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Users not seeing macOS Monterey 12.1 update on M1 Macs

Apple yesterday officially released macOS Monterey 12.1 for all users. However, the update, which comes with SharePlay, Apple Music Voice Plan, Hide My Email, and other enhancements, is not showing up for everyone – that’s what some M1 Mac users have been saying.

While the latest version of macOS 12.1 should be available to everyone, it seems that some users are unable to download and install it. More specifically, it seems that the issue has been affecting users of Macs with the M1, M1 Pro, and M1 Max chips.

Microsoft journalist and Senior Cloud Developer Advocate Christina Warren reported on Twitter that the macOS 12.1 update is simply not showing up in the System Preferences app. Other Mac users on Reddit also seem to be experiencing the same problem.

Anyone else having issues installing macOS 12.1 on an M1 Max? I get prompted for latest Xcode tools but nothing for macOS itself and I can’t force it. Some people on Reddit resort to recovery mode but I don’t want to do that.

Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be an easy workaround for this problem so far. 9to5Mac’s Bradley Chambers tried to download the full installer of macOS Monterey from the App Store, but the download gets stuck at 52%. Warren mentioned on Twitter that she had the same issue.

For now, the only solution to update affected Macs is to enter Recovery Mode and reinstall macOS, as the tool will download the latest version of the operating system. Apple is yet to acknowledge the issue.

Were you able to update your Mac to macOS Monterey 12.1? Let us know in the comments below.

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Apple Watch users can ‘Ring in the New Year’ with fitness challenge

As Apple typically introduces Activity Challenges for Apple Watch users on commemorative dates, the company will soon be promoting a “Ring in the New Year Challenge.” The challenge will offer special achievements during January 2022.

Apple Watch Activity Challenges are meant to promote using the watch for fitness and act as a way for Apple to guide users into taking advantage of the workout tracking features. In order to win the next award, Apple Watch users must close all three activity rings for seven consecutive days.

That means standing for at least one minute of 12 different hours, meeting the recommended 30 minutes of exercise per day, and burning your personal goal of active calories throughout the day.

Start 2022 on a high note. Earn this award by closing all three rings for seven days in a row in January.

As usual, users who complete the challenge will receive not only a special achievement in the Fitness app, but also unique stickers for iMessage and FaceTime. The challenge will run from January 7, 2022 to January 31, 2022, and Apple Watch users will be notified a few days before the challenge begins.

Are you planning to close your rings in January to get the New Year Achievement? Let us know in the comments below.

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Ashley Gjøvik complaint against Apple now under investigation

The US Department of Labor has agreed to investigate an Ashley Gjøvik complaint against Apple. The former senior engineering manager alleged that the Cupertino company treated her unfairly, before first suspending and finally dismissing her.

Gjøvik said that the saga began when she raised concerns over workplace safety in regard to previous contamination on the land beneath the building where she was based …

The former employee says that the company intimidated her for raising the concerns, then took various retaliatory actions against her when she persisted. She also accused the company of sexism in its treatment of her and other female employees.

Gjøvik and another Apple employee filed complaints with the US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The board does not automatically investigate all such complaints, but the Financial Times reports that it has now agreed to do so in this case.

The US Department of Labor is investigating Apple over claims that it retaliated against an employee who complained of workplace harassment and unsafe working conditions […]

The labour department declined to comment, but confirmed its investigation in a letter to Gjovik seen by the Financial Times, dated December 10.

Stephen Kohn, an employment lawyer and an expert in US whistleblowing law, said the burden of proof needed for the agency to open an investigation was high, as the employee must have already established enough evidence that, unless rebutted, would prove the case.

Apple has a policy of declining to comment on issues relating to individual employees, but issued a brief statement to the FT:

We are and have always been deeply committed to creating and maintaining a positive and inclusive workplace. We take all concerns seriously and we thoroughly investigate whenever a concern is raised.

A former NLRB lawyer says that the board has a high threshold for opening investigations.

“Federal agencies exercise what in the context of criminal law is known as prosecutorial discretion,” said Michael Duff. “They are very careful of what cases they move forward because they have scarce resources, so they must have a strong reason to believe they can prevail.”

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Apple updates its Developer Program agreement to clarify use of Swift Playgrounds, Xcode Cloud, more

Apple today announced some changes to its Apple Developer Program agreement, which are the terms that developers are required to agree to in order to offer their apps on the App Store. The new terms clarify the use of Swift Playgrounds, Xcode Cloud, and more.

Ahead of the Swift Playgrounds 4 launch, Apple has updated its terms to mention the platform as one of the alternatives for creating iOS apps. This is because one of the main new features of Swift Playgrounds 4 is the ability to create and submit apps to the App Store directly from an iPad, so now the app is considered an “Apple SDK,” just like Xcode.

“Apple SDKs” means the Apple-proprietary Software Development Kits (SDKs) provided hereunder, including but not limited to header files, APIs, libraries, simulators, and software (source code and object code) labeled as part of iOS, watchOS, tvOS, iPadOS, or Mac SDK and included in the Xcode Developer Tools package and Swift Playgrounds for purposes of targeting Apple-branded products running iOS, watchOS, tvOS, iPadOS, and/or macOS, respectively.

The new agreement also mentions Xcode Cloud, which was announced at WWDC 2021 as a platform that will let developers accelerate the development process by running automated tests and other tasks in the cloud. Xcode Cloud is currently available as a private beta and is expected to become available to more developers next year.

“Xcode Cloud Content” means the software, tests, scripts, data, information, text, graphics, videos, or other content that You post or make available when accessing or using the Xcode Cloud Service (including any software residing in source code repositories to which You provide log-in credentials), excluding any Apple materials licensed to You.

There are also mentions of the new Legacy Contacts feature introduced with iOS 15.2, clarifications on the requirements for using the HealthKit and Fitness APIs, and the inclusion of gender-neutral language.

You can find all the details on the Apple Developer website.

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Xcode 13.2 hints at Swift Playgrounds 4 release

In addition to the release of iOS 15.2, macOS Monterey 12.1, watchOS 8.3, and tvOS 15.2, Apple on Monday also updated its Xcode developer tool to version 13.2. The update, which comes with new features, hints at the upcoming release of Swift Playgrounds 4.

For those unfamiliar, Xcode is the tool used by developers to create apps for Apple’s platforms, which includes iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Xcode 13.2 adds support for iOS 15.2 and other recently released software updates.

However, Xcode 13.2 brings some new features, including support for Swift Playgrounds 4. According to the app’s release notes, the latest version of Xcode adds compatibility with projects created in Swift Playgrounds 4 – which is yet to be released by Apple.

Swift Playgrounds 4 was announced back in June at WWDC 2021. The app helps developers and students learn the company’s Swift programming language, and the new version lets developers build and submit apps to the App Store directly from an iPad. 9to5Mac showed a first look at Swift Playgrounds 4 last month with some exclusive screenshots of the app running on iPadOS.

Swift Playgrounds is a great way to learn to code right on a Mac or iPad. With Swift Playgrounds 4, users will be able to create the visual design of an app with SwiftUI. App projects can be opened and edited in Swift Playgrounds or in Xcode, and when they’re ready, users can build a real app and submit it directly to the App Store right from their iPad.

It’s now only a matter of time before Apple finally releases Swift Playgrounds 4 on the App Store. You can download the current version of Swift Playgrounds for free. The tool is available for both iPadOS and macOS.

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Apple releases macOS Big Sur 11.6.2 and Catalina update with security fixes

Along with macOS Monterey 12.1, on Monday Apple released updates to previous versions of its desktop operating system. The company is now rolling out macOS Big Sur 11.6.2 to users, as well as a macOS Catalina update with security fixes.

According to the company on its official website, macOS Big Sur 11.6.2 fixes a security breach that could let malicious apps bypass the Gatekeeper check – which is macOS’ security system for preventing malicious or unidentified apps from running.

Other exploits were fixed with the update – including two breaches in Bluetooth – that could lead to the execution of arbitrary code.

In addition to macOS Big Sur 11.6.2, Apple today also released Security Update 2021-008 for macOS Catalina users. The update includes the same security fixes found in macOS Big Sur 11.6.2 and also in macOS Monterey 12.1. Such updates are important for users who for some reason cannot update their Macs to the latest version of macOS.

In order to update a Mac, open the System Preferences app and click the Software Update menu.

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Comment: AirPods 3 from an AirPods Pro user’s perspective

Ever since I put my hands on AirPods Pro, I’ve been almost an advocate for their qualities. Not only because they fit perfectly in my ears but because I wanted to have ANC when on a bus or a plane, and the second-generation AirPods didn’t give me that.

After two years of using AirPods Pro, I finally had the chance to try AirPods 3, and here are my impressions of these wireless earbuds.

P.S. It’s important to note that this article only makes sense because I never had any problems with AirPods. All of them, since the first generation, fit perfectly in my ears. If, by any chance, some AirPods don’t fit properly in yours, just pass on this article, because my argument won’t make a difference for you.

I’ve been using AirPods almost since they got released and I’ve been amazed by its quality and instant connection. Then, when I made the switch from AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro, one thing I’ve always noticed was the fact that AirPods Pro feels very present in my ears. Although they don’t cause me discomfort, I’m always aware that they are there.

When I finally tried AirPods 3, to my delight, I instantly realized that they feel like disappearing in my ears in the best way possible. I can use it for as long as six hours and don’t have any problem. It’s like music is reaching to my ears magically.

Future AirPods models could be smart
AirPods Pro

Not only that but for the first time I was able to listen to a difference in sound quality comparing AirPods 2 to AirPods 3. In quiet environments, AirPods 3 sound the same as the AirPods Pro with heavier bass. Also, having Spatial Audio support is a nice trick and it’s great for listening to songs, watching Apple TV+ originals as well as relaxing with apps like Portal.

The new form-factor of AirPods 3 is also another selling point. More similar to AirPods Pro, it features touch sensors in the sterns, which is great to go forward/back to songs, play/pause, or call Siri. Siri has been more responsive than I ever thought it would – even when using the personal assistant in Portuguese and asking for songs in English.

Last but not least, I love the MagSafe charging case. It works perfectly with my MagSafe Duo charger and it’s way more convenient than a regular Qi charger stand. Of course, I needed to buy a 20W USB-C power adapter, but it’s part of this new Apple ecosystem.

AirPods 3 lightness also comes with a price

If you’re thinking about buying AirPods 3 whether because your original pair or second-generation are finally dying, pay attention to this tiny but important detail: how much do you care about not listening to your surroundings?

Although AirPods 3 is a great improvement when compared to AirPods 2, it’s very easy how you can notice external sounds. With the AirPods Pro, on the other hand, you can isolate yourself when turning Active Noise Cancelling on. So it’s important to keep that in mind.

Not only that but right now it’s very easy to find AirPods Pro for the same price – sometimes less – than AirPods 3. And, again, with AirPods Pro, you can get ANC and Transparency mode.

On behalf of AirPods 3, you get a bit more usage without charging it and it features a new sensor that can tell whether you removed an earbud from your ear or not. Another thing that makes AirPods 3 really useful is whether you make a lot of calls or online meetings. Since they don’t feel as present in your ears as the AirPods Pro, they’re more comfortable to use for long periods of time.

How do you feel about AirPods 3? Do you prefer them over the AirPods Pro or the second-generation AirPods are still your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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After tornadoes rip through some U.S. states, Apple announces donation to support relief effort

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook announced this Saturday that Apple will be donating to support relief efforts on the ground after tornadoes across several U.S. states let dozens of people dead.

According to NBC News, more than 70 people are feared dead after a series of tornadoes ripped through Kentucky, Illinois, Tennessee, Missouri, and Arkansas through Friday and Saturday. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said this was the most devasting and deadly tornado event in Kentucky’s history.

President Joe Biden also announced the U.S. government will come to aid for those states that need federal help:

“The federal government is not going to walk away,” Biden said. “We’re going to get through this.”

In a tweet, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook wrote:

Our hearts go out to all those affected by the devastating weather and tornadoes across the South and Midwest. Apple will be donating to support relief efforts on the ground.

This is far from being the first time Apple come to aid people after a tragedy. In August, Tim Cook announced Apple would be donating to Hurricane Ida relief and recovery efforts. In July, Apple’s CEO did the same after some Western European regions were flooded and hundreds of people died due to the severe storms.

Even though Tim Cook said Apple would be donating to support relief efforts, it’s not clear how much the Cupertino company plans to give as it usually doesn’t make this information public.

You can check below Tim Cook’s tweet:

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Best MIDI keyboards for your recording rig | 2021 Edition

Welcome to the 2021 edition of the best MIDI keyboards for Mac (and iPhone/iPad). This is a great time of year to take stock of what’s out there ahead of the holidays, including both brand new options released in 2021 and some mainstays that have rightfully earned another mention on our list. Apple’s Logic Pro made leaps and bounds with the latest major updates and these are the best MIDI keyboards out there to take advantage of what it and other DAWs have to offer, just be sure to check out the Launchpads we detailed earlier in the year for direct Live Loops control as well. Head below for a closer look at 2021’s best MIDI keyboards.

Best MIDI keyboards for Mac 2021 Edition

It has been a slow year for new releases in the MIDI keyboard controller space, but fortunately for anyone looking to invest in 2021, this matters very little. While a new ultra-affordable model from Alesis, mid-tier options from Nektar, and the auto-mapping, OLED display-laden M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro have hit the marketplace this year, MIDI keyboard controllers are still the kind of technology that remain relevant as years push-on, new M1 Macs or otherwise — models released from 2019 on (or even previous to that) are still just as feature-rich, compatible in just about every way, and desirable for musicians, beat makers, and content creators as they were on day one.

We will be highlighting some of the latest models in this year’s edition of the best MIDI keyboards out there. But you will also find some models that have stood the test of time, including some of our favorite options that still get put to task just about every day, from mid-tier home studio models to graceful weighted piano-style controllers, EDC-sized backpack keyboards, and more. 

Alesis Q Mini

Alongside updated versions of its Q-series 49- and 88-key models, Alesis unleashed one of the most affordable MIDI keyboard controllers out there earlier this year with the new Q Mini. A tight set of 32 velocity-sensitive keys is joined by a streamlined collection of the most important musical embellishment controls — octave range transposition, assignable modulation, volume, pitch bend, and a sustain button — for a truly portable solution that can just as easily integrate into your mobile EDS (everyday studio) as it can at home. This is a thin, bus-powered, no-frills solution worth the $49 it will run you right now for anyone in the market to score a quick MIDI keyboard for sketching out ideas, accenting organic recordings on-the-go, or hand-tailoring the top line in your next drill beat. 

  • 32 compact velocity-sensitive synth-action keys
  • USB-powered with plug-and-play connectivity for Mac or PC
  • Octave/Transpose buttons
  • Pitch bend and modulation buttons
  • Re-assignable volume knob
  • Sustain button
  • iOS compatibility via Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter

Alesis Q Mini $49 (Reg. $59)

Akai MPK Mini - best MIDI Keyboards and most affordable MIDI keyboards

Best MIDI Keyboards under $120

Here’s our running list of the best MIDI Keyboards for Mac in the sub $120 range including some mainstays from AKAI, as well as those particularly inexpensive Arturia models, and more.

  • AKAI Pro LPK25 $49
  • AKAI MPK Mini MKII $99
  • Nektar SE25-Key MIDI keyboard $50
  • Nektar SE49-Key MIDI keyboard $80
  • Arturia 25-Key Microlab $89
  • Arturia 25-Key MiniLab MkII $119
  • KORG Wireless microKEY Air from $115
  • Alesis 25-Key VMini $58

Nektar Impact GXP 49 and 61-key MIDI keyboard controllers

Next up, we are taking a look at what is essentially the best new MIDI keyboard controllers for 2021, that actually released this year. Nektar is one of those brands that seemingly soars under the radar among all but the most professional-focused individuals and avid music-making nerds, and for no good reason if you ask me.

Nektar Impact GXP 49 and 61-key MIDI keyboard controllers

The new GXP models feature deep DAW control for Logic Pro and others alongside a host of performance controls that warrant the higher price tag than the models above — the real-time Key Repeat engine with tempo, repeat rate, accent, interval, swing and aftertouch/modulation routing to velocity is a good example here. You’re also looking at “real piano” feel with full-size, semi-weighted keys, unlike the stunted, more portable-friendly designs of those found on the budget-friendly models listed above. 

  • 49, 61 or 88-note full-sized keybed with velocity and aftertouch
  • 14 RGB LED buttons for MIDI, note repeat and Nektarine features
  • Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels 
  • 1 push encoder for note repeat tempo control and Nektarine features 
  • Octave up/down buttons with LED indicators 
  • Transpose up/down buttons with LED indicators. Assignable to other functions. 
  • 7 transport buttons for DAW integration or MIDI assignable 
  • Note Repeat button with LED tempo indicator

Nektar GXP49 Controller $190

Nektar GXP61 Controller $230

Nektar GXP88 Controller $300

Best MIDI keyboards 2021 Edition - Komplete Kontrol M32

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 is among the most affordable in NI’s lineup and makes for an easy point of entry into the brand’s deep and extensive hardware/software combos. Easily the most desirable aspect of all things Native Instruments is its massive collection of wonderful sample packs, software instruments, and sound module toys, and this is an affordable way to score a bunch of it included in the package. The pretty OLED display is a nice touch here, but the hardware control over the 6100 sounds and 10GB of content is not something you’re going to get with most options on this list and, for the most part, what has earned the M32 a spot on our list of the Best MIDI keyboards once again.

  • 32 compact keys
  • Portable form-factor
  • Included synths, basses, drums, effects, and more
  • OLED display
  • Touch-sensitive knobs to tweak your sounds

Komplete Kontrol M32 $139

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 Mk2 Keyboard

More Native Instruments…

The MKII Komplete Kontrol models include thousands of sounds bundled in and are still easily among the best on the market. I use an S49 as my main controller and really appreciate the, what I would call, barely-weighted keys as a nice middle ground.

  • Komplete Kontrol A25 $169
    • NI keybed with 25 semi-weighted keys
  • Komplete Kontrol A49 $219
    • NI keybed with 49 semi-weighted keys
  • Komplete Kontrol A61 $279
    • NI keybed with 61 semi-weighted keys
  • Komplete Kontrol S49 MKII $669
    • 49 semi-weighted Fatar with aftertouch
    • Pitch and mod wheels, plus touch strip
  • Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII $799
    • 61 semi-weighted Fatar with aftertouch
    • Pitch and mod wheels, plus touch strip
  • Komplete Kontrol S88 MKII $1,149
    • 88 hammer-action Fatar
    • Two high-res color screens

Best MIDI Keyboards for Mac 2021 Edition – Honorable Mentions

  • M Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 $59
  • Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 $110
  • AKAI Professional MPK225 $269
  • AKAI Professional MPK249 $429
  • AKAI Professional MPK261 $499
  • Arturia KeyStep Pro 37-Key Controller $440

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iPhone charging slowly? How to fast charge an iPhone 13

If your shiny new iPhone 13 seems like it is charging slowly, there’s most likely a simple reason. The old 5-watt iPhone chargers will work with your new phone, but can only charge at a lower power throughput. However, a newer 20-watt charger and USB-C Lightning cable can charge your iPhone at full speed. So if you have upgraded from an older iPhone, the chances are your power brick is outdated. Here’s all the ways you can fast charge your new iPhone.

The iPhone 13 still uses the same Lightning port as all iPhones dating back to 2012, but the battery capacity inside iPhones expanded dramatically starting with the iPhone XS/iPhone XR in 2018. So, since then, optimal charging cannot really be achieved with an older 5W USB-A charger. Also somewhat annoyingly, Apple no longer includes the power adapter in the box.

How to fast charge using a cable

To fast charge an iPhone 11, iPhone 12, or iPhone 13, you need to use a higher-wattage power adaptor. Apple recommends its 20 W USB-C charger, however any higher-rated USB-C adaptor will suffice. You can even get duo port chargers from third-party manufacturers that can fast charge two iPhones at a time.

If you have a newer-generation MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, you can also use that USB-C brick to charge your iPhone as well. The iPhone 13 will only charge at about 20 watts of maximum throughput, but you can safely use higher-wattage USB-C chargers too. You just won’t see any additional speed.

Of course, fast chargers also require a Lightning to USB-C cable. The older USB-A square Lightning cables do not support fast charging speeds. With a 20-watt brick and Lightning to USB-C cable, you can go from zero to 50% charged in half an hour, and fully charge an iPhone 13 in about two hours.

How to fast charge using wireless charging

Wired charging always beats outs wireless for speed and efficiency. However, using the Apple MagSafe charger, you can get reasonably fast inductive charging performance.

The MagSafe puck magnetically snaps to the back of the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, and that secure fit enables a faster charging speed than standard Qi. Using MagSafe, you can achieve up to 15-watt charging speeds. Using MagSafe, you can charge from zero to 50% in about 50 minutes, and attain 100% charge in about 2.5-3 hours.

In contrast, using a basic Qi charger, the iPhone will charge at a maximum of 7.5 watts. This is equivalent to about four-to-five hours charge time to reach 100%, depending on model. Although this is much slower than the above alternative methods, if you are just charging your iPhone at bedtime on a nightstand or similar, it’s probably fine and is otherwise the most convenient option. Using a MagSafe charger also requires using a MagSafe-compatible case, and often includes ugly markings on the rear of the device. Standard Qi can work through pretty much any case on the market.

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