The CultCast

New Mac Studio, new MacBook Air, new iPad Air, new iPad! (CultCast #689)

Mar 7, 2025

This week, the hosts dive into Apple's latest releases, including the powerful MacBook Air with the new M4 chip and the impressive iPad Air. They share amusing anecdotes about product leaks and the tech community's banter. The engineering marvels behind the M3 Ultra chips are also discussed, along with the practical benefits of recent iOS updates. Expect laughs as they debate whether high-end devices are truly necessary for everyday users. Plus, enjoy insights on new features for the latest iPhone and quirky emoji additions in iOS 18.4!

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The introduction of the M4 MacBook Air boasts significant upgrades in power, memory capacity, and aesthetic appeal, enhancing user experience.

Convenient, ready-made meal options like Factor's are becoming increasingly popular for health-conscious consumers looking to simplify dietary changes.

The playful rivalry between tech journalists John Gruber and Mark Gurman highlights the competitive dynamics and relationships within the technology reporting community.

Deep dives

Increased Accuracy with Colt Mac Rider Images

In the discussion, it’s noted that placing images of Colt Mac riders on the high points of a dartboard has significantly improved the speaker's accuracy, leading to an 86% increase in average scores. This anecdote emphasizes the innovative ways that techniques and visual cues can enhance performance in activities requiring precision. The effectiveness of this method suggests that visualization techniques may play a crucial role in achieving better results. By adopting such strategies, enthusiasts can optimize their gaming experience while having fun.

Intro

3min

Evaluating Mac Efficiency and Easy Meal Solutions

6min

Inside Apple's Product Buzz

15min

Apple's Latest Chips and iPad Insights

18min

Enhancements in iPads and Value Propositions from Apple

5min

Exploring iOS 18.4 and the New iPhone

15min

Tech Reviews and Humorous Anecdotes

5min

Send us a text!

This week, Apple dropped iPads and Macs galore — we’re talking ALL the details on the iPad Air, iPad 11, MacBook Air M4 and Mac Studio! Also: iOS 18.4 beta 2 and Griffin’s review of the iPhone 16e. (Remember that?)

This episode supported by:

Listeners like you. Your support helps us fund CultCast Off-Topic, a new weekly podcast of bonus content available for everyone; and helps us secure the future of the podcast. You also get access to The CultClub Discord, where you can chat with us all week long, give us show topics, and even end up on the show. Support The CultCast at support.thecultcast.com — OR at CultOf9to5MacRumors.com

CultCloth will keep your Mac Studio, Studio Display, iPhone 15 Pro, guitars, glasses and lenses sparkling clean! For a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a two free CarryCloths with any order $20+ at CultCloth.co

Factor Meals. Treat yourself to Factor’s delicious, high-quality, ready-to-eat meals delivered right to your door. Head over to FactorMeals.com/FactorPodcast and use offer code FactorPodcast to get 50% off plus free shipping on your first box.

This week’s stories:

John Gruber versus Mark Gurman: