Apple today seeded the third beta of an upcoming tvOS 12.1.2 update to developers for testing purposes, three weeks after seeding the second tvOS 12.1.2 beta and a month after releasing tvOS 12.1.1.
Designed for the fourth and fifth-generation Apple TV models, the new tvOS 12.1.2 developer beta can be downloaded onto the Apple TV via a profile that's installed using Xcode.
tvOS updates have historically been minor in scale, focusing on under-the-hood bug fixes and improvements rather than outward-facing changes. Apple unfortunately provides little to no information on what's included in tvOS updates, so we may not discover anything new after installing the beta.
Though we don't often know what's included in tvOS updates, we let users know when new software is available so developers and public beta testers are able to download it upon release. If there are noticeable changes in the third tvOS 12.1.2 beta, we'll update this post with details
Update: Apple has also made a new beta of tvOS 12.1.2 available to public beta testers.
Ring, which was purchased by Amazon last year, today debuted its latest line of home security products. The Ring Door View Cam, its newest doorbell option, is the most notable.
The Door View Cam is designed to replace the viewfinder or peephole built into a front door, and while it doesn't require drilling or permanent door modifications, it does require the removal of the existing peephole.
Ring's Door View Cam fits into the empty space of the viewing hole, filling the space on both sides of the door. It features a rechargeable battery, motion detection, an impact sensor to detect knocking if the doorbell isn't pressed, two-way talk, and 1080p HD video that supports door activity detection, person detection, night vision, and more.
In addition to providing a video feed, the peephole the new Ring camera replaces remains functional. Ring says that the Door View Cam is ideal for apartments and rental locations because of its easy installation.
The Ring Door View Cam will be available in the United States later this year for $199. Ring also plans to release it in UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, Spain, Sweden, Denmark and Finland.
Ring is also adding new accessories to its Ring Alarm security system, including a $35 smoke and carbon monoxide detector, a $35 flood sensor, and a $30 add-on siren, along with new outdoor lights.
All of Ring's products work with Alexa, but despite promising HomeKit for some of its video doorbell devices, Ring is not adding HomeKit compatibility to any of its new devices. The new Ring Door View Cam, like other Ring doorbell options, does not work with HomeKit.
Apple-certified accessory maker Griffin today at CES 2019 announced that it will be releasing a collection of new wireless charging solutions under its PowerBlock and Reserve brands for the iPhone and Apple Watch later this year.
PowerBlock wireless fast charging mat • Supports Apple and Samsung fast wireless charging • Rubberized surface secures phone while charging • Integrated LED indicates charging status • Case compatible; charges through lightweight cases • $59.99 • Available in first quarter of 2019
PowerBlock wireless fast charging mat with Apple Watch dock • Nightstand mode compatible with all generations of Apple Watch • Rubberized surface secures phone while charging • Integrated LED indicates charging status • Charge any Qi-enabled device and Apple Watch simultaneously • $79.99 • Available in first quarter of 2019
PowerBlock wireless charging stand/mat • Easily transitions between charging pad and stand • Supports landscape and portrait mode wireless charging • Compatible with Qi-enabled smartphones • Case compatible; charges through lightweight cases • $39.99 • Available in second quarter of 2019
Reserve wireless charging bank • Built-in 5,000mAh rechargeable battery • Rubberized surface secures phone while charging • Integrated LED indicates charging status • Case compatible; charges through lightweight cases • $39.99 • Available in first quarter of 2019
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Griffin. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission, which helps us keep the site running.
Apple-certified accessory maker Griffin today at CES 2019 announced that it will be releasing a collection of USB-C to Lightning cables and power adapters for the latest Apple devices in the second quarter of 2019.
Griffin will offer basic USB-C to Lightning Cables in four-foot and six-foot sizes for $19.99 and $29.99 respectively in the United States, along with a five-foot option with a more premium braided aluminum design for $34.99. All three cables are pending certification under Apple's Made for iPhone program.
In tandem, Griffin will be releasing three new PowerBlock and PowerJolt power adapters: a wall charger with an 18W USB-C port for $39.99, a wall charger with an 18W USB-C port and 12W USB-A port for $49.99, and a car charger with an 18W USB-C port for $39.99. Each comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable.
USB-C to Lightning cables and power adapters can be used with the 2018 iPad Pro and to fast charge the iPhone 8 and newer.
Last month, Apple informed members of its Made for iPhone program that third-party Lightning to USB-C cables are now permitted to be manufactured, and we're now seeing the first options from Griffin and Belkin and likely others.
The cables and power adapters will be available on Griffin's website.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Griffin. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission, which helps us keep the site running.
Lutron Electronics today announced a new addition to its Caseta smart lighting system, this one focused on making most ceiling fans into "smart" ceiling fans with a new fan speed control switch. Lutron doesn't specifically mention HomeKit compatibility for the new fan controls, but the existing Caseta system does support HomeKit through a smart bridge.
Like it did for regular bulbs, the Caseta by Lutron fan speed control system connects to a user's existing ceiling fan to allow them to wirelessly control the fan from their smartphone, or the physical switch. The fan control doesn't require a canopy module and can be easily added to the Lutron app.
The company says the installation process is as fast as 15 minutes, resulting in four fan speeds and the ability to set a favorite speed setting. Users can call up Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control the fan via their voice, or purchase the added Pico Remote for $42 for manual controls.
The Caseta by Lutron fan speed control system will be available in March for $80. The control will be available in white, ivory, light almond, and black, and is compatible with a single 1.5A ceiling fan, and users will need a neutral wire for installation.
Following in the footsteps of Samsung and Vizio, LG today at CES 2019 announced that AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support is coming to its 2019 smart TVs.
AirPlay 2 support will allow users to stream videos, music, photos, and more directly from an iPhone, iPad, and Mac to new LG smart TVs, complete with lock screen controls. HomeKit support will enable users to easily control the TVs using the Home app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac or Siri voice commands.
LG's press release:
Users can use their own voice to get things done with Amazon Alexa, a new addition to LG's AI TV lineup in 2019, and the support of Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit. With AirPlay 2, users can easily play videos directly from their Apple devices, iTunes and other video apps, music or photos to their LG SIGNATURE OLED TV R. With Apple HomeKit support, customers will be able to control their LG TV using the Home app or by asking Siri.
Harman Kardon has announced its latest series of smart home speakers, the "Citation Series," which combine various hardware designs with Google Assistant, an LCD touch screen, and Chromecast. Sometime in early 2019, the speakers will be updated with AirPlay 2 support, allowing users to wirelessly stream music from an iOS device, Apple TV, or HomePod by asking Siri.
Each speaker in the Citation Series has aluminum detailing paired with wool fabric that's available in Winter Grey or Classic Black color options. Customers can use the speakers individually or build a 5.1-channel surround sound system with multi-channel and multi-room abilities.
The Citation Series has Google Assistant built in, so users can stream music and ask questions by saying "Hey Google" nearby. This will also let them control Android-connected smart home products.
“Consumers increasingly look to their home entertainment systems to do more than just play music,” said Michael Mauser, President, Lifestyle Audio at HARMAN. “While features like voice control and multi-room streaming are becoming standard, the Harman Kardon Citation Series is anything but. The pairing of our unprecedented audio legacy and premium design with smart features and ease of use gives Citation the opportunity to truly transform the listening experience.”
There are numerous speakers in the Citation Series, including multiple countertop speakers, a soundbar, a subwoofer, a tower speaker, and more. These speakers are available to purchase now on Harman Kardon's website, starting at a price of $199.95 for a countertop speaker and rising to $2,499.95 for a pair of tower speakers.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Harman Kardon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
First Alert today announced that it will be previewing a new model of its Safe & Sound smoke and carbon monoxide detector, which doubles as a speaker, at CES 2019 in Las Vegas. The new model will remain compatible with HomeKit, allowing it to be controlled in the Home app on iOS and macOS and with Siri voice commands.
The second-generation Safe & Sound features mesh Wi-Fi technology, delivering expanded and stronger Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the home, according to First Alert. And coming "soon" — that's been the case for awhile — the detector will support AirPlay 2, enabling streaming from Apple devices and multi-room audio.
The detector has a built-in speaker with noise-canceling microphones and is available with either Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant built in. Alexa users, for example, can ask to stream music from Amazon Music or Spotify, read the news, check the weather, control other smart home devices, and so forth.
As for the detector itself, an alarm alerts homeowners on their smartphones in the event of a smoke or carbon monoxide emergency, whether home or away. With exclusive voice and location technology by First Alert, the Safe & Sound alerts users to the type of danger and its location within the home.
First Alert has not revealed pricing or availability for the new Safe & Sound. The original model is currently on sale for $199.99 on Amazon in the United States, down from $249.99 regularly.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission, which helps us keep the site running.
HomeKit support will allow for the smart plug to be controlled in the Home app on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac and with Siri voice commands. It will also be possible to add the smart plug to a HomeKit scene, which lets users control multiple accessories at the same time, such as when arriving home.
This smart plug features a compact design that takes up only one receptacle on a typical double-receptacle wall outlet. They cost $24.99 each or $64.99 for a three-pack on Amazon and at select retailers such as Best Buy in the United States.
TP-Link is introducing seven new Kasa smart home products at CES 2019 in Las Vegas, including a video doorbell, light switch, light strip, security cameras, and additional plugs, which can be controlled with the Kasa Smart app on the App Store, but HomeKit support was not specified for these accessories.
The entire Kasa lineup is, however, compatible with rival platforms Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft Cortana.
HomeKit-enabled smart plugs are quite common, with a wide variety of options available from brands such as Eve, iDevices, iHome, Wemo, and Koogeek. They can be used to conveniently turn on and off TVs, lamps, coffee machines, and other household objects with an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission, which helps us keep the site running.
Vizio today announced that its recent smart TVs will gain support for Apple's wireless streaming protocol AirPlay 2 and smart home platform HomeKit via a free SmartCast 3.0 over-the-air software update later this year.
AirPlay 2 support will allow users to stream videos, music, photos, and more directly from an iPhone, iPad, and Mac to SmartCast-enabled Vizio TVs, complete with lock screen controls. HomeKit support will enable users to easily control the TV using the Home app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac or Siri voice commands.
Vizio says the SmartCast 3.0 update with AirPlay 2 and HomeKit can be tested by registered beta members in the United States and Canada in the first quarter of 2019. The software will be publicly released in the second quarter of 2019 and will also be preinstalled on Vizio's entire 2019 lineup of smart TVs.
The upcoming SmartCast 3.0 update will also add expanded Google Assistant actions for eligible SmartCast TVs. Google Assistant users, for example, will have the ability to use simple voice commands to launch apps, select inputs as well as pause, resume, stop, fast-forward, rewind content, and more.
Amazon Alexa users can also control their TV, and coming later this year, launch apps without lifting a finger, according to Vizio.
Apple recently updated its website with information about how AirPlay 2 and HomeKit will be implemented on smart TVs from "leading TV manufacturers," including Samsung, which is also introducing an iTunes movies and TV shows app that does not appear will be available on Vizio smart TVs at this time.
Sphero, the company behind the now-discountinued Star Wars droid toys, has launched a device called "Specdrums," a wearable ring that plays different music based on the color you tap it against. The Colorado-based startup Specdrums had previously debuted the music-enabled rings a few years ago, but the rings will now be sold under the Sphero brand following an acquisition by Sphero last summer.
The rings work by connecting to an iOS or Android app, and when the user taps Specdrums against a certain color, the app will play a musical note. The company says that this will empower kids of all ages and skill levels to play music on nearly any surface in the world around them.
“Sphero recognizes Specdrums as an opportunity to engage kids at the intersection of arts, math, science and technology, building a parallel framework between coding and music composition,” said Paul Berberian, CEO, Sphero.
“By seeing the world around them as a canvas, kids are able to use Specdrums to create their own songs using coding, which is really exciting for them, their parents and their teachers. Meanwhile, the creative pattern-making of loops and sounds strengthens their math and problem-solving skills.”
The Specdrums Mix app includes customizable sounds so that users can explore musical instruments like drums, a keyboard, and over 100 other instruments. The rings themselves are made from silicon and include motion and light sensors to turn surrounding colors into sound.
Specdrums also come with a multi-color playpad to tap the rings on, but the company encourages users to simply use anything in their vicinity to get started with Specdrums. Specdrums will cost $64.99 for one ring and $99.99 for two rings, and is available to purchase starting today. The first devices will begin shipping the week of January 15, and select retail stores will begin selling the rings in the spring.
Mophie, a popular Apple-certified accessory maker, has today announced that all-new Juice Pack Access battery cases for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR will be available in the first quarter of 2019.
The juice packs extend the battery life of the iPhone XS by up to 25 hours, and the iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR by up to 31 hours, according to Mophie. The cases can be charged with an included USB-C cable or wirelessly on any Qi-certified mat. With pass-through charging, the iPhone charges first, then the case.
The cases have battery capacities of 2,000 mAh for the iPhone XS, 2,200 mAh for the iPhone XS Max, and 2,000 mAh for the iPhone XR. Four LEDs on the back of each case indicate the charged level of the battery pack.
Each case features an impact-resistant polycarbonate exterior with a soft-touch finish, while raised corners provide added protection against scratching and cracking the display. The open-bottom design provides full access to the Lightning connector on each iPhone for normal use of headphones and other accessories.
Mophie says built-in protection circuitry prevents overcharging and overheating, and each juice pack is very likely certified by Apple under its Made for iPhone program, but we're reaching out to the company for confirmation.
The new Juice Pack Access cases for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR will each retail for $119.95 in the United States on Mophie's website, where customers can sign up to be notified when orders begin. The cases will be available in a variety of colors, including black, gold, navy, and red.
Mophie is showcasing the new Juice Pack Access lineup at CES 2019 in Las Vegas. The iPhone XS version is also compatible with the iPhone X.
Tile, known for its range of Bluetooth trackers for finding lost items, today announced partnerships with several major Bluetooth companies that will see the integration of Tile technology onto Bluetooth chips.
Product manufacturers who are interested in using Tile's tracking functionality for various Bluetooth-enabled products will be able to integrate it during production.
"Through BLE chip partnerships, Tile will quickly become a foundational building block for BLE-enabled product manufacturers in a variety of verticals, from audio and cameras, to laptops and wearables," said CJ Prober, CEO of Tile. "With over 20 billion BLE devices forecasted to ship in the next four years, 'Find with Tile' will soon be a key everyday feature in consumer products."
Tile has inked deals with multiple companies that produce Bluetooth chips, including Qualcomm, Dialog Semiconductor, Silicon Labs, and Toshiba. According to Tile, its agreements with these companies will see integrated Tile reference designs and increased platform compatibilities.
Tile is also partnering up with Sennheiser, Sol Republic, Plantronics, and Soundcore by Anker, with all four of these companies set to release Tile-enabled products in 2019. These Tile integrations will allow products to be found using built-in Tile technology if lost.
Tile already has partnerships with companies that include Bose and Skullcandy.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Tile. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Arlo Technologies today announced its new Arlo Ultra 4K wire-free HDR security camera and Arlo Security System, the latter of which is being billed as a comprehensive security solution for the home or business.
The HomeKit-compatible Arlo Ultra 4K HDR video camera features both color and black and white night vision via an LED integrated spotlight, a 180-degree panoramic field-of-view lens, and two-way audio with advanced noise cancelation.
The Arlo Ultra ships with the Arlo SmartHub, which will also become Zigbee and Z-Wave compatible in the second half of 2019, allowing users to control a wide range of "Works with Arlo" certified third-party smart home devices via the Arlo app.
As part of the Arlo ecosystem, the SmartHub will also support the newly announced Arlo Security System, which consists of the Arlo Multi-Sensor, Arlo Siren and Arlo Remote, to form a comprehensive security solution.
The Arlo Multi-Sensor detects windows and doors opening and closing, motion, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, water leaks, temperature changes and more.
The battery-operated Arlo Siren features a loud siren accompanied by a red strobe light to deter intruders. Users can also enable presence simulation to emit audio sounds, such as dog barking or TV audio. In addition, a built-in melody can be activated to notify users of specific events, such as the Multi-Sensor detecting a door opening.
Meanwhile, the Arlo Remote lets owners arm and disarm the system without using the Arlo mobile app. It also features two customizable buttons that can be programed to perform specific actions, such as turning on compatible third-party lights or activating the Arlo Siren in a panic situation.
Pricing starts at $399.99 for the Arlo Ultra single-camera system, which is available now and includes a one-year subscription to Arlo's Smart Premier 30-day video history cloud storage plan. The Arlo Security System will be available in the second half of 2019.
Arlo says that support for Apple HomeKit will be available as an automatic firmware update for Arlo Ultra and Pro 2 camera systems later this quarter.
Smart home tech company Brilliant will be adding HomeKit support to its Brilliant Home Control light switch in spring 2019, Brilliant told MacRumors today.
Introduced in September 2018, Brilliant Control is designed to replace any existing light switch in your home, adding touch and voice control capabilities for a number of smart home platforms.
At launch, Brilliant supported smart home devices from Amazon, Google, Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell, Ring, August, Philips Hue, Sonos, and Wemo, but HomeKit support was left out. That's going to be rectified later this year, with Brilliant announcing the news just ahead of this year's Consumer Electronics Show.
Brilliant Control offers a number of features when paired with other smart home devices. With Sonos, for example, the light switch is able to act as a hub for music playback. With a Ring doorbell, you can view the video feed on the Brilliant Control, and with a Nest, you can adjust temperature through the device without having to access the Nest itself.
Multiple Brilliant Control devices can be paired up to serve as a speaker system and video intercom for house-wide communication purposes, and the display can be used as a picture frame, displaying family photos and other art.
The three grooves on the Brilliant Control serve as sliders for adjusting lighting for the lights attached to the switch the Brilliant Control replaced.
With HomeKit support, HomeKit-enabled devices will be able to be controlled via the voice and touch integrations on the Brilliant Control.
"Brilliant unifies control of smart home devices in a way that is seamless, simple and accessible throughout the home," said Aaron Emigh, CEO and co-founder of Brilliant. "This new integration with HomeKit will soon give Brilliant owners who have invested in the Apple ecosystem even more functionality and convenience."
Brilliant Control is available in six colors and is priced starting at $299 for a one light switch panel. Pricing goes up to $349 for a two switch panel, $399 for a three switch panel, and $449 for a four switch panel.
The HomeKit update will be delivered as an over-the-air firmware update to all Brilliant Control owners in the spring of 2019.
Following its recent acquisition by Legrand, French company Netatmo has announced an Apple HomeKit compatible smart doorbell at CES 2019.
The Smart Video Doorbell features a typical design that includes a 1080p camera at the top with 160-degree lens and built-in motion sensor, two-way communication via built-in speaker and microphone, and a button at the bottom for visitors to ring.
The HomeKit support means that users can receive an instant iOS notification when someone rings the doorbell which enables them to jump straight into the Home app to see who's at the door.
The Apple HomeKit integration also extends to automation rules, so users can set up trigger actions like turning on outdoor smart lights when motion is detected. Other smart services like IFTTT are also supported.
The Netatmo Smart Doorbell stores video on an onboard microSD card and doesn't need a subscription like some other doorbell security systems. Owners can also choose to automatically save videos in a personal Dropbox or FTP server.
On the other hand, Netatmo's product is designed to be a straight doorbell replacement, so a wired connection is required to get it up and running. Pricing information has yet to be disclosed but product availability is expected in the second half of 2019.
French consumer electronics company Withings has announced a trio of new wearable products at CES, including a three-in-one health monitor and two smartwatches, one with electrocardiogram (ECG) capability.
The health monitor is an upper arm cuff called the BPM Core that can take blood pressure, valvular health, and ECG readings, the latter of which can identify atrial fibrillation or irregular heartbeat in users.
The cuff inflates to take the blood pressure readings and heart-rate measurements, and displays them on the built-in LED matrix display, which includes instant traffic-light feedback showing normal, moderate, and high blood pressure readings.
To use the ECG function, the wearer has to place the hand of their other arm on the stainless steel sensor for 20 seconds, while the digital stethoscope involves placing a sensor on the user's chest for 20 seconds. In-depth results are sent wirelessly to the Withings Health Mate app.
Withings says its BPM Core is currently awaiting FDA clearance but that the cuff should go on sale for $249 in the second quarter of this year.
The company's two new analog-face fitness trackers come under the Move moniker and both track activity and sleep, with the Move ECG also able to take electrocardiogram readings when users touch both sides of the bezel.
The watches can recognize activities including running, walking, and swimming, feature water resistance up to 50 meters and up to 12 months of battery life.
The Move will initially be available in five color options priced at $70, with pre-orders now open and shipping expected to begin on February 5. The Move ECG comes in white and black, costing $130, and will be available in the second quarter of 2019. See the Withings website for more information.
At this year's Consumer Electronics Show, which takes place this week, popular iPhone accessory maker Belkin is introducing a number of new products, including new cables, chargers, and power banks.
Cables
Belkin is introducing several new Boost Charge cables in various lengths including 4ft, 6ft, and 10ft. All of the cables come equipped with a leather strap for organization purposes, putting an end to tangles, and there's a new speckled design available in black and white.
Cables are priced between $24.99 and $34.99, and will be available from the Belkin website in spring 2019. Belkin plans to offer USB-A to Lightning cables, USB-A to USB-C cables, and USB-C to Lightning cables. Belkin will be one of the first third-party companies to come out with a USB-C to Lightning cable, as Apple only recently began allowing accessory companies to offer them.
Chargers
Belkin is introducing both a USB-C Car Charger and a USB-C Home Charger, both of which come equipped with included 4ft USB-C cables. The USB-C chargers are ideal for charging the iPad Pro, MacBook, or iPhones with a USB-C to USB-A cable.
Belkin says the chargers are compatible with all QuickCharge and Power Delivery Devices up to 27W. The Car Charger and Home Charger will be priced from $39.99 to $44.99 and will be available in spring 2019 from the Belkin website.
Power Bank
Along with new cables and charger options, Belkin is debuting a Boost Charge Power Bank USB-C 20K, a 20,000mAh charger able to fast charge the 11-inch iPad Pro and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro through an included USB-C cable.
It can also fast charge an iPhone when used with a USB-C to Lightning cable, and there's an additional 12W USB-A port for charging USB-A devices. Belkin says the power bank supports most USB-C devices, including the MacBook and Nintendo Switch.
Belkin plans to begin offering the Boost Charge Power in spring 2019 from the Belkin website.
Lightning Headphones
Belkin's final Belkin-branded product debuting at CES is a set of Rockstar Lightning headphones, ideal for all devices that no longer feature a headphone jack.
The headphones feature silicone ear tips for enhanced fit and seal for noise isolation, and they're sweat and water resistant. Belkin says they've been designed for comfort and quality performance, with enhanced durability that prevents cable strain.
The Rockstar Headphones with Lightning connector will be available in summer 2019, with Belkin also planning to launch headphones with a USB-C connector later this year.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Belkin. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
