Let’s talk Apple’s “Scary Fast” Mac event expectations! (CultCast #618)
Oct 27, 2023
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Apple's surprise 'Scary Fast' event is expected to showcase a barrage of new Macs. Speculations and rumors about the event include the possibility of new Mac Pro and AirPods. The hosts discuss Apple's challenges in Mac gaming and the availability of new Macs. They also touch upon the rumors surrounding upcoming AirPods models and express gratitude to Leo LaPorte. The episode concludes with discussions on Apple's streaming service price increases and predictions for Apple's 'Scary Fast' Mac event, including potential redesigns and focus.
AirPods 4 will come in two versions: one with active noise cancellation and another without.
AirPods Max will receive an update in 2024, but not at the upcoming event.
Focus of the event will be on Mac updates, including new MacBook Pros and iMacs.
Potential for improved immersive audio experiences with active noise cancellation in AirPods 4.
Speculations about a redesigned Apple TV app and a possible raise in Apple TV+ price.
Rumored features for the upcoming event include MagSafe, updated Magic accessories, and a carbon-neutral Mac.
Deep dives
AirPods 4: Two Versions with Different Features
Mark Gurman reports that AirPods 4 will come in two versions - one with active noise cancellation and find my support, and another without these features. Both versions will feature a new design, but silicone ear tips will remain exclusive to AirPods Pro. The higher-end version is expected to cost $379, while the cheaper version will retail for $229. The new AirPods 4 models will replace AirPods 2 and 3 in 2024, according to the report.
AirPods Max Update Coming Next Year
AirPods Max will also receive an update, but not at the upcoming event. The updated version of AirPods Max is expected to release in 2024.
No AirPods Expected at Upcoming Event
Although there will be a hardware-focused event, AirPods are not expected to be announced or updated during this event. Rumors suggest that the focus of the event will be on Mac updates, particularly the release of new MacBook Pros and iMacs.
Possibility of Active Noise Cancellation for AirPods 4
The inclusion of active noise cancellation in one version of AirPods 4 suggests the potential for improved immersive audio experiences and environmental noise reduction during usage.
IMac updated with M3
IMac is expected to receive an update, including new M3 chips.
MacBook Air and MacBook Pro updates
The 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air are likely to receive updates, while the 13-inch MacBook Pro may gain a new chip and higher price. The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are also expected to be updated.
MagSafe returns and USB-C for accessories
Apple is rumored to bring back MagSafe and update the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad with USB-C connectivity.
Apple TV app redesign
There is speculation about a redesigned Apple TV app coming soon.
Apple TV+ price increase and sizzle reel
Apple may raise the price of Apple TV+ and could release a sizzle reel showcasing their original content.
Miscellaneous predictions
There are speculations about a carbon-neutral Mac, presentations filmed at night, and the possibility of Halloween costumes during the event.
Summary of Event
The podcast episode discussed various predictions and rumors surrounding Apple's upcoming event, including updates to the iMac, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Apple TV app, and Apple TV+. There was also speculation about a carbon-neutral Mac, filming presentations at night, and the possibility of Halloween costumes during the event.
Next week’s “Scary Fast” event came out of nowhere, a total surprise! And now we know... Apple’s preparing a BARRAGE of new Macs. Get your wallets ready — you’re going to like what’s coming next!
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It’s official, a second Apple product-release event of autumn takes place the evening before Halloween — Monday, October 30 at 5 p.m. PT. Most folks expect some new Macs to shamble forth.
“Apple’s iMacs and MacBook Pros are in extremely short supply”
“Apple has been testing M3 Max and M3 Pro 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros”
“Apple has been planning an M3 iMac for a while […] No other major changes other than the chip”
“Inventory of existing high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros — as well as the all-in-one iMac desktop — has dwindled at Apple stores as well as retailers”
After Apple invited the world to its Scary Fast product event Monday, speculation turned more seriously to the idea that newly announced Macs might sport faster new M3 chips rather than versions of the current M2 series chips.
Apple has apparently collaborated with LG Display to integrate new OLED material sets in some of its future devices, including forthcoming iPad Pro and MacBook models.
AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 will get the axe in 2024 to be replaced with a fourth generation that will come in two versions, according to an unconfirmed report from Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman. One AirPods 4 model will offer ANC and have a charging case that supports the Find My app. A cheaper version will not have either feature.
The cost of watching Apple TV+ series and movies just went up 40%. […] The price for Apple Arcade, Apple News+ and Apple One also increased. But the cost of other services, like Apple Music, remains the same.