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12-inch MacBook returning in ARM form with 15-20 hour battery life – report

12-inch MacBook returning

A supply-chain report from China claims that the 12-inch MacBook will be making a return in the form of an ARM-powered machine. It claims that the machine will launch by the end of the year. The Intel-powered 12-inch MacBook was discontinued just over a year ago.

Apple itself has said that the first Apple Silicon Mac will ship by the end of the year, but has not revealed which model this will be …

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Hands-on: The Uno Cable is a magnetic all-in-one USB-C cable with USB-C, Lightning & MicroUSB

Uno Cable with three tips

The Uno Cable sets out to solve a problem familiar to every gadget fan: all the different cables we need to carry with us to connect them to our MacBook. Uno can potentially mean carrying just one cable.

The Volta we have running in a promo does the job for those with older MacBooks with USB-A ports, while the Uno is designed for current models with USB-C ones …


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Opinion: The 2018 MacBook Air is the iPhone X’s ASP strategy all over again

ASP

When Apple launched the iPhone X, it did more than just change the design language of the iPhone: it also offered a whole new pricing level. Not just for iPhones, but for any smartphone. It was a move that has significantly boosted the average selling price (ASP) of the iPhone range as a whole.

This is a trick Apple is now repeating with the 2018 MacBook Air


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Huawei touts Windows 10 Matebook as ‘thinner but more powerful than 12-inch MacBook’

Huawei is in the middle of launching its latest Windows 10 notebook, the new Matebook range – and is making some interesting comparisons with the 12-inch MacBook.

On one slide, the company claims that the Matebook X is ‘thinner but even more powerful’ than Apple’s MacBook – a comparison which may or may not be accurate …


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Opinion: Could Apple’s rumored plan to drop the 11-inch MacBook Air signal a big price-drop for the 12-inch Retina MacBook?

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A report from last night suggests that Apple is planning to drop the 11-inch MacBook Air when it unveils new MacBook Pro models later this month.

Macotakara has an above-average track-record, but the move would – on the face of it – seem surprising. The 11-inch Air has always served two purposes. First, it has been the machine of choice for those who want a Mac in the sleekest possible form-factor. It of course lost that role when Apple launched the 12-inch MacBook, so that side of things makes sense.

But the 11-inch machine also served a second role since the plastic MacBooks were phased out: as the entry-level machine designed to bring new customers into the Mac world. In particular, it appealed to students on a tight budget – customers whose lifetime value to Apple would be huge once hooked on Macs from a young age. It’s not a market Apple would want to abandon.

So what might Apple be planning if the rumor is true … ?


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9to5Toys Last Call: latest 12″ MacBook from $1,100, UE Boom 2 Speaker $150, Beats Solo2 Headphones $80, more

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Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: TwitterRSS FeedFacebookGoogle+ and Safari push notifications.

TODAY’S CAN’T MISS DEALS:

Last Call Updates:

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Microsoft’s E3 keynote brings new Xbox One S console w/ 4K, Forza Horizon 3, teases next-gen, more

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You can save up to $200 on Apple’s latest 12-inch MacBook, entry-level model from $1,100 w/ .edu (Reg. $1,300)

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Now you can get the UE Boom 2 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker for $150 ($50 off)

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Listen to music & look good while you’re at it – Beats Solo2 Headphones from $80 new or $74 open-box shipped (Orig. $200)

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Best Buy is taking up to $200 off Apple Watch Stainless Steel: 38mm from $349, 42mm starts at $399

Pebble Steel Smartwatch for iOS and Android $80 shipped, Apple Watches up to $200 off, more

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Start your week with a $100 discount on iPad mini 4 & Air 2, priced from $300 shipped

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App Store Free App of the Week: Drop Flip puzzler goes free for the first time ever (Reg. $2)

Rovio’s Bad Piggies for iPhone/iPad goes free for the first time in years (Reg. $1)

AngerOfStick2 and its brutal beat’em up action goes free on iOS (Reg. $1)

Square Enix brings human augmentations and hacking to iOS with the new Deus Ex Go

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Father’s Day Gift Guide Hub: One Place with all the best deals

Here are our favorite Father’s Day gifts for the outdoorsman, chef and car aficionado in your life

MORE NEW GEAR FROM TODAY:

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Amazon’s 4K-capable Fire TV Streaming Media Player is on sale for $85 shipped, more

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If you’ve been holding out on buying a GoPro, here is the deal: HERO4 Black (refurb) $329 shipped (Orig. $499)


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Review: Kanex’s GoPower USB-C Portable Battery for MacBook [Video]

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Kanex Plugged in

I wouldn’t normally describe a portable battery as being beautiful, but Kanex’s just-released $99 GoPower USB-C Portable Battery fits that description. Its aluminum body is like a mix of Apple’s space gray and silver colors, but it’ll look good when paired with any 12″ MacBook.

Good looks are nice, but the real world performance of a battery pack is crucial. How does Kanex’s offering stack up? Check out our hands-on impressions.
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Setups: My hardware setup for podcasting and voiceovers [Video]

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Podcast Voiceover Microphone Arm

As someone who regularly does voiceover work and records podcasts, I need a setup that allows me to easily record on a whim. Any modern Mac could work for this setup, but I’m especially fond of the 12″ MacBook with its USB-C port. That single port, which handles data transfer, power, and display output, helps to simplify my configuration because all it requires is one cable to get started.

In this post, I’d like to share with you my setup for voiceovers and podcasting. What you’ll find is a rig that’s extremely easy to use and happens to look decent as well.
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How-To: Drive a 4K display at 60 Hz with the 2016 MacBook

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4K 60Hz MacBook

The 2016 MacBook is capable of driving a 4K display at 60 Hz via a single USB-C cable. Such a feat is achievable via an easy-to-apply IOKit patch.

One of the great things about the new Intel hardware inside of the 2016 MacBook is that it’s capable of supporting 4K resolution at 60 Hz. The jump in refresh is a big deal, as anyone who’s tried to put up with running a 30 Hz refresh rate can attest to.

Operating at 30 Hz results in jerky and choppy cursor movement, and in some cases can induce headaches after prolonged use.

Sadly, the MacBook only supports 30 Hz out of the box for 4K resolution. It’s not immediately clear as to why this is, but on its support page, Apple makes it known that 4K resolution is limited to 30 Hz.

The good news is that it is possible to enable 60 Hz at native 4K resolution and 1080p (HiDPI/Retina) resolution on a 2016 MacBook. In fact, I just did so on the LG 27UD88 4K USB-C monitor that I recently reviewed. Watch the step-by-step process in our video tutorial for the details.
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Review: LG’s USB-C-enabled 4K Monitor lends single cable simplicity to 12″ MacBook owners, but not without some compromises

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LG 27UD88-W MacBook USB-C

If you’re looking for a 4K display that can be paired with your 12″ MacBook via a single USB-C cable, then your options are fairly limited. It seems that LG is one of the few display makers that has such a monitor available for sale.

LG’s 27UD88-W is a 27″ USB-C-enabled display. Its USB-C port allows MacBook owners to connect a single cable to drive the display, charge the machine, and facilitate data transfer.

As I alluded to in my recent 2016 MacBook post, the 27UD88-W isn’t perfect, but it’s one of the only games in town if you desire a 4K monitor with USB-C connectivity in tow.

If you’re a MacBook owner, should you consider purchasing one? Have a look inside for the details.
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Review: IXCC’s USB 3.0 to Type-C Adapter is a cheaper way to connect legacy USB devices to your MacBook

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IXCC USB-C to USB-A 3.0 Adapter MacBook Review

If you own a MacBook and you wish to interface with legacy USB-A connections, you have several options. Apple itself produces a USB-C to USB Adapter, and it’s available for around $19. There’s also no shortage of third-party options available on Amazon and other resellers.

One such option, IXCC’s USB 3.0 to Type-C Convertor Cable, is a cheap and easy way to garner legacy USB device support on USB-C only MacBooks. Have a look at our brief hands-on video to witness the adapter in action.
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10 tips for new and prospective MacBook owners [Video]

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10 MacBook Tips

As someone coming from a 15″ MacBook Pro with Retina display, adjusting to the smaller form-factor of the 12″ MacBook takes some getting used to. But as brought out in our post highlighting 10 favorite MacBook features, the effort is worth it.

I’ve been using the 2016 MacBook as my primary computer since last week, and I’ve learned a lot about this little machine during my hands-on time. If you’re thinking about purchasing a new MacBook, or if you already own one, consider these tips to get more out of this tiny wonder.
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10 reasons to seriously consider the 2016 Retina MacBook

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10 Awesome MacBook Features

Yesterday, I bought a 12″ MacBook, and after playing with it for 10 minutes, I immediately knew that I made the right decision. 24 hours later, I’m convinced that this is the best laptop for me, and a much better portable workhorse than something like a 12.9″ iPad Pro. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider going with a MacBook if you’re in the market for something powerful, yet portable.
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9to5Toys Last Call: Retina 5K iMac $1,899, TP-LINK Travel Router for $20, LifeProof FRĒ iPhone 6 case $30, more

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Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: TwitterRSS FeedFacebookGoogle+ and Safari push notifications.

TODAY’S CAN’T MISS DEALS:

Last Call Updates:

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Canvas Messenger Bags for MacBooks (up to 15-inches) in a variety of styles/colors from $25 Prime shipped (Reg. $50+)

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Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac 3.2GHz/8GB/1TB Fusion (newest) $1,899 shipped (Reg. $1,999), MacBook deals, more

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Amazon’s taking up to 40% off everything you need for rock solid Wi-Fi at home & on the road

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LifeProof FRĒ Waterproof Case for iPhone 6 (Various Colors) $30 shipped (Reg. $60)

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Best Buy hands Apple’s 9.7-inch iPad Pro its first significant discount, 128GB model now $650

Apple 12-inch MacBook 1.1GHz/8GB/256GB (2015): $899.99 shipped (Orig. $1,299)

Apple 13-inch MacBook Air 1.6GHz/8GB/128GB (newest model): $850 shipped (Reg. $999)

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iTunes $50 Gift Card for $42.50 shipped – save 15% on games, apps, subscriptions, more

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App Store Free App of the Week: King Rabbit goes free for the first time (Reg. $1)

Adventure/platformer Swordigo goes free on iOS for the first time in over a year (Reg. $3)

Call of Duty iOS titles matching all-time lows: Strike Team $2 (Reg. $7), Zombies $1 (Reg. $5), more

Grand Theft Auto iOS Sale: Liberty City Stories $3, China Town Wars $3, San Andreas $4, more

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Roundup: The best power strips w/ USB ports to quickly (and safely!) charge all of your devices

MORE NEW GEAR FROM TODAY:

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Keep the Wi-Fi running during power outages w/ this APC UPS System + USB Power Supply: $80 shipped (Reg. $110+)

MORE DEALS STILL ALIVE:

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Get Nomad’s premium Italian leather Apple Watch Strap for just $100 shipped (Reg. $150)

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The 2016 Roku Streaming Stick receives its first discount: $40 Prime shipped (Reg. $50)

NEW PRODUCTS & MORE:

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Garmin’s new vívosmart HR+ opts for GPS-tracking and heart rate monitoring over battery life

Opinion: Apple’s MacBook lineup has a storage problem

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Yesterday, we showed you how to upgrade late model MacBooks with a 480GB or 1TB SSD. In some cases these upgrades might yield eight times the original capacity of the machine’s internal storage.

While it’s certainly nice to have the option of upgrading, such enhancements do come with downsides. First, there’s the price: it’s $600 to upgrade to a 1TB drive. Second, the upgrade breaks Boot Camp support.

But $600 is relatively cheap when you compare what it costs to score a MacBook with a 1TB SSD. MacBooks feature faster PCIe storage, but it’s still a high price to pay for something so vital — and so cheap by today’s standards.

Apple’s MacBook line has an issue with internal flash storage prices. It’s a problem that continues to worsen, especially as Apple has made it increasingly difficult for users to upgrade.
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This week’s top stories: WWDC, iPhone rumors, 12-inch MacBook updates, Apple Car & more

In this week’s top stories, the iPhone rumor mill was in full effect as reports surfaced claiming Apple could introduce an new all glass design for a next-generation device. That news was accompanied by Apple’s 12-inch MacBook refresh, an official announcement for WWDC, and the latest Apple Car news. Head below for the quick links to all of this week’s top stories and much more:


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9to5Toys Last Call: Apple refurb 12″ MacBooks from $929, Amazon Tap/Echo from $111, Apple Watch Dock $21, more

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Keep up with the best gear and deals on the web by signing up for the 9to5Toys Newsletter. Also, be sure to check us out on: TwitterRSS FeedFacebookGoogle+ and Safari push notifications.

TODAY’S CAN’T MISS DEALS:

Last Call Updates:

New MacBooks

The best accessories for Apple’s 12-inch MacBook: USB-C cables, hubs, flash storage, more

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Apple drops the price on refurbished 12-inch MacBooks, now start at $929 shipped

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Amazon’s Alexa-enabled Echo is on sale for $154 (Reg. $180), Tap Bluetooth Speaker $111 (Reg. $130)

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Smartphone Accessories: Arc-shaped Apple Watch Charging Stand $21, AUKEY Magnetic Air Vent Mount $6, more

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Review: Are these third-party $11 Apple Watch Sport bands any good? Turns out, they aren’t too bad.

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App Store Free App of the Week: Space Marshals goes free for the very first time ($5 value)

Upgrade Your Mac with 3 Great Apps: Scapple $9 (Orig. $15), STAMP Premium $5 (Orig. $10), Ghostnote $7 (Orig. $10)

BADLAND 1 & 2 for iOS now matching lowest prices ever from $1 (Reg. $5)

Apple offers Day One 2 iOS journal app for free ($10 value)

MORE NEW GEAR FROM TODAY:

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SanDisk Storage: Ultra II 960GB 2.5-inch Internal Solid-State Drive $200 (Reg. $232+), 256GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive $50, more

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Smartphone Accessories: Pad & Quill Timber Catchall Stand for Apple Watch in cherry wood finish $64 (Reg. $99), more

MORE DEALS STILL ALIVE:

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DODOcase 40% off sitewide: iPad Pro Two Tone Case from $49 shipped, iPhone & Apple Watch accessories, more

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Samsung 55-inch 4K 120Hz Smart UHDTVs: $1,200 (Reg. $1,500), 3D $1,375 (Reg. $1,800)

Displays: Dell 24-inch 4K $361 (Reg. $400+), LG Ultra-Thin Bezel 27-inch 1080p $180 (Reg. $299)

NEW PRODUCTS & MORE:

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DJI’s new professional-grade drone is incredibly powerful and intelligent

Apple releases Bluetooth software update for new 12-inch MacBook already

Even though nobody has gotten their hands on the new 12-inch MacBook released today, Apple has already gone ahead and released a new software update. The update focuses on bluetooth compatibility with third-party devices. Weighing in at 157.8 MB, it will be a relatively small update to download once configuring your new machine.


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Apple drops the price on refurbished 12-inch MacBooks, now start at $929 shipped

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From 9to5Toys.com:

With news of fresh 12-inch MacBooks this morning, Apple is now further discounting previous generation refurbished models with prices starting at $929 shipped. If you’re willing to hold off on the spec bumps announced today, you’ll be able to cash in on significant savings. All of Apple’s refurbished products come with a full one-year warranty and are eligible for AppleCare.

Apple’s inventory of refurbished computers and accessories are generally limited. It’s not uncommon to see a specific model come in and out of stock. Check in regularly if your desired MacBook sells out in the coming days.

Here’s a look at the new MacBook price drops:

If you’re looking for more power, we currently have Apple’s 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro on sale from $1,000 with a .edu email address (Reg. $1,299).


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Opinion: Here’s what I’d do to rationalize Apple’s MacBook lineup

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Apple has long been about simplicity and minimalism. Steve Jobs’ philosophy was effectively that usability trumps choice. Sure, you lose the ability to customize your iPhone or iPad in the way you can an Android device without jailbreaking it, but what you gain in return is a device that is both more reliable and a lot more secure.

Jobs applied that same philosophy to Apple’s product range. When he returned to Apple in 1997, one of the first things he did was to rationalize the company’s product lineup, paring it back to the essentials. In 2008, he proudly told Fortune that “Apple is a $30 billion company, yet we’ve got less than 30 major products.”

Apple has, for the most part, maintained that approach ever since, famously saying ‘no’ to a thousand product ideas for every time it says ‘yes.’ But I still think there’s a little more work to be done in terms of rationalizing the company’s MacBook lineup …


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Here’s what the new MacBook Pro could look like if Apple scaled up the 12-inch design [Poll]

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With Apple rumored to working on sleeker versions of its 13- and 15-inch MacBook Pro models in time for a possible reveal at WWDC, designer Martin Hajek has provided one possible take on how the new machines might look. His mockups essentially scale up the 12-inch MacBook design, the above image contrasting with the existing design.

The renders also incorporate a rather lovely OS X concept created by Andrew Ambrosino, the UX designer behind the standalone Apple Music app concept we showed you last year. The same duo also teamed up for a beautiful Apple TV concept.

You can see more renders below …


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