MAGIC Newsletter - November 2020

MAGIC Moments

President of MAGIC retires

I am now in Blaine in my new house. I shall not run for President for 2021 but will be willing to serve on the MAGIC board if invited. I shall continue as the webmaster for the foreseeable future. I will still be available for consultation by email and phone to all members of MAGIC.

MAGIC Board of Directors

At the end of this year we will need to elect a new board. Gary McIntyre is putting together a slate of candidates for the new board. Please help by volunteering to participate by calling him at

If he contacts you about serving - consider it an honor to be asked and then accept. I plan to accept a position as Director at large if asked.

Classes

All classes have been cancelled until the Covid-19 pandemic is under control.

Covid-19

If you need computer help through this time, see Getting computer help in coronavirus land by Ron Sharp in the May issue of the newsletter.

Also note that there are still mentors willing to help you out with Apple problems. Ron Sharp, Gary McIntyre, and I are only an email away - also see the mentors section of the MAGIC website. If you are going to meet with one of the MAGIC gurus, please wear a mask and respect the 6 foot distance guideline.

Note: This Software Update section of the newsletter lists the most relevant Apple updates. Not all updates are listed for all products. Additionally, I'll add other pertinent updates on occasion.

Apple releases iOS 14.1 and iPadOS 14.1 with bug fixes & iPhone 12 support

Just as the iPhone 12 is shipping to customers, Apple released the iOS 14.1 and iPadOS 14.1 updates with support for the latest devices and some bug fixes.

The updates can be installed on the iPhone and iPad via the usual update processes. While it can be set to run automatically, a manual update can be performed on the iPhone and iPad by opening the Settings app, selecting General, then Software Update.

iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 made changes including refreshing the Home screen and app interface, Messages and Safari, made major changes to Siri, added elements to Maps, introduced Sound Recognition alerts, and CarKey support, among other changes. The next-generation tvOS 14 brings better picture-in-picture support, HomeKit Doorbell alerts and camera feeds, UI customization and more to Apple's set-top streamer.

Apple is also testing out updates for iOS 14.2, iPadOS 14.2, watchOS 7.1, and tvOS 14.2 with developers, issuing the first beta on September 17, one day after the release of the milestone versions. So far, the first beta for iOS 14.2 has consisted of cosmetic updates to Control Center and a new Watch app icon, among other improvements.

Apple releases macOS Catalina 10.15.7 supplemental update with security fixes

Alongside a slew of other releases today, Apple has also quietly released a supplemental update to macOS Catalina 10.15.7. Apple says the update includes important security fixes.

Apple says the supplemental update to macOS Catalina 10.15.7 includes the following fixes:

If you’re running macOS Catalina 10.15.7, you can find today’s supplemental update in the System Preferences app on your Mac.

Apple releases iOS 14.2 with new emoji and wallpapers, HomePod Intercom support, more

After releasing the Release Candidate version last week, iOS 14.2 is now available to all iPhone users. Apple has also released iPadOS 14.2 as well as iOS 12.4.9 for older devices.

iOS 14.2 includes a variety of changes and new features, including over 100 new emoji as well as new wallpapers. There is also support for the iPhone 12 Leather Sleeve with MagSafe, although we still don’t have a release date for that accessory.

MacBook Pro FAQ: New models to be introduced next week with Apple silicon

The MacBook Pro is Apple's top-of-the-line laptop. It offers top-notch performance for demanding users who need processing power and are willing to spend top dollar for it. Learn more about the MacBook Pro by reading about its main features below.

The latest rumor about the MacBook Pro: New Apple silicon models to be revealed on November 10

Apple sent invitations to the media for a "One more thing" online event on November 10 at 10 a.m. Pacific. Bloomberg reports that this event will feature Apple's first Macs equipped with the company's own processors instead of Intel's. Bloomberg says that Apple is working on new 13- and 16-inch MacBook Pros and a MacBook Air. The laptops won't have major design changes besides the new CPU.

Bloomberg says the laptops will have processors based on Apple's A14 design, which is used in the current iPhone and iPad Air. The laptops will also have Apple-designed graphics and machine-learning processors.

The MacBook Pro currently use Intel's Core processors. The 13-inch models use LPDDR3 RAM and support a maximum of 16GB or 32GB. The 16-inch models use DDR4 RAM and the maximum amount of RAM supported is 64GB.

The 13-inch models have only an integrated graphics processor, either the Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645 or Intel Iris Plus Graphics. The 16-inch models have the integrated Intel HD Graphics 630 processor, as well as a discrete AMD Radeon Pro 5300M or AMD Radeon Pro 5500M graphics card.

The solid state drives (SSDs) range from 256GB to 1TB in the standard configurations of the 13-inch MacBook Pro. In the 16-inch models, you start with either 512GB or 1TBB. You can upgrade the SSD to up to 2TB or 4TB on the 13-inch MacBook Pro, or up to 8TB on the 16-inch MacBook Pro.

The MacBook Pro has the Touch Bar, a strip that's located where the function keys are usually at the top of the keyboard. The Touch Bar is an OLED screen that lights up with different icons, buttons, and functions you can use relative to the tasks and app you are using on your Mac. For example, if you are using Messages, the Touch Bar will show a set on emoji, and you can tap the emoji you want to use. Learn more about the types of controls the Touch Bar offers.

For a better idea of how the Touch Bar integrates into your daily use, read our review of the 2016 MacBook Pro, when the Touch Bar made its debut.

Apple offers four standard configurations of the 13-inch MacBook Pro, and two of the 16-inch MacBook Pro. All laptops are available in Space Gray or Silver. Here's the rundown on each model. (Each model can be customized at an additional cost.)

$1,299: 1.4GHz quad-core eighth-generation Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory, 128GB SSD, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645 (integrated graphics), two Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

$1,499: 1.4GHz quad-core eighth-generation Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory, 256GB SSD, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645 (integrated graphics), two Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

$1,799: 2.0GHz quad-core tenth-generation Core i5 processor, 16GB of memory, 512GB SSD, Intel Iris Plus Graphics (integrated graphics), four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

$1,999: 2.0GHz quad-core eighth-generation Core i5 processor, 16GB of memory, 1TB SSD, Intel Iris Plus Graphics (integrated graphics), four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

$2,399: 2.6GHz 6-core ninth-generation Core i7 processor, 16GB of memory, 512GB SSD, Intel HD Graphics 630 (integrated graphics), 4GB AMD Radeon Pro 5300M (discrete graphics), four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

$2,799: 2.3GHz 8-core ninth-generation Core i9 processor, 16GB of memory, 1TB SSD, Intel HD Graphics 630 (integrated graphics), 4GB AMD Radeon Pro 5500M (discrete graphics), four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

You can buy a new MacBook Pro directly from Apple online. Check the Apple website for ship dates, since the laptops may not be available immediately. You can also visit a retail Apple store near you.

Apple has refurbished MacBook Pro models available in the company's Refurbished and Clearance Store. Refurbs offer a modest savings over new models.

Apple tests and certifies all products in the Refurbished store. Supply is limited, so Apple could run out of refurb stock, and you'll have to check back if you missed your opportunity to buy. But once Apple receives your payment, the company guarantees your purchase.

Here's how much money you can save with an Apple One services bundle

Apple One Services bundles are here, and it can save you a lot of money per month. Here's a look at some scenarios of Apple subscriptions versus what you get in each tier of Apple One bundles, and what to expect.

There are three Apple One tiers: an Individual plan that costs $14.95 a month; a family sharing option at $19.95 a month; and a Premier plan that include more services for $29.95 a month. The first two feature Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and iCloud storage, while the latter tier throws in Apple News+ and the newly announced Apple Fitness .

Read on for how each tier breaks down, and how much you could save compared to purchasing each service individually.

iPhone 12 Pro: Everything you need to know about Apple's new high-end smartphone

Apple's new high-end iPhones have a refreshed design, faster processor, 5G, and a much better camera.

Apple has just taken the wraps off the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. Each are available in two sizes (the regular iPhone 12 now comes in a 6.1-inch model and a 5.4-inch "mini"), but as was the case with the iPhone 11, the "Pro" models have some differences that set them apart and help justify their higher price tag.

Here are the most important things you need to know about the iPhone 12 Pro. If you're interested in the less expensive variant, check out our guide to the iPhone 12.

iPad Air (2020) review: Still the best iPad for most people

Last spring, Apple revived the iPad Air branding after letting it lie dormant for several years. The 2019 iPad Air was a great compromise between the affordability of the standard iPad and the performance and features of the far more expensive iPad Pro.

The new 2020 model continues in that tradition. It's more expensive than the 2019 version, but incorporates more of the Pro's features and design and offers a substantial leap in performance.

With a starting price of $599, it's not quite the bargain the 2019 Air was at $499, especially when you start tacking on accessories like the Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard. Still, it's a better buy than the iPad Pro for most people and a big step up from the standard iPad.

AirPods Pro service program covers sound, noise cancellation issues

Apple on Friday initiated a service program for AirPods Pro models that exhibit sound reproduction issues or noise cancellation problems, offering free replacement of affected units.

Called the "AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues," Apple's repair initiative covers a limited number of devices manufactured before October 2020.

In a post detailing the program, Apple says it discovered a "small percentage" of AirPods Pro devices exhibit so-called "sound issues" that result in crackling or static sounds, as well as Active Noise Cancellation faults.

According to the support document, offending sounds might increase in loud environments, while a user is exercising or during phone conversations. A number of users have for complained about similar problems since the first firmware update for the headphones was released late last year, saying popping or crackling noises present when ANC is activated. Others have complained of humming noises or distorted audio. It is not clear if current program is designed to address those exact issues.

As for ANC, the program covers apparent faults such as a loss of bass or an unexpected increase in background sounds like airplane noise.

Those impacted can take their AirPods Pro unit to Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider for free service. Coverage includes replacement of individual earbuds or a complete set, depending on results of an authorized examination.

The program covers affected AirPods Pro for two years after first retail sale, Apple says. The company notes no other AirPods models are covered by the repair initiative.

iPhone 12 mini MagSafe charging tops out at 12W, Lightning accessories limit power for all models

Ahead of iPhone 12 mini and Pro Max pre-orders going live on November 6, Apple has updated a support document covering MagSafe charging details for the latest iPhones. Notably, the 12 mini won't see the same 15W MagSafe charging as the other models and Apple has also shared some other interesting tidbits like having Lightning accessories plugged in will mean reduced charging speeds.

As we covered after the iPhone 12 event, the new iPhones can see 2x the wireless charging power with MagSafe (15W) that iPhone 11 and older can handle over the Qi wireless standard (7.5W). However, an updated support document from Apple today reveals that won't be the case for all four of the new iPhones (via MacRumors):

For iPhone 12 mini, the MagSafe Charger delivers up to 12W of peak power delivery.

Like we've previously discussed, the 15W (or 12W) MagSafe max charging speeds aren't always going to be what you'll see. There are factors like power loss during wireless charging and the battery's state of charge, temperature, etc. that will see the output vary. Apple highlights that in the document too:

The power delivered to the iPhone 12 at any moment will vary depending on various factors, including temperature and system activity.

Other details include that if you have a Lightning accessory like EarPods plugged in, MagSafe charging will be lowered to 7.5W due to "regulatory standards." Apple also says that power adapters between 12 and 19W will work with MagSafe chargers, but will see slower charging.

The MagSafe Charger will also function with power adapters that provide a minimum 12W (5V/2.4A) of power, but this will result in slower charging.

Should you buy the new iPad Air or the 11-inch iPad Pro?

The 2020 iPad Air is officially available and will be the top pick for many. However, while it matches and even surpasses the 2020 11-inch iPad Pro in a variety of aspects, the latter still holds the upper hand when it comes to certain use cases. Let's look at some important factors to help you decide if you should buy iPad Air or the 11-inch iPad Pro.

The latest iPad Air will be the go-to option for many looking to pick up a new tablet. That's because the 2020 iPad Air (4th gen) has received most of the iPad Pro's premium features at an appealing starting price that is $200 below the $799 11-inch iPad Pro. However, that doesn't mean the iPad Pro won't be the better fit for those that need the best overall performance. Let's dive into what to consider when thinking about what iPad you should buy.

Pandora adds HomePod, HomePod mini integration

Ahead of the launch of the HomePod mini, Pandora has introduced Siri voice command support for Apple's lineup of smart speakers. Apple first announced that Pandora would introduce integration with HomePod and HomePod mini back in October. At the time, the company said the support would arrive "in the coming months."

Just a few weeks later, Pandora has added HomePod support in its latest 2010.1 release, which should be available as of Monday.

Users who download the update can set up HomePod integration by opening the Pandora app on their iPhone, selecting Profile and Settings, and tapping on Connect with HomePod. The integration will allow users to control music and podcast playback with Siri voice commands.

Apple's new HomePod mini is set to become available for preorder on Nov. 6 before shipping to the public on Nov. 16.

Apple introduces HomePod mini: A powerful smart speaker with amazing sound

Cupertino, California — Apple today unveiled HomePod mini, the newest addition to the HomePod family that delivers impressive sound, the intelligence of Siri to get things done, and a smart home experience that offers comfort and convenience without complexity. At just 3.3 inches tall, HomePod mini is packed with innovative technologies and advanced software that together enable computational audio to deliver breakthrough audio quality wherever it is placed. HomePod mini will be available in white and space gray at a great price of just $99.

"HomePod mini has everything customers want in a smart speaker — amazing sound for listening to music, a world-class intelligent assistant that delivers a personal experience to each member of the household, and like every Apple product, it's designed with privacy and security in mind," said Bob Borchers, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. "HomePod mini is the ultimate smart speaker for anyone with an Apple device. It works effortlessly with iPhone to hand off music, answer calls, or deliver personalized listening suggestions, elevates the sound from Apple TV, plays music from a Mac, and so much more. There's a lot of Apple innovation packed into such a small speaker, all at an affordable price."

How to See All of Your Apple Watch Apps in an Alphabetical List Instead of a Grid

When you think of the Apple Watch app launcher or Home screen, you think of the grid of icons that Apple shows in all of its promotional material. That's become the way to use an Apple Watch. But for some users, it's never been a great way to find apps. And even if you know where they are, tapping them isn't always the easiest thing in the world. Apple fixed all of that in modern versions of watchOS by adding the option to see all of your apps in an alphabetical list instead.

And, reader, we're here to tell you that this trick offers another way for users to browse apps on their Apple Watch from here on out.

Without further ado, let's dive in and get right to the goods, shall we? We'll cover how this works in both watchOS 7 and later, as well as watchOS 6 and earlier.

If for some reason you decide that a list isn't for you and you prefer the grid layout, no problem. Follow the process again, this time tapping "Grid View" when prompted.

Using the list view has an added bonus, too. You can more easily delete apps by swiping to the left and then tapping the trash can icon.

How to Disable Background App Activity on Apple Watch

Did you know that apps running in the background on your Apple Watch can affect its performance and impact battery life? If you're worried about this, you may want to disable background app refresh on your wearable.

Just like iOS and iPadOS devices, apps installed on your Apple Watch refresh content in the background using Wi-Fi or cellular connection. This could make your Apple Watch feel slower than usual, and if there are several apps actively refreshing in the background, this could also drain the battery faster. This shouldn't be much of an issue since Apple gives you the option to turn it off in watchOS however, much like you can disable background app refresh on iPhone and iPad too.

Interested in learning how you can stop background activity on your watchOS device? Then read along!

Disabling background app refresh is a pretty simple and straightforward procedure regardless of the Apple Watch model you own. Just follow the steps below to get started.

There you go. You've successfully disabled background app activity on your Apple Watch. As is often the case, it's pretty easy once you learn how it works, right?

Once you do this, apps installed on your Apple Watch will no longer frequently refresh content using cellular or Wi-Fi connection. Disabling background app refresh may make a difference when your Apple Watch is running low on battery and you want it to last longer until you get home.

It's worth pointing out that disabling background app refresh will have no impact on the apps with complications on your current watch face. Let's say you have complications for four different apps on your current watch face. These four apps will continue refreshing content regardless of your setting.

Since almost all Apple Watch owners use an iPhone, you may be interested in learning how you can disable background app refresh on your iOS or ipadOS device as well. This can be done on an iPad as well since iPadOS is just iOS relabelled for the iPad.

Scam email for Norton subscription

Malware Examples

Internet Crime

Any one bothered by internet criminal activity should report it to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at this web page. This includes phishing, malware, spoofing, any demand for money.

HP Printer problems *

Many Mac Users received surprise warnings when they tried to print from their HP printers recently. The warning that was very persistent said that such and such HP file would damage your computer. Great, just what everyone wants to see. So what was happening? Was this some malware that infected the Macs?

It took a couple days to resolve, but the issue was not malware but caused by Hewlett Packard themselves. Files need the proper credentials to be allowed to run on your Mac and when they were disrupted by HP your Mac security system flagged them as dangerous and prevented your printer from working.

"We unintentionally revoked credentials on some older versions of Mac drivers," said a HP spokesperson. " This caused a temporary disruption for those customers and we are working with Apple to restore the drivers. In the meantime, we recommend users experiencing this problem to uninstall the HP driver and use the native AirPrint driver to print to their printer."

Once the offending files were deleted and new software was downloaded via Apples System Preferences Software Update, then it was a fairly uncomplicated procedure to delete your printer from System Preferences and reinstall it. Reinstalling it allowed the Mac to use the updated files. If you haven't found the software update you can download it from Apples website.

So you see another reason to keep your software updated. Good luck and happy printing.

Don't Forget *

Don't forget the MAGIC group needs a new president by the end of the year. Consider how much fun it would be to get more involved with this group. I mentioned some of the advantages of volunteering in the last newsletter. Or maybe you'd rather take on one of the other positions with group. Check out the About page for all the duties for the board positions and feel free to jump in.

MAGIC, the Macintosh Appreciation Group of Island County, serves people who use Macintosh computers, software and peripherals. Our goal is to share information and get answers to questions to make us more productive with our use of technology. Our monthly meetings give us a chance to discuss computer problems and share ideas with other Mac users, feature speakers on specific topics, and to keep apprised of Apple news.

Newsletter

November 2020

In This Issue:

Meeting information

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