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Send us a text!Watch this episode on YouTubeThis week, it’s the biggest brain drain at Apple for decades — and a lot of Apple fans are celebrating! Also: Intel is coming back to the Mac (but it’s not what you think!) and another pedantic Mac question only Griffin can answer. 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 unsubscribe at unfork.thecultcast.comCultCloth will keep your iPhone, MacBook, display, 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.coNordLayer is an easy to use and easy to set up security platform for businesses. Get the exclusive Black Friday offer: 28% off NordLayer yearly plans with the coupon code cultcast-28. Try it risk-free with a 14-day money-back guarantee at nordlayer.com/cultcast.This week’s stories:Apple design chief quits for Meta. Some say good riddance!Social media users responded to big news that Alan Dye will join Meta with Liquid-Glass-focused sarcasm. Is it really such a big loss?Meet Apple’s new UI chief, the man Steve Jobs called ‘Margaret’Meet Steve Lemay, the new head of user interface design at Apple, and learn why Steve Jobs called him “Margaret.”Apple replaces AI chief, taps ex-Googler to fix Apple IntelligenceApple's AI chief is out after a string of failures. Learn about the new leadership for the company's critical AI development efforts.Macs might soon have Intel inside again — but there’s a twistIn a surprising shift in Apple's chip strategy, Intel will reportedly fabricate low-end M-series chips for future MacBook Air and iPad Pro.How to find your music stats with Apple Music Replay 2025Apple Music Replay is where you find your most-played songs, artists and albums from 2025. Here's how to find it.Griffin on Apple MusicLewis on Apple MusicLeander on Apple Music

Exciting updates are on the horizon with iOS 27, emphasizing quality improvements and AI enhancements. Apple’s naming conventions spark a lively debate as hosts ponder if this release is truly a 'Snow Leopard' moment. Meanwhile, Android users rejoice as Quick Share finally gains compatibility with Apple’s AirDrop, revolutionizing file sharing. The panel also dives into standout Black Friday deals, from the latest MacBooks to accessory steals, making it the perfect time to snag some bargains. Plus, customization features for Mac folder icons are showcased!

The show tackles the thrilling prospect of a post-Tim Cook era at Apple, speculating on potential successors like John Ternus. iOS 26.2's exciting update allows Japanese users to replace Siri with third-party voice assistants via the side button. Meanwhile, the uncertainty surrounding the Mac Pro raises eyebrows as Apple pivots to prioritize other products. In a quirky twist, thieves in London are opting to return Android devices while keeping iPhones for their resale value. Plus, a peek into the most extravagant Mac setup showcases a blend of luxury and practicality.

Apple surprises everyone with the quirky, 3D-knitted iPhone Pocket designed by Issey Miyake. The new digital passport makes a splash, but it raises concerns about privacy and security. Tesla's new move to integrate CarPlay has people buzzing, but Android Auto is still in the dark. Remember Genius mixes? There’s a discussion about their potential return to iOS Music! Plus, first impressions of the sci-fi show Pluribus hint at a captivating narrative, with intriguing themes and visuals.

This week, discussions ignite over Apple's budget-friendly MacBook, sending shockwaves through the PC industry. A revealing look into Apple's partnership with Google Gemini for enhancing Siri raises eyebrows about privacy and tech integration. The hosts ponder what upgrades the iPhone Air needs to solve its major issues, while the impact of automakers abandoning CarPlay could disrupt consumer convenience. Don't miss the fun as they tackle iOS 26.1 features and play a hilarious Mad Libs game with AirPods Pro announcements!

This week, the future of iPhones gets a buzz with haptic buttons replacing traditional ones in the rumored buttonless 20th anniversary model. Exciting news emerges about Apple’s push for OLED screens across nearly all iPads, including the mini, while weighing the pros and cons of this tech. There’s chatter about AirPods Pro 3 experiencing frustrating in-flight whistling issues and handy troubleshooting tips. Plus, hands-on impressions of the M5 Vision Pro reveal cool new features, including enhanced gaming performance and impressive photo handling.

D. Griffin Jones, a tech writer and video reviewer, shares his insights after 24 hours with the M5 Vision Pro, discussing its unboxing and unique dual knit band. Lewis Wallace dives into the new iOS beta, highlighting a toggle for the controversial Liquid Glass feature. The duo also examines the headset's market reception, gaming performance, and the implications of rumored Apple foldables, including an 18'' foldable iPad. They wrap up with a look at a creative Mac mini setup and their favorite writing processes.

The latest M5 chip from Apple is causing a stir with its AI and graphics processing power. The refreshed 14-inch MacBook Pro showcases impressive upgrades, while the new iPad Pro aims to rival laptops. There's buzz around the Vision Pro's enhancements, including a sleek redesign and improved battery life. Hosts share their purchasing plans and debate the iPad's role in work environments. Plus, get a glimpse into the quirky reactions to the new Steve Jobs commemorative coin!

Sora is taking the App Store by storm with its AI-generated videos, raising questions about creativity versus potential misinformation. OpenAI faces significant challenges in launching its own iPhone killer, grappling with privacy and operational limitations. The hosts also discuss updates from the upcoming iOS 26.1, including multitasking features and call screening options. Plus, insights into the Mac switcher experience and Apple’s complicated relationship with enterprise products add depth to the conversation.

This week dives into the frenzy of Apple leaks, including an exclusive unboxing of the powerful M5 iPad Pro and its impressive benchmark scores. The hosts discuss how Russian YouTubers snag unreleased devices early, and FCC leaks confirm the imminent arrival of M5 Macs and Vision Pro. They also explore Apple's shift in focus from a budget Vision headset to advancing smart glasses, while reviewing the new Logitech MX Master 4 mouse. Plus, there's a fun look at Dave Snow's standout multi-monitor setup!