The CultCast

Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2453212/open_sms] Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yo8mWiSuh0M] This week, invites are out for the “awe dropping” iPhone event! Also: Touch ID and bumper cases making a comeback like it’s 2013, how to combine emojis, the first ergonomic dual-ultra-widescreen setup, Twitter versus Mastodon and Leander’s review of PowerBeats Pro 2! This episode supported by: Listeners like you. Your support helps us fund CultCast Off-Topic, a new weekly podcast of bonus content available for everyone; and helps us secure the future of the podcast. You also get access to The CultClub Discord, where you can chat with us all week long, give us show topics, and even end up on the show. Support The CultCast at support.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/714/support.thecultcast.com] — or unsubscribe at unfork.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/714/unfork.thecultcast.com] CultCloth will keep your iPhone, MacBook, display, guitars, glasses and lenses sparkling clean! For a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a two free CarryCloths with any order $20+ at CultCloth.co [https://cultcloth.co/] Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/CultCast. [https://squarespace.com/cultcast] Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain. This week’s stories: Apple invites the world to ‘Awe dropping’ event [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-september-event-awe-dropping] * Get ready for the next “Awe dropping” Apple September event, featuring the exciting iPhone 17 series and more new products. iPhone 17 Air could revive Apple’s bumper case [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/iphone-17-air-may-bring-back-the-bumper-case] * In a nod to the iPhone 4, Apple experimented with a bumper case for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air that only covered its edges. Foldable iPhone might bring back Touch ID [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/foldable-iphone-might-bring-back-touch-id] * The first foldable iPhone — set to debut in September 2026 — will reportedly feature Touch ID, C2 modem and five cameras. Combine emoji to make your own fun creations in iOS 26 [https://www.cultofmac.com/how-to/combine-emoji] * The best Apple Intelligence feature gets even more fun: You can combine two or more emoji into your own custom creation in iOS 26. Double the fun: 10 best dual-monitor setups [https://www.cultofmac.com/setups/best-dual-monitor-setup#:~:text=Sitting%2C%20the%20user%20finds%20the%20top%20monitor%20at%20eye%20level] * For many folks, two displays beats one display. See these 10 takes on the best dual monitor setup, the most popular configuration. Under Review: Beats PowerBeats Pro 2 [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT2344N3/?tag=cult087-20] * These Bluetooth earbuds feature a heart rate monitor, Apple's H2 chip, active noise canceling with transparency mode, IPX4 water resistance, up to 45-hour battery life (with wireless charging case) and Apple and Android compatibility.

Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2453212/open_sms] Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agGGX_kJWGo] This week: Somehow, FineWoven returned… as TechWoven! Will it be any better? Also: Details on the iPhone 17e, Touch ID on the Apple Watch, iOS 26’s coolest new feature, a bananas multidisplay setup, and a fantastic Qi2 battery pack from Anker! This episode supported by: Listeners like you. Your support helps us fund CultCast Off-Topic, a new weekly podcast of bonus content available for everyone; and helps us secure the future of the podcast. You also get access to The CultClub Discord, where you can chat with us all week long, give us show topics, and even end up on the show. Support The CultCast at support.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/713/support.thecultcast.com] — or unsubscribe at unfork.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/713/unfork.thecultcast.com] Insta360 GO Ultra is the tiny, hands-free 53g camera that redefines how you capture your life. To bag a bag of free Sticky Tabs with your Insta360 GO Ultra purchase, head to store.insta360.com [https://store.insta360.com/product/go-ultra?utm_term=cultcast] and use the promo code cultcast, available for the first 30 purchases only. This week’s stories: Apple’s new TechWoven iPhone cases might suck less than FineWoven [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/finewoven-replacement-for-iphone-17-cases] * Apple's possible new FineWoven replacement for iPhone 17 cases trades some luxury feel for more practical grippy durability. iPhone 17e could ditch notch for Dynamic Island [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/iphone-17e-ditches-the-notch] * A new rumor claims the upcoming iPhone 17e ditches the notch in favor of a Dynamic Island design — a fresh approach for the budget handset. Touch ID could come to Apple Watch [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-watch-touch-id] * The 2026 Apple Watch could pack some big upgrades, including Touch ID integration for biometric authentication. Plus a faster CPU. Screenfest: Top 15 multidisplay computer setups [https://www.cultofmac.com/setups/best-multi-monitor-setup] * When it comes to the best-multi-monitor-setup, users often choose between the biggest displays and the most displays. Many go for both. Under Review: Anker Nano Power Bank (5K, MagGo, Slim) [https://anker.pxf.io/DyzEKo] * The Anker Nano Power Bank has 5,000 mAh of power in a third of an inch. It's the battery that doesn't make your iPhone feel like a brick.

Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2453212/open_sms] Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAwGCG5vGvU] This week: Blood oxygen is back, baby! Also: Apple’s push into smart homes and robotics, more flip-flopping in iOS 26 beta 6, a weird Mac mini setup, how to stop AirPods switching and a travel charger review! This episode supported by: Listeners like you. Your support helps us fund CultCast Off-Topic, a new weekly podcast of bonus content available for everyone; and helps us secure the future of the podcast. You also get access to The CultClub Discord, where you can chat with us all week long, give us show topics, and even end up on the show. Support The CultCast at support.thecultcast.com [support.thecultcast.com] — or unsubscribe at unfork.thecultcast.com [unfork.thecultcast.com] CultCloth will keep your iPhone, MacBook, display, guitars, glasses and lenses sparkling clean! For a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a two free CarryCloths with any order $20+ at CultCloth.co [https://cultcloth.co/] CleanMyMac is your ultimate solution for Mac control and care. Get tidy today — try 7 days free and use my code CULTCAST for 20% off at clnmy.com/CultCast [https://clnmy.com/CultCast] This week’s stories: Blood Oxygen testing returns to Apple Watch in the US [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-watch-blood-oxygen-fix] * A redesigned Blood Oxygen testing feature will launch Thursday for Apple Watch models that lost access to it after a U.S. court order. Apple preps slew of new home security products [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-home-security-devices] * Apple home-security devices on the drawing board could include smart cameras and doorbell that knows who's trying to get in. Apple’s ‘Pixar Lamp’ robot could feature a human-like Siri [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apples-pixar-lamp-robot] * Apple's 'Pixar Lamp' robot could feature a much more personable and interactive Siri. It might even butt into your conversations. iOS 26 beta 6: All the new features and changes [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/ios-26-beta-features-changes] * The sixth iOS 26 beta expands Liquid Glass to more UI elements, adds new ringtones and brings a much faster app opening animation. iPad Air as external display makes this Mac mini mobile [https://www.cultofmac.com/setups/ipad-external-display] * Using an iPad external display with an M4 Mac mini makes this odd setup mobile. And the self-built split keyboard adds to the weirdness. Under Review: Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1, Foldable Pad) [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8PYWHZR?tag=cult087-20] * This 3-in-1 wireless charger tops up your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods at 15W fast charging speeds. It’s travel-friendly and ultra portable.

Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2453212/open_sms] Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5y26N6656g] Lewis is back with Leander and Griffin to talk about Apple’s AI comeback (coming soon), Liquid Silicone (whatever that is), iOS 26 beta 5, and a hands-on with an iPhone 17 Pro case! This episode supported by: Listeners like you. Your support helps us fund CultCast Off-Topic, a new weekly podcast of bonus content available for everyone; and helps us secure the future of the podcast. You also get access to The CultClub Discord, where you can chat with us all week long, give us show topics, and even end up on the show. Support The CultCast at support.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/711/support.thecultcast.com] — OR at CultOf9to5MacRumors.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/711/cultof9to5macrumors.com] CultCloth will keep your iPhone, MacBook, display, guitars, glasses and lenses sparkling clean! For a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a two free CarryCloths with any order $20+ at CultCloth.co [https://cultcloth.co/] Factor Meals. Treat yourself to Factor’s delicious, high-quality, ready-to-eat meals delivered right to your door. Head over to FactorMeals.com/CultCast50off [https://factormeals.com/cultcast50off] to get 50% off plus free shipping on your first box. This week’s stories: Tim Cook hypes Apple’s AI efforts and ‘amazing’ product pipeline in all-hands meeting [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-all-hands-meeting-ai] * In a rare all-hands meeting, Apple CEO Tim Cook tells employees the company will do whatever it takes to win the AI game. Apple begins building its ChatGPT rival [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-begins-building-its-chatgpt-rival] * Apple's quietly begun working on a ChatGPT-like search experience powered by an "Answer Engine" and led by former Siri head Robby Walker. Silky Apple ‘Liquid Silicone’ cases for iPhone 17 may support lanyards [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-liquid-silicone-cases-for-iphone-17] * New rumors say Apple 'Liquid Silicone' cases for iPhone 17 will feature a lux feel and support for at least one lanyard. iOS 26 beta 5: All the new features and changes [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/ios-26-beta-features-changes] * The fifth iOS 26 beta brings minor tweaks and improvements as Apple prepares the OS for its public release in September. Reduce eye strain with these workspace fine-tuning tips [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/reduce-eye-strain] * For those of us who stare at screens all day, tired eyes are a problem. But this MacBook Pro user offers tips to reduce eye strain. Casekoo cases [https://casekoo.com/] * Hands-on with an upcoming iPhone 17 Pro case in orange.

Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2453212/open_sms] Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_P5g_325Wo] Stephen Hackett joins Leander and Griffin to talk all about a big week of iPhone 17 Pro leaks. We have a camera rumor that’s absolutely bananas, models of the new colors — and a spy shot out in public? Also: tips on customizing your Home Screen, an almost-normal Mac mini setup, and a big new Mac display! This episode supported by: Listeners like you. Your support helps us fund CultCast Off-Topic, a new weekly podcast of bonus content available for everyone; and helps us secure the future of the podcast. You also get access to The CultClub Discord, where you can chat with us all week long, give us show topics, and even end up on the show. Support The CultCast at support.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/710/support.thecultcast.com] — or unsubscribe at unfork.thecultcast.com [file:///Users/Griffin/Documents/2025/Cult%20of%20Mac/CultCast/710/unfork.thecultcast.com] CultCloth will keep your iPhone, MacBook, display, guitars, glasses and lenses sparkling clean! For a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a two free CarryCloths with any order $20+ at CultCloth.co [https://cultcloth.co/] Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/CultCast. [https://squarespace.com/cultcast] Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain. This week’s stories: iPhone 17 Pro camera could zoom past expectations with 8x lens [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/iphone-17-pro-camera-rumors-8x-lens] * iPhone 17 Pro's telephoto camera could get a bigger upgrade than initially rumored, with a new dual lens system for up to 8x optical zoom. iPhone 17 Pro could break tradition with bold new orange color [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/iphone-17-pro-could-break-tradition-with-bold-new-orange-color] * Alleged iPhone 17 dummy units showcase the color options for the upcoming lineup, including a bold orange shade for the Pro models. Masked iPhone 17 Pro prototype spotted in the wild [https://www.cultofmac.com/news/masked-iphone-17-pro-prototype-spotted-in-the-wild] * Blurry images of a supposed iPhone 17 Pro test unit have surfaced online after someone reportedly spotted the device in the wild. Widgetsmith [https://widgetsmith.app/] * Widgetsmith lets you personalize your device like never before with a wide range of highly-customizable widgets. * App Store [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/widgetsmith/id1523682319?itsct=apps_box_link&itscg=30200] Giant smart TV dwarfs 32-inch display in Mac mini rig [https://www.cultofmac.com/setups/hisense-smart-tv] * In today's featured M2 Mac mini setup, a mammoth Hisense smart TV dominates its complementary 32-inch LG monitor. Under Review: BenQ PD3226G [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ8GYGCJ/?tag=cult087-20] * Although this 32-inch display is only 4K and not 6K, it has a built-in Thunderbolt 4 dock with a KVM, highly accurate colors, a HotKey Puck remote control — and a gorgeous 144 Hz refresh rate.