iOS Today (Audio)

Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard dive deep into Safari extensions that can improve how you browse the web on iOS and iPadOS. From blocking annoying ads and cookie prompts to creating custom search shortcuts and saving articles for later reading, these browser add-ons turn Safari into a swiss army knife of functionality. * Wipr - A simple, effective ad blocker that works silently in the background without multiple extension instances cluttering your Safari menu, making it ideal for less tech-savvy users like elderly relatives * Keyword Search - Creates custom search shortcuts using semicolons and keywords to search specific websites directly from the address bar, perfect for frequently searched sites like Apple Support or AP Stylebook * GoodLinks - Save articles for offline reading later with support for paywall login credentials, allowing you to build a personal reading library that syncs across devices * Browser Note - Add digital sticky notes to specific web pages that appear whenever you revisit them, perfect for remembering discount codes, login preferences, or shopping reminders * Hush Nag Blocker - Specifically targets and removes cookie consent banners and privacy prompts without using third-party dependencies or tracking user behavior * Printer Friendly for Safari - Edit web pages before printing by removing unwanted sections like headers, footers, and ads to save ink and paper while creating cleaner printouts * Share Tabs for Safari - Export lists of open browser tabs with titles and URLs for easy sharing with others, eliminating the need to manually copy multiple links * URL Linker for Safari - Format shared links in specific styles like markdown or plain text with customizable formatting options News * Apple News Plus Emoji Game - New puzzle game available to News Plus subscribers where players decode emoji combinations to fill in word blanks, joining existing games like Crossword and Quartiles Shortcuts Corner * Podcast Reminder Shortcut - Kevin's request for creating Apple Reminders from podcast episodes gets solved with a shortcut that captures both episode titles and URLs, with built-in artwork display when URLs are properly formatted App Caps * Endel - AI-powered soundscape app that adapts background music based on time and location, featuring new ADHD-focused modes including Solfeggio tones, 8D audio, and binaural beats for improved focus * Lock your Notes on iPhone - Built-in iOS feature allowing users to lock specific notes with Face ID or passcode protection, perfect for sensitive information like payment details or secret gift ideas Hosts: Mikah Sargent [https://twit.tv/people/mikah-sargent] and Rosemary Orchard [https://twit.tv/people/rosemary-orchard] Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv [iOSToday@twit.tv]. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today [https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today] Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] Club TWiT [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord [https://twit.memberful.com/account/discord/authorize].

This episode explores the comprehensive Screen Time system in iOS, covering everything from basic usage tracking to advanced restrictions and parental controls. The hosts also tackle a unique automation challenge involving motorcycles and garage doors, while sharing their latest app and gadget discoveries. * Screen Time Overview - Introduction to iOS's built-in digital wellness system that tracks usage across all Apple devices and syncs settings when enabled * Screen Distance Feature - New safety feature that alerts users when holding their iPhone or iPad too close to their face, helping prevent eye strain and myopia * App and Website Activity - Detailed tracking system that provides weekly reports and insights about screen usage patterns across all connected devices * Downtime Scheduling - Feature that restricts device access to only approved apps and phone calls during specified hours, perfect for sleep schedules * App Limits - Granular controls allowing users to set daily time limits for specific apps or entire categories like games or social media * Always Allowed Apps - Designated apps that remain accessible even during downtime, including emergency contacts and essential utilities * Communication Controls - Settings that manage who can contact the user during screen time restrictions and downtime periods * Communication Safety - Apple's new feature that automatically detects and warns about potentially inappropriate images before they're viewed * Content and Privacy Restrictions - Comprehensive parental controls covering app installations, purchases, web content, and various iOS features Feedback * Motorcycle Garage Door Automation - Mike seeks help creating a shortcut to automatically open his garage door when arriving home on his motorcycle App Caps * DailyArt App - Mikah recommends an award-winning app that showcases a different piece of artwork each day with detailed historical context and artist information * 8BitDo Micro Controller - Rosemary features a tiny Bluetooth game controller that works with multiple devices and can be reprogrammed for various uses, including Procreate shortcuts Hosts: Mikah Sargent [https://twit.tv/people/mikah-sargent] and Rosemary Orchard [https://twit.tv/people/rosemary-orchard] Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv [iOSToday@twit.tv]. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today [https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today] Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] Club TWiT [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord [https://twit.memberful.com/account/discord/authorize].

Social media chaos got you jumping between apps like a caffeinated squirrel? Mikah and Rosemary explore the fragmented world of post-Twitter social media and reveal the apps that can help you reclaim your sanity and streamline your online presence. The hosts also reflect on how X/Twitter's changes scattered users across platforms, creating fatigue and missed connections. * Ivory for Mastodon - Tapbots' premium Mastodon client offers customizable navigation, multiple account support, and elegant design for $14.99-24.99/year, depending on platform coverage * Tapestry by Iconfactory - Unifies social media feeds, RSS blogs, and podcasts into one timeline supporting Mastodon, Tumblr, YouTube, Blue Sky, and Reddit for $1.99/month or $79.99 lifetime * Croissant by Innoveghtive - Cleverly named tool lets you post to multiple social networks simultaneously (Mastodon, Threads, Bluesky) with alt-text support for $2.99/month or $59.99 lifetime * Buffer for business users - Professional scheduling platform supports Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, and more with calendar view and automation integrations News * Four new games launching August 7th - Play-Doh World (creative open-world), Worms Across Worlds (strategic combat), Let's Go MightyCat (tower defense), and Everybody Shogi (board game variant) * Apple Arcade pricing reminder - $6.99/month standalone or included in Apple One bundles starting at $19.95 Shortcuts Corner * Jack's nonprofit photography challenge - Needs to sort 300+ mixed portrait/landscape photos and videos from iPhone events for marketing purposes App Caps * Mikah's pick: Knots 3D ($5.99) - Comprehensive knot-tying reference with 3D animations across categories like scouting, climbing, boating, and military applications * Rosemary's pick: Capsule medication tracker - Her team's newly released app for tracking medications with scheduling, notifications, and family sharing for $12.99/year (launching price) Hosts: Mikah Sargent [https://twit.tv/people/mikah-sargent] and Rosemary Orchard [https://twit.tv/people/rosemary-orchard] Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv [iOSToday@twit.tv]. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today [https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today] Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] Club TWiT [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord [https://twit.memberful.com/account/discord/authorize].

Mikah and Rosemary visit the world of iPad accessories that can truly transform your tablet experience, from the game-changing Magic Keyboard to creative stands and essential styli that unlock your iPad's full potential! Magic Keyboard & Physical Keyboards * Apple Magic Keyboard - Premium keyboard case adds trackpad, extra USB-C charging port, and robust protection while transforming typing workflows * Budget alternatives - Logitech Keys-to-Go and other Bluetooth keyboards offer function keys and media controls at lower price points * Travel benefits - Bluetooth keyboards with media keys provide convenient remote control for video streaming and presentations Customization & Protection * Vinyl wraps - Slickwraps and dbrand offer protective skins in textures like carbon fiber, marble, leather effects, and retro designs * Practical benefits - Wraps add grip, protection, and personalization while helping identify devices in groups Apple Pencil Ecosystem * Apple Pencil Pro - Latest model features squeeze gestures for tool palettes, barrel roll rotation, haptic feedback, hover detection, and Find My support * Model comparison - Pro vs 2nd generation vs USB-C vs 1st generation, with varying features and price points Stand Solutions * Satechi aluminum desktop stand - Heavy-duty stand with cable management, dual orientation support, and flexible positioning from flat to upright * Satechi hub stand - Premium desktop solution combining stand with 4K HDMI out, USB-A & USB-C ports, SD readers, and audio jack * Twelve South HoverBar Duo - Versatile system with clamp and desktop bases, Apple Pencil storage, and robust articulating arm Specialty Accessories * Satechi Bluetooth remote - Compact media controller supporting PowerPoint, Keynote, streaming apps, and presentation software * iPad cushion/pillow - UGREEN's washable lap cushion with multiple viewing angles, storage pockets, and ergonomic positioning Shortcuts Corner * Van's question - How to discover full folder paths in Save File shortcuts after creation, since interface only shows last selected location * Mr. Met's inspiration - Wanted shortcut to open Safari's new tab page instead of getting distracted by previous tabs App Cap * Adobe Project Indigo - Beta computational photography app using multiple exposures for enhanced dynamic range and noise reduction * PopSocket MagSafe Grips - Magnetic phone grips with easy attachment/removal and swappable tops Hosts: Mikah Sargent [https://twit.tv/people/mikah-sargent] and Rosemary Orchard [https://twit.tv/people/rosemary-orchard] Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv [iOSToday@twit.tv]. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today [https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today] Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] Club TWiT [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord [https://twit.memberful.com/account/discord/authorize].

Spring cleaning in the summer? Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard roll up their sleeves to tackle both physical and digital device maintenance, sharing expert tips for getting your Apple gear spotless inside and out. * Physical iPhone cleaning - Apple's official recommendations for safe disinfecting using 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes and Clorox wipes, while avoiding bleach and hydrogen peroxide that can damage device coatings * Specialized cleaning tools - iFixit's Precision Cleaning Kit featuring tiny brushes, foam-tipped swabs, and contact cleaner for getting into speaker grills and ports * Digital decluttering - MacPaw's app CleanMyPhone uses AI to find duplicate photos, similar shots, and organize camera rolls while supporting Ukrainian developers * Mass app deletion strategy - Using Apple Configurator to quickly remove unused apps in bulk, with Rosemary demonstrating how she went from 827 apps to a more manageable number * AirPods deep cleaning - Apple's specific instructions for cleaning earwax buildup using micellar water and distilled water to break down waxes without damaging the mesh speakers * Case and accessory maintenance - Importance of removing iPhone cases regularly to clean both the device and case interior, plus organizing charging cables in labeled mesh bags * Cable management and recycling - Tips for checking cable condition, proper storage solutions, and donating old chargers to homeless shelters for those still using older devices News * Control Center transparency - Apple reduced the transparency to minimize distractions while maintaining the glass aesthetic * Safari interface tweaks - Tab bar repositioned to the bottom for better usability after user feedback * App Store accessibility section - New feature allowing developers to specify supported accessibility features on product pages * Enhanced Wallet tracking - Siri can now scan emails for package tracking from any merchant, not just Apple Pay purchases * Call transcription updates - Feature renamed to "save call transcripts" with clearer notifications that all participants will be informed before recording begins Feedback * VoiceOver PDF accessibility - Johnny, a blind user, seeks alternatives to Adobe Acrobat for filling PDF forms, highlighting ongoing accessibility issues with major software companies and poorly designed PDF forms Shortcuts Corner * HomeKit automation limitations - Bjorn's question about combining multiple triggers (window open/close) into single automations reveals fundamental HomeKit restrictions that require separate automations for each trigger Hosts: Mikah Sargent [https://twit.tv/people/mikah-sargent] and Rosemary Orchard [https://twit.tv/people/rosemary-orchard] Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv [iOSToday@twit.tv]. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today [https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today] Want access to the ad-free video and exclusive features? Become a member of Club TWiT today! https://twit.tv/clubtwit [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] Club TWiT [https://twit.tv/clubtwit] members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord [https://twit.memberful.com/account/discord/authorize].