The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave is joined by guests Holden DePardo, Jill McKinley, Guy Serle, and Marty Jencius. We discuss the fourth beta of VisionOS 2.2, sharing insights on new features like ultra-wide virtual display support and improved Siri functionality, as well as our experiences with the Vision Pro headset.The conversation covers the latest betas of iOS and macOS, focusing on new features like Genmoji and enhancements in privacy and messaging. We also evaluate the Mac Mini's capabilities, highlighting its versatility. Finally, we reflect on Tim Cook's recent interview about AI and Apple's ongoing commitment to user privacy.

The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com

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Summary

This week, we focus on the fascinating new advancements in macOS, the Vision Pro headset, and the latest beta releases.

Our conversation kicks off with a deep dive into the fourth beta of VisionOS 2.2. The release introduces improved features like ultra-wide virtual display support, enhanced Siri functionality, and corrections to earlier bugs. As early adopters of the Vision Pro, we share our experiences and explore the new capabilities of the headset, including the much-anticipated multi-view option for watching sports and clearer pass-through visuals. We also discuss the latest in mixed-reality applications, mentioning how companies like Porsche are harnessing the power of Vision Pro for innovative product unveilings.

Transitioning into software updates, we dissect the new beta versions of iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and watchOS. The discussion highlights features like Genmoji, a visually striking emoji experience, and improvements in Siri's integration with generative AI tools. Our guests share personal insights on how these features perform in real-world applications, with a particular focus on the image-processing capabilities and notification summaries.

An important highlight of the episode is our assessment of the Mac Mini, as its recent release has sparked much excitement. Holden and Jill share their firsthand experiences with their new machines, emphasizing the power and flexibility of this compact desktop solution. The conversation naturally evolves into discussing the practicality of using the Mac Mini with the Vision Pro, showcasing its versatile use case for content creation and productivity.

In addition to the hardware focus, we explore software enhancements, including Apple's efforts to improve privacy through private MAC addresses and expansions of RCS messaging on iPhones, which aim to bridge the communication gap between iOS and Android users. The potential impact of Apple's push into more integrated messaging experiences is analyzed, particularly in light of recent updates.

Wrapping up the episode, we touch on Tim Cook's recent interview, where he discusses AI, the future of Vision Pro, and the continual evolution of Apple’s product design philosophy. Our discussion of Cook's vision reinforces the company's commitment to advancing user technology while maintaining a focus on privacy and user experience.

Topics and Links

In Touch With Vision Pro this week. Apple Seeds Fourth Beta of visionOS 2.2 to Developers With Ultrawide Mac Virtual Display

visionOS 2.2 Adds Support for Watching Five Sports Games at Once With Multiview

Apple Vision Pro Pre-Orders Go Live in Taiwan Ahead of Dec 17 Launch

Apple Vision Pro has completely changed how Porsche unveils sports cars in two ways - 9to5Mac

Coming soon to Apple Vision Pro: mixed reality hit game 'Little Cities: Diorama' [out now]

Whats new with Vision Pro RC: visionOS 2.2 RC Release Notes | Apple Developer Documentation

Beta this week. Apple Seeds Release Candidate Versions of iOS 18.2 and More With Genmoji, Image Playground and ChatGPT Integration

iOS 18.2 Lets You Use Natural Language Search in Apple Music and Apple TV

iOS 18.2 Expands AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Test Feature to Nine Countries

watchOS 11.2 Lets You Pause iPhone Video With Camera Remote App

Apple releases RC betas for tvOS 18.2, visionOS 2.2, watchOS 11.2, here’s what to expect

Here Are Apple's Full Release Notes for iOS 18.2 - MacRumors

In Touch With Mac this week

Apple Releases iCloud Passwords Add-On for Firefox - MacRumors

Holden and Jill discuss their new Mac Mini.Dave and Marty have theirs but Guy really needs one hes outnumbered.

Did you know? Use private Wi-Fi addresses on Apple devices

Send and Receive RCS Messages on iPhone

Smallest Mac yet is perfect Apple Vision Pro companion with the right battery pack

Link to Battery Pack: https://amzn.to/3OJUbFM

Tip to solve a frustration: Stop Live Activities Taking Over Your Apple Watch Face

iPhone SE Now Over 1,000 Days Old as New Model Edges Closer

News

Apple CEO Tim Cook Opens Up About AI Plans, Vision Pro Future, and More in New Interview

Apple Card Savings Account gets another interest rate cut

Your Apple Music Replay yearly recap for 2024 is now available

iPhone Driver's License Support in Wallet Expands to New Mexico

Announcements

Macstock 8 wrapped up for 2024. But you can purchase the digital pass and still see the great talks we had including Dave talking about Apple Services and more. Content is now available! . Click here for more information: Digital Pass | Macstock Conference & Expo with discounts on previous events.

Our Host

Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastadon @daveg65, and the show @intouchwithios

Our Regular Contributors

Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s managing editor, and Smile’s TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet as well as Twitter and Instagram as @jgamet His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet

Marty Jencius, Ph.D., is a professor of counselor education at Kent State University, where he researches, writes, and trains about using technology in teaching and mental health practice. His podcasts include Vision Pro Files, The Tech Savvy Professor and Circular Firing Squad Podcast. Find him at jencius@mastodon.social https://thepodtalk.net

About our Guests

Holden DePardo His Apple and tech known brings great insights to the show.

Guy Serle is the host of the MyMac Podcast and the (hopefully) reconstituted Guy’s Daily Drive…which isn’t daily, but is done by driving so half accurate. email Guy@mymac.com @MacParrot and @VertShark on Twitter Vertshark.com, Vertshark on YouTube, Skype +1 Area code 703-828-4677

Jill McKinley is a professional in the field of enterprise software, server administration, and IT. She started her technical career in Windows but now exclusively uses a Mac in her personal life. She hosts several podcasts, including Start with Small Steps and Small Steps with God, where she offers tips and insights for a better life. Her podcast is at https://startwithsmallsteps.com and X @schmern.

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