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Ethereum, XRP Drop as Altcoins Brace for New Trump Tariffs on EU, Apple

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In brief

  • Altcoins were hit especially hard on Friday after Trump threatened new tariffs against Apple and the EU.
  • A renewed trade war would “likely support Bitcoin adoption over the medium term,” according to Grayscale’s Zach Pandl.
  • Although Bitcoin retreated from its recent all-time high, the price of gold jumped.

The price of various altcoins fell on Friday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on the European Union and Apple, the $3 trillion iPhone maker.

Ethereum was recently changing hands around $2,550, a 4.1% decrease over the past day, according to crypto data provider CoinGecko. XRP and Dogecoin fell around 3.6% to $2.35 and $0.23, respectively, while Solana edged down 0.8% to $177.

The EU, one of America’s largest trading partners, should face 50% tariffs on goods imported to the U.S., starting in no less than nine days, Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Apple should also pay 25% tariffs on iPhones that aren’t manufactured in the U.S., the president suggested in a separate post, although he did not specify when the new levies could take effect.

“Altcoins have more downside in an escalating trade conflict because they are fundamentally riskier than Bitcoin,” Zach Pandl, head of research at crypto asset manager Grayscale, told Decrypt. “Most altcoins will not benefit from reserve diversification away from the Dollar.”

Trump’s return to trade-related threats immediately punctured a risk-on sentiment that had prevailed for weeks as his administration took a de-escalatory approach to trade negotiations with nations affected by his “reciprocal” tariffs. The price of gold spiked as Treasury yields moved lower, while Wall Street indices opened in the red on Friday.

Meme coins, including Official Trump ($TRUMP), fell hardest. A day after the president hosted a private dinner for top $TRUMP holders, the asset showed a 13% decrease to $13.47.



Bitcoin’s price fell to 2.7% to $108,500, retreating from an all-time high of $111,800 a day before. Still, Pandl said that “the trade conflict will likely support Bitcoin adoption over the medium term,” echoing the asset’s performance as a safe-haven asset this year.

As markets wavered in April on tariff-related uncertainties, Bitcoin’s correlation with gold strengthened.  Investors turned to both non sovereign assets, amid growing risks to the U.S. dollar and the prevailing global economic order. The trend continued into early May.

 

Bitcoin’s dominance ticked up on Friday, representing over 62% of the crypto market’s entire value, according to CoinGecko. That measure had softened recently amid risk-on-sentiment, retreating from a high of around 63% at the start of this month.

Conceptually, a renewed trade war could benefit altcoins, if it provokes greater interest in decentralized systems, Pandl said. However, he acknowledged that “the implications are much less direct,” and a reduced risk appetite among investors is likely to impact valuations more.

Edited by James Rubin

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Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, looks at the camera.
Product Reviews

Epic CEO Tim Sweeney takes his victory lap as Fortnite returns to the app store after nearly 5 years: ‘Thanks to all of the folks who initially sided with Apple then later came around to the winning side’

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After a protracted legal battle, which is far from over, Apple has restored Fortnite to the US app store. Fortnite was removed in August 2020 after launching its own in-app monetisation system to bypass Apple’s in-app payment system and the 30% commission it charges.

This violated Apple’s terms, and led to a legal challenge from Epic Games, which accused Apple of operating the app store as a monopoly. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney was in an unsurprisingly ebullient mood at the news and thanked those who’d taken Epic’s side in the dispute which, as ever, he characterises as a fight for developer rights.

“Thanks to everyone who supported the effort to open up mobile competition and #FreeFortnite from the very beginning,” said Sweeney. “And thanks to all of the folks who initially sided with Apple then later came around to the winning side, supporting app developer rights and consumer rights.”


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Apple has made no comment.

“This is a clear win for Epic Games,” games business professor Joost van Dreunen told the BBC. “Epic has effectively forced open a door that Apple and others worked very hard to keep shut.

“The industry has long tiptoed around platform gatekeeping, but this moment signals a shift in the balance. Creators and publishers will now have more leverage to challenge entrenched distribution models.”

(Image credit: Epic Games)

Fortnite has been available on iOS in the EU since January. Apple is complying with the court order after it got absolutely slammed by judge Yvonne Rogers Gonzalez for an “obvious cover-up” in a ruling that left no room for doubt:

“This is an injunction, not a negotiation. There are no do-overs once a party willfully disregards a court order. Time is of the essence. The Court will not tolerate further delays. As previously ordered, Apple will not impede competition.”

That doesn’t mean this is the end: Apple is fiercely protective of its walled garden approach to the app store, which it argues is in consumers’ best interests, and of course has the money to fight this until the bitter end. And Epic Games may well be the David to Apple’s Goliath, but it happens to be an extremely deep-pocketed David with a pugnacious CEO that’s treating this fight like a holy calling.

“Apple lost the 2021 injunction appeal in 2024, and it’s final and unappealable,” says Sweeney. “Now there’s a new contempt of court decision, and Apple is seeking to stay and appeal it, but whatever happens, they’re still obliged to comply with the injunction and the law.”

Sweeney also put things in more Fortnite-y terms: “we back fam.”



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The best Apple AirTag accessories for 2025
Gaming Gear

The best Apple AirTag accessories for 2025

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If you’ve picked up an AirTag, you already know how handy it is for keeping track of your stuff — but finding the best Apple AirTag accessories can make it even more useful. With the right gear, you can clip, stick or stash your AirTag just about anywhere, making it easier to keep tabs on everything from keys and wallets to purses and backpacks.

An AirTag keychain holder is one of the simplest and most popular ways to keep your tracker attached to everyday essentials like your car fob, while rugged cases and mounts help expand where you can place an AirTag without worrying about damage. Of course, it’s also important to double-check compatibility when you’re shopping around, especially if you want something slim, stylish or built for heavy-duty adventures.

Whether you’re looking for a sleek leather holder, a waterproof case or something designed specifically for bikes or luggage, there’s an AirTag accessory out there that can make your life a little less stressful — and your valuables a lot easier to find.

Caseology

Caseology’s Vault has a more utilitarian design, made with tough, textured TPU. The oval-shaped holder has an opening on one side into which you pop your AirTag. The other side has a smaller opening that attaches to the included carabiner, which is one of the best clips I came across in my testing. It’s pretty basic as far as carabiners go, but it’s better than a standard key ring — especially if you want to easily attach your AirTag to something other than your keys like straps on a backpack, or even a pet collar. Overall, the Caseology Vault is one of the most attractive holders I tested and it will be a solid choice for anyone who doesn’t need stainless steel or leather.

$14 at Amazon

Elevation Lab

It’s easy to throw an AirTag into your coat pocket or in the bottom of your backpack, but it’s also easy for the tracking device to fall out of those things. Enter Elevation Lab’s TagVault Fabric mount, which adheres to a number of different types of fabric to discreetly track your stuff. The exterior ring of the Vault is super flexible, so once you stick it to the lining of your jacket or bag, it’ll move and adjust as you do the same with your stuff. The adhesive is quite strong, but it’s still easy to insert or remove the AirTag as much as you need. The plastic enclosure’s cap comes off with a bit of force, so you can take out your AirTag whenever you need to replace its battery. If you want something similar with an even more durable, water-resistant design, Elevation Lab makes these surface adhesive mounts that fit the bill, too.

$14 at Amazon

Spigen

Spigen’s Valentinus AirTag cover is one of the best alternatives I’ve found to Apple’s own leather key rings. It has a very similar design to the first-party accessory (albeit made with pleather) , but it comes in much cheaper at only $8. Your tracking device nestles into the perfectly-shaped leather AirTag loop and snaps shut, and since the leather extends slightly over both sides of the tracker, there’s very little chance it will pop out unexpectedly. I also appreciate that it comes with a carabiner-style key ring, which makes it easier to secure to your belongings.

$21 at Amazon

Belkin

AirTags can also help you keep track of larger bags and luggage, and you could easily slip one into an interior pocket and call it a day. But if you’d rather hook the tracker to the outside, you’ll need something a bit larger and more flexible than a standard key ring. Belkin’s Secure Holder with Strap is a good option: it comes in different colors and it’s budget friendly at only $13. The case opens up into two pieces, allowing you to sit the AirTag inside the circle and twist and snap the two halves together to lock it in. You can then attach the AirTag to your luggage handle, dog collar, water bottle or other item with the strap, which feels quite strong.

I appreciate the unique design of Belkin’s Secure Holder, although it was hard to twist open when the AirTag was inside of it. But that’s a good thing for daily use; your AirTag isn’t going anywhere when in the Secure Holder. I also liked its slightly raised edges, which provide extra protection against impacts and bumps.

$13 at Amazon

Belkin

Another exterior-attachment option for luggage with a bit more durability is Belkin’s Secure Holder with Wire Cable. Whereas other holders use a simple keyring to attach the tracker to your stuff, this case uses a braided wire cable that’s extra tough. The case itself unlocks via a small Allen key to let you insert the AirTag, and then you can lock it back up again before putting the tag to use. Not only is it highly unlikely for your AirTag to get knocked out of this thing, it’s also just as unlikely for the wire strap to get caught on something and break. Overall, it’s a thoughtfully designed holder than would make a great luggage tag.

$20 at Amazon

elago

Whether you’re attaching an AirTag to your house keys or clipping one to your kid’s backpack, you don’t need to settle for a boring holder. There are a number of fun AirTag cases available now and some of our favorites come from Elago. The accessory company makes a bunch of minimalist AirTag holders – which are good options if you’re looking for something simple and cheap – but it also has silicone cases in the shapes of avocados, ice cream bars, floppy disks and even retro game controllers. The best part is that, unlike other brands that can quickly raise prices when you want a fancily-shaped case or a holder with your favorite character on it, Elago’s playful cases will run you no more than $15 apiece.

$16 at Amazon

Pelican

Keyrings and straps aren’t the best way to attach an AirTag to anything and everything. Things like bikes, coolers, luggage and other items would be better served by an adhesive mount. Pelican makes one of the most protective ones available at the moment – the Protector Sticker Mount case has a two-piece design that you pop open to insert your AirTag inside. It basically acts as a little box in which your AirTag lives while it’s tracking your stuff. You can stick it to your items using the strong adhesive panel on the back of the case, and Pelican even includes an extra adhesive pad in the package as well, just in case you need another one. While the case itself is a bit tough to get open at first, that just shows how hard it would be for your AirTag to accidentally pop out of it.

$10 at Amazon

Orbitkey

Orbitkey’s Leather Holder for AirTag is a more elegant version of Apple’s accessory. It’s a genuine leather sleeve that opens just wide enough for you to slide your AirTag into its pocket. Attached to it is a quick-release ring that takes some getting used to, but once you know how to open it up, it’s easy to secure onto your keys. You essentially just have to push in one direction on the holder’s ring to unlock it, which then allows you to secure the AirTag to a lanyard, your car keys and the like. It’s a good option if you prefer that your accessories have a more polished look.

$40 at Amazon

Incase

Incase’s Woolenex AirTag holder is one that is just as attractive as it is durable. The company’s Woolenex fabric is made of a woven blend of polyester fibers that make the accessory lightweight, water repellant and fade- and tear-resistant. Incase makes a bunch of gadgets and accessories out of this material, and those who like premium fabrics that can also handle a bit of wear-and-tear will gravitate to it. The holder has a TPU snap closure and circular cutout so it won’t interrupt the AirTag’s signal — plus, it lets you see any cute engraving you may have on your tracking device.

$20 at Incase

AirTags need a holder because they do not have built-in keyring holes like Tile, Chipolo and other Bluetooth trackers do.

You’ll need a holder or case to attach an AirTag to your stuff. If you’re comfortable slipping an AirTag into an interior pocket of a bag or coat, you can do so without an extra accessory. But if you want to use one to keep track of your keys, wallet, backpack or even your pet on their collar, you’ll need an accessory that can accommodate that use case.



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Xbox mobile game store launch "stymied" by Apple, says Microsoft
Game Updates

Xbox mobile game store launch “stymied” by Apple, says Microsoft

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Microsoft has sided with Epic in its feud against Apple, claiming the iPhone maker has “stymied” the company’s efforts to launch its Xbox mobile game store.

Back in May last year, Microsoft announced plans to release a new Xbox mobile game store. At this time, the company envisioned it to be ready for release by that summer. However, this did not happen.

Now, Microsoft has filed a legal brief in support of Epic Games as part of Apple’s appeal against a recent ruling, which follows a five-year legal battle between Epic and Apple, and has now resulted in Fortnite making its return to the App Store in the US. Here, Microsoft shed more light on the delay to its own mobile store.

The Death of Console Exclusives Is Inevitable and I Don’t Know How I Feel About It. Watch on YouTube

Microsoft stated it wishes to “offer consumers a workable solution by launching its own online store”, but efforts have been “stymied” by Apple and its strict App Store rules.

As shared by The Verge, this is how Microsoft explains its current situation:

“The district court’s injunction allows Apple to maintain its in-app exclusivity but at least should have enabled Microsoft to offer consumers a workable solution by launching its own online store – accessible via link-out – for in-app items to be purchased off-app and used in games or other apps. And that is what Microsoft wants to do. But even this solution has been stymied by Apple.

“Prior to the district court’s most recent order, Microsoft had been unable to implement linked-out payments (or even inform customers that alternative purchase methods exist) because of Apple’s new anti-steering policies that restrict Microsoft’s communication to users and impose an even higher economic cost to Microsoft than before the injunction.”

As noted by the publication, the recent court ruling does make it possible for Microsoft to launch its mobile store, but the company still wants to ensure Apple’s appeal against the ruling is unsuccessful, in order to avoid having to potentially remove its own store further down the line.

Microsoft notes in its filing that Apple “makes no argument that the technical or policy changes cannot be undone”, and that the company’s own “experience managing app stores confirms that Apple’s policies could be restored if Apple ultimately prevails on appeal”.

We will keep you abreast of any further developments regarding both Epic vs Apple, and Xbox’s mobile store.



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Which Apple laptop should you buy?
Gaming Gear

Which Apple laptop should you buy?

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There are just two models of Apple laptops: the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. In a nutshell, those who need a computer for productivity, work and everyday use — in other words, most people — will be happy with a MacBook Air. People who do intense video and audio editing and other high-demand tasks may want to spring for a Pro model. Within the Air and Pro categories, there are a few other choices to make, including screen size, chip type and memory capacity. This guide recaps our reviews and explains the specs to help pick the best MacBook for you.

Devindra Hardawar for Engadget

Screen size: 13” | Processor: M4 chip, 10-core CPU, 10-core or 8-coreGPU, 16-core Neural Engine | Storage capacity (SSD): 256GB | Memory: 16GB | Battery life: Up to 18 hours | Ports: MagSafe 3 charging, 3.5mm jack, 2 x Thunderbolt 4/USB4 | Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Apple MacBook product line: Air

Read our full Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025) review

Since we first put this guide together, a MacBook Air has consistently held the top spot as our recommendation for most people. The most recent model, the 2025 MacBook Air with the M4 chip, was in no way a surprising upgrade — but it did arrive with a welcome $100 price cut from the prior model. There hasn’t been a major design shakeup since the M2 version, but Engadget’s Devindra Hardawar still called the latest MacBook Air “a nearly flawless ultraportable” in his review.

It’s not only our favorite MacBook, this one currently holds the honor of our best laptop overall. It has everything most users could want: A bright screen, long battery life, one of the best trackpads around and a zippy processor that’s “eager to get to work.” All this is housed in a remarkably thin and lightweight unibody aluminum case that’s a joy to hold. While Devindra didn’t notice a huge difference in performance from the upgraded chip, the M4 chip did perform around 20 percent faster than the M3 in CPU benchmark tests, while the GPU gained a more modest increase in performance.

The screen is roomy, even on the 13-inch model, and supports the P3 wide color gamut (an upgraded organizational system for displaying color that produces more accurate and vibrant tones). It can reach up to 500 nits of brightness so you should be able to clearly see your screen even while outside on a sunny day. If you’re planning on using the laptop with additional displays at your desk, you now have more screen space. The M4 MacBook Air supports two external displays with the computer’s lid open, whereas the M3 MacBook Air only supported two displays with the lid closed. There’s also an upgraded 12MP camera as well, so your video calls should look better. We tested over 18 hours of battery life on both the MacBook Air 13- and 15- inch models. That should get you through a full day of work and then some.

One of our few complaints about the MacBook Air is the lower, 60Hz refresh rate. To get up to 120Hz refresh rate (like many ultraportable PCs ship with) you’ll need to upgrade to a Pro model. We’d also like to see an additional port on the right side. Instead, you get two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports and a MagSafe power connection on the left. There’s a lone 3.5mm jack on the right. An additional USB-C port on the starboard side would give you more options for charging and using accessories.

As for which configuration to get, we think most people would be happy with the base model 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage and 8-core GPU. But if you want to play more games or do media work, you may want to opt for the 15-inch model with 512GB of storage and a 10-core GPU. That configuration starts at $1,399. One thing we don’t recommend is going too big on the RAM. If you think you’ll need 32GB of memory, you should probably go for a MacBook Pro.

Pros

  • Lightweight but sturdy design
  • Fast performance from the M4 chip
  • Bright and clear screen
  • Great battery life

Cons

  • Still limited to a 60Hz refresh rate
  • No USB-C on the right side

$899 at Amazon

Devindra Hardawar for Engadget

Screen size: 13” | Processor: M3 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine | Storage capacity (SSD): 256GB | Memory: 8GB | Battery life: Up to 18 hours | Ports: MagSafe 3 charging, 3.5mm jack, 2 x Thunderbolt/USB4 | Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Apple MacBook product line: Air

Read our full Apple MacBook Air (M3, 2024) review

With the arrival of the M4 MacBook Air, Apple’s M3 MacBook Air is no longer part of the official laptop lineup. That’s a departure from what the company has done in the past, which is to keep the previous model as an unofficial budget option. But it looks as though Apple is going all-in on the M4 chip for its desktop and laptop computers, likely as a way to fully support Apple Intelligence on its more powerful machines.

While you can’t get the M3 MacBook Air directly from Apple, plenty of third-party retailers like Amazon and B&H Photo have the older machine, and often at a significant discount. Which is why we recommend this model for students or anyone looking for a great ultraportable on a budget.

In Devindra’s March 2024 review of the M3 model, he confirmed that it built on everything the M2 got right: a great screen and full sound in a thin and lightweight aluminum unibody that feels premium. It wasn’t a huge change from its predecessor but that’s a good thing. The last major updates for the M-series Air models came with the new chip in the M1 MacBook Air and the M2’s body redesign, which ditched the wedge.  

The M3 chip makes the performance impressive and, as expected, measured higher than the M2 model in our benchmark testing. The model added support for Wi-Fi 6E and it can handle two external displays with the laptop lid closed. You’ll connect the extra screen via one of the two USB-C Thunderbolt/USB4 ports. (Only the Pro models have an HDMI port.)

Apple claims the same 18-hour battery life for the older model as the it does on the latest Air, and our tests confirm you’ll get significantly more than a single workday before you need to grab your charger. In Devindra’s tests, the machine dropped to 40 percent after ten straight hours playing fullscreen 4K video at full brightness.

Apple released both the M3-powered 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air simultaneously. We think the 13-inch model has the best combination of portability and performance. It weighs just 2.7 pounds and easily slips into a bag to take on the road. However, the 15-inch version may be worth it for those who constantly have dozens of windows open at once or dabble in media editing — though editing pros should probably opt for a MacBook Pro. The 15-inch model is also ideal for anyone dealing with visual impairment and would like an easier-to-read screen.

As for the screen itself, the 13-inch option has a Liquid Retina display with 2,560 x 1,664 resolution at 224 pixels per inch. That’s exactly the same as the M2 Air — but again, Apple didn’t mess with a good thing, sticking with a great-looking display that’s bright enough to use outside in sunlight. It doesn’t have ProMotion, which means the refresh rate is limited to 60Hz. If you need that silky-smooth scrolling, you’ll have to bump up to a MacBook Pro.

To get the most out of the M3 chip, we recommend upgrading to 16GB of RAM. The new MacBook Air M4 starts out at 16GB of memory, but the older M3 model will let you go with just 8GB. That’s not quite enough for more intense productivity and really doesn’t work well for playing games. With the spec bump to 16GB, Devindra was able to play both Lies of P in 1080p+ and the director’s cut of Death Stranding with smooth graphics at good resolutions — though he did note that you can’t crank up the graphics settings too high.

The speakers are best-in-class and the webcam is great for video conferencing — particularly with Apple’s background blurring and brightness adjustments. Finally, the responsive keyboard and smooth trackpad are the ideal interface for what adds up to be not just a great budget computer, but a great laptop in itself.

Pros

  • Lightweight yet sturdy design
  • Fast performance from the M3 chip
  • Excellent speakers, keyboard and trackpac
  • Bright and clear screen

Cons

  • No USB-C on the right side
  • Limited to 60Hz refresh rate

$1,099 at Amazon

Photo by Devindra Hardawar / Engadget

Processor: M4 chip | Storage capacity (SSD): Up to 8TB | Memory: Up to 128GB | Battery life: Up to 24 hours | Ports: HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack, MagSafe 3, 3x Thunderbolt 5, SDXC card slo | Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Apple MacBook product line: Pro

Read our 14-inch and 16-inch Apple MacBook Pro (M4, 2024) review

Apple’s latest 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros may not look any different, but under the hood they’re entirely new beasts thanks to Apple’s M4 chips. The $1,599 14-inch model is a far better deal than before too, since it now includes 16GB of RAM standard and it has three USB-C connections instead of just two. While the M4 chip is a decent step up from the M3, the M4 Pro wowed us with Geekbench and Cinebench scores that we’ve never seen before. The Pro model’s multithreaded performance is practically the same as two competing Windows laptops put together! (We didn’t test the M4 Max, but it’s most likely another stunner.)

Beyond the new chips, the M4 MacBook Pros sport slightly brighter screens for SDR content (helpful for working in sunlight), as well as a big webcam upgrade to 12MP, instead of just 1080p. So, for the first time, the MacBook Pros can use Apple’s Center Stage to keep you in frame during video chats, as well as Desk View.

These MacBook Pros also deliver the same excellent keyboard and super smooth trackpad that we’ve loved over the last few years. They also have all the ports you need, including three USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm jack and an SD card reader. The M4 Pro and M4 Max chips also bring along Thunderbolt 5 for faster connections to external accessories. As for battery life, both systems lasted over 30 hours in our video rundown test, and they could easily run for multiple workdays without a recharge. — Devindra Hardawar, Senior Reporter

Pros

  • Fast M4 chips
  • Brighter display
  • Sharp 12MP Center Stage webcam
  • Thunderbolt 5 with M4 Pro/Max
  • Long battery life

$1,449 at Amazon

Compared to PCs, Apple computers tend to have more streamlined specifications. The company has long been known for this simplicity, and the M-series “system-on-a-chip” condenses things even further. Prior to the M1 chip, Apple used Intel chips in its laptop and desktop computers. The M2 and M3 generations followed that first chip and currently sells MacBooks equipped with M4-series chips. You’ll find the standard M4 processor in the Air and the base-model Pro and the upgraded M4 Max and M4 Pro chips as options for the MacBook Pro (currently there is no M4 Ultra chip, as there was with the M3 series in the Mac Studio). All M-series chips combine, among other technologies, the CPU, graphics card and unified memory (RAM). Apple’s Neural Engine is included too, which is a specialized group of processor cores that handles machine learning tasks such as image analysis and voice recognition.

While a unified chip means you have fewer decisions to make when picking a MacBook, there are still a few factors to consider, including specs like the number of CPU cores, amount of RAM, storage capacity, screen size, and, obviously, price. The finish color may be a minor consideration, but it’s worth pointing out that the Pro comes in just two colors (Silver or Space Black) but the Air comes in four hues (Midnight, Starlight, Sky Blue and Silver).

Currently the lowest-specced chip in a MacBook is the M4, which comes in all models of the MacBook Air and the base model, MacBook Pro 14-inch. That chip houses a 10-core CPU and either an 8- or 10-core GPU. The burliest chip, the M4 Max is built with either a 14- or 16-core CPU and a 32- or 40-core GPU. Cores are, in essence, smaller processing units that can handle different tasks simultaneously. Having more of them translates to the computer being able to run multiple programs and applications at once, while also smoothly processing demanding tasks like video editing and high-level gaming. In short, more cores allow for more advanced computing and better performance. But if your processing power needs fall below professional-level gaming and cinematic video and audio editing, getting the highest number of cores is likely overkill — and after all, more cores equals higher cost and more power usage.

Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

Your options for RAM, or in Apple’s terminology, unified memory, varies, but with the switch to the M4 chip in all laptops, the lowest amount of RAM you can get is now 16GB. That’s a necessary spec-bump to accommodate the tech world’s favorite feature of the moment: AI or, in this case, Apple Intelligence (still AI, but Cupertino’s version). The M4 Pro chip has 24 or 48GB memory options, while the M4 Max chip supports 48, 64 or a whopping 128GB of RAM.

You’ve likely heard the analogy comparing memory to the amount of workspace available on a literal desktop surface, whereas storage is the amount of drawers you have to store projects to work on later. The larger the worktop surface, the more projects you can work on at once. The bigger the drawers, the more you can save for later.

In addition to supporting Apple Intelligence, more RAM is ideal for people who plan to work in multiple apps at once. And the more demanding each program is, the more RAM will be required. Extra memory can also come in handy if you’re the type who likes to have infinite numbers of tabs open on your browser. If your daily workflow doesn’t involve simultaneously using a vast number of memory-intensive programs, you can save yourself money and buy the RAM configuration that you’re most likely to actually use.

For a long time, Apple continued to offer MacBooks with just 8GB of RAM, and we recommended upgrading to at least 16GB of RAM. With this being the standard today, grabbing a base model should be fine for most non-pro-level users. One thing to note is that, unlike most PCs, the RAM in a MacBook is not user-upgradable since it’s tied into the system-on-a-chip. If you think you might end up needing more memory, you should go for the spec upgrade up front.

Storage options range from 256GB of SSD for the base-model MacBook Air and 8TB of storage for the MacBook Pros with the M4 Max chip. If you want to rotate between a long roster of game titles or keep lots of high-res videos on hand, you’ll want more storage. If you’re mostly working with browser- and cloud-based applications, you can get away with a smaller-capacity configuration. That said, we recommend springing for 512GB of storage or more, if it’s within your budget. You’ll quickly feel the limits of a 256GB machine as it ages since the operating system alone takes up a good portion of that space. Having 1TB will feel even roomier and allow for more data storage over the life of your laptop.

When Apple announced the iPhone 15, the company also announced new iCloud+ storage storage plans, with subscriptions that allow up to 12TB of storage shared among your iOS and MacOS devices. You could also transfer files to an external storage device. But if you don’t want to pay for a monthly subscription and prefer the convenience of having immediate access to your files, it’s best to get the highest amount of storage space your budget allows for at the outset.

The MacBook Air comes in 13- or 15-inch sizes. Pro models have either 14- or 16-inch screens. A two-inch delta may not seem like much but, as Engadget’s Nathan Ingraham noted when he reviewed the then-new 15-inch M2-powered MacBook Air, a larger screen “makes a surprising difference.” That’s especially true if you plan to use your laptop as an all-day productivity machine and won’t be using an external monitor. More space means you can more clearly view side-by-side windows and have a more immersive experience when watching shows or gaming.

But screen size is one of the main factors influencing weight. The 13-inch MacBook Air M4 weighs 2.7 pounds, whereas the top-end 16-inch MacBook Pro with the Max chip weighs 4.7 pounds. If you plan to travel a lot or swap your work locations regularly, a smaller screen will make life easier in the long run.

All MacBooks feature IPS LCD panels (in-plane switching, liquid crystal display), which Apple markets as Retina displays. The MacBook Air M4 has a Liquid Retina display and the Pro models have Liquid Retina XDR displays. “Liquid” refers to the way the lighted portion of the display “flows” within the contours of the screen, filling the rounded corners and curving around the camera notch. “XDR” is what Apple calls HDR (high dynamic range).

You also get the option of a standard or nano-texture display on the MacBook Pro. The glass, which reduces glare and is also available on the Studio Display, iMac and iPad Pro, comes with a $150 price increase, but if you really don’t like reflections on your screen, it could be worth it.

Compared to most other laptops, MacBook displays are notably bright, sharp and lush. But one feature worth pointing out is another Apple marketing term: ProMotion. It’s the company’s term to describe a screen with a higher, 120Hz refresh rate, which results in smoother scrolling and more fluid-looking graphics. Only MacBook Pros offer ProMotion; the Air maxes out at 60Hz, which is perfectly fine for everyday browsing and typical workdays. But if you want buttery-smooth motion from your display, you’ll have to shell out more money for an upgrade.

When Apple announced the MacBook Air M4, it also delivered a bit of refreshing news: The latest model would start $100 cheaper than the previous generation. So now, the least expensive MacBook is the 13-inch, M4-powered Air with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage for $999. Alternatively, you can spend up to $7,349 for the 16-inch MacBook Pro M4 Max with the nano-texture glass, 128GB of RAM and 8TB of storage. Chip type, screen size, memory and storage capacity all influence the final price, which is why guides like this can help you determine just what you need (and what you don’t) so you can get the most cost-effective machine for you.

We recommend the MacBook Air M4 for most people, the MacBook Air M3 for students and those on a budget, and the 14- or 16-inch MacBook Pros for professionals. If you have extra money to spare once you’ve picked your machine, we recommend upgrading to at least 512GB of storage to make your machine as future-proof as possible.

Both the MacBook Air and Pro models come with the M4 chip. MacBook Pro models have the option of more powerful M4 Pro or M4 Max chips. The Pro has a higher resolution screen with a higher peak brightness that supports up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rates and XDR (extreme dynamic range). The battery life on most Pro models is longer than on the Air models as well. Pro models also have more ports and more speakers. In short, the MacBook Air is aimed at everyday users looking for good productivity and entertainment capabilities, while Pro models are aimed at professionals who need a high-performance computer.

MacOS is the operating system developed by Apple and used in all of its desktop and laptop computers. It can only be found in hardware made by Apple including MacBooks and iMacs. Microsoft’s Windows operating system can be found in the company’s own Surface laptops as well as computers made by a wide array of manufacturers, like Acer, Asus, Dell and Razer.



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Fortnite finally back on Apple devices in US and Europe
Game Reviews

Fortnite finally back on Apple devices in US and Europe

by admin


Fortnite is finally back on iOS devices in the US and Europe, after a five-year legal battle between Epic and Apple.

Despite a “peace proposal” being offered by Epic at the start of the month, Apple later blocked the return of Fortnite in the US. When Epic returned to the judge of the legal case to review its Fortnite submission, the judge responded Apple is “fully capable of resolving this issue without further briefing or a hearing” and warned the official who is “personally responsible for ensuring compliance” would have to return for a hearing (thanks TheVerge).

The two companies have since filed a joint notice stating they have “resolved all issues”.

Fortnite Galactic Battle Cinematic TrailerWatch on YouTube

As such, Fortnite has now returned to iOS devices, with Epic boss Tim Sweeney writing on social media “we back fam”.

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Though Fortnite had already returned to iOS devices in the European Union, Apple’s block of the game in the US delayed a regular update to the game, forcing all versions to be taken down.

Of course, the UK is no longer in the EU, meaning Fortnite is not yet available here on iOS. It’s expected in the second half of this year.

Back in 2020, Epic added a direct in-game payment option in Fortnite to circumvent Apple and Google’s official in-app purchase options, from which those companies take a 30 percent cut.

In retaliation, Apple pulled Fortnite from its App Store, sparking the five-year feud.

A verdict was finally reached earlier this month, when the US District Court of Northern California found Apple in “wilful violation” of the court’s previous injunction designed to prohibit the company’s “anticompetitive conduct and anticompetitive pricing”.

That injunction meant Apple had to allow purchases for apps from outside websites, to which it agreed but levied a 27 percent fee. The court stated this move “strains credulity” and that Apple’s goal “was to dissuade customer usage of alternative purchase opportunities and maintain its anticompetitive revenue stream”. The court verdict added: “In the end, Apple sought to maintain a revenue stream worth billions in direct defiance of this Court’s Injunction.”

Sweeney wrote on social media “Game over for the Apple Tax” and stated Fortnite would return to the iOS App store. Now, it finally has.

Writing on social media last night, Sweeney said: “Thanks to everyone who supported the effort to open up mobile competition and #FreeFortnite from the very beginning. And thanks to all of the folks who initially sided with Apple then later came around to the winning side, supporting app developer rights and consumer rights.”

Fortnite has immediately risen to the top free game on iOS in the US.

Epic has this week been in hot water due to the addition of AI Darth Vader to Fortnite, which was quickly used to spout bad language. A hot fix has since been issued, but actors’ union SAG-AFTRA has filed an unfair labour practice charge in retaliation for the use of AI.



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