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  • How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    How to keep your MacBook awake when the Lid is closed

    Sometimes, you may want to use your MacBook with the lid closed. For example, you might connect it to an external monitor to free up desk space or let it continue downloading files or playing music without interruptions. However, by default, closing the lid puts the MacBook to sleep. Here’s how to prevent that.

    Using a MacBook with the Lid Closed

    Modern MacBooks and macOS versions make it easier to keep your Mac running with the lid shut. To do this, you’ll need an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse (wired or Bluetooth).

    1. Connect an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
    2. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled, and your devices are paired if they are wireless.
    3. Close the MacBook lid once the desktop appears on the external monitor.
    4. If the screen turns off momentarily, press a key or move the mouse to wake the display.
    5. In some cases, your Mac may need to be plugged into a power source to stay awake.

    Note: Without an external monitor, closing the lid will still cause the MacBook to sleep.

    Preventing Sleep Without an External Monitor

    If you want your MacBook to stay awake while downloading files, playing music, or running updates, you can adjust the settings depending on your macOS version.

    macOS Monterey and Earlier

    1. Open System Preferences.
    2. Go to Battery (or Energy Saver).
    3. Select “Prevent your Mac from automatically sleeping when the display is off.”

    macOS Ventura and Later

    In newer versions of macOS, the settings have changed, but you can still keep your Mac awake:

    1. Open Terminal.
    2. Enter this command: 
      sudo pmset -a disablesleep 1

    Using Third-Party Apps

    For a simpler solution, apps like Amphetamine (free) or Caffeinated ($3.99) can keep your Mac awake. These apps override the default sleep settings and provide more control over sleep prevention.

    Now you can keep your MacBook active, whether connected to an external display or running tasks with the lid closed.

  • iPhones with TikTok app sell for big bucks on eBay

    iPhones with TikTok app sell for big bucks on eBay

    People are selling old iPhones with TikTok already on them for lots of money on eBay. Some are even asking for up to $50,000! For example, someone listed an unlocked iPhone 12 Pro Max with TikTok for $50,000.

    Even though President Trump said companies wouldn’t get in trouble for not following the TikTok ban, big companies like Apple and Google are still not allowing TikTok in their app stores in the US.

    A Quick Update

    The US Supreme Court said yes to banning TikTok last Friday, and the ban started on January 19. TikTok was taken off the app stores on Sunday. Apple had to say they would follow the law. But then, Trump posted on social media that he would stop the ban when he became president again the next day, and he said companies could ignore the law without getting into trouble. So, TikTok came back online thanks to Bytedance, with Oracle, a US company, trusting Trump’s word.

    Trump then made an official statement saying the ban wouldn’t be enforced for 75 days, but lawyers said this might not be legal, meaning companies could still face huge fines of up to $850 billion. They also said Trump could change his mind if he didn’t like a company.

    eBay Listings for TikTok iPhones

    Wired noticed that some sellers on eBay are trying to make money by selling old phones with TikTok on them for much more than they are really worth.

    If you look up “TikTok phone” on eBay, you’ll find over 9,000 listings for phones from brands like Apple and Samsung, all with TikTok installed. Some listings are asking for $50,000, while many others are between $2,000 and $5,000.

    Luckily, it seems like most people aren’t paying these crazy prices. The phones with very high prices aren’t selling, and when they do sell, it’s often because buyers can offer a lower price through eBay’s “best offer” option.

    Here’s an interesting thing about these iPhones: if one user downloads apps using their Apple ID and then another user signs in with their own ID, the apps stay on the phone. But, if you ever reset your phone using your own iCloud backup, you’ll lose those apps.

    Source

  • UK Watchdog probes iPhone App Store dominance

    UK Watchdog probes iPhone App Store dominance

    The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has kicked off a thorough investigation into how mobile app stores operate, focusing on iPhone and Android systems.

    The study aims to look at whether Apple has too much control over the market and if they might be using this power in unfair ways. They’re checking how apps are sold to consumers and the rules developers have to follow to get their apps on the iPhone’s App Store.

    This investigation sounds a lot like what’s happening in the European Union, where they have rules to keep big tech companies in check.

    The CMA will look into how much competition exists between Apple and Google, including how hard it is for new companies to break into the market. They’ll check if Apple and Google are using their big influence over mobile operating systems to favor their own apps or limit choices in browsers. They’re also looking at the conditions app makers must agree to for their apps to appear in these stores.

    The investigation is set to wrap up by October 22, 2025. After that, we’ll know more about what might happen next. Possible outcomes could include penalties or changes in how these companies do business.

    In Europe, Apple was made to allow other app stores, let apps be downloaded from the internet, and give users more browser options. However, Apple also changed how they charge developers, which some big companies like Epic Games and Spotify say is still not fair. While the EU case continues, it’s likely Apple might use similar tactics when dealing with the CMA in the UK.

    Source

  • Apple tests new updates for Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro

    Apple tests new updates for Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro

    Apple has just released test versions of new software updates for the Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro. These updates, known as release candidates (RC), are available for developers to try out. They were released a week after the third test version.

    These new updates include watchOS 11.3 for Apple Watch, tvOS 18.3 for Apple TV, and visionOS 2.3 for Vision Pro. Developers can download these updates from the settings on their devices.

    While there aren’t many new features in these updates, there’s some code that hints Apple might soon add support for robot vacuums in their Home app. This would allow these devices to work with Apple’s home automation system on all these platforms.

    Also, tvOS 18.3 will include a new message about buying movies and TV shows digitally.

    We expect these updates to be available to everyone around late January, along with updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

  • Apple releases test version of macOS update 15.3 for developers

    Apple releases test version of macOS update 15.3 for developers

    Apple has just released a test version, known as the Release Candidate, for the upcoming macOS update 15.3. This update follows closely after the third test version was released last week.

    Night Mode in macOS Sequoia
    Developers can access this test update by going to the Software Update in the System Settings app. To download it, you’ll need an Apple ID linked to a Developer account.

    The new macOS 15.3 update introduces Genmoji to Macs, a feature that was only available on iPhones and iPads before. Now, Mac users can make their own characters just by typing what they want, much like using Image Playground.

    Genmoji works like regular emojis on newer devices with iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS 15.1 and later. On older devices or Android phones, these Genmoji show up as pictures instead. You can add Genmoji from the emoji menu, and they are created right on your device.

  • TikTok’s Return to U.S. Screens: Navigating the new normal

    TikTok’s Return to U.S. Screens: Navigating the new normal

    In a rollercoaster of events, TikTok has made a comeback in the U.S., though not without its challenges. After going dark on Saturday night and being pulled from Apple’s App Store, the platform was up and running again by Sunday afternoon, following what TikTok called “necessary clarity” from President Trump.

    Here’s the scoop: despite its functionality being restored, TikTok isn’t back on the App Store. This means new users can’t download it, and existing users can’t update it. The ban, initiated by a law signed by President Biden in April 2024, required TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest within nine months or face a ban. That deadline hit on January 19, leading to a brief blackout of the app.

    However, thanks to an assurance from Trump, service providers like Oracle have continued supporting TikTok, risking hefty fines, while tech giants like Apple and Google remain cautious, not re-listing the app.

    For existing iPhone users, this means you can still use TikTok if you have it installed, but no new downloads or updates are available through the App Store. The app’s core functionalities are intact, including TikTok Shop, but new in-app purchases are off-limits, although web purchases remain accessible.

    With Trump’s recent inauguration, he’s hinted at a 90-day delay in enforcing the ban and proposed U.S. ownership in TikTok, signaling potential changes on the horizon. How ByteDance responds to this proposition will shape TikTok’s future in the U.S. market.

  • Apple faces legal scrutiny over alleged use of Congo Conflict Minerals

    Apple faces legal scrutiny over alleged use of Congo Conflict Minerals

    Apple is embroiled in legal challenges stemming from allegations of sourcing “conflict minerals” from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These minerals, including tin, tantalum, and tungsten, known collectively as 3T, alongside gold, are termed “blood minerals” due to their association with human rights abuses, including child labor, which allegedly fund armed conflicts.

    The complaints have been lodged in Belgium and France, jurisdictions known for their rigorous corporate accountability laws. Recently, Belgian authorities have escalated the matter by launching an official investigation.

    While Apple does not directly buy these minerals, they are crucial components in the electronics supply chain, eventually making their way into Apple products. The company has historically conducted audits to ensure its supply chain remains untainted by conflict minerals. For instance, in 2019, Apple excluded several smelters and refiners from its supply chain for failing these audits.

    However, lawyers representing Congo claim they informed Apple CEO Tim Cook of potential issues in April, highlighting possible mineral smuggling through neighboring countries like Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi. Despite Apple’s assertion to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that its supply chain was free of conflict minerals, these allegations have led to formal legal action.

    The accusations against Apple include not only the use of these illicit minerals but also charges of covering up war crimes, handling stolen goods, and deceptive marketing about the purity of their supply chains. Both French and Belgian judicial systems are now tasked with evaluating the evidence to determine if criminal charges should be pursued.

    This unfolding legal saga underscores the complexities of global supply chains and the ethical responsibilities of tech giants in ensuring their products do not contribute to human rights violations.

    Source

  • The TikTok Saga: Apple’s compliance and the shifting sands of digital sovereignty

    The TikTok Saga: Apple’s compliance and the shifting sands of digital sovereignty

    The digital landscape shifted dramatically this past weekend as Apple, in a move echoing the complexities of international relations and technological control, removed TikTok and other ByteDance-owned applications from its U.S. App Store. This action, far from being a simple business decision, is a direct consequence of escalating legislative measures aimed at addressing perceived national security concerns surrounding foreign-owned digital platforms. 

    The backdrop to this removal is the recently enacted “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act,” a piece of legislation that mandates the divestiture of ByteDance’s ownership of TikTok within the United States. Failure to comply, the law stipulates, would result in a complete ban of the platform within the country. With the deadline for compliance having arrived, companies like Apple and Google were left with little choice but to enforce the law, facing substantial penalties for non-compliance.

    Apple, in a publicly released statement, emphasized its commitment to adhering to the legal frameworks of the regions in which it operates. This statement underscores the delicate balance tech giants must maintain between global reach and local regulations. The removal of TikTok, along with other ByteDance applications such as CapCut and Hypic, was presented not as a matter of choice, but as a legal obligation. 

    The official statement from Apple clarifies the scope of the action: “Pursuant to the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, apps developed by ByteDance Ltd. and its subsidiaries — including TikTok, CapCut, Lemon8, and others — will no longer be available for download or updates on the App Store for users in the United States starting January 19, 2025.” This statement serves as a clear confirmation of the legal impetus behind the removal. 

    The ramifications of this decision extend beyond mere app availability. Apple’s statement also addressed the implications for international visitors to the U.S. who may experience restricted functionality of ByteDance applications due to the newly implemented law. This detail highlights the far-reaching impact of the legislation, affecting not only U.S. citizens but also those traveling within the country. 

    For existing TikTok users in the United States, the impact was immediate. As of late Saturday, access to the app was effectively cut off, with TikTok itself acknowledging the “temporary unavailability” of the service within the U.S. While the app remains accessible and fully functional in other regions of the world, American users find themselves abruptly disconnected from the platform.  

    The timing of this event adds another layer of complexity to the situation. With the upcoming presidential inauguration scheduled for Monday, January 20th, rumors are circulating about a potential 90-day reprieve for TikTok.

    Whether this reprieve will materialize remains to be seen, and the long-term future of TikTok’s operation within the U.S. under ByteDance ownership hangs in the balance. The possibility of requiring a change in ownership to comply with U.S. regulations is a significant point of discussion, adding uncertainty to the platform’s future in the American market. 

    This situation is more than just a dispute over a social media app. It represents a broader conversation about digital sovereignty, national security, and the influence of foreign technology within domestic markets. The actions taken by the U.S. government and the subsequent compliance by companies like Apple set a precedent that could have significant implications for the future of global digital interactions.

    It raises important questions about the balance between national security concerns, free access to information, and the role of technology companies in navigating these complex issues. The TikTok saga is far from over, and its unfolding will undoubtedly continue to shape the discourse around technology, politics, and international relations.

  • Beta updates hint at future features and performance enhancements

    Beta updates hint at future features and performance enhancements

    The tech world is abuzz with Apple’s latest moves, as the company has rolled out a series of beta updates for its various operating systems, including watchOS, tvOS, and a firmware update for the MagSafe Charger. These updates, while seemingly minor on the surface, offer intriguing glimpses into Apple’s plans and its ongoing commitment to refining its ecosystem.

    watchOS 11.3 Beta 3: A Glimpse into Home Automation Expansion?

    Apple has recently released the third beta version of watchOS 11.3 to developers, continuing its cycle of iterative improvements. While no groundbreaking new features have been immediately apparent, eagle-eyed developers have uncovered hints within the code suggesting a potential expansion of HomeKit compatibility. The whispers point towards the integration of robot vacuums as a supported category within the Home app on watchOS. This would be a significant step in enhancing home automation control directly from the wrist, allowing users to manage their cleaning routines with greater ease.

    This update follows the second beta released just a week prior, indicating a focused effort from Apple to polish the software and address any underlying issues. The beta is currently available for registered developers to download and test through the Watch app on their iPhones. While an official release date hasn’t been explicitly announced, industry speculation suggests a late January launch, potentially aligning with the release of other major operating system updates like iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3.

    MagSafe Charger Firmware Update: Subtle Enhancements Under the Hood

    In addition to the operating system betas, Apple has also quietly pushed out a firmware update for its 25W MagSafe Charger. This update, bringing the firmware version to 2A143 from the previous 2A138, applies to chargers compatible with iPhone 12 and later models, as well as the latest AirPods and Apple Watch.

    The MagSafe Charger, originally released alongside the iPhone 12 lineup and later updated to support faster charging with newer iPhone models, has become a popular accessory for its convenient wireless charging capabilities. The 2024 iteration, introduced with the iPhone 16 series, boasts charging speeds of up to 25W for compatible devices, while earlier iPhone models from the 12 to 15 series are capped at 15W. 

    Apple typically releases these firmware updates silently over the air, without providing detailed release notes. This leaves users to speculate about the specific improvements or bug fixes included in the update. The process for updating the MagSafe Charger’s firmware involves simply plugging it in and connecting it to an Apple device. While there isn’t a manual trigger for the update, the connection is necessary to initiate the process. Users can check their MagSafe Charger’s firmware version through specific settings within their connected device. 

    tvOS 18.3 Beta 3: Refining the Entertainment Experience

    Apple has also seeded the third beta of tvOS 18.3 to developers, continuing its efforts to enhance the Apple TV experience. This beta, also released a week after the second beta, is available for registered developers to download through the Settings app on their Apple TVs. Alongside this, Apple has also released a new HomePod 18.3 beta software.

    Similar to the watchOS beta, no major new features have been immediately identified in tvOS 18.3 Beta 3. However, code analysis suggests the potential for HomeKit integration with robot vacuums, mirroring the possible addition to watchOS. This would further unify Apple’s ecosystem, allowing users to control their smart home devices across multiple platforms.

    Furthermore, the code hints at a new notification regarding digital movie and TV show sales, potentially providing users with more transparent information about their digital purchases. The anticipated release of tvOS 18.3 is expected to coincide with the other operating system updates in late January, creating a unified refresh across Apple’s device ecosystem.

    A Holistic Approach to Improvement

    These simultaneous beta releases and firmware updates demonstrate Apple’s commitment to continuous improvement across its entire product line. While the changes may appear incremental individually, they collectively contribute to a more polished, interconnected, and feature-rich user experience.

    The potential expansion of HomeKit compatibility across watchOS and tvOS highlights Apple’s focus on building a cohesive smart home ecosystem, while the MagSafe Charger firmware update underscores the company’s dedication to optimizing even its smallest accessories. As the expected release date in late January approaches, anticipation is building for the official rollout of these updates and the refinements they bring to the Apple user experience.

  • The App Store Under Scrutiny: A multi-billion pound legal battle in the UK

    The App Store Under Scrutiny: A multi-billion pound legal battle in the UK

    The digital marketplace has revolutionized how we access software and services, but the rules governing these platforms are increasingly under the microscope. In a landmark case unfolding in London, Apple is facing a substantial legal challenge concerning its App Store practices, a case that could have significant ramifications for the future of digital commerce.  

    At the heart of the matter is a £1.5 billion lawsuit alleging anti-competitive behavior. The lawsuit, brought forth by Dr. Rachael Kent, a respected academic from King’s College London, argues that Apple’s control over app distribution on its iOS devices, coupled with its commission structure, constitutes a breach of UK and European competition law. This isn’t just a minor dispute; it’s a David versus Goliath battle that questions the fundamental power dynamics within the app ecosystem.  

    The core of the complaint lies in Apple’s requirement that all iOS apps be downloaded exclusively through the App Store. This exclusivity, combined with a commission of up to 30% levied on developers for in-app purchases and app sales, is seen by the plaintiffs as an unfair imposition that stifles competition and ultimately harms consumers. They argue that this “walled garden” approach limits choice and potentially inflates prices.  

    This legal action isn’t just a theoretical debate; it directly impacts millions of consumers. The lawsuit represents an estimated 19.6 million UK iPhone and iPad users who may have been overcharged for apps and in-app purchases over a significant period, from October 2015 to November 2024. The scale of this case is immense, with a vast number of individuals automatically included in the claim unless they actively choose to opt out. This reflects the UK’s legal framework, which aims to provide efficient redress for widespread consumer harm.

    Dr. Kent’s argument is compelling: while the App Store initially served as a valuable and innovative platform, streamlining access to digital services, it has evolved into a monopolistic gatekeeper. She contends that Apple has effectively blocked access to alternative app distribution platforms, preventing consumers from potentially benefiting from more competitive pricing and developers from exploring alternative business models. This lack of competition, the lawsuit claims, is detrimental to the overall health of the digital marketplace.   

    Apple, however, vehemently denies these allegations. They have characterized the lawsuit as “meritless” and maintain that their App Store commission rates are in line with industry standards for digital marketplaces. They point to the fact that a significant majority—around 85%—of apps on the App Store are offered free of charge. Furthermore, they emphasize that many developers qualify for a reduced 15% commission rate, particularly smaller businesses and individual developers. This, they argue, demonstrates a commitment to supporting a diverse and thriving app ecosystem.  

    The trial, taking place at the Competition Appeal Tribunal, is expected to be a lengthy and complex affair, spanning approximately seven weeks. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how digital marketplaces are regulated, not just in the UK, but potentially globally. This isn’t an isolated incident; Apple is facing similar legal challenges in other jurisdictions around the world, all centering on its App Store practices.  

    Adding further weight to the situation, Apple is also currently involved in a separate £785 million UK lawsuit related to developer fees. Moreover, the European Commission recently imposed a €500 million fine on Apple for breaching digital competition rules related to music streaming services. These concurrent legal battles paint a picture of a company facing increasing scrutiny over its market dominance and business practices.  

    This case is more than just a legal dispute between a tech giant and a group of consumers; it’s a reflection of a broader debate about the balance of power in the digital age. It raises fundamental questions about competition, consumer rights, and the role of regulation in ensuring a fair and dynamic digital marketplace. The outcome of this trial will be closely watched by businesses, consumers, and regulators alike, as it could have a profound impact on the future of the app economy.

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