First, a quick clarification.
When we told you that Zoom is going to start requiring updates, some of you thought that meant you’ll have to pay. Not the case. An upDATE is (typically) a free, new and improved version of what you have already. That’s different from an upGRADE, which is a change in the type of product, like from a free to a paid version. The new Zoom policy is about upDATES: it will just make you keep your Zoom app current, which is safer for everyone.
The Main Event
Apple’s annual fall event was the usual slickly produced , hyperbolic paean to their products. (I lost count of the number of times the word “INCREDIBLE” was used). It all boils down to a few new products and some notable omissions.
1 New versions of the basic iPad and iPad mini.
2 New Apple Watch (Series 7)
3 New iPhone 13 (regular and mini) and iPhone 13 pro (regular and “max”)
Everything is faster, more durable, has more battery life, better cameras, yadda yadda yadda. While everything was appealing, there wasn’t a single feature that would make me run out and replace the perfectly usable versions I have right now, so unless you NEED an upgrade, it was a bit of a yawn.
Missing: any mention of a larger Macbook or new Airpods. COVID-related supply chain issues are likely to be a factor here, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Apple springs some new products on us without notice this fall. TBD.
IMPORTANT:
Also missing was any mention of when the new operating systems for Apple devices, announced last June, will roll out. We suggest turning off automatic updates (here’s how) for the time being, but only AFTER you have done the urgent update announced yesterday.
Confused? Here are the versions you should have now:
MacOS: 11.6
iOS (iPhone): 14.8
iPadOS (iPad): 14.8
WatchOS (Apple Watch): 7.6.2