MacRumors

Apple Releases Fourth Beta of macOS Mojave to Public Beta Testers

Tuesday July 31, 2018 10:29 am PDT by Juli Clover

Apple today seeded the fourth beta of an upcoming macOS Mojave update to its public beta testing group, two weeks seeding the third macOS Mojave public beta. Today's fourth public beta is the same as the fifth developer beta released earlier this week.

Beta testers who have signed up for Apple's beta testing program can download the macOS Mojave beta through the Software Update mechanism in the Mac App Store. Subsequent betas are installed in a different way, using the Software Update icon in System Preferences.

Those who want to be a part of Apple's beta testing program can sign up to participate through the beta testing website, which gives users access to iOS, macOS, and tvOS betas. Potential beta testers should make a full Time Machine backup before installing macOS Mojave, and it should not be installed on a primary machine because betas are unstable and often have serious bugs.

Today's macOS Mojave update introduces several new wallpapers appropriate for use with Dark Mode. There are several wallpapers that feature images of the Mojave desert, along with new abstract oil slick-style wallpapers, new dark flower wallpapers, images that have been used to promote recent Mac refreshes, and more.

macOS Mojave's main new feature is a systemwide Dark Mode, which gives Mac users a new way to view the operating system. A revamped Mac App Store makes it easier than ever to discover great apps, while Dynamic Desktops give you wallpapers that subtly change throughout the day.

An improved Finder window with Gallery View, Sidebar, Quick Look, and Quick Actions makes it easier to manipulate, edit, and organize your files, while Desktop Stacks organizes all of the files on your desktop.

The Apple News, Stocks, Home, and Voice Memos apps have made their way to the Mac in Mojave, and for the first time, you can use Siri on Mac to control HomeKit products. Group FaceTime, an iOS 12 feature, is also available in Mojave and lets you chat with up to 32 people at one time.

Apple is keeping your data safer than ever with new security and privacy improvements, and Safari in macOS Mojave makes it much harder to track you through share/like buttons and via your system configuration.

macOS Mojave is compatible with 2015 and newer MacBooks, 2012 and newer MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac models, the 2017 iMac Pro, and Mac Pro models from late 2013 and mid-2010 and mid-2012 models with Metal-capable GPUs.

Mojave will be available in a beta capacity for the next several months so Apple can work out bugs ahead of a fall release.

Related Forum: macOS Mojave

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Apple Seeds Fourth Beta of tvOS 12 to Public Beta Testers

Tuesday July 31, 2018 10:06 am PDT by Juli Clover

Apple today seeded the fourth beta of an upcoming tvOS 12 update to its public beta testing group, giving non-developers a chance to try out the new software ahead of its fall public release. Today's fourth beta comes two weeks after Apple released the third tvOS 12 public beta, and it corresponds to the fifth developer beta released earlier this week.

The tvOS 12 public beta can be obtained by going to the Settings app on the Apple TV and navigating to the Software Updates section under "System." "Get Public Beta Updates" will need to be toggled on, and once it is, the Apple TV will download the beta software.

tvOS 12 introduces long-awaited support for Dolby Atmos, and when tvOS 12 launches this fall, iTunes will be home to the largest collection of Dolby Atmos-supported movies. As with the launch of 4K HDR, previously purchased content will be upgraded to include Dolby Atmos on all supported titles at no cost.

tvOS 12 features a zero sign-on option that lets cable subscribers watch live channels and on-demand programs they're entitled to through their cable subscription simply by being logged into their home internet networks. This feature will be limited to Charter Spectrum users to begin with, but Apple plans to expand it to additional providers in the future.

Other tvOS 12 features include the ability to autofill passwords from the iPhone to sign into Apple TV apps more quickly, and support for Home Control systems like Crestron and Savant, which will be able to be used to control the Apple TV.

Apple has also made the Apple TV Remote a default option in Control Center on iOS devices with the iOS 12 beta, there are new aerial screensavers created with help from the International Space Station, and aerial screensavers now offer up location information.

tvOS 12 will see a public launch this fall, and until that time, will be limited to developers and public beta testers as Apple works out bugs and other issues.

Related Roundup: Apple TV

Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)

Related Forum: Apple TV and Home Theater

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Apple Releases Fourth Public Beta of iOS 12

Tuesday July 31, 2018 10:06 am PDT by Juli Clover

Apple today seeded the fourth public beta of iOS 12 to public beta testers, giving non-developers a chance to test the software ahead of its upcoming fall release. The fourth iOS 12 public beta, which comes two weeks after the third public beta, corresponds to the fifth developer beta released earlier this week.

Beta testers who have signed up for Apple's beta testing program will receive the iOS 12 beta update over-the-air after installing the proper certificate on an iOS device.

Those who want to join the beta testing program can sign up on Apple's beta testing website, which gives users access to iOS, macOS, and tvOS betas. Before installing a beta, make sure to create a full encrypted iTunes backup or an iCloud backup and be sure to install iOS 12 on a secondary device because beta software is not always stable and can include bugs.

Today's iOS 12 beta introduces several new bugs that testers should be aware of:

After restarting a device, paired Bluetooth accessories might not function correctly or might be displayed using the device's address instead of name.
Using Apple Pay Cash to send or request money via Siri might result in an error.
When using CarPlay, Siri can't open an app by name. Shortcuts that involve opening an app won't work, and Shortcuts that require confirmation might not work.
Some Shortcuts requests might not work.
When multiple ride-sharing apps are installed, Siri might open an app instead of providing an ETA or location when asked. Apple suggests asking again as a fix.
Users might not see custom UI when using Siri Suggestions Shortcuts with built-in intents.

Several existing bugs have been addressed in the update, including error messages in the App Store when attempting to install an app, an inaccurate cellular signal bar on iPhone X while on Lock screen or Home screen, a bug that caused Wallet to crash on launch, and a failure for Screen Time usage and data settings to sync between devices. Shortcuts will also mostly work in CarPlay now, and will be restored from iCloud backups.

Other changes in the new iOS 12 beta: Screen Time in the Settings app no longer lists family members who aren't children, it needs to be reenabled after updating to the new beta, and there are hints of a future HomePod software update that will enable phone calls directly from the speaker. For more details on the beta, check out our iOS 12 beta 5 developer article.

The iOS 12 update introduces major changes like Group FaceTime, local multiplayer shared AR experiences, new Animoji, and a Memoji feature that's designed to let you create a personalized Animoji that looks just like you.

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Animoji, stickers, text, and more can be used in FaceTime and the Messages app through the new Effects camera, and there's a Screen Time feature to help customers understand and manage the amount of time they're spending on their iOS devices. There are options to limit app time and it includes comprehensive controls for parents.

New Do Not Disturb features make it easier to manage notifications, as do interactive notification options and notification grouping on the Lock screen.

Siri has been improved in iOS 12 with Siri Shortcuts, a feature designed to work with third-party apps to let you create voice-activated automations, and Siri is also smarter and able to provide info on motorsports, food, and celebrities. Later in the year, Apple will launch a Shortcuts app so you can create your own shortcuts.

Under-the-hood improvements to iOS 12 will make everyday tasks on the iPhone and iPad faster and more responsive, with the camera launching up to 70 percent faster and the keyboard showing up to 50 percent faster.

iOS 12 also includes a rebuilt Maps app with a new Apple-designed Maps engine that's available in Northern California at the current time. When iOS 12 launches in the fall, it will additional locations across the United States.

The revamped Maps app displays foliage, pools, buildings, pedestrian pathways, and other map elements more accurately, and it brings improvements to traffic, real-time road conditions, construction notices, and more.

iOS 12 will be available to developers and public beta testers as a beta for the next two months to allow Apple to work out bugs and other issues ahead of a fall launch alongside new iPhones.

Related Forum: iOS 12

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Twelve South Launches 'AirSnap' Leather Carrying Case for AirPods

Tuesday July 31, 2018 9:15 am PDT by Mitchel Broussard

Twelve South today revealed its latest Apple accessory called the "AirSnap," which is a case made for AirPods and aimed at making the wireless headphones easier to keep handy thanks to an attached metal clip.

AirSnap is made from full-grain leather and helps to protect both the AirPods and AirPods case while on-the-go. The bottom of the case has a cutout so that you don't have to remove the AirPods from the AirSnap to charge them.

Twelve South says one of the main features of AirSnap is the carabiner style metal clip:

AirSnap features a carabiner style clip allowing you to attach this little case to a backpack, purse, keychain or anything else that goes wherever your AirPods need to go. By connecting AirSnap to your bag, you’ll know both your AirPods and Charging Case will be with you. The black carabiner also swivels, making it easy to grab or put your AirPods away.

Those interested can purchase AirSnap from TwelveSouth's website for $29.99 in Deep Teal and Black, and a Cognac version is available to pre-order and should ship the week of August 6.

The AirSnap follows the launch of Twelve South's last product, which was also designed for AirPods, called "AirFly." That accessory acts as an adapter so that you can use AirPods (or any Bluetooth headphones) where only wired headphone jacks are available, like on a plane, at the gym, or with the Nintendo Switch.

Tag: Twelve South

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Workplaces Increasingly Seeking Freelancers With Xcode and UIKit Expertise

Tuesday July 31, 2018 8:43 am PDT by Joe Rossignol

Upwork, the largest global freelancing website, today shared a list of the top 20 fastest growing skills in the U.S. freelance job market, providing a closer look at trends in the industry.

Apple's design framework for iOS and tvOS apps, UIKit, and its development tool, Xcode, both made the list in the second quarter of 2018:

Blockchain
Google Cloud Platform
Volusion
Risk management
Product photography
Rapid prototyping
Google App Engine API
SCORM
GitLab
Go development
Apple UIKit
Enterprise architecture
Tensorflow
Atlassian Confluence
Apple Xcode
eLearning
Customer retention
Articulate storyline
Node.js
Scala development

Upwork says more companies are seeking freelance developers with Xcode knowledge to build their apps, causing an "increase in demand" for experience with the tool. UIKit also saw "high growth" last quarter, making its first appearance on the list.

Upwork shared a list of relevant online courses for each skill listed, including UIKit and Xcode, for those interested in getting started.

Tags: UIKit, Xcode

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Deals: AirPods for $144.99, 4K iTunes Movies Sale, and Latest Anker Discount Codes

Tuesday July 31, 2018 8:08 am PDT by Mitchel Broussard

Apple's AirPods are seeing a rare and notable discount today at two retailers, with the wireless earphone accessory marked down to $144.99 at both Amazon and Adorama.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Straight discounts on AirPods don't come around very often and these are all-time-low prices for the accessory at both retailers, although they have been slightly cheaper for those using sitewide discount codes at places like eBay. So if you have been waiting for a price drop on AirPods, head over to Amazon or Adorama and place your order soon.

We've also got a new collection of Anker discounts to highlight today:

True-Wireless Earphones Soundcore Liberty Lite - $64.99 with code SDCLBT66, down from $79.99 (exp. 8/5)
PowerWave 7.5 Pad, 7.5W Fast Wireless Charger - $31.99 with code POWERAAA, down from $39.99 (exp. 8/5)
SoundBuds Slim+ Wireless Headphones - $21.99 with code SDBUDS01, down from $29.99 (exp. 8/7)
PowerLine+ Lightning Cable (6ft, Red) with Pouch - $12.74 with code ANKER229, down from $16.99 (exp. 8/14)
Roav Bluetooth Receiver - $15.99 with code ROAVB288, down from $22.99 (exp. 8/14)

As it does every Tuesday, Apple today updated the iTunes Movies store with a new crop of film releases and discounts to help boost your iTunes Movies library. There are a few notable discounts on recent 4K releases, as well as many Disney films marked down by $5-$10, which you can check out below:

Ready Player One (4K) - $12.99, down from $19.99
Blockers (4K) - $9.99, down from $14.99
Early Man (4K) - $7.99, down from $14.99
Isle of Dogs (4K) - $9.99, down from $19.99
Maze Runner: The Death Cure (4K) - $9.99, down from $14.99
Bolt - $9.99, down from $19.99
Frozen - $14.99, down from $19.99
The Princess and the Frog - $14.99, down from $19.99
Tangled - $14.99, down from $19.99
Mulan - $14.99, down from $19.99

Costco members, also remember that if you're looking to buy some of these movies on sale, you can stock up on iTunes credit at a discount this week with $100 iTunes gift cards for $84.49 and $25 gift cards for $21.49. Head over to our full Deals Roundup for more information on the latest sales going on as we enter August.

Related Roundup: Apple Deals

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Apple Outlines Macs, iPads, and Other Products Eligible for State Sales Tax Holidays

Tuesday July 31, 2018 7:55 am PDT by Joe Rossignol

Apple has outlined which of its products are eligible for sales tax holidays in a handful of U.S. states over the coming days.

The sales tax holidays run from August 3 to August 5 in Missouri, New Mexico, South Carolina, and Virginia, and from August 1 to August 5 in Wisconsin. Sales tax holidays in Alabama and Tennessee have already ended.

Apple will not collect sales tax on eligible products in those states during the aforementioned dates. This typically includes Macs, iPads, the iPod touch, and related accessories, like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard.

Each state has different rules, however, so check Apple's website for a list of qualifying products, dollar limits, and other conditions.

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MoviePass Will Increase Price of Standard Plan to $14.95/Month in August

Tuesday July 31, 2018 7:50 am PDT by Mitchel Broussard

One day after MoviePass CEO Mitch Lowe announced that subscribers will not be allowed to see select major movies like "Christopher Robin" and "The Meg," the company today announced a price hike for subscribers to its standard plan. The price of this $9.95/month tier will increase to $14.95/month "within the next 30 days," according to a press release shared today.

This increase comes just under one year since MoviePass first began making headlines by dropping its subscription price to $9.95/month, allowing users to see one movie per day and saving money for those who visit the theater often. Now, following ongoing stock price drops, a new "Peak Pricing" feature, and a recent service blackout caused by a sudden lack of money, MoviePass is struggling to stay afloat.

Today's press release also reiterates on the company's plan to limit availability of "First Run Movies" that open on 1,000+ screens (which is typically any major studio release) during their first two weeks, "unless made available on a promotional basis." This refers to films that MoviePass partly owns under its subsidiary MoviePass Ventures, gaining revenue through box office ticket sales on movies like "American Animals" and "Gotti."

According to the company, its goal is to "enhance discovery" and "drive attendance" to smaller independent films like these, and as such has decided to limit ticket availability for "blockbuster" films. MoviePass also admits that it will save money by restricting its subscribers from being able to see movies like "Mission: Impossible Fallout" and "The Meg."

In an effort to maintain the integrity of the MoviePass mission, to enhance discovery, and to drive attendance to smaller films and bolster the independent film community, MoviePass will begin to limit ticket availability to Blockbuster films. This change has already begun rolling out, with Mission Impossible 6 being the first film included in the measure.

This is a strategic move by the company to both limit cash burn and stay loyal to its mission to empower the smaller artistic film communities. Major studios will continue to be able to partner with MoviePass to promote their first run films, seeding them with a valuable moviegoing audience.

The company says that these new cost-reduction measures will cut monthly burn by 60 percent. In the end, Lowe says that these changes are "meant to protect the longevity" of the company, although it's still unclear exactly how long MoviePass will be around.

Tag: MoviePass

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Mazda to Begin Offering CarPlay in September

Tuesday July 31, 2018 6:13 am PDT by Joe Rossignol

Mazda today detailed long-awaited availability of its first vehicle with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the United States.

Starting in September, existing owners of the 2018 Mazda6, excluding the Sport base model, will be able to book an appointment with a Mazda dealership to have CarPlay and Android Auto installed at no extra cost. Mazda says the hardware and software updates take approximately two hours to be completed.

The upgraded Mazda6 models will also receive a faster-charging 2.1-amp USB port, and the latest software version of MAZDA CONNECT.

Then, starting in November, CarPlay and Android Auto will be preinstalled as original equipment in brand new 2018 Mazda6 vehicles, excluding the Sport model, at Mazda dealerships across the United States.

CarPlay will enable iPhone users to access a range of apps from the MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system, such as Messages, Apple Maps, Apple Music, Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Radio, Pandora, WhatsApp, Downcast, Slacker Radio, Stitcher, and, starting with iOS 12, Google Maps and Waze.

Back in March, on its Canadian website, Mazda said CarPlay and Android Auto will first be offered in the 2019 CX‑9, and then rolled out across the entire model lineup thereafter. Mazda also said the platforms will be available as a genuine retrofit for MAZDA CONNECT systems starting this fall.

Mazda also announced the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support to its vehicle line-up. In Canada, these mobile device connectivity technologies will first be offered in the 2019 CX‑9 launching this summer, and then rolled out across the entire model line-up thereafter. In addition, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available as a Genuine Mazda Accessory retrofit for MAZDA CONNECT systems starting this fall.

The press release suggests that Mazda vehicles released as early as 2014 could eventually support CarPlay and Android Auto, but it's unclear if the backwards compatibility will extend to the United States.

Mazda is one of the last major automakers in the United States to offer CarPlay, around six months after Toyota and Lexus announced support.

Update: Here's a video walkthrough of CarPlay in the 2018 Mazda6. Thanks, Eli.

Related Roundup: CarPlay

Tag: Mazda

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Apple Store App Offers Free Redeem Codes for 'Obscura 2' Camera App

Tuesday July 31, 2018 4:40 am PDT by Tim Hardwick

The official Apple Store app for iOS devices has recently undergone changes in design and function, but Apple still occasionally uses it to host time-limited offers to download select paid apps for free.

From today, users who scroll down the Discover tab should find an option to download camera app Obscura 2 for free via a redeem code, rather than paying $4.99 to download it from the App Store.

Obscura brings together incredible features in an easy-to-use interface that helps you take great photos, without getting in your way. It has a bunch of gorgeous filters to make your photos pop, and plenty of pro features to help push your photography skills further.

Obscura 2 allows users to shoot in a range of formats including RAW, HEIC, JPEG, Live Photo, and Portrait modes, and offers 19 filters designed for use with a wide range of scenes.

The Obscura camera features also provide flash control, grids, shutter time, and spirit level, while a dedicated library browser lets you edit, share, copy, favorite, hide, delete, and trash your pictures.

To download the app for free, tap on the featured app in the Discover section of the Apple Store app, tap Download now for free, and you will be redirected to the App Store's Redeem code screen. Your free redeem code should already be entered – all you need to do is tap Redeem in the upper right corner to begin downloading the app.

The offer to download Obscura for free through the Apple Store iOS app expires on September 25, 2018. Note that free app offers usually vary from region to region.

Tag: Apple Store

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Hands-On Video Shows Alleged 6.5-inch iPhone X Plus and 6.1-inch LCD iPhone Dummy Units

Tuesday July 31, 2018 3:48 am PDT by Tim Hardwick

Mobile leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer this morning shared a hands-on video featuring alleged dummy units of the upcoming 6.5-inch iPhone X Plus and 6.1-inch LCD iPhone, just two days after rival leaker Ben Geskin posted images of two similar-looking dummy units.

The video, provided by Tigermobiles.com, offers a clearer view size-wise of the two new Face ID-equipped all-screen models, which are expected to accompany a second-generation iPhone X in Apple's 2018 smartphone line-up, due to launch in the fall.

Besides size, the clearest differentiator between the two handsets is the dual-lens rear camera on the iPhone X Plus and the single-lens on the 6.1-inch LCD iPhone. Both lenses clearly protrude from the back of the chassis.

Both models in the video feature a shiny silver frame, although Geskin's images depicted a frame on the 6.5-inch device that better matched the body color, similar to the current-generation iPhone X. Apple is thought to be using a steel frame on the larger device and an aluminum frame on the 6.1-inch iPhone as a cost-saving measure. Less clear on the video are the larger bezels on the 6.1-inch device to accommodate the lower-spec LCD display.

The dummy units used here both have white backs; well-connected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the next-generation iPhone X models will be available in Black, White, and Gold, while the 6.1-inch model could come in a wide array of colors, including red, blue, orange, gray, and white.

Dummy units are typically based on design schematics leaked from Apple's supply chain in China, and these handsets tally with the rumors we've heard already, but we'll have to wait for Apple's official iPhone launch in September or thereabouts for the full story on the new smartphones' full feature set.

Related Forum: iPhone

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Logitech Acquires Blue Microphones for $117 Million in Cash

Tuesday July 31, 2018 1:41 am PDT by Tim Hardwick

Logitech has announced its acquisition of Blue, the California-based maker of studio-quality microphones, in a $117 million cash deal.

Blue, creator of the popular Yeti and Snowball microphone lines, will join Logitech's portfolio of other brands, which includes Jaybird, Ultimate Ears, and ASTRO gaming.

In a blog post, Logitech CEO Bracken Darrell explained how the acquisition would allow the firm to expand into the growing broadcast market and complement its existing range of accessory products.

Logitech's acquisition of Blue Microphones will accelerate our entry into a growing market, and offers another way for us to help bring people's passions (from music to blogging) to life. Joining with Blue is an adjacent opportunity for us – a new way to grow – with additional synergies related to our existing gaming, PC webcam and audio categories.

In a separate blog post, Blue Microphones CEO John Maier said he was "super excited" about the partnership, which would allow his firm to continue making "the coolest microphones on the planet".

All of us here at Blue will keep creating cool stuff for professional musicians, gamers, podcasters, YouTubers, and streamers; Logitech will help us conquer the world. It's a great partnership full of possibilities.

Logitech has gained a favorable reputation for acquiring companies with a view to investing in established brands, so the purchase shouldn't overly concern fans of Blue products going forward.

Tag: Logitech

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WhatsApp for iOS Gains Group Calling for Voice and Video

Monday July 30, 2018 5:26 pm PDT by Juli Clover

Popular Facebook-owned messaging app WhatsApp this afternoon announced that the WhatsApp apps for iOS and Android devices now support group calling for voice and video.

WhatsApp users can make group calls with up to four people total by starting a one-on-one voice or video call and then tapping the "add participant" button in the top right corner of the app to add another contact to the call.

WhatsApp says that its group calls are end-to-end encrypted and designed to work reliably around the world in a variety of different network conditions.

The feature, which was first announced by Facebook in May at its F8 developer event, is rolling out to iPhone and Android users and should be available to all users soon.

WhatsApp can be downloaded from the App Store for free. [Direct Link]

Tag: WhatsApp

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MoviePass CEO Says Subscribers Will Be Restricted From Seeing Upcoming Major Movies

Monday July 30, 2018 3:57 pm PDT by Juli Clover

Business is not going smoothly for movie subscription service MoviePass, which is supposed to allow customers to watch one movie in theaters per a day for a $9.95 per month subscription pass.

Amid funding issues and a deep drop in stock prices, MoviePass CEO Mitch Lowe today held an all-hands meeting where he told employees that customers will be restricted from seeing major movie releases that include "Christopher Robin" and "The Meg."

MoviePass' Peak Pricing

The information comes courtesy of an employee who shared the news with Business Insider, and it comes just after MoviePass prevented many of its subscribers from seeing "Mission Impossible: Fallout," the major movie release last weekend.

In addition to informing employees that subscribers will not be able to see "Christopher Robin" and "The Meg," on opening weekend Business Insider says that Lowe also "implied that the practice of not offering tickets to major movies would continue for the foreseeable future." Lowe's announcement echoed a statement MoviePass released over the weekend suggesting that "certain movies may not always be available in every theater on our platform."

"Christopher Robin" is set to be released this weekend, while "The Meg" comes out on August 10.

MoviePass has been forced to restrict access to popular movies due to financing issues, with reports indicating the service was down last week after parent company Helios & Matheson ran out of money, only restoring the service after securing a loan for millions.

To prevent another shutdown, customers in many markets were not permitted to see "Mission Impossible: Fallout," and MoviePass has also implemented surge pricing for popular titles that customers have complained are affecting nearly every movie even at non-peak times.

Image via Twitter

At the time of this article, MoviePass appears to be down once again, with subscribers seeing a blank screen instead of movie options. MoviePass has not yet commented on today's outage, but the MoviePass website continues to allow new subscribers to sign up.

Tag: MoviePass

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Google Maps for iOS Updated With 'Match' Customized Restaurant Recommendations

Monday July 30, 2018 3:18 pm PDT by Juli Clover

Google Maps was today updated with a new "Match" feature that's designed to offer up personalized restaurant recommendations based on a user's customized tastes.

The Match option allows users to tap on a food or drink spot to see if they're likely to enjoy a new spot based on past restaurant visiting history. The update also includes a list of how many restaurants have been visited in the Explore tabs trending feature.

Thanks for using Google Maps!

- Our new "match" feature will help you find your one true love. And by love, we mean your next favorite cheeseburger. Tap on a food or drink spot to see how likely you are to enjoy it based on your unique preferences - so you can spend more time eating and less time searching for places to go.

- When viewing trending lists in the Explore tab, you can now see how many restaurants you've been to. Keep discovering and going to new places to complete a list!

Google's Match feature was first outlined in May at Google I/O, and it rolled out for Android users in June before expanding to iOS users today.

Recommendations will take into account food and drink preferences selected in Google Maps, places you've been to, and places you've rated or added to a list. Scores for restaurants will get smarter over time with usage.

Google Maps can be downloaded from the iOS App Store for free. [Direct Link]

Tags: Google, Google Maps

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Apple Hires Creator of Virtual Reality Cyber Paint App

Monday July 30, 2018 2:13 pm PDT by Juli Clover

Apple recently hired Sterling Crispin, a new virtual reality hire who developed a painting app for mobile VR headsets, reports Variety.

Called "Cyber Paint," Crispin's app is designed to allow VR headset wearers to create 2D and 360-degree pictures. Cyber Paint is available for Oculus Go, Daydream, GearVR, and Vive Focus.

According to his LinkedIn page, Crispin joined Apple in May 2018 as a "prototyping researcher," an interesting title given Apple's rumored interest in virtual reality.

Apple is said to have a secret research unit composed of hundreds of employees who are working on AR and VR and exploring the ways the two emerging technologies can be used in future Apple products.

Rumors have suggested Apple is developing multiple AR/VR headset prototypes, including a headset that would feature an 8K display for each eye and would work with both virtual and augmented reality applications. This device is not tied to a mobile device and reportedly works with a dedicated box using high-speed short-range wireless technology.

There have also been multiple reports of Apple's work on augmented reality smart glasses with a dedicated display, a built-in processor, and an "rOS" or reality operating system based on iOS.

Prior to developing his Cyber Paint app, Crispin served as a lead UX designer at DAQRI, where he worked on software developed for augmented reality and head mounted displays, and before that, he was a freelance VR developer, so he has both AR and VR experience.

Apple has made several AR/VR-related hires and acquisitions in recent years, all of which are outlined in our dedicated AR/VR roundup. Acquisitions include Vrvana, a company that developed a mixed reality headset called Totem.

It's not entirely clear when we might see an AR or VR headset from Apple, but multiple rumors have suggested Apple is aiming for a 2019 to 2020 launch date for such a device.

Related Roundup: Apple Vision Pro

Buyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now)

Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro

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Deals: Sprint's iPhone 8 Flash Sale, Nike's Apple Watch Discounts, and Last Call for Exclusive RAVPower Codes

Monday July 30, 2018 12:03 pm PDT by Mitchel Broussard

Sprint today announced a new promotion for customers adding a new line of service over the next few days, this time focusing on the iPhone 8. Under the new offer, new and existing customers who add a new line can get the 64GB iPhone 8 for $8 per month with Sprint Flex.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

The flash sale will kick off tomorrow, July 31, and run through Thursday, August 9, available on Sprint's website and through over-the-phone orders. Sprint's announcement also follows the reveal of its new "Unlimited Plus" and "Unlimited Basic" smartphone plans earlier in the month.

"Sprint’s Flash Sale is delivering a fast, simple and convenient online shopping experience, something we know consumers crave," said Dow Draper, Sprint chief commercial officer. "This is the first time Sprint has offered iPhone 8 at the unbelievably low price of only $8 a month with Sprint Flex. Now is the perfect time to become a customer because Sprint has the network built for unlimited at the best price. Don’t wait; iPhone 8 for $8 a month will only be available until Aug. 9."

There are a few other deals going on today, starting off with savings on App Store and iTunes gift cards exclusively for Costco members. Those with a member account can get the $100 iTunes e-gift card for $84.49 and the $25 iTunes e-gift card for $21.49, coming just under the usual 15 percent discounts the cards see at other retailers.

On eBay, customers have the chance to save 10 percent on back-to-school shopping with the company's latest coupon. This one isn't a sitewide code, but instead focuses on items including backpacks, laptops, cameras, dorm essentials, and more sold by select sellers (you can find the full list at the bottom of this landing page). Once you find eligible items worth $25 or more, enter the code PUMPED10 at checkout to get 10 percent off your order through 11:59 p.m. PT on August 3.

At Rakuten, third-party seller BuyDig has again discounted the Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones (Black) to their all-time-low price of $181.90 with code BYD37, down from $219.00 and coming about $50 under the current $240 price tag at Walmart and Amazon. Rakuten has also kicked off a new 15 percent off sitewide sale, giving customers the chance to save on a variety of products using promo code SAVE15.

Another notable sale this week is Nike's 20 percent off promo code HOT20, which you can apply to Apple Watch and band accessories found on this page. With this sale, the most expensive Aluminum Apple Watch Series 3 model (GPS + Cellular, 42mm) is marked down to $343.20, down from $429.99. Likewise, Nike's Sport Bands and a few Sport Loops are available for $39.20, down from $49.99.

Finishing off today's deals is a list of accessories sold on Amazon from companies including Anker, RAVPower, and Choetech, many of which will be expiring as July comes to a close this week so consider this your last-call warning for these discounts:

Last Call: MacRumors + RAVPower Exclusive Codes, expiring July 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT

Dual USB Car Charger with 3ft Lightning Cable - $8.39 with code RUMORS025, down from $11.99
Ultra-Slim Wireless Charging Pad - $8.49 with code RUMORS083, down from $11.99
2-Pack 3ft + 6ft MFi Certified iPhone Cables - $11.99 with code RUMORS003, down from $15.99
40W 4-Port USB Wall Charger - $13.99 with code RUMORSC26, down from $17.99
10,000 mAh Portable Charger - $20.99 with code RUMORS077, down from $29.99
10,000 mAh Solar Portable Charger - $23.99 with code RUMORS082, down from $29.99
22,000 mAh Power Bank with USB-C - $37.49 with code RUMORS009, down from $49.99
27,000 mAh AC Plug Universal Power Bank - $99.99 with code RUMORS055, down from $129.99

Last Call: Choetech's Fast Wireless Charging Stand for $13.99 with code MACHOT52, down from $19.99

Be sure to head over to our full Deals Roundup for information on more sales kicking off this week.

Related Roundup: Apple Deals

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Apple Seeds Fifth Beta of iOS 12 to Developers [Updated]

Monday July 30, 2018 10:05 am PDT by Juli Clover

Apple today seeded the fifth beta of an upcoming iOS 12 update to developers for testing purposes, two weeks after seeding the fourth beta and more than a month after introducing the new software at the Worldwide Developers Conference.

Registered developers can download the new iOS 12 beta from Apple's Developer Center or over-the-air after installing the proper certificate.

Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more videos.

iOS 12 introduces major updates to iOS, with Apple revamping the operating system from top to bottom to make iPhones and iPads, especially older models, faster and more responsive.

On the iPhone X, there are new Animoji characters along with "Memoji," which are customizable, personalized Animoji that can be used both in Messages and in FaceTime. Messages and FaceTime have also gained fun new camera effects, and Group FaceTime support allows for audio/video calls with up to 32 people.

Siri is smarter in iOS 12 with a new Shortcuts feature that lets you create multi-step custom automations using first and third-party apps that can be activated with Siri. Shortcuts can be created through the Shortcuts app, available as a beta from Apple's Developer Center.

Apple built comprehensive time management and monitoring tools into iOS 12 with Screen Time, allowing you to keep track of just how much time you're spending on your iPhone and iPad. App limits can help you cut back on iOS device usage, and robust parental controls are included for families.

Updated Do Not Disturb options make turning off notifications and distractions easier than ever, and a new Do Not Disturb at Bedtime feature cuts down on nighttime interruptions.

Group Notifications make incoming notifications easier to view and manage, while a new Instant Tuning feature lets you tweak your notification settings right on the Lock screeen on a notification-by-notification basis.

Apple News has a new Browse feature, the Stocks app has been redesigned, iBooks has been overhauled with a new look and a new name -- Apple Books -- and Voice Memos has been revamped with iCloud support and an iPad app.

ARKit 2.0 introduces new capabilities like shared experiences that let two people see the same AR environment on separate devices, and persistence, which allows AR experiences to be saved across multiple sessions. There's also a new Measure app for measuring objects using AR capabilities.

iOS 12 includes a revamped and rebuilt Maps app that uses a new Apple-designed Maps engine that will display foliage, pools, buildings, pedestrian pathways, and other map elements more accurately. The new Maps also includes significant improvements to traffic, real-time road conditions, construction, and more, plus it will enable Apple to push out changes and fixes more quickly.

The revamped Maps app is available in the Northern California area during beta testing. After iOS 12 launches, Apple will continue rolling out the new maps to additional U.S. locations across late 2018 and 2019.

Tons of other small tweaks and features have been added to iOS 12, so make sure to check out our dedicated roundup for additional detail on what's new in iOS 12.

Early betas of new operating system updates always introduce tweaked features and new functionality, and we'll be outlining what's new in the fourth beta below. We also rounded up all of the changes that were introduced in the previous betas, beta 2 and beta 3, and beta 4.

iOS 12 is available for developers and public beta testers, with a public launch planned for the fall alongside new iPhones.

What's new in iOS 12 beta 5: According to Apple's release notes, the fifth beta of iOS 12 introduces some new bugs.

- After restarting a device, paired Bluetooth accessories might not function correctly or might be displayed using the device's address instead of name.

- Using Apple Pay Cash to send or request money via Siri might result in an error.

- When using CarPlay, Siri can't open an app by name. Shortcuts that involve opening an app won't work, and Shortcuts that require confirmation might not work.

- Some Shortcuts requests might not work.

- When multiple ride-sharing apps are installed, Siri might open an app instead of providing an ETA or location when asked. Apple suggests asking again as a fix.

- Users might not see custom UI when using Siri Suggestions Shortcuts with built-in intents.

Several bugs have been addressed, including error messages in the App Store when attempting to install an app, an inaccurate cellular signal bar on iPhone X while on Lock screen or Home screen, a bug that caused Wallet to crash on launch, and a failure for Screen Time usage and data settings to sync between devices. Shortcuts will also mostly work in CarPlay now, and will be restored from iCloud backups.

HomePod data found in iOS 12 seemingly confirms recent rumors that a HomePod software update set to be released alongside iOS 12 will allow the device to be used to make phone calls.

As shared by 9to5Mac, a HomePod personal requests image says the HomePod can be used to send and read messages, add reminders, create notes, make phone calls, and more, with the portion about phone calls being new.

Right now, you can make a phone call on the iPhone and transfer it to the HomePod to use the HomePod as a speakerphone, but you can't use the HomePod to place calls, something that appears to be changing following the update. Apple is testing new HomePod software internally, but it is not available for developers or public beta testers.

Other changes in iOS 12 beta 5: Screen Time in the Settings app no longer lists family members who aren't children, and it needs to be reenabled after updating to the new beta.

Related Forum: iOS 12

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Apple Seeds Fifth Beta of iOS 12 to Developers [Updated]

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