Mac Power Users

They compare Obsidian and NotePlan for research and writing, and debate Apple Notes and block editors. They dig into Keyboard Maestro versus Shortcuts, conflict palettes, and moving snippets between apps. AI and local models, LLM choices, and security tradeoffs come up. They cover quick automations like ejecting drives, Sign In with Apple management, and tips to silence Shortcut notifications.

Chris Bailey, author and productivity researcher who experiments with attention and tech habits. He describes a battered M1 Pro and why he loves simple tools like TextEdit, SimpleNote and printed research. He explains using an iPad mini as a phone to add friction and shares rituals for ideation, email sprints, and task repurposing.

Dive into the evolution of Apple Weather, tracing its journey from basic widgets to the advanced features of WeatherKit. Discover how the app compares to third-party options like Carrot Weather, known for its rich customization. The hosts explore the functionality of the Apple Watch app, its reliable data, and notifications. Learn about the strengths and limitations of Apple Weather's radar features, and whether it's suitable for most users or when to consider alternatives. Plus, insights on the new Apple Creator Studio bundle make this episode a can't-miss!

Explore the diverse world of writing tools, from classic pen and paper to AI-assisted drafting. The hosts share their favorite capturing apps and discuss the merits of Markdown editors. Learn about innovative tools like Scrivener and DEVONthink for organizing ideas and research. Delve into dictation methods and how to incorporate AI for critiques, without losing your voice. They also discuss the importance of focus modes and editing techniques to enhance clarity and engagement in writing.

This week, the hosts dive into strategies for managing smartphone notifications and regaining focus. They explore the benefits of focus modes, detailing how to customize settings based on context. Discussions include filtering notifications by people and apps, utilizing color-coded lock screens, and syncing preferences across devices. They also emphasize the importance of turning off distracting alerts while suggesting methods for evaluating app noise. Finally, they advocate for thoughtful notification management to enhance productivity.

In a tech year-end review, Stephen and David analyze the success of Apple Silicon, discussing its transformative impact across all devices. They explore the rise of home automation that truly 'just works' and the interoperability benefits of Matter and Thread. Exciting advancements in on-device AI and automation in daily tasks are highlighted, along with practical uses of tools like ChatGPT and Claude. They also share insights on improved default Apple apps and the evolving landscape of iPadOS, making it better aligned with its hardware.

Dive into the world of Keyboard Maestro as hosts explore its origins and how it outshines Shortcuts for serious automation. Learn about its trigger-action model, practical beginner use cases, and advanced features like clipboard management and UI scripting. They discuss integrating with Stream Deck and the pros and cons of text expansion. The show also touches on app-specific shortcuts, conflict palettes, and the vibrant community that supports users. To cap it off, they weigh in on its worth compared to alternatives like Alfred.

In this engaging discussion, the hosts dive into clever smart home solutions, including long-range sensors for mailboxes. They explore imaginative concepts for a foldable iPad and how it could reshape user experiences. The practicality of replacing the iMac with Mac mini or Studio setups also sparks debate. Listeners get insights on reliable charging stations and using HomePods as intercoms. Personal workflows blend analog and digital methods, including Notion for team tracking. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on outdoor cameras and EV ownership.

A deep dive into Apple's future reveals exciting developments! Discover the strengths of the iPhone 17, including its best-in-class display and professional features. The hosts share their personal iPhone preferences, weighing the benefits of lighter models against the capabilities of the Pro. Discussions also touch on the potential for vapor chambers in other devices and the reliability of iCloud services. Speculations about the future of folding iPhones and improving Apple services round out a comprehensive look at the evolving ecosystem.

Dive into a detailed exploration of Apple's latest offerings, as the hosts discuss the new Mac hardware, including the M2 Mac Studio and M4 Max MacBook Pro. Exciting topics include the benefits of Apple Silicon, the potential for a new low-cost MacBook, and the future of Mac Pro. They ponder the outdated state of external displays and the mixed reviews surrounding macOS Tahoe. WatchOS features, including smart stack widgets and promising apps, are also highlighted, along with the anticipation for Apple's vision in AR and immersive technology.