333 - She Got a Big wafer I Got a Little 714

The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave he is joined by guests Guy Serle, Eric Erickson, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet. We discuss Apple's latest updates, focusing on the Vision Pro and Vision OS 2.1.1. We delve into the unique features of the Vision Pro, the importance of timely security updates across devices, and Jeff's challenges with HomeKit. The panel also reviews new beta features and a recently introduced inactivity reboot for iPhones aimed at security. Dave shared thoughts on the M4 Pro Mac Mini as a cost-effective desktop solution. Important Security updates iOS 18.1.1 & iPadOS 18.1.1 Security Updates Released.

The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com


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Detailed Summary

In this episode of In Touch with iOS, I had the privilege of hosting a vibrant discussion with a full panel of guests: Guy Serle returning from a refreshing vacation in Florida, Eric Erickson from For Mac Eyes Only, regular contributor Marty Jencius, and Jeff Gamet. We dove deep into the recent updates from Apple, particularly surrounding the Vision Pro and its software iterations.

We opened the conversation by detailing the rollout of Vision OS 2.1.1, a minor yet essential update focused mainly on security patches and bug fixes. As we navigated through the mechanics of these updates, the panel shared their experiences using the Vision Pro. Eric, a Mac aficionado, expressed interest in trying out the Vision Pro, while we highlighted its unique features that enhance user interaction with Mac displays via spatial computing. The discussion noted that even as Apple seeks to innovate with Vision Pro, there remains a perception that the software experience can still seem awkward for new users.

Next, we transitioned into a crucial topic of security updates that were rolled out across various Apple devices, including iOS 18.1.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1.1. The severity of the vulnerabilities addressed in these updates became evident through our discussions, emphasizing the importance of staying updated to safeguard personal data. I passionately stressed the necessity for users to implement these updates without hesitation, particularly given the risks involved with outdated software.

Jeff shared his saga with HomeKit, discussing ongoing challenges he faced while trying to add new accessories to his setup. This segment turned into a larger discussion on the frustrations of home automation, with every panelist contributing their own stories and insights about the complexities and fragilities of systems like HomeKit. As we explored Jeff's journey, it became clear how critical it is for developers to recognize these user experiences to enhance reliability moving forward.

We also touched upon the latest beta releases, highlighting new features including enhanced emoji integrations and AI-driven tools in Apple's ecosystem that promise to enrich user interactions. Marty shared some humorously awkward stories of experimenting with the image playground features, and we reflected on the larger implications of Apple's ongoing beta developments, especially concerning user proficiency and experience.

In a more tech-savvy vein, I led a conversation about a recently issued inactivity reboot feature aimed at bolstering security for lost or stolen iPhones, sparked by a researcher reverse-engineering Apple's implementation. The group's discussion unveiled contrasting views about the four-day timeframe for this reboot and whether it truly met user security needs.

I shared some insights from my recent experiences with the new Mac Mini powered by M4 Pro, lauding its performance and compact design, while encouraging the audience to consider this impressive offering as an affordable alternative for desktop setups.

Finally, we wrapped up the episode reflecting on recent news in the tech world, including Apple's acknowledgment of Billie Eilish as their Artist of the Year and Comcast's latest corporate restructuring. Our conversations were punctuated by humor and camaraderie, reinforcing the community spirit that makes In Touch with iOS so engaging. 

Topics and Links

In Touch With Vision Pro this week. 

Apple Releases visionOS 2.1.1 

visionOS 2.2 beta 3 now available to Apple Vision Pro users

Apple Vision Pro needs something bigger than a software update | Macworld

New Vision Pro Stand UPERGO Dock Stand for Apple Vision Pro

Important Security updates iOS 18.1.1 & iPadOS 18.1.1 Security Updates Released

PSA: iOS 17.7.2 brings security fixes to older iPhones and iPads

Beta this week. iOS 18.2 Beta 4 was released. 

Apple Releases Fourth Betas of iOS 18.2 and More With Genmoji, Image Playground and ChatGPT Integration [Update: Public Betas Available

iOS 18.2 beta 4: Here's what's new

HomeKit Saga. Jeff has been working with Apple engineers he discusses this. 

Links Jeff mentioned. 

Philips Hue dimmer switch https://amzn.to/4eD3ZvK

Light switch covers https://amzn.to/495VHv5

Apple quietly added 'Inactivity Reboot' in iOS 18.1 to safeguard a lost or stolen iPhone

Researcher reverse engineers new iPhone security feature 'Inactivity Reboot'

In Touch with Mac This week

M4 Mac mini two weeks later: The invisible Mac that does it all

Satechi M4 Mac mini stand and hub: Up to 4TB extra storage, SD card slot, USB ports

Mac Mini Mounts https://amzn.to/40YwdOl

News

Apple Ending Support for Safari Bookmark Syncing on iOS 10 and Earlier

Apple Dropping Support for iCloud Backups on iPhones and iPads Running iOS 8 and Earlier

Get iMazing https://imazing.com/

AT&T Turbo Indicator Showing Up in iPhone Status Bar for Subscribers

Comcast Officially Spins Off MSNBC, USA Network, & Other Cable Networks into a New Company 

Comcast press release  Comcast Announces Intention to Create Leading Independent Media Business Through Spin-Off of Select Cable Television Networks

Billie Eilish Again Named Apple Music's Artist of the Year

Announcements

Macstock 8 wrapped up for 2024. But you can purchase the digital pass and still see the great talks we had including Dave talking about Apple Services and more. Content is now available! .  Click here for more information: Digital Pass | Macstock Conference & Expo with discounts on previous events. 

Our Host

Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastadon @daveg65, and the show @intouchwithios

 

Our Regular Contributors

Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s managing editor, and Smile’s TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet as well as Twitter and Instagram as @jgamet  His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet

Marty Jencius, Ph.D., is a professor of counselor education at Kent State University, where he researches, writes, and trains about using technology in teaching and mental health practice. His podcasts include Vision Pro Files, The Tech Savvy Professor and Circular Firing Squad Podcast. Find him at [email protected]  https://thepodtalk.net 

About our Guests

Guy Serle Is the host of the MyMac Podcast and the (hopefully) reconstituted Guy’s Daily Drive…which isn’t daily, but is done by driving so half accurate. email [email protected] @MacParrot and @VertShark on Twitter Vertshark.com,  Vertshark on YouTube, Skype +1 Area code  703-828-4677

 

Eric Erickson is producer and co-host of the For Mac Eyes Only podcast. Email him at [email protected]