The CultCast HomePods getting BIG upgrades + our Foundation trailer reactions! (CultCast #506)
This week: Apple’s about to bring two powerful new features to your beloved HomePods—they just keep making them better! Plus: the big problem with AirPods Max; a proposed law would force profound changes on Apple App Store; Applecare+ get some big changes; and we react to the new Foundation trailers, the Apple’s epic new sci-fi coming to AppleTV+.
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On the show this week
@erfon / @lkahney / @lewiswallace
Netflix gets more immersive with Spatial Audio support
- Netflix has begun rolling out Spatial Audio support. This lets the streaming service offer a surround sound-like experience but without all the speakers. Currently, it requires AirPods Pro or AirPods Max but that’ll change soon.
HomePod beta brings Dolby Atmos and lossless music support
- Dolby Atmos (spatial audio) and lossless music are on their way to HomePod and HomePod mini. Both features are available for testing in Apple’s latest HomePod 15 beta, rolled out to registered developers on Thursday.
Proposed law would force profound changes on Apple App Store
- Apple currently puts up significant roadblocks to sideloading — installing applications onto an iPhone or iPad from a Mac. The Open App Markets Act would require Apple to allow sideloading.
Apple now offers annual AppleCare+ subscriptions for new Mac owners
- Apple recently updated its AppleCare+ for Mac price structure, allowing new owners to purchase the extended coverage as an annual subscription instead of a three-year up front commitment.
Apple now allows AppleCare+ for Mac to continue beyond three years
- In certain major territories, including the U.S., Apple will now let users keep AppleCare+ for Mac active beyond its original three-year limit.
‘Wool’: Tim Robbins Joins Rebecca Ferguson In Apple TV+ Series
- Wool is a set in a ruined and toxic future where a community e