Apple Launches Butterfly Keyboard Repair Program

Apple has launched a special repair program for MacBooks and MacBook Pros that have faulty butterfly keyboards. Symptoms are described by Apple as "letters or characters repeat unexpectedly, letters or characters do not appear, and key(s) feel "sticky" or do not respond in a consistent manner." I know that my "b" key constantly does repeat inputs and my "j" key for a while was messed up. In short, Apple will replace keys or the entire keyboard after their examination for free. Check the official program to check for eligibility.

Apple Tying Up Loose Ends

Apple has been looked at as trying to catch up and stay relevant in recent years. I even accuse them of it. However, there is an important trend that has been very implicit in Apple's product launches. Apple is very different than its competitors because it makes software, but doesn't license it or make it open source. Android can often look more appealing to a user because of the variety of options that are available from so many different phones. These phone makers have much less at risk when they introduce a new phone. Meanwhile, the iPhone hasn't had any radical change until the iPhone X with its new display. Any new changes to the design have to be very well thought out for Apple, otherwise, iOS is no longer unified and developers become more frustrated. With Apple redefining an edge-to-edge display with its signature notch, we see two types of responses from Android. Either phones that brag about having no notch or phones that embrace the notch. In fact, this has led Android development tools to simulate many different sizes of notches. As one could imagine, this is much more frustrating for Android users and developers because the chances of an app being fully optimized for these phones is much less than an app being fully optimized for iPhone X. Being able to take a trend like this and capitalize on it like Apple has could be a big win for Apple, albeit subtle. This is just one example of Apple's strategy to regain relevance. The slashing of the iPad's price will likely be a big slap in the face at Chromebooks, and the idea of a cheaper Apple notebook coming soon could help shred more marketshare away from Chromebooks as well. Apple tying up these loose ends and capitalizing on their competitors' mistakes and pricing helps Apple products appeal more to the average consumer.

New MacBook Coming at WWDC

According to DigiTimes, there will be a new entry-level 13.3" MacBook announced at WWDC. It's currently unknown if this could be a MacBook Air or a MacBook. It seems likely that this will be a long-overdue refresh to the MacBook Air line. In addition, it would have a Retina Display. The MacBook Air is the only all-in-one Mac without a Retina Display currently. This would be refreshing given that the MacBook Air feels very outdated by today's standards. That being said, I think the MacBook Air is having an identity crisis, due to the MacBook being thinner and more modern. I'd like to see how Apple would execute a MacBook Air refresh.

Possible Product Refresh in March

According to the DigiTimes, Apple May refresh some of their products in March. The products would include MacBooks, iPads, and an iPhone. Based on this, I wouldn’t be surprised if the MacBook or MacBook Air got an update, and we saw a budget iPad update. In addition, the iPhone SE 2 would probably be this iPhone refresh. The source’s credibility is a tossup, as they have a sketchy record. They brought hope that the 10.5” iPad Pro would be announced in April, which got my hopes up. We didn’t see it until June at WWDC. 

USB-C Multiport Adapter Update

The USB-C Multiport Adapter is one of the best adapters for the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar. It contains a USB-A port, USB-C port, and either an HDMI port or a VGA port. It's only $50 until March 31. However, new users will be prompted with a notification offering to update the adapter. This is the first time I've seen an update for an adapter. I'm not sure about the specifics, but it is interesting to see the potential for updates for future adapters that need security patches.

Why I Dont Like The New iPhone 7 Colors

The iPhone 7 ditched Space Gray for two new colors: Black and Jet Black. Although their appearance is totally subjective, there is a specific reason that I don't like the new colors. They disrupt the continuity of Apple's colors. MacBooks, iPads, Apple Watches, and Beats headphones that used Apple's color scheme will likely not adapt to the new colors. They currently offer these products in Gold, Rose Gold, Silver, and Space Gray. The iPhone 7 comes in Gold, Rose Gold, Silver, Black, and Jet Black. I believe that they will not update these products with the new coloring scheme, at least not for Jet Black, as it is very hard to produce. I would hate to buy all my Apple products in Space Gray, just to have them messed up with the new colors. Luckily, I prefer the Silver color, so this doesn't affect me too much. 

New MacBook Pro and Air Coming in October

According to Bloomberg, refreshes to the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air may finally come this October. The MacBook Pro, which I'm particularly looking forward to, will be thinner, use USB-C, and have a dynamic function bar to replace function keys (pictured below). The MacBook Air will have a minor refresh. All we know is it will likely just use USB-C, which is a topic I will save for another day. The existence of the MacBook Air is up to debate at this point. The MacBook pretty much defeats the purpose of the MacBook Air, considering the MacBook is lighter. If the MacBook Air gets USB-C, there is almost no point for there to be a MacBook Air. Anyways, none of these Macs are expected to be revealed next week, but it's not out of the question.

Mockup Credit: Martin Hajek

New MacBook Pro Could Have Touch ID

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the next MacBook Pro could have Touch ID integrated into the hardware. This comes not long after I wrote about how the Touch ID in iOS devices could be used with Macs. This is a big update for the MacBook Pro, potentially the largest since the addition of the Retina Display. Hopefully, we'll hear more about it at WWDC.

"While long overlooked, the MacBook line is the brightest spot for Apple’s 2016 rollouts. This is particularly true of the two new MacBook Pro models, to be introduced in 4Q16, as they will have a thinner and lighter form factor, Touch ID, use OLED display touch bar (to replace physical function keys, located above the keyboard) and adopt USB- C / Thunderbolt 3."

MacBook 2016 Refresh

Today, Apple quietly refreshed their 12" MacBook line. There are new Skylake processors from Intel with new graphics processors to match. Because of this, there is some better battery life. But Apple also added a larger battery. Most notably, there is now a Rose Gold MacBook. Previously, there was only Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. The MacBook starts at $1,299 [Direct Link].

Apple Recalls New MacBook Charger

When the new MacBook launched, it was charged via a USB-C cable. These cables are being recalled, at least, cables from before June 2015. Although, Apple doesn't say that there are any safety risks, Apple does say that your MacBook may not charge properly with these cables. You can tell whether your cable is affected by checking the text on the cable. Affected cables only say "Designed by Apple in California. Assembled in China." There is no serial number. Fixed cables have the same text, but with a serial number. If you provided a mailing address when you bought your MacBook (by registering the product or through the Apple Online Store), then no action is required and a new cable will be sent to you. Otherwise, either go to an Apple Retail Store or contact Apple Support.

New MacBook Airs Coming in 2016?

After the announcement of the new MacBooks earlier this year, I figured that they would replace the current MacBook Airs, as the MacBooks are much thinner than the MacBook Airs. This seems redundant. With Apple's term "air" meaning thin, light, and simple, some continuity should be present among the naming of its products. There's the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and AirDrop. MacBook Air doesn't really fit into this anymore. However, a new design for it may be in next years WWDC event. Perhaps it will be even thinner than the MacBook? Probably not, since the MacBook ditched almost all ports except a USB-C port and, ironically, the headphone jack. This is an early rumor, but more will probably surface around late Spring next year. Stay tuned!

Quality Program for MacBook Pro Display Issue

Apple has just launched a new quality program for MacBook Pros with Retina Displays affected by the delaminating of the anti-reflective coating found in MacBook Pro displays. Affected models would resemble the display shown below. Apple will replace the display of affected models at no cost within three years of the MacBook's original purchase date. To begin the process of getting the display replaced by Apple, either check your email for an email from Apple notifying that you're eligible, go to an Apple Store, or contact Apple directly.

Image Credit: MacRumors

Why The New MacBook Is Actually Cool...

With the announcement of a new MacBook with only a single USB Type C port came a lot of mixed reviews. I'll admit that when I first saw it, I thought it was Apple's version of a Chromebook Pixel (Ironically, a new Chromebook Pixel with two USB Type C ports was announced immediately after Apple's event.). But the MacBook does make an important point. This is 2015. We are in the wireless era. If you need to connect to a display, use AirPlay. If you need to sync files to an iOS device, use AirDrop. iOS devices can sync to computers wirelessly. The MacBook truly defines the wireless era. While it isn't for a someone using it professionally or for development, it is good for a casual user.

'Spring Forward' Event: The Scoop

Here's a quick summary of today's events.

Apple Watch

Apple has shown off much more information about the Apple Watch. Mostly, apps were shown off, which really peaks my interest. In addition, we have a release date. It's April 24. Pre-orders start on April 10.

MacBook

A new MacBook was announced. It truly defines the wireless era. It only has a USB-C port, but you'll find that it's very versatile. It's a power port and data port. The battery is also innovative as it's a layered battery that takes up every bit of space.

Apple TV

The Apple TV is now only $69, instead of $99. This isn't a sale. It's a new price. In addition, you'll be able to watch great HBO shows, like Game of Thrones, on Apple TV with HBO Now.

I haven't had a chance to watch the entire presentation, but I'll finish it as soon as possible. I'll also discuss some of the specifics throughout the week. 

'Spring Forward' Event Tomorrow

Tomorrow is the Apple Watch event entitled "Spring Forward." We're expected to see more specific details about the Apple Watch. In addition, we could see any number of other things at the event tomorrow, specifically for the Macs. There may be an announcement of a 12" MacBook Air. All will be revealed tomorrow... To watch the event, go to Apple's website tomorrow. The event should begin around 10 AM PDT.

iOS 8.2 To Be Released To The Public Next Week With 'Spring Forward' Announcement

With the Apple event next week, we have reason to believe that iOS 8.2 will be released next week. This makes sense as Apple has done this in the past. This event is expected to focus on the Apple Watch and possibly a 12" MacBook Air. The event will be on March 9th, this coming Monday. iOS 8.2 is a relatively simple update despite it being a semi-major update. It adds stability to the Health app and other apps.

Modern Family Episode Shot Solely On iPhones and iPads

Tonight's episode of Modern Family, Connection Lost, was shot completely on iPhones and iPads. It was also edited on a MacBook. To find out how they made the episode, check out BuzzFeed's article. Essentially, the entire episode takes place on a MacBook screen with FaceTime calls and other activities running on the screen. Modern Family airs on ABC.

Image Credit: ABC

Could Touch ID Come To Macs?

With iPads getting Touch ID, this leads us to wonder if Macs will get Touch ID. According to Apple.club.tw [Google Translate], they might. The idea is that MacBooks, Magic Mice, and Magic Trackpads would get Touch ID integrated. This rumor seems sketchy for several reasons. First, with a physical keyboard, Touch ID isn't as necessary for a Mac. Next, if the device used to unlock your Mac is connected via Bluetooth, there are certain uncertainties. They could be hacked (worst case scenario) or disconnected, causing features like Apple Pay, which requires Touch ID, unaccounted for. Anyways, that's my opinion. Feel free to leave your opinion in the comment section below.

Apple Posts The Story Behind Holiday Ad 'The Song'

Today, Apple posted a behind the scenes look of this year's holiday ad, 'The Song'. It talks about he voice-o-graph and how Dana Williams, the granddaughter in the film, used musical talent and GarageBand to create her song. Check out the embeds below.

Apple Releases New 'The Song' Ad For The Holidays

As is tradition for them, Apple has released a heartwarming holiday advertisement. This year, it's called "The Song". It depicts a girl finding a present her grandmother sent to what seems to be her grandfather. The present included a note to the grandfather noting how they couldn't be together for the holidays and a record with the grandmother singing "Love Is Here To Stay". The girl secretly learns the song on multiple instruments and learns the lyrics. She then combines her song with that of her grandmother's. She leaves the audio file on an iPad mini with a note that says, "A Duet, Press Play". The grandmother listens to the song and looks at the pictures that were left with the iPad mini and the note. The memories bring the grandmother to tears of joy as the granddaughter watches from above.

Although last year's holiday advertisement, called "Misunderstood", has been taken down by Apple, you can watch a re-uploaded version in the embed below. Credit to Matthew Miller.