In line with our report from several days ago, Apple today updated its Apple Store application for iOS devices [App Store] with new support for build-to-order Mac customizations. The update also brings enhanced in-store capabilities to go along with other changes to the company's retail stores.
What's new
- Enhanced in-store mode lets you get help and support quickly when you're at an Apple Retail Store. - The ability to custom-configure a new Mac with the options you want.
The Apple Store application is also now rolling out in a number of European countries. The app had been exclusive to the United States until today's update.
Unfortunately for iPad users, the Apple Store application is not yet universal and thus offers only a single view optimized for the screen size of the iPhone and iPod touch, although the app of course works on the iPad as well.
Thursday February 5, 2026 12:22 pm PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple plans to announce the iPhone 17e on Thursday, February 19, according to Macwelt, the German equivalent of Macworld.
The report, citing industry sources, is available in English on Macworld.
Apple announced the iPhone 16e on Wednesday, February 19 last year, so the iPhone 17e would be unveiled exactly one year later if this rumor is accurate. It is quite uncommon for Apple to unveil...
Saturday February 7, 2026 9:26 am PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple today shared an ad that shows how the upgraded Center Stage front camera on the latest iPhones improves the process of taking a group selfie.
"Watch how the new front facing camera on iPhone 17 Pro takes group selfies that automatically expand and rotate as more people come into frame," says Apple. While the ad is focused on the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, the regular iPhone...
Thursday February 5, 2026 12:54 pm PST by Joe Rossignol
Apple turns 50 this year, and its CEO Tim Cook has promised to celebrate the milestone. The big day falls on April 1, 2026.
"I've been unusually reflective lately about Apple because we have been working on what do we do to mark this moment," Cook told employees today, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. "When you really stop and pause and think about the last 50 years, it makes your heart ...
Friday February 6, 2026 3:06 pm PST by Juli Clover
In the iOS 26.4 update that's coming this spring, Apple will introduce a new version of Siri that's going to overhaul how we interact with the personal assistant and what it's able to do.
The iOS 26.4 version of Siri won't work like ChatGPT or Claude, but it will rely on large language models (LLMs) and has been updated from the ground up.
Upgraded Architecture
The next-generation...
Tuesday February 3, 2026 7:47 am PST by Joe Rossignol
While the iOS 26.3 Release Candidate is now available ahead of a public release, the first iOS 26.4 beta is likely still at least a week away. Following beta testing, iOS 26.4 will likely be released to the general public in March or April.
Below, we have recapped known or rumored iOS 26.3 and iOS 26.4 features so far.
iOS 26.3
iPhone to Android Transfer Tool
iOS 26.3 makes it easier...
Nice option but I walked out of the apple store in Deer Park IL and walked across the street to Best Buy to buy my iMac. I waited 45 min for a "specialist" while all I wanted was a cashier. I used the iMac in the store to find the stock across the street and went over.
I can see the waiting list as being a deterrent for people to stay around even if you can reserve.
Just my opinion. I do like the improvements though
Mike
Next upgrade will block you from accessing other ecommerce sites if you're inside an Apple store.
$400 for an 8 gig DDR3 1066 upgrade?!? :eek: That can't be right. Two 4gb 1066 DDR3 laptop SO-DIMMs retail for $80 a set. Heck, PNY has them for $57 after rebate and free shipping. That $400 can't be right, can it? :confused:
Actually, it's not true. The upgrade is $200 according to Apple's website. That image must be a mock-up. :o
