Category Archives: iPhone

Episode 166, Apple celebrates Heart Month; new AppleWatch Activity Challenge Feb. 14; and Apple Heart and Movement Study update released



In this episode, we will discuss Apple celebrating Heart Month with new resources and events across many of its services.  Additionally we will talk about the lifestyle insights from the Apple Heart and Movement Study, a new fitness Activity Challenge and more money for trading in on your Apple Watch.  All this, a special event to announce, and much more.

A new Heart Month Activity Challenge to help people of all fitness levels put their health first by completing 30 minutes in their Exercise ring on February 14 to earn a special award.

Episode 165, New AppleWatch band launches; new fitness challenge award; and Apple’s iPhone macro photo contest for ‘Shot on iPhone’ Challenge begins



In this episode, we will discuss this week’s news of Apple launching a special edition Apple Watch Black Unity Braided Solo Loop and matching Unity Lights watch, a new fitness challenge award; and the opportunity to share your best iPhone macro photos for Apple’s “Shot on iPhone” Challenge.

The Black Unity Braided Solo Loop band is created by weaving together 16,000 recycled yarn and silicone threads using advanced precision-braiding machinery, for an ultra-comfortable, custom fit.  The band is priced at $99 US and is available at apple.com.
Throughout February, users will also have the opportunity to participate in the Unity Challenge and earn a limited-edition award, by closing their Move ring seven days in a row.
Apple invites iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max users to capture the little things, in a big way, with a macro photography Shot on iPhone Challenge. The challenge starts today and runs through February 16, 2022. Winners will be announced in April.

Episode 164, AT&T to deliver up to 5-Gigs of internet speed in 70 cities; Apple releases Polishing Cloth cleaning instructions



In this episode, we will discuss today’s announcement by AT&T of upgraded fiber plans which support speeds up to 5 Gigabytes for customers in 70 metropolitan cities across the United States. A listing of the cities is below with multi-gig in blue text.  In the second half of the podcast, we will be following up on the story we did a few episodes ago about the Apple Polishing Cloth.

 

The Apple Polishing Cloth is now becoming widely available after months of backorders.  You can find them at Apple Stores and online. Learn how Apple recommends you clean the cloth when it becomes soiled.

Episode 163, COVID-19 Exposure Notifications: Help slow the spread of the virus with one iPhone step; Alaska joins worldwide program



In this episode, we will discuss the Exposure Notification System created jointly by Google and Apple to help our governments and global community fight the COVID-19 pandemic through contact tracing.  Also, Alaska has joined the long list of states and countries which have already implemented the program named Alaska COVID-ENX. Check this nationwide listing to see if your location has an application available at this link.

 


Episode 162, Apple Fitness+ introduces new ways to motivate people toward their fitness goals starting Monday, January 10



In this episode, we will review Apple Fitness+ expanding its programs by introducing Collections and Time to Run on January 10.  My personal favorite, also occurring Monday, Fitness+ will also introduce the third season of Time to Walk featuring the world’s most interesting and influential people.  Mac Minutes listeners can also learn how to take advantage of a special event with world-renown Apple tutorial expert, Dan Wassink, from Dan’s Tutorials, occurring Jan 12, 7 pm (AKT).

Time to Run will launch with three episodes from London, Brooklyn, and Miami Beach on Monday, Jan 10.
Starting January 10, Fitness+ will introduce the third season of Time to Walk, with new guests including Rebel Wilson, Bernice A. King, Hasan Minhaj, and more.
New workouts will be added to the Artist Spotlight series on January 10, featuring the music of Ed Sheeran, Pharrell Williams, Shakira, and the Beatles.

Episode 161, Apple’s Polishing Cloth finally arrives along with an enlightening review



Happy New Year.  In our first episode of  2022, we will review the Apple Polishing Cloth which I finally received.  For most U.S. shoppers, their shipment has been delayed until early January, at the earliest, so this review is timely even with its early launch.   I’ve been using it rigorously to give you my initial review.

Apple’s polishing cloth is priced is sold both in Apple retail stores and on Apple.com. The cloth has been delayed for months and is just coming to many customers in 2022.
Picture of the Apple Polishing Cloth and unboxing photo

Episode 160, Apple ‘Rings in the New Year’ with 2022 AppleWatch Activity Award



Happy holidays and a joyous New Year. In this episode, we will discuss the announcement that you’ll be able to work towards earning the “Ring in the New Year” activity badge beginning on Saturday, January 1, 2022.

 

AppleWatch users can unlock a special 2022 ‘Ring in the New Year” award in the Activity app and unique stickers for iMessage and FaceTime after completing a meeting a specific goal: close all three Activity rings for seven days in the month.

Episode 158, Apple offers exclusive gifts to music lovers; Fitness+ will feature Prince William on Time to Walk starting Dec. 6



Happy holidays from the Mac Minutes Podcast!  In this episode, we will discuss two special events Apple is offering its users for free this holiday season.  The events are from Apple Music and Fitness +.

It’s the holiday season, and at Apple Music we’re getting into the giving spirit. As we head into the most wonderful time of the year, we’re offering exclusive gifts for Apple Music users — just because we love you.
Fitness+ guides users through engaging workouts led by a diverse and inclusive team of trainers.
The second season of Time to Walk on Apple Fitness+ will close with a special holiday episode featuring Prince William.

Episode 157, Outsmarting the ‘Porch Pirates’ using Ring Doorbell and Deliveries Application



In this episode, we will discuss using technology to outsmart the porch pirates and have a secure shopping season.  We will review Ring Doorbell devices and the Deliveries application available in the Apple App Store.  The combination of using these together will go a long way in ensuring you get your packages this holiday season.

See, hear and speak to visitors from anywhere with the new and improved Video Doorbell. Get real-time notifications on your phone and tablet, customize your motion settings and conveniently stay connected to home, no matter where you are located.
The seven Ring Doorbells from Ring.com which are available ranging in prices from $49.99 to #349.99 (US).
The Deliveries Application icon from the Apple App Store.  The application won an ‘Editor’s Choice’ award and has a 4.8 rating from more than 33,000 users.  The price is $4.99 annually.

Episode 156, SharePlay powers new ways to stay connected and share experiences in FaceTime



In this episode, we will talk about Apple’s announcement Thursday giving SharePlay powers new ways to stay connected and share experiences in FaceTime.  SharePlay is now available with Apple Fitness+, Apple Music, Apple TV+, NBA, Paramount+, SHOWTIME, TikTok, Twitch, and many more apps.  We will discuss the features and practical applications.

With SharePlay, people can now share experiences while connecting with friends on FaceTime, including watching a TV show or movie, listening to music, or completing a workout.
NBA League Pass through the NBA app offers SharePlay support so iPhone and iPad users can watch a recent basketball game or stream the latest game live, and SharePlay will keep the experience in sync for everyone on the FaceTime call.
SharePlay works with Apple Fitness+ so users can work out or meditate together while on a FaceTime call.