MacRumors

Apple will next month debut its latest M2 Apple silicon processor in a refreshed 13-inch MacBook Pro model that will have no major design changes, according to a previously reliable source with close links to Apple's supply chain.

Based on the new information seen by MacRumors, the upcoming 13-inch MacBook Pro retains the same design as the current version, including the Touch Bar, but unlike the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, it will not have a notch or a ProMotion display, contrary to some rumors.

If so, that means the headline difference in the new entry-level MacBook Pro model will be the new M2 chip, which features the same number of CPU cores as the ‌M1 processor‌, up to 10 graphics cores, and improved performance.

The above details were relayed by the original source of last year's last-minute MacBook Pro notch rumor that MacRumors was first to report on. In October 2021, we reported that the same leaker said the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models would have a redesigned display with a central notch for the webcam, but no Face ID.

That left-field claim, appearing seemingly out of nowhere and so close to Apple's fall "Unleashed" event, turned out to be completely accurate, and the new redesigned MacBook Pro models were unveiled the next week with the controversial camera housing centered at the top of the screen.

The latest 13-inch MacBook Pro rumor also lines up with a DigiTimes report that appeared last week claiming Apple will launch its first MacBook Pro with second-generation M2 chip at its spring event.

DigiTimes' supply chain sources also claimed that except for the processor, most other components used in the new MacBook Pro will feature almost the same specs as those for the existing model featuring M1 chips, seemingly corroborating the latest rumor.

Well-connected Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman recently said Apple's intention is to release an updated entry-level 13-inch MacBook Pro with ‌M2‌ chip in 2022, but this was generally assumed to mean that the machine would appear later in the year, after Apple finishes releasing its final Macs with M1 Pro and M1 Max chips.

Notably, in contrast to the latest rumor, Gurman said he believes Apple will remove the Touch Bar on the new 13-inch machine, although he too expects the notebook will lack a ProMotion display.

Either way, we should know for sure in just a few weeks' time. Apple is working on several new Mac computers to be released this year, and Gurman has suggested the rumored spring event on Tuesday, March 8 will include the launch of "at least one" new Mac. Apple is also expected to introduce new iPhone SE and iPad Air models, which are both believed to feature an A15 chip and 5G support.

Alongside adding the iPhone 6 Plus to its list of vintage and obsolete products, Apple today also updated its list to officially consider the fourth-generation iPad released in 2012 as obsolete.

The fourth-generation ‌iPad‌ was marked internally at Apple as obsolete in November, but it had not updated its public list to make it official until today. The fourth-generation ‌iPad‌ was announced in November of 2012 and was the first ‌iPad‌ to feature the Lightning connector, revealed for the first time on the iPhone 5 announced weeks earlier.

Alongside the introduction of the Lightning connector to the ‌iPad‌, the fourth-generation ‌‌iPad‌‌ was twice as fast and had up to three times better graphics than the previous model.

Apple today also updated its list to officially mark the Mid-2010 and Late 2012 Mac mini models as obsolete.

Apple today updated its list of vintage and obsolete products to add the iPhone 6 Plus, as it has been more than five years since the device was last offered for sale.

The ‌iPhone‌ 6 Plus was first released in September 2014 alongside the ‌iPhone‌ 6, and it was discontinued in September 2016 following the launch of the ‌iPhone‌ 7 and ‌iPhone‌ 7 Plus. The ‌iPhone‌ 6 Plus' sister phone, the ‌iPhone‌ 6, is not on the vintage list at this time as it was available for sale for a longer period of time.

Apple relaunched the ‌iPhone‌ 6 in 2017 as a midrange ‌iPhone‌, and it was available for purchase until September 2018, so for that reason, it will be another two years or so before it is designated as a vintage product.

The ‌iPhone‌ 6 and 6 Plus were notable for being the first devices to offer support for Apple Pay and for marking the first year that Apple offered the ‌iPhone‌ in multiple size options. Apple has continued on with the multi-size release strategy since the ‌iPhone‌ 6 and 6 Plus launch.

The vintage products list features devices that Apple stopped distributing for sale more than five years ago and less than seven years ago. Apple provides service and parts for vintage devices for up to 7 years, or as required by law, but repairs are subject to parts availability.

Apple stopped supporting the ‌iPhone‌ 6 and 6 Plus with software updates back in 2019 with the launch of iOS 13.

Apple today updated its Apple Support app designed for the iPhone and iPad, introducing a new feature that provides price estimates for common repairs in select locations.

When using the Support app after installing the update, you can tap on a device that you own in the "My Devices" list and then choose "Repairs & Physical Damage" to see a list of options.

Tapping on a common repair like a cracked screen, a cracked back, or battery service will provide an estimate of what the repair might cost alongside options to book a repair. There are no cost estimates for more complicated repairs like liquid damage or camera not working as expected.

In the "My Devices" section, Apple has also added a new text entry box when you tap on a device. The box lets you tell Apple what's happening with your device in your own words, making it easier to find the support option that you need.

The Apple Support app always had a similar option after selecting a specific repair option, but now you can type in what you're looking for ahead of time for a more streamlined experience. Apple's full release notes for the update are below:

- Tell us what's happening in your own words to get relevant support options
- See price estimates for common repair topics in select locations
- App now available and translated for users in Ukraine
- Performance enhancements and bug fixes

The Apple Support app can be downloaded from the App Store for free. [Direct Link]

Apple today released macOS Big Sur 11.6.4, a security fix update that is designed for Mac users who continue to use the Big Sur operating system instead of macOS Monterey.

The ‌‌‌‌macOS Big Sur 11.6.4‌‌ update can be downloaded on all eligible Macs using the Software Update section of System Preferences.

Today's update comes about two weeks after the launch of macOS Big Sur 11.6.3, which was released alongside macOS Monterey 12.2. Apple usually releases new versions of macOS Big Sur alongside Monterey updates, but today's Big Sur software release is standalone.

According to Apple's release notes for the update, macOS Big Sur 11.6.4 "improves the security of macOS" and is recommended for all users.

Apple has also released a 2022-002 macOS Catalina security update for those who are still running macOS Catalina.

Apple's upcoming iMac Pro with a mini-LED display could launch in June, analyst Ross Young said today. Apple has been working on a larger-screened version of the ‌iMac‌ for months now, and if the June timeline is accurate, it could see a debut at the Worldwide Developers Conference.

Rumors originally suggested that the new ‌iMac‌ could launch in the spring, but Young in late January said that he was expecting a "summer" launch. At the time, Young claimed that panel shipments were expected to begin in June and that a launch could follow in August or September, but he appears to have moved his timeline up.

The 27-inch ‌iMac‌ will be sold alongside the 24-inch ‌iMac‌ as a higher-end version, and to bring it in line with the MacBook Pro, it could be called the ‌iMac‌ Pro. It will feature a mini-LED backlight, and Young today said that he expects it will have "around 1000 zones" and "over 4000 miniLEDs."

Along with a mini-LED display, the ‌iMac‌ is expected to feature a redesigned look and the same M1 Pro and M1 Max chips introduced in the 2021 ‌MacBook Pro‌ models.

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) today fined Apple an additional five million euros for allegedly failing to satisfy the requirements it set regarding alternative payment systems for dating apps. This is the fourth consecutive week that the ACM has fined Apple, with the total penalty now standing at 20 million euros.

In a press release, the ACM said that Apple's requirement that dating app providers must submit a separate app binary in the Netherlands if they wish to offer alternative payment systems is unreasonable and disadvantageous.

The ACM said it also has concerns about a number of other requirements set by Apple, such as forcing dating apps to choose between the App Store's standard in-app purchase system or alternative payment systems. The competition regulator has previously said that dating apps must be able to offer both options in the Netherlands.

The ACM will continue to fine Apple five million euros per week, up to a maximum of 50 million euros, until it feels the company has fully complied with the order.

Earlier this month, Apple provided additional details for dating apps wishing to offer alternative payment systems in the Netherlands, including that it will charge a 27% commission on purchases made in dating apps that use alternative payment systems.

Apple has appealed the ACM's order, arguing that alternative payment systems in the App Store pose privacy and security risks for customers. Apple also said it would be unable to assist customers with refund requests, subscription management, and other issues encountered when purchasing digital goods and services through alternative systems.

Apple was granted 2,541 patents in the United States last year, surpassed by only six other companies, IFI Claims reports.

In its rankings of the top 50 U.S. patent assignees in 2021 (via Patently Apple), IFI Claims Patent Services shows that Apple was granted 250 fewer patents in 2021 compared to the previous year, a nine percent decrease. Even so, Apple moved one place up the rankings in 2021.

Apple's number of granted patents was surpassed by IBM, Samsung, Canon, TSMC, Huawei, and Intel. Excluding IBM and Samsung, the following top ten companies had 2,000 to 3,000 granted patents. IBM and Samsung dwarfed the other top companies, with 8,682 and 6,366 patents granted respectively.

Out of its direct competitors, Apple still had more patents granted than LG, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Samsung Display, Amazon, Sony, and Google. The top 20 companies with the most patents granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in 2021 are as follows:

1. International Business Machines Corp: 8,682 patents granted
2. Samsung Electronics Co Ltd: 6,366 patents granted
3. Canon Inc: 3,021 patents granted
4. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co TSMC Ltd: 2,798 patents granted
5. Huawei Technologies Co Ltd: 2,770 patents granted
6. Intel Corp: 2,615 patents granted
7. Apple Inc: 2,541 patents granted
8. LG Electronics Inc: 2,487 patents granted
9. Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC: 2,418 patents granted
10. Qualcomm Inc: 2,149 patents granted
11. BOE Technology Group Co Ltd: 2,135 patents granted
12. Toyota Motor Corp: 2,028 patents granted
13. Samsung Display Co Ltd: 1,975 patents granted
14. Amazon Technologies Inc: 1,942 patents granted
15. Micron Technology Inc: 1,789 patents granted
16. Sony Corp: 1,683 patents granted
17. Ford Global Technologies LLC: 1,626 patents granted
18. Google LLC: 1,493 patents granted
19. Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson AB: 1,387 patents granted
20. Hyundai Motor Co: 1,269 patents granted

IFI Claims' 2021 Global 250 rankings reveal the world's largest patent holders by looking at all of the patents currently held by companies. In these rankings, Apple takes 37th place, with 20,491 active patents. Samsung is currently the world leader for active patents, with 90,416 in total. Microsoft, LG, Sony, Intel, and Qualcomm also beat Apple in terms of global active patents.

Apple's patent filings often reveal interesting insights into the company's specific areas of research and development, but they are not representative of its immediate plans. Recent interesting Apple filings include designs for all-glass iPhones and Apple Watches, a removable MacBook key that works as a mouse, user authentication technology for AirPods, a hydration sensor for the Apple Watch, use of the Mac Pro's "cheese grater" like design on other Apple devices, periscope camera systems, and deployable MacBook Pro feet to aid cooling.

Anker has returned today with a new Gold Box deal on Amazon, offering discounts on over a dozen of Anker's best charging accessories. This includes USB-C to Lightning cables, USB-C wall chargers, MagSafe-compatible wireless and portable chargers, and more.

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.

Some of the products on sale include Anker's line of colorful new charging cables, wall chargers, and wireless chargers. The Powerline Flow Silicone USB-C to Lightning Cable is available for $19.99 ($7 off), the 5,000 mAh Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger is available for $38.49 ($16.50 off), and the Nano Pro USB-C Wall Charger is available for $14.99 ($5 off).

Cables

• Powerline Lightning Cable (3ft, 3 Pack) - $19.99, down from $29.99
• Powerline Flow Silicone Lightning to USB-C Cable - $19.99, down from $26.99
• USB-C to Lightning Cable (5 Pack) - $39.99, down from $65.99

Wall Chargers

• PowerPort USB-C Charger - $9.59, down from $15.99
• Nano Pro USB-C Charger - $14.99, down from $19.99
• PowerExtend Mini Power Strip (2 Outlets, 2 USB-A) - $17.99, down from $25.99
• PowerPort Atom USB-C Charger - $20.79, down from $29.99
• PowerPort Pod USB-C Charger - $27.99, down from $39.99
• PowerCore Fusion 2-in-1 USB-A + USB-C Charger - $27.99, down from $39.99
• PowerPort Strip Surge Protector (6 Outlets, 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C) - $29.99, down from $46.99
• PowerPort USB-C Charger + USB-C to USB-C Cable - $30.79, down from $43.99

Wireless Chargers

• PowerWave Select Magnetic Pad - $17.99, down from $29.99
• Portable Magnetic Charger for Apple Watch - $25.99, down from $34.99
• MagGO 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Station - $55.99, down from $79.99

Portable Batteries

• 5,000 mAh Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger - $38.49, down from $54.99

Our full Deals Roundup has more information on the latest Apple-related sales and bargains.

Apple has filed three new unreleased Mac computers in the Eurasian Economic Database ahead of when the company is expected to hold a rumored Spring event on or around March 8, as first spotted by Consomac.

The three new Macs, listed with model numbers A2615, A2686, and A2681, are all listed as running macOS Monterey, but no other details including the specific model of the computers are provided. Apple typically files new products in the database, as required by law, near a product launch. Last month, the company filed what is likely to be the upcoming iPhone SE and the next-generation iPad Air.

Apple is working on several new Mac computers to be released this year, and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has suggested the rumored Spring event will include the launch of "at least one" new Mac. Apple is working on a larger iMac with Apple silicon to replace the Intel-based 27-inch ‌iMac‌ currently in the lineup. A new completely redesigned MacBook Air is also in the works, as is a new Mac mini.

Memojis and SharePlay could be central to the FaceTime experience on Apple's long-rumored mixed-reality headset, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Gurman, who often reveals accurate insights into Apple's plans, has previously said that Apple's mixed-reality headset will focus on gaming, media consumption, and communication. The headset itself is rumored to run "rOS" or "realityOS," internally codenamed "Oak."

In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman clarified what he expects from ‌FaceTime‌ in realityOS, proposing that it may revolve around two of the company's existing experiences: Memojis and SharePlay.

I imagine a virtual reality version of FaceTime where you can be in a conference room with dozens of people. Instead of seeing their actual faces, you'll see 3D versions of them (Memojis). I assume the headset will be able to determine a person's facial expressions in real time, making the experience fairly lifelike. I would also look for heavy use of SharePlay in the new realityOS, allowing multiple headset wearers to experience music, movies and games together.

Apple's work on realityOS has been rumored since 2017, but the existence of the operating system was finally confirmed this week when references to it were found in App Store upload logs and Apple open source code.

Apple introduced Memojis in 2018 with iOS 12, while SharePlay is a much more recent addition that arrived with iOS 15.1 last year. Speculation suggests that many new features Apple has released in recent years, such as ARKit, AR walking directions in Apple Maps, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and the LiDAR scanner, are destined for its mixed-reality headset in the long run, enabling the company to make users familiar with some of the headset's aspects and publicly iterate on them long before its release. It seems plausible that Memoji and SharePlay could also be part of this strategy.

Despite enthusiasm over Apple's headset project "approaching liftoff" this year, Gurman now believes that development issues are likely to delay the device's announcement until WWDC 2023.

As we continue to roll toward a rumored Apple event in early March, we're starting to hear more about what we might see on the software side, with the iOS 15.4 betas revealing some new features and changes and Apple announcing a new "Tap to Pay on iPhone" feature that could come as part of the update.

Apple has also announced some upcoming changes to the way AirTags work in order to address privacy concerns, while it looks like Apple's long-rumored AR/VR headset is coming closer to fruition, so read on for details on these stories and more!

Apple Announces 'Tap to Pay' Feature Allowing iPhones to Easily Accept Contactless Payments

Apple this week announced a new "Tap to Pay on iPhone" feature that will allow the iPhone XS and newer to accept contactless payments from other iPhones or credit cards without any additional hardware required.

Apple said the feature will launch in the U.S. later this year within supported iOS apps. Tap to Pay on iPhone will likely roll out with iOS 15.4 based on code-level references to the feature uncovered by MacRumors in the latest beta release.

Everything New in iOS 15.4 Beta 2: Face ID Updates, Tap to Pay Code and More

Apple this week seeded the second betas of iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4, macOS 12.3, watchOS 8.5, and tvOS 15.4 to developers and public beta testers.

The second beta of iOS 15.4 includes some new features and changes, including references to Apple's upcoming Tap to Pay on iPhone feature, preparations for state IDs and driver's licenses in the Wallet app, tweaked wording for the Face ID With a Mask feature, and more.

Apple also released iOS 15.3.1, macOS 12.2.1, and watchOS 8.4.2 with bug fixes.

Apple Announces AirTag Updates to Address Unwanted Tracking

Apple this week announced that it is making some updates to AirTags with the aim of cutting down on unwanted tracking. There are several changes that will be implemented in a multi-phase rollout.

For instance, in an upcoming iOS software update, Apple plans to implement new privacy warnings that will show up during AirTag setup in an attempt to thwart malicious use of the item tracking accessory.

Apple's 'realityOS' for Rumored AR/VR Headset Referenced in Source Code

New references to "realityOS," the AR/VR operating system that will run on Apple's rumored mixed reality headset, have been found in App Store upload logs and Apple open-source code this week.

Apple is widely rumored to be working on an AR/VR headset that could launch in late 2022, but due to reported development challenges, a launch could be pushed back to some point in 2023.

Check out our video overview of the latest rumors on the headset, and let us know whether you'd be willing to spend $2,000+ on it!

Tesla Design Chief on Apple Products: 'There's Nothing to Look Forward To'

Tesla design chief Franz von Holzhausen recently commented on Apple's design principles and product launches, lamenting that Apple doesn't deliver something "to look forward to" anymore.

While admitting that he wears an Apple Watch for fitness tracking purposes, von Holzhausen opined that Apple's devices have become "just a continuation" and a "slight refinement on the same thing."

Apple Hit With Class Action Lawsuit Over 'Jelly Scrolling' on iPad Mini

A Colorado man this week filed a class action lawsuit against Apple that accuses the company of fraudulently marketing and selling the sixth-generation iPad mini despite being aware of a so-called "jelly scrolling" defect with the device.

Apple last year told Ars Technica that the effect is normal behavior for LCD screens, but the lawsuit alleges that "jelly scrolling" is actually a defect that Apple is aware of and should either fix or acknowledge in marketing materials for the device.

MacRumors Newsletter

Each week, we publish an email newsletter like this highlighting the top Apple stories, making it a great way to get a bite-sized recap of the week hitting all of the major topics we've covered and tying together related stories for a big-picture view.

So if you want to have top stories like the above recap delivered to your email inbox each week, subscribe to our newsletter!

Apple is giving many of its U.S. retail employees raises ranging from two percent to 10 percent depending on location, reports Bloomberg. Salespeople, Genius Bar support staff, and some senior hourly workers are being granted pay increases.

Apple is said to be boosting the pay of its retail employees because of inflation, the difficult labor market, and staff complaints about working conditions amid the pandemic.

Pay increases were announced earlier this week during store briefings and individual meetings with employees, according to Bloomberg. Most of those receiving raises are employees who have worked at the company before 2020, and not all employees will be receiving a pay boost.

Not all stores have yet been notified of Apple's plans, but the raises are set to take effect starting in February and are separate from annual raises that are provided in October. Bloomberg spoke to two Apple employees who received a pay increase, with a salesperson receiving an extra $3 per hour to put them at $25 per hour, and a worker who handles repairs now receiving $24 per hour after a $3 per hour raise.

In addition to raises, Apple this week also told employees that it is introducing improved benefits. Apple now offers 12 paid sick days, up from six, and those days can be used for mental health leave, illnesses, or taking family members to the doctor.

The company also changed when employees are eligible for an increase in the number of vacation days they receive annually. Previously, Apple offered additional vacation days after five years of employment, but now additional vacation days are provided after three years. Part time employees are also now eligible for vacation days and up to six weeks of paid parental leave.

Apple hasn't come out with a new product category since the 2018 launch of the HomePod, and there hasn't been a new wearable since the 2015 debut of the Apple Watch. That's set to change in the not too distant future, as Apple's AR/VR headset is nearing completion and will likely see a launch in 2023.

Rumors about the first head worn Apple-branded AR/VR product have been trickling out for years now, so we thought it would be useful to provide a quick overview of what's coming, including the most recent realityOS information.

Hardware Features

• Overall Design - Apple's headset won't look too different from the Oculus Quest virtual reality headset, featuring a curved visor that slides over the eyes and a comfortable mesh base that rests against the face. The visor will completely cover the eyes, blocking out peripheral vision to prevent light leaks.
• Headband - The headset will be held in place by a swappable, adjustable headband that could be made from a material similar to an Apple Watch Sport band.
• Weight - Apple wants the final version of the headset to weigh between 100 to 200 grams. That would be far lighter and more comfortable than something like the Oculus Quest 2, which weighs 503 grams. Prototypes weigh around 300 grams, so Apple may not be able to get the headset's weight quite as low as its target.
• Spatial Audio - One of the headbands that Apple is testing features spatial audio technology for a surround sound experience.
• Display - Apple's AR/VR headset is expected to adopt two high-resolution 4K micro OLED displays supplied by Sony for a high-quality viewing experience that offers up to 3,000 pixels per inch.
• Cameras - The headset will be equipped with more than a dozen optical cameras for tracking hand movements, eye tracking mapping the environment, projecting visual experiences, and more.
• Control Methods - Apple may support multiple input methods, including hand gestures, eye tracking and iris recognition, and a finger-worn control device. It will also detect skin and could monitor expression.
• Chips - Two Mac-level Apple silicon chips are expected to be used in the AR/VR headset to provide the computing power that Apple wants. The headset is expected to be a standalone device that is not reliant on the iPhone or Mac for processing power.

Software Features

• realityOS - Apple is designing a new operating system for the headset, and it's expected to be called "realityOS." Just this week, references to realityOS were found in Apple's source code.
• App Store - Along with a new OS, the AR/VR headset will have a dedicated App Store. Apple will focus on gaming, streaming video content, and video conferencing.
• Media Content - Apple could be planning to work with media parters to create content that could be watched in VR.
• VR FaceTime - Apple is rumored to be working on a VR FaceTime-like experience with Animojis and other 3D features.

Pricing

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has speculated that the headset will sell for over $2,000, and The Information believes it could cost somewhere around $3,000.

Release Date

Apple has pushed back the planned release timeline of the AR/VR headset several times as it continues to work out development issues. There were multiple rumors suggesting that we'd see the headset debut at the 2022 WWDC event, but Bloomberg's ‌Mark Gurman‌ recently said that Apple may further delay the headset until 2023.

At this point, it's looking like we'll have to wait for 2023 to see the headset launch, though there is still a small possibility that it will see a 2022 announcement to give developers time to prepare apps for the device. Apple is said to be targeting the 2023 Worldwide Developer's Conference for a launch.

As for the development issues, Apple is having trouble with heat dissipation due to the high-powered processor, and there are still problems with the camera and the software to work out.

Read More

For all of the rumors on Apple's AR/VR headset, we have a dedicated rumor roundup that aggregates all of the information that we know so far.

Samsung's new Galaxy S22 models are some of the fastest Android smartphones ever, but Apple still has the world's fastest mobile processor by a considerable margin.

In a Geekbench 5 benchmark test conducted by PCMag, the Galaxy S22 Ultra with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor achieved a multi-core score of 3,433, compared to 4,647 for the iPhone 13 Pro Max with Apple's A15 Bionic chip. Based on these results, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is around 35% faster than the Galaxy S22 Ultra for CPU performance.

In the United States, all Galaxy S22 models are equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, but models sold in Europe use Samsung's Exynos 2200 chip. Geekbench 5 results for the Exynos 2200 models still have multi-core scores in the mid-3,000s, however, so iPhone 13 models maintain a considerable lead in performance.

PCMag also ran Geekbench ML for machine learning performance and the iPhone 13 Pro Max achieved a score of 948, over double that of the Galaxy S22 Ultra, which came in at 448. Apple's A15 chip features a new 16-core Neural Engine capable of 15.8 trillion operations per second for machine learning tasks such as on-device Siri processing.

Apple will look to extend its lead in performance later this year with an even faster A16 chip for the iPhone 14 series.

For this week's giveaway, we've teamed up with GRID Studio to offer MacRumors readers a chance to win a deconstructed original Apple device that's been turned into a clever art piece. Grid Studio is offering several prizes for MacRumors readers, including a GRID 1 featuring the original iPhone, a Grid 3GS, a GRID 4S, a GRID Watch 1st Gen, and two Apple A7 chips.

GRID Studio takes older Apple devices that are important to Apple's history and disassembles each one, displaying the components artfully behind a glass frame. Prices for GRID's pieces start at $40 for an A-series chip and go up to $400 for the original iPhone, but there are all kinds of options priced at around the $200 mark.

If you have a favorite ‌iPhone‌ generation, it's likely that GRID has taken it apart. There's the original ‌iPhone‌, and nearly every subsequent ‌iPhone‌ up to the 2017 ‌iPhone‌ X. With each art piece, GRID separates out each of the components and provides labels for the parts.

With the original ‌iPhone‌, for example, the shell of the device is displayed next to individual components that include the power button, headphone socket, speaker, logic board, circuit board, ear piece, and other components.

There are details on the dimensions of the original device and its weight, along with a Steve Jobs quote and a look at the original interface. All of the different GRID options use the same general format, providing an interesting look at each component in a device along with labeling to help you figure out what you're looking at.

GRID doesn't only focus on iPhones, offering tear downs of the Apple Watch, the Magic Mouse, and even the A7 chip. The Apple Watch version displays and labels the heart rate sensor, flex cable, display, main board, speaker, power button, battery, and Taptic Engine, with the casing and band serving as the main centerpieces.

Every piece includes all of the original parts of the device, but they do not use real batteries to prevent any issues with the battery expanding or exploding with age. GRID's artwork is perfect for an office decoration or as a gift for an Apple fan. Disassembled devices are attractive to look at, informative, and offer a glimpse into Apple's history. Sizes vary, with the frames measuring in at 13 x 13 inches or 11.7 x 16.5 inches.

While GRID sells readymade designs from disassembled devices, the company is open to custom orders when demand allows for it. At the current time, GRID is not currently providing deconstruction of devices that are shipped.

To enter to win our giveaway for one of GRID Studio's art pieces, use the Gleam.io widget below and enter an email address. Email addresses will be used solely for contact purposes to reach the winners and send the prizes. You can earn additional entries by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, subscribing to our YouTube channel, following us on Twitter, following us on Instagram, or visiting the MacRumors Facebook page.

Due to the complexities of international laws regarding giveaways, only U.S. residents who are 18 years or older, UK residents who are 18 years or older, and Canadian residents (excluding Quebec) who have reached the age of majority in their province or territory are eligible to enter. All federal, state, provincial, and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. To offer feedback or get more information on the giveaway restrictions, please refer to our Site Feedback section, as that is where discussion of the rules will be redirected.

The contest will run from today (February 11) at 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time through 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time on February 18. The winners will be chosen randomly on February 18 and will be contacted by email. The winners will have 48 hours to respond and provide a shipping address before new winners are chosen.

We're tracking quite a few deals on Apple-related accessories that have been introduced to coincide with the Valentine's Day holiday on February 14. These sales include companies like Twelve South, Belkin, Casely, ZAGG, and more, with savings on iPhone cases, USB-C products, wireless chargers, and Bluetooth speakers.

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.

There are also numerous discounts across Apple's own product line this week, with deals on AirPods, iPads, and more. Below, you'll find deals on Apple devices listed first, followed by special Valentine's Day sales from third-party companies.

AirPods

We've been tracking some solid deals on AirPods in the first few months of 2022, and one of the best remains ongoing this week. You can get the AirPods 2 for $98.98, down from $129.00 on Amazon.

As a quick rundown of all the other AirPods deals going on: you can get the AirPods 3 for $149.99 ($29 off), the AirPods Max for $449.00 ($100 off), and the AirPods Pro with MagSafe for $174.98 ($69 off). We've seen many of these models slightly lower in the past, but given that the best deals were over the holidays, these are solid next-best prices.

Apple Watch Series 7

Unlike other Apple products, Apple Watch Series 7 discounts have been abundant in early 2022, and routinely reach all-time low prices. This is no different this week, and on Amazon you'll find $50 off nearly every Series 7 model. Low prices start at $349.00 for 41mm GPS models and $379.00 for 45mm GPS models.

41mm GPS Aluminum

• (Product)Red with (Product)Red Sport Band - $349.00, down from $399.00
• Green with Clover Sport Band - $349.00, down from $399.00
• Starlight with Starlight Sport Band - $349.00, down from $399.00
• Midnight with Midnight Sport Band - $349.00, down from $399.00

45mm GPS Aluminum

• Midnight with Midnight Sport Band - $379.00, down from $429.00
• Starlight with Starlight Sport Band - $379.00, down from $429.00
• (Product)Red with (Product)Red Sport Band - $379.00, down from $429.00
• Blue with Abyss Blue Sport Band - $379.00, down from $429.00
• Green with Clover Sport Band - $379.99, down from $429.00

41mm Cellular Aluminum

• Blue with Abyss Blue Sport Band - $449.00, down from $499.00
• Midnight with Midnight Sport Band - $449.00, down from $499.00

45mm Cellular Aluminum

• Green with Clover Sport Band - $479.00, down from $529.00
• Blue with Abyss Blue Sport Band - $479.99, down from $529.00
• Midnight with Midnight Sport Band - $479.99, down from $529.00
• Starlight with Starlight Sport Band - $479.00, down from $529.00

M1 iMac

Lastly for Apple products, you can get the 7-core GPU, 256GB M1 iMac for $1,229.00 on Amazon and B&H Photo, down from $1,299.00. This sale is only available in the Silver color option, and it is an all-time low price on this version of the 24-inch M1 iMac, which just launched in 2021.

Cellular Deals

Many of the best Valentine's Day-related deals can be found at cellular carriers, especially if you're looking to buy more than one iPhone or Apple Watch at a time. AT&T is offering $330 off any Apple Watch when you buy two on a qualifying installment plan.

For iPhones, you can get the iPhone 13 at $0 when purchased on a qualifying installment agreement and trade in an eligible smartphone. For the iPhone 13 Pro Max, AT&T is offering up to $800 off with the same requirements as the previous deal. Head to AT&T's website for more information on these sales.

At Verizon, when you buy one iPhone 13 Pro, you can get another at no cost (up to $1,000 off). This deal requires a new line to be added and you'll receive up to $1,000 in promo credit over 36 months. It also works with iPhone 13, 13 Pro Max, and 13 mini.

T-Mobile's BOGO offer allows you to buy one iPhone 13 series model and get another at up to $700 off. Like most cellular offers, this requires you to activate new lines, and you'll receive it via 24 monthly bill credits once you activate the smartphones.

Brydge

Our exclusive partnership with Brydge remains ongoing through Valentine's Day. The sale takes 20 percent off a selection of Brydge's best iPad-compatible keyboards, as well as the retailer's MacBook Vertical Dock. This sale is for United States residents only and will run through February 17. You'll need to use the code MACRUMORS20 to see the discounts.

In total there are four iPad keyboards on sale, including those compatible with the iPad, iPad Air, 11-inch iPad Pro, and 12.9-inch iPad Pro. The MacBook Vertical Dock is available for the 13-inch MacBook Air (2018 and later), 13-inch MacBook Pro (2016 and later), and 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019 only). The 15-inch MacBook Pro version is excluded from this sale.

• Brydge 10.2 MAX+ (for iPad) - $104.00, down from $129.99
• Brydge Air MAX+ (for iPad Air) - $120.00, down from $149.99
• Brydge MAX+ (for 11-inch iPad Pro) - $160.00, down from $199.99
• Brydge MAX+ (for 12.9-inch iPad Pro) - $200.00, down from $249.99
• MacBook Vertical Dock (excludes 15-inch MBP model) - $136.00, down from $169.99

Brydge's keyboards feature multi-touch trackpads, a magnetic SnapFit case, Bluetooth, drop protection, and in some cases adjustable backlit keys. They also all include Brydge's "Instant On" feature, which instantly connects the keyboard to the iPad so you can get back to typing faster.

The MacBook Vertical Dock is an accessory built to reduce clutter on your desk by housing and charging a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air in a vertical position. Remember that these deals will expire on February 17, so you have a week to save on Brydge's keyboard with our exclusive code.

More Accessory Deals

• Belkin - Take $15 off orders of $80 or more with code VDAY22
• Casely - Take 30% off with code XOXO
• Casetify - Buy two get 20% off with code VDAY22
• Harber London - Buy two get 20% off
• JBL - Save up to 25%
• Twelve South - Save on popular made-for-Apple accessories
• ZAGG - Take 30% off your entire cart when purchasing two or more products
• Satechi - Take 20% off the Satechi wireless charging collection with code VDAY20

Head to our full Deals Roundup to get caught up with all of the latest deals and discounts that we've been tracking over the past week.

SSD prices are likely to increase globally due to contamination issues at Western Digital and Kioxia's NAND production facilities, and Apple devices may be affected (via TrendForce).

Western Digital says that it has lost 6.5 exabytes worth of BiCS 3D NAND flash storage due to use of contaminated materials at two of its plants in Japan in January. The facilities are jointly run by Western Digital and its partner Kioxia, which was previously part of Toshiba. What caused the contamination and when production is expected to resume has yet to be confirmed.

Western Digital and Kioxia are among the world's leading SSD suppliers, with their joint production amounting to around 30 percent of the entire NAND flash market. TrendForce's market research indicates that the price of NAND, which is the main component of SSDs, could spike by up to 10 percent starting in the second quarter of 2022.

Western Digital and Kioxia primarily offer SSD and eMMC storage drives for PCs, but iFixit teardowns have shown that Apple uses Kioxia NAND chips in many of its products, including the iPhone 13 lineup, the iPad Pro, and the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro. Whether any existing Apple products manufactured with Kioxia storage in January will need to be recalled is currently unclear.

Many of Apple's Mac SSDs have been supplied by Samsung in recent years, but the company has increasingly turned to custom storage solutions, culminating in the proprietary SSD components on Apple's ‌M1‌ Macs being soldered in place.

If Apple devices are not directly impacted by contaminated Kioxia hardware, it is still possible that a tightening of supply across the industry could drive up Apple's costs, but whether the company will absorb these price rises or pass them on to consumers is yet to be seen.