Phishing attacks—
–that’s an email, text or call claiming to be from a trusted entity (like Apple or the IRS) that lures you into revealing personal information and/or logins–are rising rapidly, experts say, especially for Mac users. Some of the cleverest ones can use the REAL login pages of safe sites to steal your info. Your best defense is to learn how to spot them (and use an email provider like Gmail that flags most of them).
New Apple Stuff
On Tuesday, Apple announced new phones, watches, etc. Here’s our quick take.
Last week we warned you that Apple’s major new Mac software update, MacOS Catalina, will kill off some older apps. We now know that it will launch sometime in October, so you have time to prepare. Major updates are coming sooner for your iPhone (iOS 13, 9/19) and newly separate iPad operating system (9/30).
iPhone
The three new iPhones (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, available 9/20) feature small improvements, especially for photography (improved low-light photos, wide shots, optical zoom). The Pro line even sports a third camera for ultrawide shots. They come in a bunch of new colors (mint green?!) so people can tell you bought a new phone.
Buying an iPhone? Three options:
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Not price sensitive and want the latest and greatest? Decide if the differences between the 11 and 11 Pro are worth an extra $300. If you go Pro, then choose which of the two sizes you prefer.
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Need a new phone but don’t want to break the bank? The excellent iPhone X is $100 cheaper than the 11 after a price drop, and even less if you buy refurbished.
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On a budget or not ready to give up the Home button? You can still buy an iPhone 8.
And before you trade in your old phone, weigh convenience vs cost: Apple makes it easy but typically gives you less value than some of the alternatives.
Need help? Drop us a line.
Apple Watch 5
Picture a darkened theater dotted with faintly glowing wrists. Performers everywhere must be appalled by the Apple Watch 5, because the display no longer turns off automatically—it just dims. But if you’ve ever struggled to see your progress during a workout or discreetly check a text message at dinner, you’ll love the new version. And they’re getting cheaper. Available 9/20.