discuss "Future of iPad: Dual-app viewing mode, then J98/J99 'iPad Pros,' multi-user support" with our community.

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iOS 9 leak: One of Apple’s biggest new iOS apps has been revealed [feedly]

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iOS 9 leak: One of Apple's biggest new iOS apps has been revealed
// BGR

Apple is going to unveil iOS 9 at WWDC next month, and the first details about are slowly coming in. A new report shares info about a brand new iOS application you might find on your iPhone and iPad as soon as iOS 9 is rolled out this fall.

Continue reading...

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Apple developing dual-app view mode for iPad, multi-user login support and 12-inch iPad [feedly]

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Apple developing dual-app view mode for iPad, multi-user login support and 12-inch iPad
// iPhone Hacks

The Rumor Mill does not want to give up on the oft-speculated iPad Pro, and now a new report throws even more water hoping for a big splash. Continue reading →
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What to know before you buy the Apple Watch w/ Milanese Loop band [feedly]

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What to know before you buy the Apple Watch w/ Milanese Loop band
// 9to5Mac

I decided on the Apple Watch with stainless steel Milanese Loop band for a few reasons, but not before considering the benefits and drawbacks of Apple's entire collection of straps and bands for Apple Watch. Budget will in many cases guide your decision, but going for the Milanese Loop was a no-brainer for me. There are a few downsides of the band compared to others, however.

Here are a few observations I've made after wearing it for the last couple weeks, including little talked about pros and cons you'll want to consider before purchasing the Milanese Loop for yourself.

1. It looks a bit different than in Apple's press shots. I was a bit surprised that the link of the Milanese Loop doesn't look like it does in a lot of Apple's press shots, especially its overall presence once on the wrirst. To be fair, it looks closer to the shots Apple has on the product's purchase page, but this is what it looks like in reality compared to Apple's closeup shots that are used in some of the Apple Watch's most prominent imagery:

You can see that the way the link looks close up in Apple's renders is quite different than how the band looks in the real world from a normal viewing distance.

2. It won't discolor or deform. It's the only band that is truly resistant to scratches, deformation and discoloring, making it the most durable option among all the bands. Discoloration and deformation is a fact of life for those other materials and something Apple is warning about for its rubber and leather bands. The pricier stainless steel Link Bracelet is also not impervious to damage or wear and tear; like all link bands, it will get scratched and scuffed quite easily (also an issue Apple is anticipating and thus won't be covering under warranty).

The Milanese Loop, however, with its busy, tightly weaved stainless steel mesh pattern, does an excellent job of resisting and hiding scratches. It also, like all stainless steel bands, won't have any issue with discoloration, deformation or damage due to sweat and lotions.

3. Pulling hairs. I did experience the tiny links of the band catching and pulling out hairs on my wrist from time to time, which likely won't be an issue with the other bands.

4. It becomes loose throughout the day. If you've ever researched watches with similar stainless steel mesh bands, you've probably heard complaints that they often come lose throughout the day with regular use. Apple Watch's Milanese Loop has the same problem, and Apple's magnetic closure, while making the watch super easy to get on and off quickly, doesn't help. I found myself adjusting the strap to make it tighter several times throughout the day, especially during any physical activity.

5. It's not super comfortable. The stainless steel is definitely not the most comfortable watch band in the world, and with the band coming loose throughout the day, I wouldn't recommend it for workouts or much physical activity. I'll be switching to a black Sport band for fitness or long periods of activity (once it arrives).

6. Breathability. One upside of the design in terms of comfort is breathability. Unlike any of Apple's other straps, the weaved mesh of the Milanese Loop actually allows a bit of air to pass through, allowing you to stay cool and avoid sweating that is common with leather and solid stainless steel bands, for example.

Should you buy it?

Even considering the pros and cons above, I'm still extremely happy with my decision. The durability, premium look of the stainless steel, and the price point relative to the other Apple Watch model options — it's $300 less than the stainless steel link band — definitely outweigh the downsides of the band and of the other Apple Watch models.

If you are heavy into fitness and plan on using the Apple Watch for mostly workouts and physical activity, grabbing an extra Sport band like I did might be necessary to avoid the downsides that the Milanese Loop has in those areas. But if that isn't in the budget, then the Sport band is probably the go-to option for athletes.

And just in case you're curious, this is what the Milanese Loop band looks like on the Sport model:

Filed under: Apple Watch, Reviews Tagged: Apple watch, breathability, comfortable, fitness, loose, magnetic closure, milanese loop, review, sport, Stainless steel

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Fetch and MindMeld debut the first AI-powered Apple Watch app [feedly]

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Fetch and MindMeld debut the first AI-powered Apple Watch app
// Macworld

The Apple Watch isn't just a dumb screen for parroting the notifications that come to your iPhone—or it doesn't have to be, anyway. On Tuesday, Fetch announced an integration with MindMeld's artificial intelligence technology to better interpret on-demand voice requests on its Apple Watch app. This partnership makes Fetch, an on-demand personal shopping service, the first third-party AI-powered app for the Apple Watch.

For a $10 monthly subscription, Fetch users can send a text, photo, or voice command to have a real person (or concierge) assist them with buying specific products, booking plane tickets, making dinner reservations, or even paying for parking tickets. Now Fetch, available on Apple Watch, iOS and Android, will incorporate MindMeld's technology to better analyze each user's individual request and meet their demands faster.

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Apple Stores to begin stocking Apple Watch bands this week [feedly]

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Apple Stores to begin stocking Apple Watch bands this week
// 9to5Mac

Image via Zac Hall's Apple Watch review

Apple Stores will begin stocking Apple Watch bands later this week in "limited" quantities, according to a message sent to retail stores, with the majority of bands being the fluoroelastomer Sport Bands. According to the notice, this strap inventory will primarily be for customers who would like to swap the band that comes pre-bundled with their Apple Watch after their purchase. Secondary to this, these early band shipments for stores will be available as replacements for worn-out bands from the various store Apple Watch try-on stations…

Lastly, remaining inventory will be available to be sold to customers seeking an additional band for their Apple Watch. In the coming days, Apple will begin advertising the availability of Sport Bands in its stores, according to the memo. We reported earlier this week that Apple CEO Tim Cook told employees that Apple Watch supply would reach stores in June, so perhaps more band options for stores will appear next month as well. MagSafe charging adapters have been available in Apple Stores for the past few weeks, while there is no word on third-party accessory availability.

Filed under: Apple Watch Tagged: Apple Stores, Apple watch, bands, link bracelet, memo, sport band, straps

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Apple gets closer to opening up its first store in Belgium [feedly]

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Apple gets closer to opening up its first store in Belgium
// 9to5Mac

New Brussels shopping complex La Toison d'Or

Apple is getting closer to taking its retail stores to a new market: Belgium. According to sources within Apple retail, Apple today sent out a memo announcing the new market. The note also was sent to gauge interest from employees who may be inclined to relocate to Belgium to assist with opening up the new location…

When Apple enters new markets, the company frequently seeks employees from the United States and other established markets to temporarily assist with new store launches. Indicating that an opening will occur in the not to distant future, Apple asks interested employees to respond to the note by the end of this month. In addition to reaching out to employees, Apple today posted several job listings for a new Brussels, Belgium store on its website:

This is the second time that Apple has posted Belgium store job listings on its website, with the first set coming late last year. Interestingly, in line with the timing of today's listings, Apple actually confirmed for the first time to Belgium-based website DeStandaard that an Apple Store will becoming to Belgium. "We look forward to bringing the unique Apple retail experience to our customers in Belgium," Apple said without sharing addition information about the store. Earlier today, a now-retracted Tweet indicated that Apple Pay could, too, make its way to Belgium this year.

While Apple has remained mum on details as to the exact location of the store in Belgium, it is believed to be located at the new Le Toison d'Or mall on Gulden-Vlieslaan in Brussels. Sources in the United Kingdom indicate that select employees will be relocating to to the United Arab Emirates late this summer to assist with store openings in that new region as well. Tim Cook noted in his meeting with employees in China that Apple is on track to open up 40 stores within China by next year, which Cook says is one of retail chief Angela Ahrendts's top current priorities.

Filed under: AAPL Company Tagged: Apple Store, Apple watch, Belgium, Brussels, china, Distributors, iPad, iPhone, iPod, New region, uae, UK, United States

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Macworld’s June Digital Edition: Apple's new 12-inch MacBook [feedly]

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Macworld's June Digital Edition: Apple's new 12-inch MacBook
// Macworld

Every day, Macworld brings you the essential daily news and other info about all things Apple. But staying on top of that torrent of information can be a constant challenge. One solution: the Macworld Digital Edition.

Available as single copies or with a yearlong subscription, the Digital Edition comes in two forms: Enhanced and PDF. The Enhanced Edition has all the news, analysis, product reviews, and how-to's, along with interactive features, videos, and slideshows—customized for consumption on your iPad. The PDF Edition is designed for your mobile device's touchscreen to allow pinch and zoom.

In the June issue

This month, Jason Snell reviews Apple's new 12-inch MacBook. Is the single USB-C port a deal breaker? 

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Apple Watch Will Be Available in Apple Retail Stores Starting in June [feedly]

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Apple Watch Will Be Available in Apple Retail Stores Starting in June
// MacRumors

During a recent visit to China, Tim Cook met with employees at Apple's China headquarters and confirmed that the company is aiming to have the Apple Watch in Apple retail stores by June in multiple countries around the world, including China. In the meeting, details of which were shared by 9to5Mac, Cook reportedly told employees that the Apple Watch launch "could not be going better," and joked that he wished the company had more operational staff for a smoother launch.

Apple's plan to start selling the watch in stores by the end of the month of May was first hinted at by Apple retail chief Angela Ahrendts, who said in an employee memo in April that the Apple Watch would be available exclusively online through May.


The Apple Watch's launch was highly unusual for Apple, as it saw the company foregoing its traditional lines in favor of accepting orders entirely online. According to Ahrendts, orders were handled in that way to ensure customers had the best possible ordering experience without long in-store lines and wait times. Supply constraints were also a factor, with rumors suggesting Apple lost time due to faulty taptic engines produced by a supplier in China.

Ahrendts has promised that the Apple Watch ordering process is not representative of how all of the company's product launches will be handled in the future. "We love our launches we do in stores," she told employees. "Have absolutely no fear, this is a unique situation."

Though the Apple Watch will continue to be available through Apple solely online until June, Apple has allowed some high-end fashion boutiques around the world to sell the Apple Watch to customers. In the United States, Maxfield in Los Angeles, California is the only retail location that has had the Apple Watch in stock, and customers continue to line up on a daily basis to attempt to get a device without needing to wait online.

Apple has been working hard to overcome supply issues and many Apple Watch orders have been shipping out ahead of their estimated delivery dates. Even the Apple Watches in shortest supply -- the Link Bracelet, the Modern Buckle, and the Leather Loop -- have begun shipping to consumers. It's unlikely Apple will be entirely caught up on shipments by the time June rolls around, but for models that are more common, like the Sport, shipping estimates have been slowly improving, suggesting there will enough inventory to begin sales in stores in June.


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