The CultCast

Apple's renewed push in the AI arena takes center stage, with Tim Cook assuring a commitment to winning the AI race. The team discusses an intriguing ChatGPT rival and ongoing enhancements to Siri. They showcase a hands-on look at a colorful iPhone 17 Pro case featuring a built-in stand, and delve into the impact of new materials like Liquid Silicone. The conversation wraps up with insights into iOS 26's latest features and a quick detour into healthier meal solutions.

Send us a text!Watch this episode on YouTubeStephen Hackett joins Leander and Griffin to talk all about a big week of iPhone 17 Pro leaks. We have a camera rumor that’s absolutely bananas, models of the new colors — and a spy shot out in public? Also: tips on customizing your Home Screen, an almost-normal Mac mini setup, and a big new Mac display!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.coEasily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/CultCast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.This week’s stories:iPhone 17 Pro camera could zoom past expectations with 8x lensiPhone 17 Pro's telephoto camera could get a bigger upgrade than initially rumored, with a new dual lens system for up to 8x optical zoom.iPhone 17 Pro could break tradition with bold new orange colorAlleged iPhone 17 dummy units showcase the color options for the upcoming lineup, including a bold orange shade for the Pro models.Masked iPhone 17 Pro prototype spotted in the wildBlurry images of a supposed iPhone 17 Pro test unit have surfaced online after someone reportedly spotted the device in the wild.WidgetsmithWidgetsmith lets you personalize your device like never before with a wide range of highly-customizable widgets.App StoreGiant smart TV dwarfs 32-inch display in Mac mini rigIn today's featured M2 Mac mini setup, a mammoth Hisense smart TV dominates its complementary 32-inch LG monitor.Under Review: BenQ PD3226GAlthough this 32-inch display is only 4K and not 6K, it has a built-in Thunderbolt 4 dock with a KVM, highly accurate colors, a HotKey Puck remote control — and a gorgeous 144 Hz refresh rate.

This week, rumors swirl around the exciting design and functionality of the upcoming folding iPhone slated for 2026. The challenges of adapting iOS 27 to accommodate dual screens are discussed. Listeners will also learn about the innovative M5 iPad Pro, potentially enhancing Face ID's usability. There are valuable tips for runners using the Apple Watch, focusing on metrics like cadence for better performance. The hosts delve into the emotional ties we have with colorful iPhone designs, blending nostalgia with modern practicality.

Exciting revelations about Apple's upcoming M5 MacBook Pro and iPad Pro surface, with the potential for delays! All iPhone 17 colors are leaked, showcasing an impressive variety. The importance of heart rate recovery is discussed, emphasizing its impact on fitness tracking via Apple Watch. A new Mac app, Longplay, aims to recreate the nostalgia of vinyl collections. The hosts also dive into workspace setups, weighing the pros and cons of standing desks and multiple displays, all while engaging with listener feedback.

Graham Bower, a developer from Barcelona known for creating Reps and Sets, joins the conversation to delve into juicy iPhone 17 leaks, hinting at exciting design upgrades. They discuss Jeff Williams' impending departure and speculate on Apple's next CEO, adding an intriguing twist. Bower also shares insights on optimizing Liquid Glass in iOS 26 for better readability and highlights innovative app development techniques using AI. The episode wraps up with a look at a snazzy new handheld gaming console that’s capturing attention.

Apple is set to release its most affordable MacBook yet, packed with the powerful A18 Pro chip. The team speculates on potential AI collaborations to enhance Siri's capabilities, while also reflecting on user preferences for Apple Watch customization. They dive into practical tips for managing iCloud storage and explore the latest in car tech, highlighting the evolution of CarPlay. With a mix of future tech insights and personal anecdotes, this discussion keeps you informed and entertained!

Sam Henri Gold, a design engineer and founding designer at Patina Systems, dives into the world of Apple's next big innovations with hosts Leander and Griffin. They discuss the anticipated M5 iPad Pro, already in production, and the potential for super-size folding iPads with iPadOS 26. The conversation touches on the gradual reduction of iPhone screen cutouts and the features of iOS 26 beta 2, packed with subtle improvements. Gold offers insights into the design challenges faced in tech startups, highlighting the evolving user experience.

Delve into the hidden gems of iOS 26, including adjustable alarm snooze lengths and enhanced file management. Discover the future of Siri, anticipated with AI advancements but facing delays. Explore the intriguing new features of visionOS, from spatial widgets to personal experiences with the immersive Vision Pro. The hosts tackle Apple's self-service repair challenges for iPads and discuss the intriguing potential of foldable iPhones. It's a mix of humor and tech insights that keeps you engaged!

Leander Canning, an insightful podcaster, and tech enthusiasts Charlie Sorrel and Graham Bowers dive into Apple's latest innovations. They explore Liquid Glass, Apple's ambitious new interface design that dazzles but raises accessibility concerns. Exciting updates for iOS 26 include a reimagined Phone app and enhanced AI. The discussion humorously critiques the WWDC presentation, while they share personal experiences with Apple's evolving ecosystem. Plus, they touch on watchOS 26's motivational features and the challenges of app design integration.

Leander Kahney, a tech expert on visual intelligence and MacOS, joins Graham Bowers, who specializes in Apple Intelligence and health tech, as well as Charlie Sorrel, an advocate for privacy in technology. They predict intriguing developments for WWDC25, including AI advancements and macOS Lake Tahoe's redesign. The trio dives into Apple's health features, like blood glucose monitoring, while expressing concerns over reliance on tech. They also humorously debate Apple's naming conventions and share insights about upcoming iOS features, keeping listeners engaged and informed.