9to5Mac Happy Hour

Benjamin and Chance analyze the latest round of Apple’s changes to appease the EU, get hyped for the impending 2024 iPad Pro features, and news that Apple is testing an AI platform for advertising. Apple Arcade is the topic in Happy Hour Plus, as we discuss how the service stacks up today compared to how it was presented in 2019. Sponsored by Fast Growing Trees: Fast Growing Trees makes it easy to order online, and your plants are shipped directly to your door in 1-2 days. Get an additional 15% off with code HAPPYHOUR at checkout. Sponsored by Ladder: Go to Ladderlife.com/HappyHour today to see if you’re instantly approved. Sponsored by LinkedIn Jobs: LinkedIn Jobs helps you find the candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/HAPPYHOUR. 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus Introducing 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus! Support Benjamin and Chance directly with Happy Hour Plus! 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus includes:  Ad-free versions of every episode  Pre- and post-show content Monthly bonus episodes Join for $5 per month or $50 a year at 9to5mac.com/join.  Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Epic says Apple will reinstate developer account, clearing path for Epic Games Store on iPhone Apple will allow users to download apps directly from a developer’s website, in latest EU App Store rule change Apple revises App Store rules in the EU in response to developer feedback Here are the full dimensions of the 2024 iPad Air and iPad Pro A new iPad Pro is coming: Here are four things to expect What to expect from the new iPad Air New iPad Air will feature landscape front-facing camera, new rumor says iOS 17.4 beta hints at new iPad with landscape Face ID camera Apple developed chip equivalent to four M2 Ultras for Apple Car Apple talks with Mercedes detailed in new Apple Car report Report: Apple testing AI-powered ads platform Apple ramps up work on ad-supported Apple TV+ plan Apple Arcade criticized by developers for falling payouts and more

Benjamin and Chance analyze what’s new in the just-announced M3 MacBook Air and praise the MacBook Air lineup as it stands today, iOS 17.4 brings a whole host of changes to comply with the EU Digital Markets Act, and Apple TV+ launches a limited time catalog of movies to watch. Chance also gives us a one-month check in on the Vision Pro.  And in Happy Hour Plus, Chance explains why he has decided to delete TikTok from his phone, and we discuss how to find a healthy balance in social media usage. Sponsored by Zocdoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/happyhour and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. Many are available as soon as today. 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus Introducing 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus! Support Benjamin and Chance directly with Happy Hour Plus! 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus includes:  Ad-free versions of every episode  Pre- and post-show content Monthly bonus episodes Join for $5 per month or $50 a year at 9to5mac.com/join.  Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links iOS 17.4 won't remove Home Screen web apps in the EU after all Apple fined $2 billion by EU commission for 'abusive' App Store rules, Apple to appeal Epic says Apple terminated its newly reinstated developer account over tweet Should you update to iOS 17.4? Here's what's new Apple launches new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air with M3 chip, support for two external displays, faster Wi-Fi Apple confirms 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro update for multi-display Apple TV+ adds a limited time library of 50 movies to stream for free

Benjamin and Chance react to the shock news of the cancellation of the long-gestating Apple Car project, and Mark Gurman details some of the future wearables Apple is pondering including smart glasses, rings, and AirPods earbuds with integrated cameras. We are also anticipating some design changes in iOS 18, but recognize Apple has likely learned the painful lessons of the iOS 6 -> iOS 7 transition.  Sponsored by Shopify: Grow your business no matter what stage you're in. Sign up for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/happyhour. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Gurman: Apple exploring future wearable ideas including AirPods with cameras, smart glasses Gurman: iOS 18 to include redesigned UI elements, macOS 'revamp' to follow later Rumor: These are the devices that will support iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 Apple cancels Apple Car project after more than a decade New Beats Solo 4 headphones revealed by iOS 17.4 RC files

The Apple news cycle continues apace this week, with the company launching a brand new app, Sports, for sports scores. The iPhone 15 battery is now rated for twice as many charge cycles, along with a redesigned Battery UI in iOS 17.4. Apple is reportedly planning new AI features for both Spotlight search and Xcode code completion, and the EU readies a $500 million fine for Apple’s anticompetitive behavior in music streaming market. Benjamin and Chance break down all that and more in this week’s episode. Sponsored by Nom Nom: Your pet’s a member of the family–don’t feed them like they’re in the dog house. Give them Nom Nom. Get 50% off your no-risk two-week trial at trynom.com/happyhour and use code HAPPYHOUR. Sponsored by Factor Meals: Factor’s delicious, ready-to-eat meals make eating better every day easy. Go to factormeals.com/happyhour50 and use code happyhour50 to get 50% off. Sponsored by Fast Growing Trees: Fast Growing Trees makes it easy to order online, and your plants are shipped directly to your door in 1-2 days. Get an additional 15% off with code HAPPYHOUR at checkout. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Apple confirms iOS 17.4 removes Home Screen web apps in the EU, here’s why Report: EU to fine Apple about $500 million for anticompetitive App Store policy in music streaming market Is Microsoft planning an Xbox Cloud Gaming app for iPhone? Nope. Apple to launch new AI coding and testing features in Xcode this year: report Apple tests upgraded iPhone and Mac search using AI Apple Music Replay updated with monthly stats views, 2024 Replay Mix available starting today Apple Music testing feature that easily imports playlists from Spotify and other services Apple says iPhone 15 batteries have a longer lifespan than initially thought iOS 17.4 makes it easier to know if your iPhone's battery health is 'normal' iMessage quantum security arrives with iOS 17.4 Apple releases Sports app for iPhone, featuring real-time scores, stats and more Apple teases MLS playoffs Immersive Video for Vision Pro coming soon, shot in 8K 3D

Benjamin and Chance discuss the tantalizing references to a HomePod with some kind of screen found in iOS 17.4 beta 3, the App Store Review process has an embarrassing week, and The Information reports Apple is still working on foldable iPhone prototypes. Chance also bought the developer strap for the Apple Vision Pro, while some other launch day buyers opt to return their units within the two-week window. Sponsored by We Got Your Mac: This episode is brought to you by ‘We Got Your Mac’—your guide to Mac adoption at scale. Tune in for expert insights from SHI, Apple and around the business world. Visit WeGotYourMac.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Sponsored by Pillow: Pillow is an all-in-one sleep-tracking solution to help you get a better night’s sleep. Use code HAPPYHOUR23 to unlock a 30% discount for PIllow Premium. Download it from the App Store today. Sponsored by LinkedIn Jobs: LinkedIn Jobs helps you find the candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/HAPPYHOUR. Sponsored by Incogni: Limit public access to your private information, mitigate the risks of identity theft, and keep your data from being sold. Use code “happyhour” at the link below to get an exclusive 60% off an annual Incogni plan: incogni.com/happyhour Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links iOS 17.4 adds new 'Virtual Card Number' feature to Apple Cash Apple Vision Pro will work with mobile device management starting with visionOS 1.1 visionOS 1.1 lets users reset Vision Pro without their password visionOS 1.1 lets Vision Pro users bring virtual 3D objects closer Apple pulls pirated movies and TV shows app disguised as a vision testing tool LastPass alerting customers to imposter 'LassPass' password manager currently in App Store [U: Pulled] Apple wants you to know that App Store is a safe and trusted place Apple posts Q1 2024 earnings results Apple says the EU accounts for just 7% of its global App Store revenue Tim Cook teases Apple AI announcements coming "later this year", amid iOS 18 rumors Report: Apple actively developing foldable clamshell iPhone prototypes, folding 8-inch iPad iCloud for Windows redesigned, Apple Music and Apple TV exit preview, iTunes remains

Chance has had his Apple Vision Pro for about one week, and we all have a lot of thoughts about Apple’s brand new platform. A truly new Apple product doesn’t come along very often, and this is a particularly special one. We go deep on the Vision Pro hardware, comfort, what it’s like using Vision Pro for media and productivity, Personas, FaceTime, real-world battery life, and so much more. Sponsored by PureVPN: Secure, reliable, and Lightning-fast VPN service. Use PureVPN on tvOS 17 to access your favorite content from anywhere in 4K HDR quality. Save up to 83% today. Sponsored by We Got Your Mac: This episode is brought to you by ‘We Got Your Mac’—your guide to Mac adoption at scale. Tune in for expert insights from SHI, Apple and around the business world. Visit WeGotYourMac.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Sponsored by Ladder: Go to Ladderlife.com/HappyHour today to see if you’re instantly approved. Sponsored by Masterclass: Unlimited access to 180+ classes delivered in bite-sized lessons. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links How to get the best fit wearing Apple Vision Pro Unboxing Apple Vision Pro and Travel Case [Gallery] The MLB app on Vision Pro

Benjamin and Chance deep dive into all the App Store changes announced in response to the EU Digital Markets Act, and debate whether anyone is incentivized to make the leap. Also, the first Apple Vision Pro reviews have dropped ahead of its Friday release, and iOS 17.4 brings some fun new features and code references look ahead to iOS 18's AI integration. Sponsored by PureVPN: Secure, reliable, and Lightning-fast VPN service. Use PureVPN on tvOS 17 to access your favorite content from anywhere in 4K HDR quality. Save up to 83% today. Sponsored by Incogni: Limit public access to your private information, mitigate the risks of identity theft, and keep your data from being sold. Use code “happyhour” at the link below to get an exclusive 60% off an annual Incogni plan: incogni.com/happyhour Sponsored by We Got Your Mac: This episode is brought to you by ‘We Got Your Mac’—your guide to Mac adoption at scale. Tune in for expert insights from SHI, Apple and around the business world. Visit WeGotYourMac.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Sponsored by Zocdoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/happyhour and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. Many are available as soon as today. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Apple Vision Pro review roundup Nine problems with Vision Pro passthrough: 'VR trying to be AR' New Vision Pro tidbits and MKBHD's full hands-on video You can't edit your Apple Vision Pro home screen: visionOS apps are arranged alphabetically Vision Pro won't let you save web apps to your home screen Can you cook with Vision Pro? Here are the pros and cons [Video] Here's what it's like using Vision Pro as an external Mac display Apple announces support for third-party iPhone app stores in the EU, coming with iOS 17.4 Apple says third-party app marketplace creators must have €1,000,000 'letter of credit' Apple announces reduced commission structure for apps in Europe Apple now allows game streaming apps in the App Store Apple shares more details about the new default web browser prompt in iOS 17.4 iPad users will miss out on third-party app stores, browser engines, and more Apple will prompt users to set default browsers and allow third-party web engines on iPhone in the EU Spotify CEO slams Apple's App Store changes; Apple fires back [U] Epic CEO Tim Sweeney says latest App Store changes are an 'anticompetitive scheme rife with junk fees' Fortnite coming back to iOS (in the EU) through new 'Epic Store' Microsoft calls Apple's proposed App Store changes a 'step in the wrong direction' Apple Podcasts now offers auto-generated transcripts in iOS 17.4 iOS 17.4 beta 1: Here are all the new features and changes Apple Music SharePlay control expands from CarPlay to HomePod and Apple TV iOS 17.4: Apple continues work on AI-powered Siri and Messages features, with help from ChatGPT iOS 17.4 beta hints at new iPad with landscape Face ID camera Gurman: New iPad Pro and M3 MacBook Air already in production, set for end of March release

Benjamin and Chance talk about all the latest Apple news from this week, including some new iPhone 16 rumors on tech specs and capabilities of the new Capture Button, incentives for artists to produce Spatial Audio music, and the latest installment in the Apple Watch ban saga. Plus, Ford has some CarPlay announcements in the same week that Apple’s ambitions for Project Titan have been scaled back significantly, as the company now looks to launch its own electric vehicle in 2028. Sponsored by Nom Nom: Your pet’s a member of the family–don’t feed them like they’re in the dog house. Give them Nom Nom. Get 50% off your no-risk two-week trial at trynom.com/happyhour. Sponsored by We Got Your Mac: This episode is brought to you by 'We Got Your Mac'—your guide to Mac adoption at scale. Tune in for expert insights from SHI, Apple and around the business world. Visit WeGotYourMac.com or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Report: iPhone 16 camera button will let users zoom in and out by swiping, adjust focus Report: iPhone 16 to feature more RAM and faster Wi-Fi; upgraded 5G coming to iPhone 16 Pro Hands-on: Ford debuts new in-car digital platform with dual-screen Apple Maps via CarPlay Bloomberg: Apple targets 2028 release date for its own electric vehicle Rivian taps ex-Porsche and Apple vet to lead R2, R3 EVs   Apple Music will now pay 10% higher royalties to artists for Spatial Audio music Apple readies Apple Watch Series 9 ban workaround by disabling blood oxygen functionality [U] Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 sales ban resumes tomorrow, appeals court rules How Apple is informing customers about the modified Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Apple begins selling Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 without the blood oxygen feature Apple revises US App Store rules to let developers link to outside payment methods, but it will still charge a commission Spotify calls Apple's 27% cut of purchases outside the App Store 'outrageous'; urges EU to 'act switftly' Supreme Court upholds Apple vs. Epic ruling, Apple must allow app developers to link to other payment systems Apple demands $73M in Epic legal expenses Epic to contest Supreme Court ruling on App Store in-app sales

Chance talks about his second time going hands-on with the Apple Vision Pro, including trying the newly announced Disney+ experiences. We also discuss the preorder process, and the newly released tech specs and accessories for Apple’s upcoming headset. There’s also an ongoing debacle about exactly what third party apps, if any, will be available on visionOS at launch. Sponsored by Incogni: Limit public access to your private information, mitigate the risks of identity theft, and keep your data from being sold. Use code “happyhour” at the link below to get an exclusive 60% off an annual Incogni plan: incogni.com/happyhour Sponsored by Pillow: Pillow is an all-in-one sleep-tracking solution to help you get a better night’s sleep. Use code HAPPYHOUR23 to unlock a 30% discount for PIllow Premium. Download it from the App Store today. Sponsored by Coda: If you want a platform that empowers your team to collaborate effectively and focus on shared goals, you can get started with Coda today for FREE. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Apple Vision Pro: EyeSight, comfort, and more impressions from my latest demo Vision Pro: Apple's first spatial computer is now available for pre-order Apple Vision Pro available in three storage configurations Apple Vision Pro accessories: $200 Travel Case, $200 Battery, $200 Light Seal, and more Here's how much Vision Pro AppleCare and deductibles cost Apple Vision Pro comes with these pre-installed spatial apps Vision Pro shipping estimates begin slipping to March for some configurations Apple Vision Pro custom engraving offered on optical inserts from ZEISS PSA: Here's what to expect if you buy Vision Pro but don't live in the United States Apple offers in-depth look at Vision Pro in new 'Guided Tour' video Vision Pro replacement/repair costs up to $2,399 without AppleCare Apple reveals Vision Pro's weight for the first time: Here's how it compares Vision Pro supports AirPlay mirroring to iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and more YouTube, Spotify, and some other popular apps (probably) won't be available on Vision Pro at launch Vision Pro Immersive Video makes it the ultimate entertainment device, says Apple

Benjamin and Chance discuss Apple’s announcement of Vision Pro pre-orders and launch dates, and dive into what we still don’t know. Also, Ming-Chi Kuo has some details on future iPhone camera upgrades, Apple’s anti-trust concerns continue, and the latest Apple TV+ news.  Sponsored by HelloFresh: Use code happyhourfree for FREE breakfast for life! HelloFresh is America’s #1 meal kit. Sponsored by Kolide: Kolide ensures that if a device isn’t secure, it can’t access your cloud apps. It’s Zero Trust for Okta. Watch a demo and see how it works for you. Sponsored by LinkedIn Jobs: LinkedIn Jobs helps you find the candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/HAPPYHOUR. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Zac's post on Threads and Phil Schiller's response Kuo: 24-megapixel upgraded front camera coming with iPhone 17 AirTag 2 not expected until 2025 as Apple sits on backlog of first-gen inventory Will the iPhone 16 Pro be able to record 4K spatial video? Vision Pro launching on February 2, pre-orders begin next week Here's everything that Apple includes in the Vision Pro box Prescription lenses for Vision Pro to cost $149 – less than predicted Apple increases Vision Pro battery life estimate for video playback Vision Pro's Persona feature will be considered a 'beta' at launch Apple shares new 'Get Ready' Vision Pro ad with clips from Star Wars, Back to the Future, more Xcode files reveal Vision Pro RAM details, but what about storage capacities? Apple Vision Pro demos in retail stores will begin on February 2 US expected to hit Apple with major antitrust lawsuit this year Apple tells EU it has five different App Stores, not just one When will Killers of the Flower Moon stream on Apple TV+? Ridley Scott's Napoleon movie now available on premium video on demand

Benjamin and Chance are back from the holidays. Chance retells his experience using CarPlay and EV routing in Apple Maps, the Apple Watch is (temporarily?) back on shelves, Apple is reportedly in talks with news publishers about licensing content for its AI systems, and all signs point to an impending Vision Pro release. Sponsored by Zocdoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/happyhour and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. Many are available as soon as today. Sponsored by Masterclass: Unlimited access to 180+ classes delivered in bite-sized lessons. Sponsored by Kolide: Kolide ensures that if a device isn’t secure, it can’t access your cloud apps. It’s Zero Trust for Okta. Watch a demo and see how it works for you. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Chance’s thread on Threads with Mach-E roadtrip details Charging a Mach-E at a Tesla Supercharger Ford will add Tesla plug to its electric vehicles in surprising move GM and Ford EV owners to get Tesla Supercharger access as soon as February iOS 17 adds real-time charging availability info for EV drivers This CarPlay GPS bug makes Apple Maps unusable and dangerous Apple Watch ban news hub: Everything we know right now Apple Watch ban temporarily halted, thanks to US appeals court Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 return to Apple Online Store after a week of unavailability Next-gen Apple Watch again rumored to break compatibility with existing bands - 9to5Mac Apple Infinite Loop retail store permanently closing next month Apple permanently closing Apple Royal Hawaiian retail store next month after 15 years Apple wants to train its AI with $50 million worth of licensed news articles Vision Pro release date: Everything we know

Benjamin and Chance look back on the year in Apple news, assessing the state of the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and the rest of Apple’s product lineup in light of the 2023 releases, and what is rumored to come in 2024.  Sponsored by Pillow: Pillow is an all-in-one sleep-tracking solution to help you get a better night’s sleep. Use code HAPPYHOUR23 to unlock a 30% discount for PIllow Premium. Download it from the App Store today. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com

Benjamin and Chance discuss the wild situation of the Apple Watch sales ban in the US as part of an ongoing patent dispute with Masimo over blood oxygen sensor patents. Also, Apple has finally shared details of the first vehicles featuring next-generation CarPlay, Apple News+ adds The Athletic, and we round out the year with some #Ask9to5Mac questions. Sponsored by Setapp: Check out Setapp by MacPaw, the first subscription-based platform offering a carefully curated collection of over 240 Mac and iOS apps. This holiday season, give the gift of Setapp – the perfect fit for anyone with a Mac or iOS device Sponsored by Topdon: Check out Topdon's TC002 Thermal Camera for iOS, featuring a compact size, impressive range, and ultra-high resolution thermal imaging Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Apple halting Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 sales: Here's why ITC denies Apple's request to delay looming Apple Watch ban First cars with next-generation CarPlay officially announced Hands-on: In a world of CarPlay uncertainty, Polestar 2's dual-screen interface shines Apple News+ now includes sports coverage from The Athletic, Wirecutter coming soon Report: Apple offers to open up Apple Pay NFC system on iPhone to appease EU regulators Apple announces new 'contingent pricing' feature for App Store subscriptions EU to ban anti-steering App Store rules for Apple Music competitors after Spotify complaint Apple developing possible software workaround in response to Apple Watch ban Chance’s appearance on Charlie Chapman’s Launched podcast

iOS 17.2 is finally here, and Benjamin and Chance break down all the new features. iOS 17.3 introduces new opt-in measures to protect against shoulder surfing thieves. Also, Apple blocks Beeper Mini, launches a USB-C case for AirPods Pro 2, and plans to start offering incentives for artists to make their songs available in Spatial Audio on Apple Music. Sponsored by 1Password: 1Password makes managing one-time passwords effortless. For a safe and secure holiday, 1Password is offering 9to5Mac readers a savings of 40% on a yearly subscription with a 1Password Individual Account. See show notes for details Sponsored by Ladder: Go to Ladderlife.com/HappyHour today to see if you’re instantly approved. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Stolen Device Protection for iPhone: Now in testing How to swipe between Apple Watch faces in watchOS 10 Apple shut down Beeper Mini's iMessage for Android Apple Music collaborative playlists add emoji reactions in iOS 17.3 beta Beeper Mini restores iMessage service, now for free iMessage for Android via Beeper Mini and Cloud are down again Apple releases standalone USB-C case for AirPods Pro 2 for $99 Apple's chief iPhone and Apple Watch designer leaving Apple Podcasts app launching on Tesla vehicles next week GM's latest excuse for dropping CarPlay is its dumbest yet Chevy Blazer EV first drive – is it worth its $56k base price? | Electrek Report: Apple Music to add new incentives for artists who use Dolby Atmos

iOS 17.2 beta release candidate is here with a few surprise changes in store, while Apple formally retires the iTunes TV Shows and Movies apps in tvOS. An impressive new app called Beeper brings iMessage to Android in the right way. There’s also talk of an Apple-Paramount streaming bundle, and the M3 MacBook Air might be released sooner than we thought. Benjamin and Chance discuss it all. Sponsored by Zocdoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/happyhour and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. Many are available as soon as today. Sponsored by Pillow: Pillow is an all-in-one sleep-tracking solution to help you get a better night’s sleep. Use code HAPPYHOUR23 to unlock a 30% discount for PIllow Premium. Download it from the App Store today. Sponsored by HelloFresh: Use code happyhourfree for FREE breakfast for life! HelloFresh is America’s #1 meal kit. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Ad-free version You can get an ad-free version of 9to5Mac Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts each week for $5 per month or $50 per year. Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Review: Eve Outdoor Cam is a great HomeKit camera with floodlight, Home app needs more notification controls Chance's now $29 camera with HomeKit Secure Video Here's what's actually going on in that viral 'glitch in the matrix' iPhone mirror picture iOS 17.2 release notes: Every new feature and change iTunes Movies and TV Shows app discontinued with new Apple TV update tvOS 17.2 changes the behavior of the Siri button Rumor: New Action button coming to the entire iPhone 16 lineup Beeper Mini will add SMS, Facetime in 'near future' Beeper Mini is even better than a real iMessage app for Android Beeper Mini brings native iMessage to Android New iPad Air, iPad Pro, and MacBook Air coming soon: report Report: Apple in talks to offer combined streaming bundle of Apple TV+ and Paramount+ Apple original film 'Killers of the Flower Moon' will be available to buy/rent from tomorrow