In Touch with iOS

The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave he is joined by Jill McKinley, Chuck Joiner, Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Guy Serle. This episode covers the transition of visionOS 26.3 from beta, the second anniversary of the Vision Pro, and critical updates for the Home app. The team also discusses the expansion of the Apple Sports app, the future of CarPlay Ultra, and exciting new content coming to Apple TV+. Finally, the show concludes with the highly anticipated announcement of MacStock 10.
The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com
 Direct Link to Audio 
Links to our Show
Give us a review on Apple Podcasts! CLICK HERE we would really appreciate it!
Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee 
Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios
Website: In Touch With iOS
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Summary
The episode opens with visionOS 26.3 reaching release-candidate status and a look back at the two-year anniversary of Apple Vision Pro. The panel reflects on how far the platform has come since its early releases, noting steady software improvements and growing maturity. Marty shares hands-on perspective from recent workshops, emphasizing Apple's consistent approach to spatial computing compared with competing XR platforms.
The conversation shifts to Apple's latest immersive video content, including the Crufts Dog Show experience, which highlights Vision Pro's strengths in visual detail and presence. From there, the panel touches on iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and other platform updates, including Apple's continued support for older operating systems and why that matters for users with legacy hardware or specialized workflows.
Discussion then turns to the Mac, with reactions to Apple's new online Mac configuration process, now modeled after the iPad buying experience. The panel debates whether the new flow simplifies customization or makes it easier for costs to escalate unexpectedly.
A key segment focuses on the Apple Home app and Apple's push to migrate users to the newer Home architecture. The panel shares candid experiences with home automation reliability, pointing out HomeKit's strengths, ongoing frustrations, and the lack of a true backup-and-restore option.
The episode continues with CarPlay Ultra's gradual expansion, reports of CarPlay connection dead zones caused by wireless interference, and a celebration of the iPad's 16th anniversary, reflecting on its lasting impact and why iPad and Mac continue to serve different roles.
In the news roundup, the panel covers the Apple Sports app's expansion, Amazon's rollout of Alexa Plus, and what smarter assistants actually deliver in everyday use. The show wraps with Apple TV+ updates, including previews of upcoming content, hints of an F1 movie sequel, and a major announcement: MacStock 10 is officially set, featuring the Inspire theme and a new Ecamm Creator Camp for hands-on creator training.
Topics and Links
In Touch With Vision Pro this week. 
Apple seeds visionOS 26.3 RC ahead of final update
visionOS 26.3 RC Release Notes
Apple Vision Pro Launched Two Years Ago Today
Vision Pro goes to the dogs
Immersive Dog Show Series 'Top Dogs' Premieres on Apple Vision Pro
Immersive Dog Show Series 'Top Dogs' The Story
Beta this week. iOS 26.3 Beta RC released 
Apple Seeds iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 Release Candidates - MacRumors
Apple Releases watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3 Release Candidates - MacRumors
iOS 16, iPadOS 16, macOS Big Sur get minor updates with iMessage fix
Apple Releases macOS 11, watchOS 10, and watchOS 9 Updates to Keep iMessage and FaceTime Working on Older Devices
In Touch With Mac this week
macOS Tahoe 26.3 Release Candidate Now Available
Apple Changes How You Order a Mac
Other Topics
Apple Gives Final Warning to Home App Users What is the state of the Home App? 
Apple's CarPlay Ultra to Expand to These Vehicle Brands Later This Year
CarPlay connection issues? This might explain why
Apple's iPad Turns 16 Today
News
Apple Sports Now Supports Golf and More
Six New Leagues Coming to Apple Sports - MacRumors
Amazon's Alexa+ Now Free for All U.S. Prime Members, Beating Apple's Smarter Siri to Market
Apple TV Announces 12 New Shows and Films Coming This Year
Eddy Cue and Formula 1 CEO tease 'F1: The Movie' sequel at Apple TV press day event
Announcements
Macstock X is here celebrating its 10th anniversary! With Three Full Days of expert-led Presentations and Workshops, Macstock's sessions are crammed full of productivity-enhancing content. NEW this year is a partnership with sponsor Ecamm. Ecamm Creator Camp: Mac Edition on July 9, 2026 there are only 100 tickets available for the bundle. There are 2 passes available: Macstock weekend pass July 10,11,12, 2026 or the Macstock Ecamm Bundle starting July 9 (only 100 tickets available)  Come join us. Register HERE
Our Host
Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastodon @daveg65, , BlueSky @daveg65  and the show @intouchwithios
 
Our Regular Contributors
Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's managing editor, and Smile's TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet Pixelfed @[email protected] and Bluesky @jgamet.bsky.social‬ Podcasts The Context Machine Podcast  Retro Rewatch Retro Rewatch His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet
Marty Jencius, Ph.D., is a professor of counselor education at Kent State University, where he researches, writes, and trains about using technology in teaching and mental health practice. His podcasts include Vision Pro Files, The Tech Savvy Professor and Circular Firing Squad Podcast. Find him at [email protected]  https://thepodtalk.net 
Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.
 
Jill McKinley works in enterprise software, server administration, and IT A lifelong tech enthusiast, she started her career with Windows but is now an avid Apple fan. Beyond technology, she shares her insights on nature, faith, and personal growth through her podcasts—Buzz Blossom & Squeak, Start with Small Steps, and The Bible in Small Steps. Watch her content on YouTube at @startwithsmallsteps and follow her on X @schmern. Find all her work at http://jillfromthenorthwoods.com 
Chuck Joiner is the host of MacVoices and hosts video podcasts with influential members of the Apple community. Make sure to visit macvoices.com and subscribe to his podcast. You can follow him on Twitter @chuckjoiner and join his MacVoices Facebook group.
Guy Serle is one of the hosts of the new The Gmen Show along with GazMaz and email [email protected]  @MacParrot and @VertShark on X  Vertshark on YouTube, Google Voice +1 Area code  703-828-4677

In this packed episode 406 of In Touch With iOS, Dave Ginsburg is joined by Marty Jencius, Chuck Joiner, Jeff Gamet, Jill McKinley, and Eric Bolden to break down a huge week in the Apple ecosystem. The panel dives into Apple's $2 billion acquisition of Q.ai, record-breaking quarterly earnings, updates to visionOS, the newly released Apple Creative Studio subscription, AirTag 2, major Apple TV+ news including Ted Lasso's return, and much more.
Apple is clearly firing on all cylinders—hardware, services, AI, accessibility, and entertainment—and this episode covers it all with insight, humor, and a few classic panel tangents.
The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com
 Direct Link to Audio 
Links to our Show
Give us a review on Apple Podcasts! CLICK HERE we would really appreciate it!
Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee 
Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios
Website: In Touch With iOS
YouTube Channel
In Touch with iOS Magazine on Flipboard
Facebook Page
BlueSky
Mastodon
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Instagram
Threads
Summary of Topics
    Apple acquires Q.ai for nearly $2B
What Apple's second-largest acquisition ever could mean for AI, accessibility, Vision Pro personas, Face ID, and future wearables
    •    Apple's record-setting quarterly earnings
iPhone dominance, massive services growth, China's rebound, and what Tim Cook's comments reveal about Apple's long-term strategy
    •    visionOS 26.3 beta
A quieter beta, stability improvements, and speculation on what Apple may be holding back
    •    iOS, watchOS, and legacy device updates
iOS 26.2.1, AirTag 2 support, and Apple's continued commitment to very old devices (yes, even the iPhone 5s)
    •    Apple Creative Studio subscription
Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Motion, Compressor, Pixelmator Pro, and more—pricing, education discounts, real-world experiences, and how it compares to Adobe
    •    AirTag 2 hands-on discussion
Louder speaker, extended Precision Finding range, Apple Watch support, and real-world use cases
    •    Apple TV+ news
Formula 1 programming launches in the Apple TV app, Shrinking renewed, and Ted Lasso officially returning for Season 4
    •    Volvo doubles down on CarPlay
Why CarPlay still matters—and why CarPlay Ultra may be fading away
    •    Apple Fifth Avenue Store maintenance
Why the iconic glass cube is temporarily closing overnight
    •    Halide co-founder joins Apple's design team
What this means for iPhone photography, Apple's camera app, and UI design going forward
Links
Breaking News
Apple Just Made Its Second-Biggest Acquisition Ever After Beats - MacRumors
Apple acquires audio AI startup for $2 billion - Six Colors
Apple acquires audio AI startup for $2 billion- Reuters
Apple Just Made Its Second-Biggest Acquisition Ever After Beats - MacRumors
Chuck's related interview. MacVoices #26013: CES Unveiled – Gesture-Based Control with Naqi Logix
Q1 2026 Results 
Apple announces all-time record in revenue, iPhone sales - Six Colors
Apple Reports Record-Setting 1Q 2026 Results: $42.1B Profit on $143.8B Revenue - MacRumors
Specific Notes on results
Apple Was Caught Off Guard by AirPods Pro 3 Popularity - MacRumors
Apple Responds to Fast-Rising RAM and Storage Chip Prices - MacRumors
Apple Reaches 2.5 Billion Active Devices - MacRumors
Apple CEO Tim Cook Says iPhone Sales Were 'Simply Staggering' Towards End of 2025
Related: Microsoft's $357 Billion Rout Is Worst Since Deepseek Hit Nvidia
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/microsoft-357-billion-rout-worst-212236721.html 
Topics and Links
In Touch With Vision Pro this week. 
Apple Releases Third watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3 Betas
visionOS 26.3 Beta 3 Release Notes
Apple shares trailer for new Top Dogs immersive 'doguseries' coming to Vision Pro
Other iOS updates
Here's Everything Apple Released This Week Most links below here. 
Apple Releases iOS 26.2.1 With AirTag 2 Support
Apple Releases iOS 16.7.13 and iOS 15.8.6 for Older Devices
Apple Releases iOS 18.7.4 and iPadOS 18.7.4 - Download Now
iOS 26.2.1 Addresses Emergency Call Problems on Older iPhones in Australia
Apple Releases watchOS 26.2.1, Adding Precision Finding Support for AirTag 2
iPhone 5s Gets New Software Update 13 Years After Launch - MacRumors
Apple updates iOS 12 to extend iMessage and FaceTime support on older devices
Beta this week. iOS 26.3 Beta 3 was released this week
Apple Seeds Third Betas of iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 to Public Beta Testers
Apple Seeds Third Betas of iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 to Developers
iOS 26.3 Adds Privacy Setting to Limit Carrier Location Tracking
iOS 26.3 will add three new ways to customize your iPhone - 9to5Mac
iOS 26.3 adds new feature to limit location data shared with your carrier
Warning: These Continuity Features Are Broken on Latest iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 Betas 
In Touch With Mac this week
Third macOS Tahoe 26.3 Beta Now Available for Developers - MacRumors
Apple Releases Third macOS Tahoe 26.3 Public Beta
A decade with Bartender showed me how overdue this macOS feature is 
Other Topics
Apple Creative Suite
Apple's 'Creator Studio' App Bundle Now Available for $12.99 Per Month
Apple Updates Keynote, Numbers, and Pages Apps With New Free and Paid Features 
Hands on with Apple Creator Studio: A bittersweet bundle
Apple's Creator Studio has a rough App Store roll-out
Apple Creative Suite? Access, comments, experiences? 
New AirTag 2
Apple introduces new AirTag with expanded connectivity range and improved findability
Teardown Reveals AirTag 2 Is Full of Hidden Changes
Dave unboxing of AirTag 2
News
Apple Introduces New Black Unity Apple Watch Band - Dave unboxing 
One of Apple TV's Most Popular Shows Gets Renewal
Another automaker vows to continue offering CarPlay
Apple TV launches F1 programming in app ahead of season kickoff
'Ted Lasso' is Returning to Apple TV, Here's When 
Apple's Fifth Avenue Store is Closing Overnight Next Week, Here's Why
'Halide' Co-Founder Sebastiaan de With Joins Apple's Design Team
Announcements
Macstock 9 has wrapped for 2025. Attendees will receive a link for the session recordings when  they're ready in 30-45 days. If you missed Macstock we missed you! Why not purchase a digital pass to relive all the amazing presentations? Click the link below to purchase the digital pass. Macstock X has already been announced July 10,11,12, 2026 hopeful you all can join us. 
Macstock IX Digital Pass
Our Host
Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastodon @daveg65, , BlueSky @daveg65  and the show @intouchwithios
 
Our Regular Contributors
Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's managing editor, and Smile's TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet Pixelfed @[email protected] and Bluesky @jgamet.bsky.social‬ Podcasts The Context Machine Podcast  Retro Rewatch Retro Rewatch His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet
Marty Jencius, Ph.D., is a professor of counselor education at Kent State University, where he researches, writes, and trains about using technology in teaching and mental health practice. His podcasts include Vision Pro Files, The Tech Savvy Professor and Circular Firing Squad Podcast. Find him at [email protected]  https://thepodtalk.net 
Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.
 
Jill McKinley works in enterprise software, server administration, and IT A lifelong tech enthusiast, she started her career with Windows but is now an avid Apple fan. Beyond technology, she shares her insights on nature, faith, and personal growth through her podcasts—Buzz Blossom & Squeak, Start with Small Steps, and The Bible in Small Steps. Watch her content on YouTube at @startwithsmallsteps and follow her on X @schmern. Find all her work at http://jillfromthenorthwoods.com 
Chuck Joiner is the host of MacVoices and hosts video podcasts with influential members of the Apple community. Make sure to visit macvoices.com and subscribe to his podcast. You can follow him on Twitter @chuckjoiner and join his MacVoices Facebook group.

The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave is joined by Jill McKinley,Jeff Gamet, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Guy Serle. The discussion spans the latest Vision Pro beta updates and immersive NBA experiences to rumors of new M5 MacBook Pros and significant leadership shifts at Apple. The team also tackles critical security news, including a major data breach at a manufacturing partner and new anti-phishing features from 1Password.
The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com
 Direct Link to Audio 
Links to our Show
Give us a review on Apple Podcasts! CLICK HERE we would really appreciate it!
Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee 
Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios
Website: In Touch With iOS
YouTube Channel
In Touch with iOS Magazine on Flipboard
Facebook Page
BlueSky
Mastodon
X
Instagram
Threads
Summary
In episode 405 of In Touch With iOS, host Dave Ginsburg is joined by a full panel including Marty Jencius, Jill McKinley, Eric Bolden, Guy Serle, and Jeff Gamet to dissect the latest developments in the Apple ecosystem. The episode covers a wide range of topics from hardware shortages and software betas to major security breaches and executive transitions.
The panel discusses the recent Vision Pro beta releases, noting that while the updates are relatively minor, they significantly improve connectivity with game controllers. Looking ahead, Apple Arcade is set to launch a "Retrocade" on February 5th, bringing 3D immersive versions of classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Asteroids to the headset. The team also reviews the recent immersive Lakers NBA game, sharing mixed feelings about the audio quality and app stability, but ultimately expressing excitement for the future of sports in VR.
Current MacBook Pro stock is reportedly thinning, with wait times stretching into March. This has fueled speculation about an imminent release of M5 Pro and M5 Max models. The panel debates whether users should upgrade now or wait for the rumored M6, while also considering how NVIDIA's priority at TSMC for AI chips might be impacting Apple's supply chain.
The discussion takes a serious turn regarding a massive 1TB data breach at Apple manufacturing partner Luxshare. The stolen data allegedly includes confidential product designs and engineering documents from 2019 through 2025, raising concerns about reverse engineering and hardware vulnerabilities. On the software side, 1Password has introduced a new anti-phishing feature that warns users when they attempt to paste passwords into suspicious websites. The panel also revisits Walmart's continued refusal to accept Apple Pay, noting that the retailer prefers its own "Walmart Pay" system to maintain control over customer purchase data.
Apple TV+ continues to gain momentum with six Academy Award nominations for the film F1. The panel also previews upcoming content, including the March 27th premiere of For All Mankind Season 5, and discusses other popular series like Starfleet Academy and Monarch.
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to reports that John Ternus is being groomed as the next Apple CEO. Ternus has recently taken over management of the design teams, a move seen as a way to expose him to broader business operations before Tim Cook eventually retires. While some panelists express anxiety over a post-Cook era, others highlight Apple's history of strong succession planning.
Topics and Links
 
In Touch With Vision Pro this week. 
Apple Seeds Second Betas of watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3 to Developers
visionOS 26.3 Beta 2 Release Notes
 
Apple Arcade Adding These Four Games in February for Vision Pro
Dave, Marty, and Eric give thoughts viewing the Lakers Immersive game
When and how to watch Lakers games in Apple Immersive format on Vision Pro
What it's like to watch an NBA game courtside in Apple Vision Pro
Beta this week. iOS 26.3 Beta 2 continues. 
In Touch With Mac this week
MacBook Pro Buyers Now Facing Up to a Two-Month Wait Ahead of New Models
The Gmen show Episode 22
Other Topics
Major data breach could expose Apple secrets
Walmart Still Doesn't Accept Apple Pay in the U.S. in 2026, Here's Why
Apple Tops 2025 Smartphone Market With 20% Share, 10% Growth
Apple drops to 7th in U.S. patent rankings for 2025 as grants fall 11%, per report
Apple tops the 2026 World's Most Admired Companies list—finishing No. 1 for the 19th year in a row
News
Apple's F1 Movie Nominated for Best Picture at 2026 Oscars
Apple scores six Academy Award nominations
Apple TV reveals first look at season five of hit space drama "For All Mankind"
ChatGPT Atlas Gains Tab Groups, Auto Google/AI Search Switching
1Password Launches Anti-Phishing Warnings for Pasted Passwords
Apple's John Ternus Takes Over Design in Latest CEO Succession Move
Announcements
Macstock 9 has wrapped for 2025. Attendees will receive a link for the session recordings when  they're ready in 30-45 days. If you missed Macstock we missed you! Why not purchase a digital pass to relive all the amazing presentations? Click the link below to purchase the digital pass. Macstock X has already been announced July 10,11,12, 2026 hopeful you all can join us. 
Macstock IX Digital Pass
Our Host
Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastodon @daveg65, , BlueSky @daveg65  and the show @intouchwithios
 
Our Regular Contributors
Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's managing editor, and Smile's TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet Pixelfed @[email protected] and Bluesky @jgamet.bsky.social‬ Podcasts The Context Machine Podcast  Retro Rewatch Retro Rewatch His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet
Marty Jencius, Ph.D., is a professor of counselor education at Kent State University, where he researches, writes, and trains about using technology in teaching and mental health practice. His podcasts include Vision Pro Files, The Tech Savvy Professor and Circular Firing Squad Podcast. Find him at [email protected]  https://thepodtalk.net 
Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.
 
Jill McKinley works in enterprise software, server administration, and IT A lifelong tech enthusiast, she started her career with Windows but is now an avid Apple fan. Beyond technology, she shares her insights on nature, faith, and personal growth through her podcasts—Buzz Blossom & Squeak, Start with Small Steps, and The Bible in Small Steps. Watch her content on YouTube at @startwithsmallsteps and follow her on X @schmern. Find all her work at http://jillfromthenorthwoods.com 
Chuck Joiner is the host of MacVoices and hosts video podcasts with influential members of the Apple community. Make sure to visit macvoices.com and subscribe to his podcast. You can follow him on Twitter @chuckjoiner and join his MacVoices Facebook group.
Guy Serle is one of the hosts of the new The Gmen Show along with GazMaz and email [email protected]  @MacParrot and @VertShark on X  Vertshark on YouTube, Google Voice +1 Area code  703-828-4677

The latest In Touch With iOS  Dave is joined by Jeff Gamet, Chuck Joiner, Jill McKinley, and Eric Bolden to break down the biggest Apple and tech stories of the week. The panel dives into Chuck's firsthand CES 2026 experiences, Apple's surprise Creative Studio subscription bundle, upcoming iOS 26 updates, Apple Podcasts' record year, shifting trade-in values, Google Gemini's expanding role in Apple Intelligence, and the return of Apple TV+'s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.
The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com
 Direct Link to Audio 
Links to our Show
Give us a review on Apple Podcasts! CLICK HERE we would really appreciate it!
Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee 
Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios
Website: In Touch With iOS
YouTube Channel
In Touch with iOS Magazine on Flipboard
Facebook Page
BlueSky
Mastodon
X
Instagram
Threads
Summary
In Episode 404 of In Touch With iOS, the panel kicks things off with an in-depth discussion of CES 2026, where Chuck Joiner shares firsthand impressions from CES Unveiled, Pepcom, and ShowStoppers. Highlights include solar-powered tech, innovative dash cams, creative accessories, audio gear, docks, and a surprisingly thoughtful retro-inspired digital camera.
The conversation then turns to Apple software updates, including the imminent release of iOS 26.2.1 and beta testing of iOS 26.3 across Apple platforms. A major highlight is Apple's progress toward end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging, reinforcing Apple's ongoing privacy stance.
Apple's surprise announcement of the Creative Studio Bundle sparks lively debate. The new subscription includes Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Pixelmator Pro, Motion, Compressor, and MainStage across Mac and iPad. The panel discusses subscription fatigue, student pricing, competition with Adobe Creative Cloud, and what this means for professionals and educators.
The episode also covers Apple Podcasts' strongest year ever, despite increased competition from Spotify and YouTube. While Apple may hold a smaller share of a growing podcast market, engagement and subscriptions continue to climb.
Other topics include updated Apple trade-in values, new firmware releases for AirPods Pro and MagSafe batteries, Shazam's 2026 Fast Forward artist list, and Apple Services' continued growth across Music, TV+, Arcade, and digital ID adoption.
The show wraps with excitement around the return of Apple TV+'s sci-fi hit: The panel previews Monarch: Legacy of Monsters – Season 2, praising its character-driven storytelling and expanding MonsterVerse mythology.
Topics and Links
CES 2026
Chuck Joiner returned from CES last week to give us some insight on the show and a few cool things. 
Beta this week. 
iOS 26.2.1 Update Coming Soon for iPhones
Apple releases iPadOS 26.3 beta 2 for iPad 
Apple releases second iOS 26.3 beta for iPhone
Apple Seeds Second Betas of iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 to Public Beta Testers
iOS 26.3 beta 2 hints at upcoming end-to-end encryption for RCS messages
Apple Releases Second watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3 and visionOS 26.3 Betas
In Touch With Mac this week
macOS Tahoe 26.3 beta 2 now available, here's what to expect
Second macOS Tahoe 26.3 Beta Now Available for Developers
Will Apple Announce New MacBook Pros This January?
Apple may have hinted at a high-end MacBook Pro launch on January 28
PSA: Google Chrome 151 to drop support for macOS 12 Monterey
Other Topics
Apple Introduces New 'Creator Studio' Bundle of Apps for $129 Per Year
Pixelmator Pro is Coming to iPad With Apple Pencil Support and More
Apple Says 'Pixelmator' App on iOS Will No Longer Receive Updates
Some Apple Apps Will No Longer Receive Every New Feature Without a Subscription
iOS 26 Shows Unusually Slow Adoption Months After Release
Google Gemini Partnership With Apple Will Go Beyond Siri Revamp  
Apple Confirms Google Gemini Will Power Next-Generation Siri This Year
Google Gemini-Powered Siri Will Reportedly Have These 7 New Features
News
Apple Releases New Firmware Update for iPhone Air MagSafe Battery
Apple Releases New AirPods Pro 3 Firmware Update
Shazam's Fast Forward Playlist Reveals Music Artists Set to Rise in 2026
Setapp Mobile 3rd-party app store for iPhone fails due to 'still-evolving and complex terms'
2025 marked a record-breaking year for Apple services
Apple Podcasts is officially more popular than it's ever been
Apple Adjusts Trade-In Values for iPhones, Macs, and More - MacRumor
Apple TV unveils return of major sci-fi series coming next month 
Shout out to NMUG and MacInTech Chita mentioned Drive Buddy DriveBuddy
Announcements
FIX THIS Macstock 9 they're ready in 30-45 days. If you missed Macstock we missed you! Why not purchase a digital pass to relive all the amazing presentations? Click the link below to purchase the digital pass. Macstock X has already been announced July 10,11,12, 2026 hopeful you all can join us. 
Macstock IX Digital Pass
Our Host
Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastodon @daveg65, , BlueSky @daveg65  and the show @intouchwithios
 
Our Regular Contributors
Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's managing editor, and Smile's TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet Pixelfed @[email protected] and Bluesky @jgamet.bsky.social‬ Podcasts The Context Machine Podcast  Retro Rewatch Retro Rewatch His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet
Marty Jencius, Ph.D., is a professor of counselor education at Kent State University, where he researches, writes, and trains about using technology in teaching and mental health practice. His podcasts include Vision Pro Files, The Tech Savvy Professor and Circular Firing Squad Podcast. Find him at [email protected]  https://thepodtalk.net 
Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.
 
Jill McKinley works in enterprise software, server administration, and IT A lifelong tech enthusiast, she started her career with Windows but is now an avid Apple fan. Beyond technology, she shares her insights on nature, faith, and personal growth through her podcasts—Buzz Blossom & Squeak, Start with Small Steps, and The Bible in Small Steps. Watch her content on YouTube at @startwithsmallsteps and follow her on X @schmern. Find all her work at http://jillfromthenorthwoods.com 
Chuck Joiner is the host of MacVoices and hosts video podcasts with influential members of the Apple community. Make sure to visit macvoices.com and subscribe to his podcast. You can follow him on Twitter @chuckjoiner and join his MacVoices Facebook group.
Guy Serle is one of the hosts of the new The Gmen Show along with GazMaz and email [email protected]  @MacParrot and @VertShark on X  Vertshark on YouTube, Google Voice +1 Area code  703-828-4677

This special In Touch With iOS episode 403 Host Dave Ginsburg is joined by co-host Jeff Gamet and guest Katie Fawkes.We explore the nostalgia of VHS, the rituals of movie night, and how streaming has transformed how we watch films. From Blockbuster memories and Betamax wars to the resurgence of physical media and the promise of immersive experiences with Apple Vision Pro, the conversation bridges past, present, and future movie-watching culture.
The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com
 Direct Link to Audio 
Links to our Show
Give us a review on Apple Podcasts! CLICK HERE we would really appreciate it!
Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee 
Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios
Website: In Touch With iOS
YouTube Channel
In Touch with iOS Magazine on Flipboard
Facebook Page
BlueSky
Mastodon
X
Instagram
Threads
Summary
In episode 403 of In Touch With iOS, Dave Ginsburg welcomes back Katie Fawkes alongside Jeff Gamet for a deep, nostalgic dive into the evolution of home movie watching. The discussion begins with personal stories of VHS rentals, recording TV shows, and the rituals that defined movie nights in the 80s and 90s, including Blockbuster runs, rewinding tapes, and the infamous VHS vs. Betamax wars.
Katie shares how The VHS Club grew out of long-distance movie nights with her childhood best friend, eventually becoming a podcast celebrating classic films and shared viewing experiences. The panel reflects on how physical media created intention and community—contrasting sharply with today's overwhelming abundance of streaming options and "spoiled for choice" fatigue.
The conversation shifts to the modern era, examining how streaming services—especially Apple TV+ and Netflix—reshaped content consumption, binge-watching habits, and original programming. David and Jeff explore the fragility of digital ownership, the renewed interest in DVDs, Blu-ray, and VHS among younger generations, and the growing collector culture surrounding physical media.
Looking forward, the panel discusses immersive movie experiences through Apple Vision Pro, questioning whether shared virtual environments could bring back the communal magic of theaters. The episode wraps with rapid-fire movie picks, favorite must-own physical titles, and a lively debate over which single streaming service they'd choose if forced to pick just one.
Announcements
Macstock 9 has wrapped for 2025. Attendees will receive a link for the session recordings when  they're ready in 30-45 days. If you missed Macstock we missed you! Why not purchase a digital pass to relive all the amazing presentations? Click the link below to purchase the digital pass. Macstock X has already been announced July 10,11,12, 2026 hopeful you all can join us. 
Macstock IX Digital Pass
Our Host
Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastodon @daveg65, , BlueSky @daveg65  and the show @intouchwithios
 
Our Guest
Katie Fawkes is the Director of Marketing at Ecamm, a leading live streaming and video production software for Mac users. With a background in content strategy, podcasting, and community building, Katie is passionate about helping creators confidently show up on camera and grow their brands through video. She's the co-host of The Flow and The VHS Club video podcasts, hosts multiple live video series, and speaks regularly at industry events on topics like one-take video, camera confidence, and creator marketing.
Co-Host
Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's managing editor, and Smile's TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet Pixelfed @[email protected] and Bluesky @jgamet.bsky.social‬ Podcasts The Context Machine Podcast  Retro Rewatch Retro Rewatch His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet