Tag: MacBook

  • Apple TV+ App Restricts 16+ Content on MacBooks

    Apple TV+ App Restricts 16+ Content on MacBooks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many MacBook users are unable to stream content from the Apple TV+ app rated 16+.
    2. The issue seems to be specific to MacBook models; other devices like iPhones and iPads are not affected.
    3. Some users speculate that the problem may be linked to the MacBook OS Sequoia 15.4 update.
    4. Streaming works fine through a web browser, indicating a possible app verification issue.
    5. No solutions or official statements from Apple have been provided regarding the problem.

    For nearly a month, Apple’s official forum has seen many unhappy customers sharing their experiences. These users report that they cannot stream content from the Apple TV+ app that is rated 16+. This issue seems to only impact MacBook models, no matter which specific model they have. Users with iPhones, iPads, and those using streaming boxes are not experiencing this problem.

    Possible Cause of the Issue

    The source of this glitch is still unknown, but some users believe it may be related to the MacBook OS Sequoia 15.4 update. It appears that this operating system version is stopping the app from being verified. This theory is supported by the fact that users can still stream all content when accessing Apple TV Plus through a web browser instead of the app itself.

    No Solutions Yet

    Other devices, including iPhones, iPads, and TVs, seem to be running fine without any problems. Attempts to fix the issue, like turning off age verification in settings or logging out and then back in, haven’t worked either. As of now, Apple has not released any information regarding this situation.

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  • Apple Pencil Alternative Now Compatible with MacBooks

    Apple Pencil Alternative Now Compatible with MacBooks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The SonarPen 2 is a wired stylus alternative to the Apple Pencil, priced at $71, and compatible with iPads from 2018 onwards and MacBooks.
    2. It uses a software called SonarPen Driver to make the MacBook’s trackpad function like a pressure-sensitive drawing tablet.
    3. Users must adjust settings for pressure sensitivity and smoothness for optimal use.
    4. The SonarPen is compatible with MacBooks running macOS 11 or later and works with various drawing applications.
    5. The SonarPen 2 includes a USB-C cable, while users of the older SonarPen 1 need to buy a $9.45 adapter to connect to MacBooks.

    The SonarPen 2 is a wired stylus alternative to the Apple Pencil, which is currently listed on Amazon for $71. When it was introduced on Kickstarter last year, it was announced to be compatible with iPads from 2018 and onwards. Recently, the manufacturer has shared that this stylus also works with MacBooks. But how can this be, given that MacBooks lack a touch screen designed for stylus use?

    How It Works

    Interestingly, the SonarPen 2 utilizes the large trackpad featured on modern MacBooks. This is made possible through a software named SonarPen Driver, which enables the trackpad to function similarly to a pressure-sensitive drawing tablet. Once the SonarPen is connected to the Mac, the driver facilitates the detection of position and pressure of the strokes, transferring them into whatever drawing application is being used on the screen.

    User Adjustments Required

    SonarPen indicates that users will need to make a few adjustments for optimal performance. These include selecting from low, medium, or high settings for pressure sensitivity and pressure smoothness, as well as deciding on the functionality of the SonarPen’s button.

    Compatibility and Pricing

    The SonarPen is compatible with any MacBook that runs macOS 11 or later. It has been tested to work effectively with various applications such as Clip Studio Paint, ArtRage, Art Studio Pro, Inkscape, Photoshop, MediBang Paint Pro, GIMP, Krita, Tayasui Sketches, and iPastels.

    The SonarPen Driver is compatible with both the $43 SonarPen 2, which comes with a USB-C cable, and the older SonarPen 1 that uses a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, users of the SonarPen 1 will need to purchase a SonarPen USB Type-C to 3.5mm adapter for $9.45 to utilize it with their MacBook.

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  • Four New M4 MacBooks Launching Next Month: Gurman Report

    Four New M4 MacBooks Launching Next Month: Gurman Report

    Apple is now turning its attention to the Mac lineup following the iPhone 16 launch, with an anticipated event in October. The company’s September event highlighted the expanding Apple ecosystem and advancements in AI, branded as “Apple Intelligence,” but notably lacked any Mac and iPad announcements.

    Expected Mac Announcements

    According to industry expert Mark Gurman, the upcoming October event will likely showcase the new M4-powered Macs, which promise to outperform the current M3 models. The expected lineup includes:

    • J604: A new entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro featuring the M4 chip.
    • J614 and J616: New high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, each available with two professional-grade M4 chip options.
    • J623: A new iMac equipped with the M4 chip.
    • J773: A redesigned, more compact Mac mini, offered in M4 and M4 Pro chip configurations.

    Gurman notes, “I’m told that most of these Macs are already shipping from factories (except for some of the higher-end MacBook Pros and the Mac mini with the M4 Pro) and are ready for launch right now.”

    Shipping and Future Releases

    Gurman also indicates that Apple is likely holding off on the announcement until all the new Macs can be shipped simultaneously. M4 MacBook Air models (J713 and J715) are anticipated in the first quarter of 2025, with a new Mac Studio (J575) expected by mid-year. Additionally, a Mac Pro (J704) is slated for release before the end of 2025.

    The absence of an M4 MacBook Air in the immediate future may be disappointing for some, given its popular fanless design.

    Advancements in Apple’s Silicon

    Apple’s transition to its own silicon chips has markedly enhanced its computer offerings. Previously criticized for offering lackluster specs at a high price, Apple’s computers have now become significant contenders in the market. The emphasis on AI in these new desktops underscores Apple’s dedication to progress in this field.

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