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March is off to a strong start, as this week saw the launch of multiple new Apple products, including an updated MacBook Air, iPad Air, and Mac Studio. Users of the iPhone 15 Pro have gained access to Visual Intelligence thanks to a new beta software update, and we’re hearing more and more about Apple’s plans for a foldable iPhone.
Here’s what happened during the past week, and why it matters. |
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The M4 MacBook Air features an upgraded 12MP front-facing camera that supports Center Stage and Desk View. The laptop is also $100 cheaper than its predecessor and is available in a new Sky Blue color.
The Mac Studio can now be configured with an M4 Max or M3 Ultra chip, making it ideal for intensive AI and graphics tasks. The iPad Air received a simple spec upgrade with the M3 chip. The entry-level 11-inch iPad gained Apple’s A16, which doesn’t support Apple Intelligence features.
Our take: The base model iPad is a questionable upgrade as it lacks Apple Intelligence. The M4 MacBook Air looks stunning in the new Sky Blue color, and the 12MP front-facing camera is a welcome addition. The updated Mac Studio and iPad Air offer performance improvements but not much else.
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The Photos app holds every image-based memory on your iPhone, and it also features some impressive editing tools. Due to the sheer number of options available, however, few people use the app to its true potential.
That's why this week's newsletter-exclusive tip has everything you need to know about Photos and its capabilities. Check it out!
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The long-rumored foldable iPhone could debut in late 2026 or early 2027. Supposedly, the device will feature Touch ID for biometric authentication rather than Face ID, with an expected cost of $2000 to $2500.
The same source also claims that Apple is working on an updated version of its C1 modem. This is said to be a new variant with support for 5G mmWave, set to enter mass production in 2026.
Context: The leaker behind these rumors has a verifiable track record, though they’ve previously predicted a 2024 iPhone Fold launch that never materialized.
The takeaway: We’ve been hearing about Apple’s foldable iPhone for months now. Given the latest rumors, it’s likely the device will launch in 2026 or 2027.
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TSMC, which makes chips for iPhones and Macs, is set to invest $100B in US manufacturing efforts over the next four years. The company might be looking to expand production in its Arizona facility, or it could open new factories altogether.
Separately, Apple has challenged the UK government’s request for an iCloud encryption backdoor. The iPhone maker filed a legal complaint with the UK’s Investigatory Powers Tribunal.
Our take: Apple's legal challenge could shape the future of encryption policies worldwide. If the UK forces the company to comply, other governments may follow suit. If Apple wins, it could reinforce the right to strong encryption for individuals and businesses globally.
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While this week saw the release of various hardware updates, we also got a new developer beta of iOS 18.4. The software update includes an Apple Vision Pro app and multiple new emoji characters. It also adds Visual Intelligence to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Context: The iOS 18.4 update was initially expected to focus on Siri upgrades. Apple has since announced that Siri’s on-screen awareness and personal context features have been delayed, as they’re not yet up to par with the company’s high standards.
Our take: Though iPhone 15 Pro users finally have access to Visual Intelligence, iOS 18.4 is somewhat underwhelming in its current state. Apple’s planned Siri features are not yet available, but some might find the new Apple Vision Pro app useful.
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Apple's updates to the Mac Studio and MacBook Air have shaken up the company’s product catalog. Consumers now have even more devices to choose from, but deciding what to get isn’t always easy.
AppleInsider has you covered with our early 2025 buyer’s guides. We’ve outlined the best choices for MacBooks and Mac desktops across multiple price segments so you can get the absolute most out of your new computer. Check them out!
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The 2025 MacBook Air features Apple’s M4 chip, delivering a significant performance boost in a sleek and familiar form factor. There’s also a new 12MP camera, improved support for external displays, and much more! AppleInsider’s Andrew O’Hara has all the details on the latest iteration of the iconic MacBook Air. |
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For an in-depth overview of recent tech events, tune into the AppleInsider Podcast. In this week’s episode, William Gallagher and Wesley Hilliard give us their thoughts on Apple’s latest hardware releases, including the M4 MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and iPad Air.
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Apple Premium Partner Expercom has some great deals on new 2025 Mac Studio models, with discounts available for every configuration. You can get the top-of-the-line M3 Ultra model with 512GB of RAM and 16TB of storage and save an amazing $987! |
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Expercom can also help you save on the new M4 MacBook Air, with discounts of up to $168 available for both 13-inch and 15-inch configurations! |
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You can also check out our Price Guides to find the best deals on Macs, iPads, and more: |
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Apple’s updated Mac and iPad lineup now features more powerful hardware, with the MacBook Air even offering better value for money thanks to its lower price point.
At AppleInsider, our mission is to keep you up to date on all major developments in the area of technology, particularly related to Apple, its products, and endeavors.
We publish stories, guides, and reviews throughout the week, so be sure to check out AppleInsider.com.
For any comments, questions, or suggestions regarding the AppleInsider Newsletter, reach out to marko@appleinsider.com. |
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