Senate advances the latest Kids Online Safety Act out of committee
The House passed its own version of the contentious KOSA bill in June.
Score a deal on upcoming iPhone 18 pre-orders with this Best Buy Apple gift card promotion
If youre planning on picking up a new iPhone 18 series device next month (or really any time this year) from the official Apple Store, you might as well flip out some of that cash ahead of time and secure some FREE Best Buy credit in the process. Best Buy is now throwing some completely FREE credit with the purchase of Apple gift cards . With the new iPhone 18 series set for launch in roughly a month from now, and some particularly notable deals on MacBook and Studio Displays on the official Apple Refurb Store , this is a solid chance to land some FREE credit and put the gift cards to good use.
Minecraft is coming to Switch 2 on October 27
Minecraft for the Switch 2 feels like a perfect place for mouse controls, but Mojang hasn't said anything about that feature yet.
Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis is stepping down, but will remain with the company
A handful of high-level personnel changes are coming to DeepMind.
Kick your scanner to the curb with a lifetime sub to iScanner for $40 (Reg. up to $199)
TL;DR: Replace your scanner with a lifetime subscription to the iScanner App for $39.99 , 79% off the regular price of $199.
Meta apps displayed ads that contained AI-generated CSAM
Researchers identified more than 50 ads on Meta properties that violated the company's policies on child sexual abuse material.
We just spotted a deal at Dell that drops an RTX 5090-powered Alienware Area-51 gaming desktop down to $4,779.99 shipped . This particular config is listed at $6,330, so todays deal takes a massive $1,550 off and marks the lowest price weve tracked for it so far. Youre looking at some serious value here in the current market, especially with select standalone 32GB RTX 5090 graphics cards now fetching around $4,700 on their own. Youre essentially paying only a little more for the complete Area-51 system, including the processor, memory, SSD, liquid cooling, power supply, and more. Also, Best Buy currently lists the same Alienware Area-51 desktop with the less powerful RTX 5080 for over $6,000, making Dells deal on this RTX 5090 variant a pretty good value if youre in the market to buy a high-end PC. Head below for more details.
Diablo IV Switch 2 edition release date and price leaks online, expected to launch next month
The Switch 2 leaks arent done just yet (and probably never will be) and Diablo VI for Switch 2 is up next. Its not the Ocarina of Time release date , but we have it on good authority the long-awaited Diablo IV Switch 2 release is all but imminent and now more than likely just over a month away.
Corsair just introduced new gaming keyboards with a control dial and a mouse with great battery life
Corsair's latest accessories have some handy features and don't cost too much.
iCloud Private Relay might leak your IP address, even when you use Safari
Macworld A pair of security researchers found a critical problem with Apples iCloud Private Relay feature. Even when using Safari, a website can fairly easily get your real IP address. Researchers Talal Haj BakryandTommy Mysk just disclosed the issue . Apple is aware of it; according to a report form 404 Media , Mysk said, We have already informed them. They said the issue was dire, but they let us disclose the issue. They didnt provide any time when they will address this. Heres how it works, in basic terms: iCloud Private Relay is a nice security feature but it is not a VPN. It only works when you use Safari. Passkeys the helpful biometric alternative to remembering different passwords for every siteoperate outside the browser, using the WebAuthn framework on Apple devices. So if you set up a website to make a request for a Passkey credential origin, its not protected by iCloud Private Relay because the Passkey request is technically happening outside the browser. Of course, if youre an everyday user, you dont have any reason to know or suspect this. Youre using Safari, you have the paid iCloud+ Private Relay service turned on, you should be hidden, right? The issue also affects browsers that use WebKits proxy relay, including some Tor browsers. The researchers built a proof-of-concept site you can use to check if youre affected. We dont know when Apple is going to address the issue, but a vulnerability in Hide My Email that exposed real email addresses was fixed very quickly by Apple after the issue became public. That only required a back-end server fix, while this iCloud Private Relay issue might require a software update on devices. The fact that Apple let the researchers disclose the issue before the fix means Apple wants users to know about the problem and suggests it could take some time to fix. iCloud Private Relay is not a VPN This is a good time to remind everyone that iCloud Private Relay is not a VPN. A traditional VPN routes all the internet traffic for your entire device through other servers, sometimes providing other features as well at the core network level. iCloud Private Relay operates only in the Safari browser. Its a nice perk of iCloud+, but not a full VPN substitute. That difference is the root cause of this new issue. You can be browsing with Safari and a website can make a special kind of request that happens outside the usual browser stackby designand thus is not affected by iCloud Private Relay. Apple will obviously need to address this quickly. If youre interested in a real VPN, check out our list of the best VPNs .
Mid-week Android game and app deals: Exile, Last Survivor, Summer Catchers, Thronefall, more
Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals is now ready, including titles like Last Survivor: Survival Pro, Exile: Wasteland Survival PRO, RPG Knight Bewitched 2, Summer Catchers, Thronefall, Lichtspeer, and more. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 , Fold 8 Ultra , and Flip 8 pre-order deals are live for today and tomorrow from Samsung, but Best Buy and Amazon are shipping most configs much quicker , these2026 Galaxy phones start from just $345 today , and we have the best Amazon price ever on the official 25W Qi2 Google Pixelsnap Charger with Stand at 40% off . The apps await below.
Garvee 3-Piece Rattan Patio Set Buy for $150 (Reg. $171) What we love Now that the summer heat is starting to back off where I live, Im looking forward to spending a bit more time outdoors. If youre feeling the same way, nows a great time to pick up some outdoor seating. This stylish rattan set is $150 shipped right now and has a look that to my eye, looks like it should be pricier than this.
Acer 1,200-Yard Golf Rangefinder with Slope Buy for $85.50 (Reg. $100) What we love If you want to be even more dialed in when out on the course, a rangefineder like this is worth a peek. This particular unit is very competitively priced when not on sale, and now its reliably undercutting most competitors. It boasts a 1,200 yard range, has USB-C charging, and is made by Acer instead of a brand you may never have heard of before.
Amazon is currently offering the Ninja Creami Scoop & Swirl 13-in-1 Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker for $279 shipped, which beats out the direct website by $1 . Down from a $350 full price, weve primarily seen discounts cutting the costs down between $300 and $280 at Amazon, though the marketplace did give us a short-term drop to $200 that lasted only a handful of hours back in April, as well as the $250 rates weve spotted at Woot before. Youre looking at a solid 20% markdown here for $71 savings that lands it at the second-lowest price we have tracked from Amazon in 2026. You can also find a ton of the brands other appliance deals in the official Amazon storefront here, which is great for folks gearing up to head off to school this month.
Tidy up your tools with this wall-mounted organizer that
POKIPO Wall-Mount Power Tool Organizer Buy for $40 (Reg. $60) What we love If your tool collection could stand to be organized, heres a high-quality way to get the job done. This shelf mounts to the wall, is made of industrial-grade steel, and can support up to 400 pounds.
Xbox's devastating July was inevitable
It is neither possible nor desirable to own every great independent studio.
Woots official Amazon storefront is offering the Camplux Portable 8,500 BTU Propane Heater down at $84.99 shipped. This handy little device is down from a full price of $140, which weve previously only seen go as low as $90 up until now. Youll be getting a $55 markdown here that lands it lower-than-ever for a new all-time low, with other camping-ready deals available in the official Amazon storefront here.
Mid-week Apple TV deals up to 80% off: Dodgeball, Boondock Saints, Up in Smoke Double Feature, Lilo
Todays lineup of the best Apple TV deals is here, including titles like Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (Unrated), The Boondock Saints, Still Smokin + Up in Smoke Double Feature, Lilo & Stitch 2-Movie Collection, and more. On your way down, scope out the ongoing deals on AirPods Pro 3 at $50 off and up to $130 off Apple Watch Ultra 3 , as well as the lowest prices on MacBook Neo via the official Apple Certified Refurbished Store and this Apple Watch Series 11 cell model at $150 off . Your mid-week Apple TV deals are waiting below.
Sunbird's iMessage app for Android is back after a major privacy snafu
This was one of the interoperability tools people used before Apple adopted RCS.
Nike is slashing an extra 25% off these running shoes, cash in from $49
Over on Nikes sale page youll find promo code DAYONE alive and kicking alongside a See Price in Bag offer on select items. No matter which option youre eligible for, youll score an additional 25% off. We combed through the entire sale page and looked for running shoes, and highlights range from the Nike Run Defy Road Running Shoes to Downshifter 14, Quest 6, and more. Just note that you can also score Bruno Marcs wingtip shoes for $34 Prime shipped , short-sleeve mock turtleneck sweaters from $15 , and much more in our apparel guide . Head below to see todays Nike deals.
Old Reddit could be the next casualty of Reddit's war on AI scraping
The company is also planning to retire its public API.
Add another wrinkle-free button down shirt to your closet from $13.50 (Reg. $20)
Alex Vando Wrinkle-Free Button Down Shirt Buy for $13.50 (Reg. $20) What we love While I certainly reach for casual tees from time to time, polos and button-down shirts have become strong go-tos for me these days. I love the patterns and colors generally offered and at $13.50 Prime shipped, its hard to go wrong here.
Strike a balance this fall with these short-sleeve mock turtleneck sweaters from $15 (Save 38%)
COOFANDY Short-Sleeve Mock Turtleneck Sweater Buy for $15 (Reg. $24) What we love If you live in a place where the temperature swings a lot, it can be nice to find apparel that lands somewhere in the middle. This short-sleeve sweater fits the bill in my book and can be worn relatively soon with cooler fall weather just around the corner.
We just spotted Amazon offering return Prime Day pricing on the ECOVACS Goat O1000 RTK Care Kit Robotic Lawn Mower for $664 shipped, which gives you 36 replacement blades and the official Amazon storefront here also has some robot floor cleaner deals, too.
How to use Android Auto without turning off your VPN
A VPN might compromise your Android Auto experience at first, but there are some easy workarounds.
Macworld Apples WWDC keynote may be long behind us now, but Apples event calendar for 2026 is far from finished. With iOS 27, macOS 27 Golden Gate, and the latest Apple Intelligence and Siri updates now unveiled, attention is turning to the companys next big launch. Apple rarely confirms event dates far in advance, and theres no guarantee an event will take place within its usual window. That leaves Apple fans and anyone considering a new Apple device wondering when the next Apple event will happen and what might be announced. Luckily, Apples annual schedule is predictable, giving us a good idea of when the next keynote will happen and which products are likely to launch. Based on Apples long-established schedule and reliable rumours, we can make informed estimates about when the next keynote is likely and which products could headline it. From the iPhone 18 lineup and new Apple Watches to potential Mac and iPad updates, heres everything we know about Apples next event and what you can expect to see. Read on for a closer look at all of the events Apple is expected to hold in 2026 and beyond, and what could launch. When is Apples next event? Beginning of September (expected) Apple has not yet announced the date of its next event, although the company has asked Apple Store staff to apply for the Event Support Experience Program . Employees enter a lottery for the opportunity to assist with an Apple event scheduled for the first half of September. Based on Apples typical event schedule, we expect the companys next event to be the annual iPhone launch in September 2026. Looking at Apples event history over the past several years, we predict the September event will take place during the week beginning September 7, with September 8 or 9 the most likely dates, although it could be pushed back to September 15. As in previous years, Apple is expected to livestream the event, allowing viewers around the world to watch the company unveil its latest products. One notable change this year is that the keynote is expected to be hosted by John Ternus, who is set to succeed Tim Cook as Apples CEO following Cooks retirement Apple event calendar 2026 Timescale Event theme Dates Products March Special Experience 2-4 March Launched: iPhone 17e, MacBooks Neo, Pro & Air, iPad Air June WWDC June 8 Expected: iOS, macOS, other software, Mac updates, AI news September [iPhone event] TBC Expected: iPhone 18, new Apple Watch October or November [Late fall event] TBC Possible: Macs and iPads? Apple has held two events so far in 2026, although the first was not an event in the traditional sense. On March 4, the company invited select media to hands-on experiences in multiple locations. In the run-up to that date, Apple also launched several products via press release, including the iPhone 17e , M4 iPad Air , and MacBook Pro M5 Pro and M5 Max , M5 MacBook Air and the MacBook Neo . The second event was WWDC , which began with a keynote on June 8. At the WWDC keynote Apple outlined the upcoming changes to its operating systems, including iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate . Looking ahead to the fall, Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro , a foldable iPhone Ultra , and more at an Apple event in September . A second, late-fall event in October or November is possible, though less certain and typically focused on Macs or iPads. Heres when the 2026 Apple events might take place. Foundry FAQ 1. What will Apple announce at the next event? Apples September event is the biggest and most watched Apple event of the year. Its the venue at which Apple unveils the new iPhones and Apple Watches for the next year. We expect Apple to launch the iPhone 18 Pro , iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple Watch Series 12 at a September event. Apple may also reveal the new folding iPhone, thought to be called the iPhone Ultra . Rumors also point to a new and improved HomePod and Apple TV. The iPad and iPad mini are also overdue an update so may arrive at the same event. We may also see updates to the Mac Studio and Mac mini . 2. What time does the next Apple event start in U.S., U.K. and other global time zones Apple keynotes usually start at 10 am PT. That translates to the following times in the countries where most of our readers live: U.S. : 10 am PDT, 11 am MDT, 12 pm CDT, 1 pm EDT Canada : as above, plus 2 pm ADT U.K. : 6 pm Europe : 7 pm CEST, 8 pm EEST India : 10:30 pm IST Australia : next day 1 am AWST, 2:30 am ACST, 3 am AEST New Zealand : next day 5 am NZST The timings are generally the same for all Apple Keynotes, but can be slightly different if Apple holds the event during the period of a couple of weeks when the clocks have changed in the U.S. but not elsewhere (in 2026 the clocks will change in the U.S. on November 1, while in the U.K. they change on October 25). Sometimes Apple holds events at different times, for example, in October 2023 the event was held in late afternoon in San Francisco, which meant it was midnight in the U.K. If Apple doesnt hold an event and instead just issues a press release that usually happens around 8 am PT, 11 am ET and 4 pm U.K. time. 3. How long do Apple events usually last? Apple keynotes usually last between one and two hours and feature CEO Tim Cook along with various other Apple executives with Apples John Ternus, stepping into the CEO role in September 2026, it is likely we will see more of Ternus in future keynotes. WWDC and the September event tend to be longer keynotes; the spring and late-fall events can be slightly shorter. For example, the September 2024 event was 1 hour 38 minutes. 4. How often does Apple hold events? There can be as many as four Apple events in a year: Spring Event WWDC in June iPhone Event in September Late Fall Event in October This event calendar is by no means set in stone, though, with the spring and October events being less regular. Some years, Apple doesnt hold a spring event at all. In 2025 Apple only held two events preferring instead to announce new products via press release. 5. Does Apple take part in other events? Apple doesnt participate in big industry-wide events such as CES, IFA or E3. Instead Apple invites the press and industry professionals to Apple Park to hear all about its latest products and services. Apple calls these events and it streams them live online to millions of viewers. 6. Does Apple ever announce products without an event? Apple frequently announces products without a keynote event, often opting for press releases or multi-day announcement windows. In recent years, the company has increasingly reserved its large-scale media events for major flagship launches, such as the primary iPhone lineup in September, while using press releases for iterative updates or chip bumps that may not warrant a full hour-long presentation. 7. How to watch an Apple event Apple events are typically broadcast across several digital platforms, allowing viewers to tune in from almost any device. While the company previously restricted access to its own hardware or the Safari browser, these barriers have been removed in recent years. You can access live Apple presentations through the following official channels: YouTube : This is often considered the easiest way to watch. Apple streams its keynotes live on its official YouTube channel, which can be accessed via any web browser or the YouTube app on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs . Apple.com : The company hosts a dedicated Events page on its official website. For the best experience on a PC, it is recommended to use Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 or later . Apple TV App : The stream is available within the Apple TV app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV hardware. Keynotes are usually listed in the apps lineup a day or two before the event begins . Apple Podcasts : Apple also showcases its events through the Podcasts app on Apple devices, where you can watch the video presentation You may also like to tune in to our Live Blog which will provide minute-by-minute text updates and analysis as products are announced. Following the end of the event, detailed breakdowns will also be available on the Macworld Podcast, which can be found on Spotify, Soundcloud, and Apple Podcasts. When is the iPhone 18 event and what will launch? Apple When is the iPhone event? September 2026 (TBC) Apples iPhone launch event has become a regular fixture in September (aside from 2020 event when it was delayed until October and the early January launches). In recent years the event has been held on September 9, so we could see Apple make the unveiling in the week of September 7 in 2026, with the event perhaps taking place on September 8 or 9. What will Apple launch at the September 2026 event? We can be pretty confident that at least one new iPhone will launch in late 2026, although there may be some changes to the line up: we may see the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max launch in September, but the iPhone 18 may be held back until the spring of 2027. There are also rumors of a folding iPhone aka iPhone Ultra launching in September. Alongside the new iPhone 18 Pro we may see new Apple Watches. In 2026 the Apple Watch Series 12 should get a chip update, since the Series 11 is using the same chip as the Series 10 did. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is said to be getting a fingerprint scanner. Apple is also rumored to have some upgrades coming to the HomePod and Apple TV to better equip them for Siri AI. Find out more about the September iPhone event in our dedicated article. Will Apple have a second fall event in 2026? Apple Will there be a late fall event in 2026 The last time Apple held a late fall event was October 30, 2023, and before that October 18, 2021. So a late fall event isnt unprecedented, but it is uncommon. Right now there is no way of knowing if Apple will hold a late fall event in 2026, or indeed, if it ever will again. Usually this event is to launch consumer Macs, but in recent years Apple hasnt felt the need to hold an event to do that. Nearer the time we will know if there are big things planned that might warrant an event. What will Apple launch at the late fall 2026 event? Mac or iPad launches are the most likely reasons for an Apple event during this timeframe, but Apple has not felt the need to hold a dedicated Mac event since the Scary Fast presentation in 2023, when it introduced the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips alongside updated MacBook Pro models. There could still be Mac-related announcements this year, particularly if Apple has yet to refresh the Mac mini or Mac Studio. The rumored touchscreen MacBook Pro could also make an appearance. The timing of any new Mac releases will likely depend on whether the supply chain has fully recovered from the component shortages that have affected the industry throughout the year. These shortages have also lead Apple to raise prices for iPads and Macs . As for iPads, a new iPad or iPad mini are long overdue, so an October event would be a likely venue for those launches, if they dont arrive in September. For more information about Apples late fall events read: Apples October Event: Date, time and what will launch. Will Apple hold a spring event in 2027? Michael Simon / Foundry Apples spring events have become increasingly unpredictable. The company has not held a traditional spring event since May 2024, although it did invite members of the media, including Macworld, to a Special Apple Experience in 2026. Rather than a keynote presentation, the March 4, 2026 gathering was a hands-on showcase that followed three days of product announcements, including the MacBook Neo, iPhone 17e, and M5 MacBook Air. Will Apple take a similar approach to spring product launches in 2027? Its certainly possible. The format appeared to work well, allowing each product announcement to receive its own media coverage rather than competing for attention during a single event. Apple is expected to Apple will release three iPhone models in spring 2027: iPhone 18 (base model) iPhone 18e iPhone Air 2 Apple may also update the MacBook Air with an M6 processor in spring 2027. A report from early August 2026 notes that Apple is currently struggling with memory shortages that are impacting MacBook Air stock, and the M6 update is seen as a potential, though not guaranteed, fix for the supply issues. When is WWDC 2027 Foundry When is the WWDC keynote? In 2026 the WWDC keynote was on Monday June 8. In 2025 it started on Monday June 9. We expect WWDC will start on Monday 7 June in 2027. WWDC generally runs from the Monday to Friday in the second week of June. What Apple could launch at WWDC WWDC is Apples big developer event at which it reveals plans for the operating systems that run on Apple hardware. In June 2027 we expect Apple to unveil details of the iOS 28, iPadOS 28, the new macOS 28, updates to watchOS, tvOS, HomePod software, and an update to Apples realityOS. Apple sometimes announces new hardware at WWDC, usually the high end models targeted at power users, so we could see new Macs. Following the keynote on the Monday, developer events and sessions will run throughout the week. You can read more about WWDC date, times and everything you need to know in a separate article. What did Apple launch at past events So far in 2026 Apple has held an experience, which rather than being an event in the traditional sense, was a chance for journalists to get a look at products Apple had launched in the days prior, including MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e. The company also hosted the WWDC keynote on June 8, at which it revealed its plans for Apple Intelligence and Siri in iOS 27, macOS 27 and the other operating systems. In 2025 Apple only held two events. The first was its Worldwide Developers Conference ( WWDC ) on June 9, at which it introduced the new features coming in the next version of its operating systems, and the second was the huge September 9 Apple Event where it launched new Apple Watches , new AirPods Pro and the new iPhones for 2025 . Apple doesnt have to hold an event to launch new products though. Prior to WWDC, Apple launched a new iPhone 16e via press release on February 19, a new iPad and iPad Air via press release on March 4, and a new MacBook Air and Mac Studio on March 5. Apple then went on to launch a new M5 MacBook Pro and M5 iPad Pro in October. No event was held to mark these launches. In 2024 , Apple held three events: one on Tuesday, May 7, at which it launched new iPads; a keynote to kick off WWDC on June 10; and an event on September 9 at which Apple unveiled the new iPhone 16 , Apple Watch Series 10 and the AirPods 4 . In October 2024 there was no event, but Apple did announce new products (iMac, Mac mini and MacBook Pro) via press release. In 2023 there were three events: WWDC in June, an iPhone event in September, and Apples second fall event on October 30 (or after midnight on October 31 if you werent in the U.S.). In 2022 Apple held three events: a spring event on March 8, WWDC on June 6, and the iPhone 14 launch on September 7. In other years Apple has held four events though. Foundry When were Apples past events? Spring Apple events have been held on the following dates: 2026: Experience Wednesday March 4 2025: No event 2024: Tuesday May 7 2023: No event 2022: Tuesday March 8 2021: Tuesday April 20 2020: No event 2019: Monday March 25 2018: Tuesday March 27 2017: No event 2016: Monday March 21 2015: Monday March 9 2014: No event 2013: No event 2012: Wednesday March 7 WWDC events have fallen on the following dates: WWDC 2026: June 8 (8-12) WWDC 2025: June 9 (9-13) WWDC 2024: June 10 (10-14) WWDC 2023: June 5 (5-9) WWDC 2022: June 6 (6-10) WWDC 2021: June 7 (7-11) WWDC 2020: June 22 (22-26) WWDC 2019: June 3 (3-7) WWDC 2018: June 4 (4-8) WWDC 2017: June 5 (5-9) Here are the past few Apple September event dates: 2025: Tuesday, September 9 2024: Monday, September 9 2023: Tuesday, September 12 2022: Wednesday, September 7 2021: Tuesday, September 14 2020: Tuesday, September 15 2019: Tuesday, September 10 2018: Wednesday, September 12 2017: Tuesday, September 12 In the past, Apple has held a second fall event on the following dates: 2025: No event 2024: No event 2023: Monday, October 30 2022: No event 2021: Monday, October 18 2020: Tuesday, October 13 and Tuesday, November 10 2019: No event 2018: Tuesday, October 30 2017: No event 2016: Thursday, October 27 2015: No event 2014: Thursday, October 16 2013: Tuesday, October 22 2012: Tuesday, October 23 2011: Tuesday, October 4
We are now tracking a deal at Amazon, which drops the ASUS ZenScreen 15.6-inch FHD portable monitor down to $97.72 shipped. This model originally carried a $199 price tag but has been selling closer to $165 in recent months, so todays deal takes more than $67 off that recent going rate and delivers a solid 41% discount. This model has seen several discounts, but this is the lowest price weve tracked so far since its debut. It recently dropped to $99 during the Prime Day sale, and todays offer lands it a touch lower with an additional $1 discount. Head below for more details.
The latest and most affordable ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential has now dropped back down to the lowest price we have ever tracked at Amazon. Now down at $89.99 shipped , this deal does not tend to last for very long when it pops up from time-to-time.The Premium model is currently $50 off at Amazon. More details below.
Best earbuds for iPhone 2026: Top picks for sound, comfort
Macworld Wireless headphones or earbuds (whatever you call them) are essentially the standard now, with Bluetooth earbuds being convenient and the sound quality difference to wired not being that noticeable to typical people (we realize audiophiles know). The market is huge, but here are the best wireless earbuds weve tested for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Macs. If you do want a wired connection some of these do offer it in addition to Bluetooth, but we also have a round-up of the best wired headphones and a comparison of over-ear headphones read our comparison of AirPods Max vs other over-ear headphones . We also have a comparison of all the AirPods . When testing these best earbuds we considered some of the important factors to consider when choosing headphones. Such as whether they support ANC, which is Apples codec, or the aptX codec that is now used with many Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, but isnt supported by Apple (although there are some earbuds, such as the B&W Pi8 below that include a transmitter for aptX support. We explain what to look for when choosing earbuds below. Best headphones and earbuds for iPhone 2026 PROMOTION Baseus MC2: All-Day Ease, $49.99 now! The best earbuds are the ones you forget youre wearing. MC2 stays easy on your ears with CloudComfort 2.0. Enjoy up to 55 hours of listening and IP67 protection for sweat, rain, and everyday plans. Use code MC2OWSPR at checkout. Unlock the Lowest Price Were comparing all the best earbuds with Apples own offerings: the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC. Also included are various options from Apple-owned subsidiary Beats, which by association benefits from a lot of Apple-specific features. But just how well do they compete with headphones from the likes of Bose, Sennheiser, Bowers & Wilkins and Sony? 1. Apple AirPods Pro 3rd-generation (2025) Best earbuds for iPhone Pros Excellent comfort and secure fit Improved sound and bass Outstanding active noise cancellation Accurate workout heart-rate tracking Cons Few major new features Charging case stores less Limited upgrade over Pro 2 Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple AirPods Pro 3 are premium true wireless earbuds from Apple. Released in September 2025, they add heart-rate monitoring, foam-infused eartips, stronger ANC, improved sound, longer battery life and IP57 water resistance. Why we like them The AirPods Pro 3 refine an already excellent formula with noticeably better comfort, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound and longer battery life while keeping the same launch price. Heart-rate tracking is a useful bonus, making them an easy recommendation for most Apple users. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for iPhone users wanting premium wireless earbuds with excellent noise cancellation, secure all-day comfort and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. Theyre especially appealing for fitness enthusiasts who can benefit from the new built-in heart-rate monitoring. What are the biggest strengths More comfortable foam-infused eartips with five sizes Excellent fit that stays secure during exercise Improved sound with deeper bass and wider soundstage Significantly stronger ANC and better Transparency mode Accurate heart-rate monitoring during supported workouts Longer battery life without a price increase What are the compromises Few genuinely new audio innovations Uses the same H2 chip as before Charging case stores less reserve power Existing AirPods Pro 2 owners gain limited benefits New eartips arent compatible with older models Heart-rate tracking only works during workouts What is battery life like Battery life increases to around eight hours with ANC enabled, while the case provides roughly 16 additional hours. A five-minute charge delivers about one hour of listening time. How good is the ANC Active Noise Cancellation is substantially improved, thanks to new microphones, redesigned eartips and computational enhancements. Apple claims twice the ANC of the previous generation, with noticeably better Transparency mode too. Verdict The AirPods Pro 3 arent a revolutionary upgrade, but they successfully improve almost every aspect of Apples best earbuds. Better fit, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound, longer battery life and useful heart-rate tracking make them easy to recommend. AirPods Pro 2 owners may not need to upgrade immediately, but everyone else gets one of the best premium wireless earbuds available. Read our full Apple AirPodsPro 3 review 2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Best earbuds for noise cancellation Pros Class-leading noise cancellation Detailed, lively sound Secure, comfortable fit Excellent companion app Cons Wireless charging costs extra Spatial audio drains battery Premium price Price When Reviewed: $299.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $299 View Deal Bose $299 View Deal $299.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are premium true wireless earbuds from Bose, featuring class-leading active noise cancellation, immersive spatial audio, customisable ear tips and stability bands, plus app-based fit testing. Why we like them The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds combine outstanding active noise cancellation with detailed, engaging sound that reveals subtle musical details. Theyre comfortable thanks to multiple ear tip and stability band options, while the Bose app helps achieve the best possible fit for consistently excellent listening. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for frequent travellers, commuters and anyone who wants exceptional noise cancellation without sacrificing sound quality. They also suit listeners who value a secure fit and dont mind paying a premium for top-tier performance. What are the biggest strengths Industry-leading active noise cancellation dramatically reduces aircraft engines and other low-frequency sounds. Rich, detailed audio with impressive clarity across bass, vocals and instruments. Comfortable, secure fit with multiple ear tip and stability band combinations. Helpful Bose app includes a Seal Test for optimal fit. What are the compromises Premium pricing compared with many rivals, even with regular discounts. Wireless charging requires purchasing a separate optional charging case. Immersive Audio mode is only moderately convincing for spatial sound. Battery life falls noticeably when using spatial audio features. What is battery life like Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, dropping to roughly four hours when using Immersive Audio. The charging case supplies approximately three additional full charges. How good is the ANC The active noise cancellation is among the very best available, suppressing deep aircraft engine noise so effectively it can seem almost silent, making travel and commuting significantly more comfortable. Verdict The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds remain one of the strongest premium true wireless options thanks to exceptional active noise cancellation, detailed sound quality and a secure, comfortable fit. Theyre expensive and the optional wireless charging case feels unnecessary at this price, but frequent discounts make them easier to recommend, especially for travellers and regular commuters seeking best-in-class ANC. Read our full Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review 3. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 Best earbuds for working out Pros Outstanding detailed sound Excellent sound customisation Future-ready Bluetooth features Improved battery protection Cons Bulky charging case ANC trails class leaders iPhone misses key features Price When Reviewed: $299.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $179.95 View Deal $179.95 View Deal $179.95 View Deal $179.95 View Deal $179.99 View Deal Sennheiser $299.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are premium wireless in-ear earbuds from German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast support, IP54 protection, wireless charging and 7mm True Response drivers. Why we like them The Momentum True Wireless 4 deliver exceptionally balanced, detailed audio with rich bass, crisp highs and extensive sound customisation. Improved battery life, better durability and support for future Bluetooth technologies make them an excellent long-term choice, while strong noise cancellation and a secure fit add everyday versatility. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for music lovers who prioritise sound quality above everything else, especially Android users who can benefit from advanced Bluetooth features. Theyre also well suited to commuters, travellers and fitness users wanting premium audio and a secure fit. What are the biggest strengths Outstanding, highly detailed sound with rich bass and clear mids and highs. Extensive personalisation via 5-band EQ, Sound Check and custom controls. Bluetooth 5.4 adds Auracast, aptX Lossless and LC3 for future compatibility. Secure fit with multiple ear tips and fins plus durable IP54 dust and water resistance. What are the compromises Active noise cancellation is good but still behind Bose, Sony and AirPods Pro. iPhone users cannot currently benefit from most new Bluetooth 5.4 features. Charging case remains noticeably larger than many competitors. Design is virtually unchanged from the previous generation and may feel dated. What is battery life like Battery life reaches around seven hours with ANC enabled, extending to roughly 30 hours using the charging case. An eight-minute quick charge provides approximately one hour of playback. How good is the ANC Noise cancellation is effective for everyday commuting and travel, reducing most background noise well. However, it doesnt quite match class-leading rivals like Bose, Sony or Apples AirPods Pro, particularly in windy conditions. Verdict The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are among the best-sounding premium wireless earbuds available, combining superb audio quality with impressive customisation, improved durability and future-focused Bluetooth technology. Android users benefit most from the new features, while iPhone owners gain fewer advantages over the previous model. If sound quality is your top priority, theyre an outstanding choice despite slightly behind-the-pack ANC. Read our full Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 In-ear review 4. Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 Best for aptX sound Pros Exceptional sound quality Innovative smart charging case aptX Lossless support Comfortable redesigned fit Cons Premium price tag Average battery life Large earpieces Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $399 View Deal Bowers & Wilkins $399 View Deal $489.99 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium true wireless earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins. Their standout smart charging case doubles as an aptX transmitter for wired devices and Apple products. Why we like them The Pi8 combine superb hi-fi sound with a genuinely innovative charging case that unlocks higher-quality aptX audio from Apple devices and wired sources. Their redesigned fit improves comfort, while powerful 12mm drivers deliver rich, detailed sound that stands out from most premium wireless earbuds. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for audiophiles and frequent travellers who prioritise outstanding sound quality over price. Apple users wanting better-than-AAC wireless audio and anyone regularly using in-flight entertainment systems will especially appreciate the versatile smart case. What are the biggest strengths Outstanding, detailed and dynamic sound quality Unique smart case retransmits wired audio wirelessly Supports AAC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless Comfortable redesigned shape with four ear-tip sizes Large 12mm drivers deliver powerful, refined performance Excellent low-frequency noise reduction for travel What are the compromises Significantly more expensive than many rivals Battery life is respectable rather than class-leading Earpieces remain relatively large ANC trails AirPods Pro for higher-frequency sounds Smart case benefits may be unnecessary for casual listeners Pi6 offers similar experience for less if aptX retransmission isnt needed What is battery life like? Battery life reaches up to 6.5 hours per charge with ANC enabled, while the smart charging case extends total listening time to around 20 hours between mains charging. How good is the ANC? Noise cancellation is very effective, especially against low-frequency sounds like aircraft engine rumble. However, it doesnt suppress higher-frequency background noise quite as effectively as Apples AirPods Pro. Verdict The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium earbuds aimed squarely at listeners who value sound quality above all else. Their excellent audio performance, comfortable redesign and genuinely innovative smart charging case justify much of the high asking price. Battery life and ANC are good rather than class-leading, but the Pi8 remain among the most compelling luxury true wireless earbuds available. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 review 5. Apple AirPods Pro 2nd-generation (2023) Best value AirPods Pros Excellent sound quality Outstanding noise cancellation Class-leading transparency mode Useful Apple ecosystem features Cons No lossless audio Premium purchase price Stem controls feel fiddly Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $92 View Deal $234 View Deal $249 View Deal $249.99 View Deal $263.86 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The AirPods Pro 2 might have been officially discontinued by Apple when the AirPods Pro 3 arrived, but we still see them for sale offering outstanding value for most buyers. Thats why they are still on our list. Despite the arrival of the new AirPods Pro, these are still premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. They feature the H2 chip, USB-C charging case, hearing health features, swipe volume controls and seamless integration with Apple devices. Why we like them While the AirPods Pro 3 introduce improvements such as better ANC, longer battery life, heart-rate tracking and a more secure fit, many of the software features people use every day such as Hearing Aid, Live Translation, Conversation Awareness and Adaptive Audio are also available on the AirPods Pro 2 through software updates. Who are they best for They are best for iPhone, iPad and Mac users wanting premium everyday earbuds with strong ANC, comfortable all-day wear and effortless Apple ecosystem integration. Frequent travellers, commuters and users interested in hearing health features will benefit most. What are the biggest strengths Richer, clearer sound with significantly stronger bass Excellent Active Noise Cancellation for travel and commuting Best-in-class Transparency mode with Adaptive Transparency Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes, including XS Handy swipe volume controls on each earbud Deep Apple ecosystem integration with useful smart features What are the compromises More expensive than many rivals Better pure sound quality available elsewhere No lossless, hi-res or LE Audio support Stem swipe controls can be awkward Most advanced features require Apple devices Six-hour battery trails some competitors What is battery life like Battery life is rated at up to six hours of listening from the earbuds on a charge, with around 24 hours total using the charging case. Apple Watch charging is also supported. How good is the ANC Active Noise Cancellation is excellent, blocking substantially more outside noise than the original AirPods Pro. Adaptive Transparency intelligently reduces sudden loud sounds while still allowing important environmental sounds to remain audible. Verdict The AirPods Pro 2 remain among the best premium wireless earbuds for Apple users. They combine impressive sound quality, highly effective ANC, exceptional transparency mode and excellent ecosystem integration in a comfortable, refined package. While audiophiles can find better-sounding alternatives and battery life isnt class-leading, the overall user experience is polished, reliable and difficult to beat within Apples ecosystem. As long as you can find them on sale. Read our full AirPods Pro 2 USB-C review 6. Apple AirPods 4 with ANC Best AirPods for most people Pros Excellent overall sound quality Effective active noise cancellation Improved, more comfortable fit Useful wireless charging caser Cons Fit varies by user ANC limited by open design Close to Pro pricing Price When Reviewed: $179 with Active Noise Cancelation Best Prices Today: New Refurbished Retailer Price $91 View Deal $148.99 View Deal $149.99 View Deal $149.99 View Deal $169 View Deal $171.5 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Apple AirPods 4th gen (2024) Wireless (USB-C) Charging case $Not Available View Deal Price comparison from Backmarket Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are open-fit true wireless earbuds. They include the H2 chip, Adaptive Audio, Transparency, Conversation Awareness, and a USB-C charging case with Find My speaker support. Why we like them The AirPods 4 with ANC deliver many premium features previously reserved for the AirPods Pro while keeping the familiar open-ear design. They sound excellent, offer genuinely useful noise cancellation, include smart conversation features, and have a more comfortable fit than earlier standard AirPods. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for Apple users who dislike silicone ear tips but still want active noise cancellation and premium features. Theyre also well suited to commuters, casual listeners, and anyone wanting excellent everyday wireless earbuds without stepping up to the AirPods Pro. What are the biggest strengths Clear, balanced sound with strong bass and crisp vocals Surprisingly effective ANC for an open-fit design Comfortable fit improves over previous AirPods Conversation Awareness works well during one-to-one chats Wireless charging case with Find My speaker adds convenience Excellent voice quality for calls and podcasts What are the compromises Open design limits maximum noise cancellation Fit depends heavily on individual ear shape AirPods Pro fit more securely with silicone tips No MagSafe charging support on the case ANC reduces battery life noticeably AirPods Pro can be similarly priced on sale What is battery life like With ANC enabled, Apple rates battery life at four hours plus 20 hours from the case. Disable ANC and it rises to five hours with 30 hours total. Testing slightly exceeded estimates. How good is the ANC The ANC is impressively effective for open-fit earbuds, reducing most everyday noise while preserving awareness. It cannot completely block sound, however, so the AirPods Pro remain the stronger choice for isolation. Verdict The AirPods 4 with ANC successfully bridge the gap between Apples standard AirPods and the AirPods Pro. They offer excellent sound, genuinely useful noise cancellation, a more comfortable fit, and several premium features at a lower price than the Pro model. Their biggest limitation is the open design, which affects both fit and ultimate noise isolation, but theyre an excellent all-round choice for many listeners. Read our full Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) review 7. Beats Powerbeats Fit Best for running and gym workouts Pros Secure flexible wingtip fit Strong workout stability Long total battery life Works well with Android Cons No wireless charging Older H1 chip ANC trails AirPods Pro 3 Price When Reviewed: $199.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Powerbeats Fit are true wireless sports earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. They feature flexible wingtips, Apples H1 chip, USB-C charging, Adaptive EQ, and up to 30 hours battery. Why we like them The Powerbeats Fit are designed for active lifestyles, offering a secure fit that stays comfortable through runs, gym sessions and workouts. They deliver dependable Apple ecosystem features, solid sound quality, good battery life and broad compatibility with Android devices, making them more versatile than many sports earbuds. Who are they best for? Theyre ideal for runners, gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts who need earbuds that stay firmly in place during exercise. Theyre also a smart choice for users who switch between Apple and Android devices and value stability over premium audio performance. What are the biggest strengths Flexible wingtips provide an exceptionally secure workout fit. Comfortable design remains stable during running and training. Up to 30 hours total battery life with charging case. Excellent Apple integration including Siri, Find My and automatic device switching. Better Android support than AirPods. What are the compromises No wireless charging; USB-C cable only. H1 chip limits audio and feature improvements. Noise cancellation is noticeably weaker than AirPods Pro 3. Missing XXS ear tip option. Sound quality isnt as detailed or immersive as Apples latest earbuds. What is battery life like Expect up to seven hours of listening from the earbuds alone, extending to around 30 hours with the charging case. Thats excellent for travel, commuting and multiple workout sessions. How good is the ANC? Noise cancellation is solid for everyday use, reducing background distractions effectively. However, it performs closer to the original AirPods Pro than AirPods Pro 3, whose ANC is significantly more powerful. Verdict The Powerbeats Fit are an excellent choice for anyone who prioritises comfort and stability during exercise. Their secure wingtip design, lengthy battery life and Apple-friendly features make them dependable workout companions. While sound quality and ANC fall behind the AirPods Pro 3, theyre more versatile across platforms and remain one of the strongest sports-focused true wireless earbuds available. Read our full Powerbeats Fit review 8. Beats Studio Buds+ Best alternative to AirPods Pros Fun transparent design Improved sound quality Effective active noise cancellation Strong battery life Cons No wireless charging Missing Apple ecosystem features AirPods Pro sound better Price When Reviewed: $169.99 Best Prices Today: New Refurbished Retailer Price $99.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal $99.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal $119.99 View Deal $169.95 View Deal $169.99 View Deal $169.99 View Deal Beats $169.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Beats Studio Buds+ Earbud Noise-Cancelling Bluetooth Earphones Transparent $Not Available View Deal Price comparison from Backmarket The Beats Studio Buds + are true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple subsidiary. Released in 2023, they feature a distinctive transparent design, USB-C charging and support for Apple and Android. Why we like them The Beats Studio Buds + combine stylish design, improved sound quality, capable active noise cancellation and long battery life at a price similar to standard AirPods. Physical buttons are easier to use than AirPods controls, while Android compatibility makes them a genuinely flexible choice across different devices. Who are they best for Theyre best for people who switch between Apple and Android devices, or anyone wanting effective ANC, comfortable earbuds and eye-catching styling without paying AirPods Pro prices. Theyre less suited to users deeply invested in Apples ecosystem. What are the biggest strengths Unique transparent design with alternative colours Better sound than previous Studio Buds Improved ANC and transparency performance Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes Physical button controls are intuitive Strong battery life and competitive pricing What are the compromises No wireless charging support Lacks Apples H1 or H2 chip Misses automatic device switching No personalised spatial audio or Conversation Boost No in-ear detection for auto pause ANC and sound quality trail AirPods Pro What is battery life like Battery life is rated at up to six hours with active noise cancellation enabled or nine hours without it. The charging case provides roughly three additional full recharges. How good is the ANC Noise cancellation is noticeably improved over the original Studio Buds and performs well for the price. However, it still falls short of the more advanced and adaptive AirPods Pro system. Verdict The Beats Studio Buds + are an excellent alternative to standard AirPods, offering better sound, effective ANC, impressive battery life and standout styling at a competitive price. They also work well with both Apple and Android devices. However, users wanting the full Apple ecosystem experience and the very best sound should still choose AirPods Pro if their budget stretches further. Read our full Beats Studio Buds+ review 9. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Best for active lifestyles Pros Secure, comfortable earhook fit Excellent workout stability Heart rate monitoring Strong battery endurance Cons Missing AirPods Pro features Heart rate limitations Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $199.95 View Deal $199.95 View Deal $199.97 View Deal $199.99 View Deal $229.02 View Deal $249.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are premium fitness-focused true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple-owned company. They feature Apples H2 chip, secure earhooks, built-in heart rate monitoring, and USB-C charging. Why we like them The Powerbeats Pro 2 combine an exceptionally secure fit with improved sound, effective noise cancellation and class-leading workout comfort. Heart rate monitoring adds genuine fitness appeal, while Apples H2 chip delivers fast pairing, excellent transparency mode and seamless integration across Apple devices, making them superb exercise companions. Who are they best for Theyre best for runners, gym-goers and anyone wanting earbuds that stay securely in place during intense exercise. Apple users will benefit most, though Android owners also receive a stronger feature set than they would with AirPods. What are the biggest strengths Secure earhooks stay firmly in place during workouts. Smaller, lighter design improves comfort over long sessions. H2 chip enables excellent transparency mode and strong ANC. Built-in heart rate monitoring works with supported fitness apps. Long battery life and fast charging reduce downtime. Improved Android support with dedicated Beats features. What are the compromises Lacks several AirPods Pro software features, including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. Heart rate monitoring is limited to supported apps. Apple Watch overrides earbud heart rate readings. Sound is slightly brighter than AirPods Pro 2. Wireless charging supports Qi only, not MagSafe or Qi2. What is battery life like Battery life is excellent, with up to 10 hours of listening per charge, or around 8 hours using ANC or transparency mode. The charging case provides approximately 3.5 additional charges. How good is the ANC Active noise cancellation is a major improvement over the original model, delivering strong everyday performance. Transparency mode is particularly impressive, sounding natural and approaching the excellent standard set by AirPods Pro 2. Verdict The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are among the best fitness earbuds available, combining a secure fit, long battery life, heart rate monitoring and excellent Apple ecosystem integration. While they miss several AirPods Pro software features and their sound is slightly brighter than Apples flagship earbuds, theyre an outstanding choice for workouts and active lifestyles. Read our full Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review 10. Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 Pros Rich, detailed sound quality Comfortable long-wearing fit Strong battery endurance Competitive premium pricing Cons ANC trails top rivals No wireless charging No spatial audio Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $147.99 View Deal $249 View Deal B&W $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins, featuring 12mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, IP54 durability and multipoint connectivity. Why we like them The Pi6 deliver the refined, engaging sound quality Bowers & Wilkins is known for at a more accessible price than the flagship Pi8. Theyre comfortable for extended listening, offer useful app customisation, solid battery life and excellent overall value despite a few premium feature omissions. Who are they best for? Theyre ideal for listeners who prioritise sound quality over cutting-edge features. Frequent commuters, music lovers and anyone wanting premium wireless earbuds around AirPods Pro pricing will appreciate their balanced audio, comfortable fit and dependable battery performance. What are the biggest strengths? Detailed, dynamic sound with excellent balance Large 12mm drivers inspired by B&W headphones Comfortable fit with four ear-tip sizes Eight-hour battery life with ANC enabled Multipoint Bluetooth connection for two devices IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday use What are the compromises? ANC is good, not class-leading No Qi wireless charging support No Pi8 smart charging case No spatial audio functionality App lacks full EQ presets Higher-frequency sounds remain noticeable with ANC enabled What is battery life like? Battery life is impressive, offering up to eight hours of playback with active noise cancellation switched on. The USB-C charging case provides an additional 24 hours of listening time. How good is the ANC? Noise cancellation performs well against low-frequency sounds such as engine rumble but is less effective with voices and higher-frequency noise, leaving rivals from Bose, Sony and Apple with the advantage. Verdict The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are an excellent choice if your priority is premium sound quality without paying flagship prices. Their engaging audio, comfortable design and long battery life make them highly appealing, even if the ANC, wireless charging and feature set dont quite match the very best competitors. For music-first buyers, theyre easy to recommend. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 review 11. Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless Pros Excellent value for money Comfortable lightweight fit Impressive sound quality Effective everyday ANC Cons ANC not class-leading Average battery endurance Limited long-haul suitability Price When Reviewed: $199.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $99.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal $99.95 View Deal $99.99 View Deal $129.99 View Deal Sennheiser $199.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Designed as a more affordable alternative to its Momentum earbuds (above), Sennheisers Accentum True Wireless are in-ear wireless earbuds made by German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature 7mm drivers, IP54 water and dust resistance, AAC and aptX support, plus adjustable EQ. Why we like them The Accentum True Wireless deliver impressive sound quality and capable active noise cancellation at a much lower price than many premium rivals. Theyre comfortable enough for extended listening, include useful app customisation features, and provide a balanced combination of performance, practicality and affordability for everyday listening. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for listeners wanting premium audio features without paying flagship prices. Great for commuters, casual travellers and everyday users who value comfort, strong sound quality and reliable noise cancellation more than maximum battery life. What are the biggest strengths Outstanding value compared with premium rivals. Rich, detailed sound from the same 7mm drivers used in the Momentum range. Lightweight, comfortable design with four ear-tip sizes. IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday outdoor use. Handy companion app with five-band EQ and adjustable transparency mode. What are the compromises Active noise cancellation doesnt match the very best premium earbuds. Six-hour battery life is respectable rather than exceptional. Charging case provides only around 2.5 additional charges. Better suited to daily commuting than long-haul travel. Lacks the outright premium performance of Sennheisers Momentum earbuds. What is battery life like Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, while the charging case provides roughly two and a half extra charges, making it well suited to everyday use. How good is the ANC Active noise cancellation performs well for everyday commuting and reducing typical background noise, although it doesnt block sound as effectively as more expensive flagship competitors in particularly noisy environments. Verdict The Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless strike an excellent balance between price and performance. They offer impressive sound quality, comfortable all-day wear, practical features and effective everyday noise cancellation without the premium price tag. While battery life and ANC arent class-leading, theyre more than good enough for most users, making these an easy recommendation for affordable everyday wireless earbuds. Read our full Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless review 12. Beats Solo Buds Pros Surprisingly clear, punchy sound Excellent 18-hour battery life Secure, comfortable ear fit Compact, pocket-friendly case Cons No active noise cancellation Charging case lacks battery Missing premium smart features Price When Reviewed: $79.99 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $38 View Deal $49.99 View Deal $69.95 View Deal $69.95 View Deal $69.99 View Deal $78 View Deal $79.95 View Deal $79.99 View Deal $79.99 View Deal Beats $79.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Beats Solo Buds are affordable true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. Released in mid-2024, they feature a tiny USB-C charging case, four ear tip sizes and 18-hour battery life. Why we like them The Beats Solo Buds deliver impressive value with punchy, enjoyable sound, an exceptionally long battery life for earbuds, and a secure fit thanks to four sizes of silicone ear tips. Theyre comfortable, easy to control using physical buttons, and outperform older standard AirPods in several key areas. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for budget-conscious listeners who want reliable everyday wireless earbuds with long battery life and comfortable fit. Theyre particularly well suited to Apple users, but also work well with Android devices, making them a versatile affordable option. What are the biggest strengths Clear, punchy sound that exceeds expectations for the price. Outstanding 18-hour battery life from the earbuds. Secure fit with four sizes of silicone ear tips. Compact, lightweight case thats easy to carry. Physical button controls are simple and reliable. Excellent value compared with similarly priced rivals. What are the compromises No active noise cancellation or transparency mode. Charging case has no built-in battery for top-ups. Lacks automatic device switching and multipoint Bluetooth. No in-ear detection for automatic play/pause. Call voice isolation isnt as strong as premium earbuds. No personalised Spatial Audio features. What is battery life like Battery life is excellent. The earbuds are rated for up to 18 hours on a single charge, outperforming many rivals, although the charging case must be plugged into USB-C to recharge them. How good is the ANC There isnt any active noise cancellation. Instead, the silicone ear tips provide passive noise isolation, reducing some outside sound, but they cant match dedicated ANC earbuds in noisy environments. Verdict The Beats Solo Buds prove you dont need to spend a fortune for enjoyable wireless earbuds. Their clear sound, secure fit and exceptional battery life make them an excellent value buy, especially for everyday listening. While youll miss premium features like ANC, multipoint Bluetooth and a battery-equipped charging case, theyre an easy recommendation for budget-conscious shoppers Read our full Beats Solo Buds review 13. Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC) Pros Comfortable redesigned fit Excellent sound quality H2 chip performance Great Apple ecosystem integration Cons No active noise cancellation No wireless charging Shorter earbud battery life Price When Reviewed: $129 without Active Noise Cancelation Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $59 View Deal $99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal $99.99 View Deal $119.95 View Deal $129 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Apple AirPods 4 are true wireless earbuds from Apple. They feature the H2 chip, redesigned open-ear fit, USB-C charging, Personalised Spatial Audio and improved sound, but omit ANC and wireless charging. Why we like them The standard AirPods 4 deliver many of the same upgrades as the pricier ANC model, including improved sound, a more secure fit and Apples H2 chip. They represent a significant step forward from the AirPods 2 while keeping the same affordable starting price, making them excellent everyday earbuds. Who are they best for Theyre ideal for Apple users wanting premium everyday wireless earbuds without paying extra for noise cancellation. Theyre especially suited to commuting, calls and casual listening where comfort, convenience and seamless Apple device integration matter more than advanced isolation. What are the biggest strengths Comfortable redesigned open fit H2 chip improves responsiveness Strong, balanced audio quality Personalised Spatial Audio support Excellent Apple ecosystem integration USB-C charging convenience Improved durability with IP54 rating Great value at entry price What are the compromises No Active Noise Cancellation No Transparency mode No Adaptive Audio features No Conversation Awareness USB-C charging only No wireless charging support No Find My case speaker Shorter battery than AirPods 3 What is battery life like Battery life is rated at up to five hours per charge, with the USB-C charging case extending total listening time to around 30 hours. A five-minute charge provides about one hours playback. How good is the ANC There isnt any Active Noise Cancellation. Users wanting ANC, Transparency mode or Adaptive Audio must choose the more expensive AirPods 4 with ANC, as these features arent included on the standard model. Verdict The standard AirPods 4 are an excellent upgrade over Apples older entry-level AirPods, offering noticeably improved comfort, sound quality and smarter features thanks to the H2 chip. While missing ANC and wireless charging limits their appeal for frequent travellers, they remain one of the best value options for Apple users wanting dependable everyday wireless earbuds. How to choose earbud headphones There are a few factors to consider before you hit that buy button. Type Earbuds, or in-ear headphones, typically fall into three main categories: Earbuds the type of headphones included with every iPhone and iPod and sit loosely in your outer ears. Although earbuds dont produce outstanding sound, theyre compact and relatively inexpensive. Apples stock buds are actually decent as earbuds go; youre not going to get a huge upgrade in sound quality by simply replacing them with a different model. Still, there are a few alternatives out there that provide modest improvements if youre looking for a new set. Recommendations: In-Ear-Canal Headphones : These headphones, also known as canalphones, use silicone or foam eartips that fit snuglyand fairly deepin your ear canals. Like earplugs, they block most external noise, so theyre great for travel and noisy environments. Theyre also capable of producing stunning audio quality. On the other hand, some people find canalphones to be uncomfortable, and the best ones come with an equally stunning price tag. If you decide to spend the big bucks on a set of high-end canalphones, we enthusiastically recommend going all-in and getting custom eartipstips custom-made for your particular ears. The process requires an audiologist visit to get impressions taken of your ears, but the benefits include substantially better comfort. (On some models, you may gain better noise isolation and better sound quality, as well.) A step above custom eartips are custom in-ear monitors, which place the actual headphone circuitry in larger, custom-made earpieces. Canalbuds : Canalbuds, which occupy a middle ground between earbuds and in-ear-canal models, have become quite popular. Compared to canalphones, canalbuds generally use smaller eartips that sit just inside the ends of your ear canals instead of deep inside them. Good canalbuds easily best earbuds in terms of audio performance and noise isolation, but fall short of good canalphones in those areas. On the other hand, canalbuds tend to be more comfortable than true canalphones because they dont sit so deep and dont fit so tightly; theyre also usually less expensive. (See our in-ear-canal-headphone primer, linked above, for more information on canalbuds.) Battery life This is crucial as many in-ear headphones have tiny batteries that help to keep the weight down but may only last for a few hours. That might be fine if you just want to listen to some music while youre working out, but wont be much use on a long journey by train or plane. However, some in-ear headphones, such as Apples AirPods, also include a charging case that can top up the battery, so thats something you should check on before buying any in-ear headphones. Noise canceling Some headphones are specifically designed for people who travel a lot or use headphones in noisy conditions and provide active noise-canceling (ANC) option that helps to block out background noise on trains and planes although this can add quite a lot to the overall price of the headphones. Note this isnt to be confused with passive noise isolation (or often referred to as canceling), which is just the way physically having headphones in/on blocks sound like putting earplugs or ear defenders on. Sound quality Wed always recommend trying out any new headphones in a store or showroom whenever possible, but we realise thats not always practical or hygenic. Compatibility Most wireless headphones support Apples preferred AAC Bluetooth codec, ensuring good compatibility with iPhones, iPads and Macs. Many also support additional codecs such as aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LDAC or LC3/LE Audio, which can deliver higher bit rates, lower latency or improved efficiency when paired with compatible Android phones and other devices. Apple devices have never supported Qualcomms aptX family of codecs, instead relying on AAC for Bluetooth audio. While this has often been attributed to Apples preference for controlling its own audio ecosystem, it also means Apple users cant take advantage of newer Qualcomm codecs such as aptX Adaptive or aptX Lossless when using third-party headphones. That isnt necessarily the drawback it once was. AAC remains a very capable codec, and Apples implementation is widely regarded as one of the best, delivering consistent sound quality and excellent battery efficiency. However, Android users with compatible devices may be able to enjoy higher-resolution or lower-latency wireless audio through codecs such as LDAC or aptX Lossless. For Apple users, the most important thing is that headphones support AAC, as this provides the best wireless experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. If a pair also supports codecs such as aptX Adaptive or LDAC, thats a useful bonus if you also own Android devices or other compatible hardware. There are a few exceptions. Some premium headphones and earbuds, such as the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8, include a smart charging case that can act as a wireless audio transmitter. By connecting the case directly to a USB-C or 3.5mm audio source, it can stream audio to the earbuds using aptX Adaptive, bypassing the Bluetooth limitations of the source device and potentially improving sound quality and reducing latency. Its also worth noting that all of the Bluetooth headphones featured here work with Apple Watch, making them ideal for workouts, runs and listening on the go.
Google Assistant will vanish from Android phones and connected devices in September
Like birthdays in late May and most of June, it's all about Gemini.
The gorgeous all-black Apple Watch Ultra 3 is $100 off right now
Macworld Apple WAtch Ultra 3 is $100 off today View Deal (function () { document.querySelector(#sticky-promo-block a).addEventListener(click, function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest(#sticky-promo-block).querySelector(p.promo-title).textContent; const data = { event: stickyConversionUnitClick, eventCategory: Sticky Conversion, eventAction: Click, eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log(Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: , data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); Even if youre not a fan of large watches, its hard not to be enthralled by the black titanium Apple Watch Ultra 3. And today its hard not to be impressed by the price too: Amazon is selling the black Apple Watch Ultra 3 with the Black Ocean Band for $699, a savings of $100 and the best price weve ever seen for this model. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the king of smartwatches. It features a 49mm scratch-resistant crystal display built around arugged titanium case. On the right side, youll find a raised shelf for the Digital Crown, while the exclusive Action button is on the left side. It also has precision dual-frequency GPS, MIL-STD 810H shock resistance, and 100m water resistance for diving, as well as 5G and satellite communication built right in. Its all powered by Apples S10, with 64GB of storage and a display so bright it can be used as a flashlight. You also get 42 hours of battery life (72 hours in low-power mode), and a slew of health and fitness sensors and features, including sleep tracking, temperature sensing, ECG, blood-oxygen, and Heart Rate Power Zones. Keep in mind that Apple is expected to announce the Apple Watch Ultra 4 at its September iPhone event, but were not expecting any major changes other than a faster chip. And since this model is already compatible with watchOS 27 and Siri AI, you wont be missing out on much. Even if youre not an extreme athlete, the Apple Watch Ultra is one of the best smartwatches on the market and its even better at this pric e. So go grab one before its gone.
While a lot of the deals floating around on MacBook Pro right now are really just bringing the machines back to pre-price hike MSRPs, if that. The official $500 off the new MSRP and $100 under the previous, much lower list price.
EcoFlow is standalone station from Amazon with the current discounts there. In its history, this bundle has gone as low as $2,042 during the brands Prime Day Sale in June, and this deal here gives you $1,240 savings off its full price, landing it at the second-best price just $7 above that low. Head down below to browse the full lineup of flash deals, or check out the full lineup of Home Backup Sale offers here .
Today only, as part of its daily deals, B&H is offering the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra smartphone gimbal for $109.99 shipped . This model debuted around the same time last year with a $170 listed price, so todays offer takes $60 off and delivers a solid 35% discount. It dropped to $126 at Amazon during the recent Prime Day sale, which Best Buy is currently matching as part of its Back to School sale . B&Hs offer, however, undercuts that by another $16 to set a new all-time low. This is the lowest we have seen this gimbal fetch to date since its debut, so its worth grabbing before the deal expires tonight. Head below for more details.
Disney partners with TikTok to bring fan-made shorts to Disney+
Creators will be granted access to a deep library of Disney assets to use in their videos.
Mid-week iOS app deals and freebies: Digline, Black Border 2, Euclidean Lands, more
Wednesdays collection of the best iOS game and app deals is up for grabs, including titles like Digline: Cozy Mining, Black Border 2, Euclidean Lands, SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered, Caves of Lore, and more. Alongside the ongoing summer deal pricing on AirPods Pro 3 at $50 off and $100+ price drops on Apple Watch Ultra 3 , we are also taking look at the lowest prices around on MacBook Neo courtesy of the official Apple Certified Refurbished Store , this Apple Watch Series 11 cell model at $150 off , and some notable deals on Apple Watch SE 3 . Your mid-week app deals await below.
YouTube explains its AI slop policy and why some creators won't get paid
YouTube allows AI-generated videos, but they have to abide by a specific set of rules.
The new Pokmon PokopiaExpansion Pass expansion and the new FREE content update for folks who already own the game are going live today. The previously announced content updates for the Pokmon experience are finally ready for prime time alongside this mornings Switch 2 console discounts ahead of the upcoming price hike.
Peloton Cross Training Bike+ review: A better connected bike that still demands a premium price
Peloton's new bikes do more to warrant the space they take up in your home.
Macworld As we count the weeks until the iPhone event , a Bloomberg report from Mark Gurman caused a bit of a stir this week. It wasnt about features, design, or pricingrather, it was about staffing at the September event. According to a memo seen by Bloomberg News, Apple has instituted a lottery to give retail workers the opportunity to participate in the Event Support Experience Program. According to the memo, the event will take place the first two weeks of September, and winners will be selected by Aug. 17, per the memo. Winning employees will help organize lines, check in guests, greet attendees, offer directions and support the security teams. Gurman says that Apple has long used retail employees for events like these, but I cant remember a report like this previously. I searched for anything about a lottery or staffing opportunity and couldnt find anything about a similar program in prior years. So opening the opportunity to head to Apple Park to all U.S. workers appears to be a new thing. Heres where the plot thickens, so to speak. In a post on X promoting the story, Gurman wrote, NEW: Apple gears up for in-person iPhone event in the first half of September, asking retail employees to apply for a lottery to work the event. The story he links to doesnt mention anything about an in-person event, but obviously the employees will need to be on-site to work the event. The use of the phrase in-person is a loaded one. Apple hasnt held a live keynote since September 2019 when it unveiled the iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 5. Since then, it has presented prerecorded online keynote presentations, sometimes inviting members of the press to watch at Apple Park. However, there are signs that Apple could be returning. Back in March, Apple unveiled the MacBook Neo at events around the world to small crowds. It wasnt anything resembling a full keynote, but at the New York event, incoming CEO John Ternus (then VP of Hardware) was on hand to introduce the new machine and lead attendees to the hands-on area. And he just happens to be taking over as CEO on September 1, mere days before the iPhone event. If there was going to be a perfect time when Apple would return to in-person events, its this now. Not only is it John Ternus first event as CEO, but its also widely expected that Apple will introduce its first folding phone at the event as well. That easily makes it one of the most anticipated events of the past decade, so what better time to gather people for an old-fashioned live keynote? Whatever the format, Apple will likely hold its iPhone event on Wednesday, September 9, or Tuesday, September 15.Along with the folding iPhone, Apple is also expected to release the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max , Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, and possibly Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini refreshes .
If youre liking to secure yourself a current-generation iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max at a discount, there are some options floating around this week. Deals on brand new unlocked condition units are tough to come by from reputable sources, but we are still tracking up to $220 off 17 Pro in Amazons best quality renewed condition.
While you can still grab the GIGABYTE AORUS Master RTX 5070 Ti gaming laptop at its lowest price, Walmart is now offering another notable offer on a relatively affordable MSI Cyborg gaming laptop for $999 shipped . This 2026 model typically sells for $1,299.99, so todays deal takes just over $300 off and delivers a solid 23% discount. Its a pretty good price for a mid-range gaming laptop with a 144Hz display. The 512GB SSD is a little limited for a large game library, but the overall hardware still delivers good value for anyone looking to step up to RTX 5060 performance without spending well above $1,000. Head below for more details.
While the summer deal pricing on AirPods Pro 3 at $50 off, as well as AirPods Max 2 at $100 off , and AirPods 4 from $99 roll on into August, we also spotted a notable chances at savings on Apples latest flagship Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 with Find My and built-in heart rate monitoring sensors. They are now$50 off at Amazon in brand new condition, but you can also land the Jet Black set at $118 off the MSRP in excellent open-box condition at Best Buy.
Nimble SharePower review: A power bank that splits in two to share
Macworld At a glance Expert's Rating Pros One 10K battery or two 5K sections Built-in USB-C connectors Charges four devices at once Faster than wireless Three cute colors Cons Not wireless Dont lose that shared section iPhone 15 and later Our Verdict The Nimble SharePower operates as one stacked 10K portable charger or two divided 5K battery packs. Its a neat idea, well doneletting you share a power bank without being tethered to your desperately unpowered friend by a cable when charging your own iPhone at the same time. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed $79.95 Best Prices Today: Nimble SharePower Portable Battery Charger Retailer Price $79.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket What is it? A modular 10K power bank that splits into two separate 5K battery packs with built-in USB-C connectors. Who is it for? iPhone 15 or later owners who desire the flexibility of shareable power banks. Who shouldnt buy it? Owners of the iPhone 14 and older, or those looking for a magnetic power bank to wirelessly clamp to the back of their device. Instead, they should look to the best magnetic wireless portable chargers . The Nimble SharePower isnt magnetic in a charging capacity, so wont clamp onto the back of your iPhone to immediately begin charging, but it is clever in another way: its a sharable battery that will serve not just you but a very grateful friend, colleague or trustworthy stranger. SharePower is a 10,000mAh portable charger with a difference. Unlike a typical 10,000mAh power bank, the Nimble SharePower splits into two completely independent 5,000mAh chargers that can be shared between two people. Each half has its own built-in USB-C connection and extra USB-C port, allowing up to four devices to be charged simultaneously when separated. Its a genuinely useful twist on the standard portable charger, making it ideal for iPhone 15 and newer users who regularly share power with friends, family or colleagues without being tethered together by a charging cable. Magnetically modular Together the SharePower measures 3.1 x 2.8 x 1 inch (78 x 70 x 25mm) and weighs 7.6oz (216g). Divided, the two parts are roughly equal, with the cabled module being the slightly larger. The two parts come together magnetically and wont fall apart without a meaningful effort. Magnetically together in Stack Mode, divided into two modules, and showing the integrated USB-C connectors inside. Nimble The section with the built-in 29.5-inch (75mm) USB-C cable has a standard four-dot battery capacity display, while the otherfeaturing an integrated flip-up USB-C connectorfeatures a TFT LCD digital display showing the actual percentage remaining. The cable also works as a handy carry loop. How much charge does it actually provide? Many 10K power banks are made up of two 5K cells. Nimble has just separated them more cleanly so they can work independently. In Macworlds famous real-world recharging tests we used one of the modules to recharge an iPhone 16 Pro from 0% to 87% before the power bank half section ran dry. Thats not far off the highest 5K score weve recorded (90%), from the Ugreen MagFlow Air 5K . As the Ugreen is a wireless charger, some of its power would have been lost due to wireless chargings inherent inefficiency, and so the SharePowers test score is maybe as high as it is die to the stronger wired connection (we used the built-in cable). If both SharePower modules perform the same, thats a high 175% score combined, which should keep two iPhones charged for at least another days use. Which iPhones does SharePower work with? The fact that both battery sections have built-in USB-C connectors means its good only for iPhones 15 and later. iPhone of an older vintage (14 and earlier) use Apples old Lightning connector and so arent supported using the two integrated USB-C connectors. Time to buy a new phone or one of the best magnetic wireless power banks . Alternatively you could connect to an older iPhone with a USB-C to Lightning cableindeed in our tests we had two USB-C iPhones, a USB-C-cabled Apple Watch charger, and a USB-C to Lightning cable for our ageing AirPods case. Dont restrict this charger to just your iPhone. It can just as well charge your USB-C iPad, and as mentioned earlier, even a MacBook if you can leave it untouched during charging. Will it charge faster than wireless? Wired charging is always faster than wireless as its more efficient, with less power wasted in the connection between the charger and the phones coils. You dont have to divide SharePower into its two halves. You can use it stacked with a possible 35W USB-C PD total output to charge three devices: one via the short integrated USB-C cable, and two more via the side USB-C ports20W USB-C PD per module when split in Share Mode. When used as one unitStack Modeit can charge at 35W PD, which is just about enough to keep a MacBook Air or small Pro going, and certainly fine for a MacBook Neo. Wireless charging has a maximum of 25W, but thats difficult to maintain due to the heat produced at such an output via wireless. Charger makers introduce fans to cool the devices down to reduce the chance of the phone throttling the power in order to stay safely cool. You dont get as much chance of that with wired charging so charging speed stays faster for longer. Nimble How many devices can SharePower charge at the same time? Each half of the Nimble SharePower has one of the USB-C ports for a second device, so separated you can charge four drives in total. Section one has the USB-C cable and a USB-C port. Section two has the flip-up USB-C connector and a USB-C port. Its simple therefore when split to charge two iPhones plus, say, an Apple Watch and your AirPods case at the same time. In joined Stack Mode, three devices can be charged simultaneously as the foldaway USB-C connector is hidden when the two halves are magnetically joined. Both halves can be recharged themselves at the same time as they join up with tiny pogo pins. If you want a magnetic wireless portable charger to share, you could opt for a power bank such as the Kuxiu S3 that boasts a 25W magnetic wireless iPhone charging pad, a built-in USB-C cable, and a spare USB-C port. Its three device-charging prowess is one behind that of the SharePower when split and requires all the charging devices to be attached to the one unit, where the SharePower physically divides into two parts. Wireless charging is neater than the split SharePowers wired charging, but when sharing between people Nimbles approach is much more convenient. Sharing is caring, but remember to politely ask for the module back before you part ways. Nimble Sharing caveat Of course, you must remember to ask for the shared half to be returned or suddenly the Nimble SharePower becomes the once-shared power. This is where your generosity in the airport Departures lounge might come back to haunt you. How much does the Nimble SharePower cost? You can buy the Nimble SharePower at Apple and Apple UK or direct from Nimble . It costs $79.95 or 59.95. It is available in three colors: white, pink, or blue. If you get excited, buy two of different colors, and mix and match. Should you buy the Nimble SharePower? The Nimble SharePower operates as one stacked 10K portable charger or two divided 5K battery packs. Its a neat idea, well doneletting you share a power bank without being tethered to your desperately unpowered friend by a cable when charging your own iPhone at the same time.
Just ahead of the Pixel 11 launch next week, Amazon is now offering the best price ever on the official Google Pixelsnap Charger with Stand at 40% off the list price.
NASA's PUNCH mission can now accurately predict when solar storms will hit Earth
NASA says its PUNCH mission has greatly advanced the prediction of solar storms.
There are less than two days to take advantage of the pre-order discounts on Galaxy Z Fold 8 , Fold 8 Ultra , and Flip 8 with up to up to $1,230 off via an instant trade-in credit, $200 Samsung credit , $30 Reserve credit, and more straight from Samsung. While shipping times are beginning to slip well into September at this point on various configurations from Samsung, both Best Buy and Amazon still appear to be delivering the devices as early as Monday or sooner.
We just spotted a deal at Walmart that drops a GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16 gaming laptop with a 240Hz OLED display and RTX 5070 Ti graphics down to $1,999 shipped . This is one of the higher-end configs of this notebook, which typically sells for $2,750, so todays deal takes a sizeable $751 off the usual price. That is a particularly good price for a fully loaded machine with a Core Ultra 9 processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. Similarly equipped gaming laptops often sell for well over $2,500, with some pushing closer to $3,000, so there is plenty of value here at the discounted price today. Best Buy also has the same model listed for $2,200 as part of its Back to School sale , making Walmarts offer another $200 cheaper. Head below for more details.
This Apple Watch Series 11 cell model just hit one of its best prices ever at $150 off
Alongside the ongoing AirPods Pro 3 deal at $50 off, he base Series 11 models are $100 off right now starting at $299 , but we just spotted a special price landing on the 42mm Rose Gold Apple Watch Series 11 at $150 off the list price via Amazon.
Apple Watch SE 3 now starting at $219 via Amazon, 44mm cell model back to all-time low at $80 off
The Apple Watch deals are flying this week with $100 off the most affordable Series 11 models from $299, various Apple Watch Ultra 3 configs at up to $130 off , and now we are tracking the return of solid deal pricing on the most affordable of them all, Apple Watch SE 3 from $219 (the 44mm cell model has returned to the Amazon all-time low at $80 off). Details below.
Skip the pricey Fold 8 pre-order deals and score a 2026 Galaxy phone from just $345 today
There are under 2 days left to score the starting down at $375 on Amazon, and even less at Best Buy in open-box condition. Check them out below.
Samsung announces next-gen 3D memory when all we want is reasonably priced DDR5
Samsung's latest memory and storage tech is mostly designed for data centers, not consoles or PCs.
Switch 2 price hike goes live soon, score this deal now at $100 less than that
The price increase on Switch 2 is quickly approaching, and Nintendo just warned folks that the offer on the Choose your Game bundle deal is ending soon. If you are looking to land a console before all of that happens, you might want consider the savings opportunities live this month, be it the Choose Your Game Bundle or this Grade A refurbished option at Woot for even less you can grab one right now at $399.99 shipped .
OpenAI and Anthropic models went on a hacking spree when tested by the UK's AI research institute
The UK AI Security Institute says OpenAI's and and Anthropic's models engaged in deceptive behavior and harmful activity during testing.
One-time payment, years of project planning
Macworld TL;DR: Grab a lifetime Microsoft Project Professional 2024 license for $48.99 (reg. $1,129) with code AUG25 through Aug. 9 and simplify planning, scheduling, and resource management. Every project starts with good intentions. Then the deadlines shift, priorities change, and suddenly youre trying to manage an entire teams workload with a spreadsheet that stopped making sense three revisions ago. Theres no need to stress. Through Aug. 9, you can get a Microsoft Project Professional 2024 lifetime Windows license for just $48.99 (reg. $1,129) with the code AUG25. Designed for project managers, team leaders, consultants, and anyone juggling multiple moving pieces, Microsoft Project helps you build realistic schedules, assign resources, and keep projects on track from kickoff to completion. Pre-built templates help you get started quickly, while automatic scheduling adjusts task dates based on dependencies , saving you from constantly updating timelines by hand. As projects grow, built-in reports like Burndown and Resource Overview make it easier to see whats workingand what isnt. You can compare actual progress against your original plan, run what-if scenarios before making changes, and visualize task relationships with multiple timeline views. This is the kind of software that can save hours by making planning a whole lot smarter. Get Microsoft Project Pro 2024 lifetime license for just $48.99 with code AUG25 through Aug. 9. Microsoft Project Professional 2024: Lifetime License for Windows See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.
Texas governor orders audit of new data centers after realizing over 400 gigawatts of power is a lot
The state already hosts more than 500 data centers.
The Saudi-led $55 billion takeover of EA has closed
Electronic Arts is once again a privately held company, but it's saddled with $20 billion in new debt.
Pavel Durov claims there's a potential systemic risk for platforms with user-generated content.
Perplexity has successfully overturned Amazon's injunction on its AI shopping bot
Amazon's public fight with Perplexity over online shopping started in November 2025.
We just got our first real look at how small X's ad business is
Advertisers seem to be spending a whole lot less than they used to on the platform.
SpaceX's first public earnings statement shows the financials of an AI company in 2026
That's a lot of capital expenditure.
As part of the ongoing Segway Back to School EV Sale , and happening parallel to the new Max G3 Plus e-scooter pre-order deal , Segway has dropped the price lower than ever on its premium Xyber Electric Bike to $2,299.99 shipped . This e-bike is dropped further down from its $3,300 full price, which previously has only gone as low as $2,900 since its release in 2025, though an earlier deal in June and July did see it getting an extra battery at that price. Now, though, while the extra battery bundle is gone, you are still able to score $1,000 in total savings off the tag for a new all-time low price. Segway also recently cut the Xafari All-Terrain Cruiser e-bike down to a new $1,500 low for both colorways, too.
Xbox's free 25th anniversary gifts include a dynamic theme and avatars
Xbox's free 25th anniversary gifts include a dynamic theme and avatars.
Whether youre looking to fuel your workouts, hit your daily protein goals, or simply stock up on pantry staples, weve rounded up todays best protein deals on powders, bars, shakes, and snacks. Highlights include up to 40% off Garden of Life, 30% off Sunwarrior, plus savings on KOS, Dymatize ISO100, Premier Protein, ALOHA, Orgain Organic Protein, Boost, and more, with prices starting at just $11.
Nothing debuts new CMF Clip Pro open earbuds with a launch deal down at $79
As reported by the squad over at 20% launch deal at Amazon.
LEGO Star Wars: Andor K-2SO Security Droid set Buy for $72 (Reg. $90) What we love Stacking up to 845 pieces, this set gives you your very own K-2SO droid as seen in Star Wars: Andor Season 2. Once finished, youll have a brick-built rendition of Cassians loyal companion, whose imposing 16-inch-tall frame will bolster your collection to new levels. Theres plenty of detail to love, including glowing eyes and posable head and arms that you can place in more dynamic positions. Whats more, it also comes with a title card and minifigure.
Apple invites retail workers to pitch in with iPhone event support
Macworld As Apple prepares for what is rumored to be one of the biggest iPhone events of all time, its turning to retail employees for support. In a memo to U.S. retail stores seen by Bloomberg, Apple announced a lottery system to give workers the opportunity to participate in the Event Support Experience Program. Its not clear whether this is a new program, but Mark Gurman of Bloomberg notes that Apple has relied on retail employees to help staff major product launches for years. However, the report suggests that the lottery is new for 2026, so perhaps previous events were limited to California retail workers. In the memo, Apple says it is excited to offer U.S. retail workers this opportunity. The lottery doesnt mean this years event will be a return to the in-person keynotes that were common before the COVID pandemic. In fact, Gurman reports that they will simply help help organize lines, check in guests, greet attendees, offer directions and support the security teams, similar to WWDC in June. The memo says the event will take place in the first half of September, as is customary for iPhone events. Our best guess for a date is either Wednesday, September 9, or Tuesday, September 15. Apple is expected to launch several new products at this years iPhone event, including the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max , Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, and the brand-new folding iPhone Ultra .
DOJ extracts $3.2 million from OpenAI over hiring discrimination allegations
DOJ extracts $3.2 million from OpenAI over hiring discrimination allegations.
Get the complete Microsoft Office Suite for life at just $55 (Reg. $250)
TL;DR: Link Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2024 to your Windows device for life for a one-time purchase of $54.99 (Reg. $249.99).
NJ antitrust suit accuses Amazon of unlawfully wielding power over delivery contractors
NJ antitrust suit accuses Amazon of unlawfully wielding power over delivery contractors .
TL;DR: A lifetime subscription to the 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan is $69.97 (reg. $540 ) through August 9.
Our favorite four-legged deal hunter is back on the trail! Estella, 9to5Toys resident Frenchie, has been busy sniffing out todays best pet deals, with savings on favorites from Earth Rated, Petlibro, Blue Buffalo, Benebone, and more.
Natural Apple Watch Ultra 3 with blue Trail Loop just dropped even lower, now $130 off at Amazon
While we are tracking the one-size-fits-most latest blue Trail Loop at an even lower price right now it is nearly $130 off.
BMW is forcing a weird Spider-Man ad onto its dashboard displays
BMW is forcing a weird Spider-Man ad onto its dashboard displays
This flat USB-C/A wall charger is just $9 Prime shipped at Amazon today
TESSAN 45W Flat USB-C/A Wall Charger Buy for $9 (Reg. $13) What we love Ive come to really love these super flat wall chargers. They are just far less cumbersome in hotel rooms, or really just anywhere else I might need to pull one out of my EDC, not to mention sliding behind furniture at home. This is a rather basic option, but perfectly suited for juicing up your phone via USB-C, or even some legacy kit via the USB-A jack, especially at $9.
Windows 11 Home Vs Pro: What's the difference, and is it worth the upgrade?
Most Windows 11 users don't need to bother with the Pro version of Microsoft's operating system.
CMF announces its first pair of open-ear earbuds for under $100
CMF announces its first pair of open-ear earbuds for under $100.
Official Apple MagSafe Battery drops back to all-time low pricing at 40% off
We have had a steady run at deals on the official Apple iPhone Air MagSafe Battery and, after quickly popping back up to full price yesterday, Amazon is giving us another shot at the 40% off all-time low deal price.
Alongside its current Back to School EV Sale , Segway has a pre-order launch deal on its new Max G3 Plus Electric Scooter running through the next few weeks that drops the price down to $1,149.99 shipped , which is matching over at Amazon. After this initial deal ends, the MSRP will be set at $1,500, meaning you are getting a solid $350 savings jumping on it now before the gates officially open. Pre-orders placed between now and August 24th are slated to begin shipping August 25th through September 4th, 2026. Head below to learn about this all-new premium ride.
JOYROOM Starlink Mini Car Charger Buy for $21 (Reg. $27) What we love If you like the idea of being able to have a full-blown internet connection while on the road, this car charger can help by powering Starlink Mini. Its currently up for grabs at $21 and even has a built-in display so you can see how much juice it is cranking out.
The Ninja Slushi makes vacation-worthy frozen drinks, and I highly recommend it (especially on sale)
The popular Ninja Slushi is on sale for under $300 once again. Here's where to find the deal.
The Ninja Slushi makes vacation-worthy frozen drinks, and I highly recommend it (especially on sale)
The popular Ninja Slushi is on sale for under $300 once again. Here's where to find the deal.
Might as well add five more nylon Apple Watch bands to your stash while they
Adorve Nylon Apple Watch Bands (5-pack) Buy for $10 (Reg. $19) Prime-exclusive discount. What we love While weve spotted this style for less before, it was most recently $8.50 and it was for different colorways. So whether you cashed in on those or not, here are five more bands you can snag for $2 each.
Todays lineup of the best Apple TV deals is now ready, including titles like Mad Men Complete Series, American Horror Story, Its Always Sunny In Philadelphia, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Wag the Dog, Good Morning, Vietnam, Midnight Run, Apocalypse Now, DuckTales (Reboot), and more. Scope out the August AirPods deals at up to $100 off with AirPods Pro 3 at $50 off, as well as the $100 price drops on Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the most affordable 15-inch 24GB M5 MacBook Air at $200 off today. All of the app deals await below.
The camera flash will evolve into a multi-color LED that illuminates when your phone is face down.
tomtoc 40L Travel Backpack Buy for $72 (Reg. $90) What we love I picked up an Osprey bag almost identical to this one a year or two ago and honestly, I think I would rather have went this route. At any rate, I really am happy with the bag I have and that is thanks to the duffle style that allows me to easily access whats inside while also being able to haul a laptop and travel with it like a backpack.
Best Antivirus for Mac (2026): Tested
Macworld It wasnt long ago that Macs were considered secure enough on their own. But as Apple devices have grown in popularity, macOS has become an increasingly attractive target for attackers . Todays threats are less about traditional viruses and more about phishing, fake updates, malicious downloads, and scams designed to trick users into installing malware themselves. At the same time, AI tools are accelerating vulnerability discovery and exploit development, making rapid patching more important than ever. Apple includes built-in protections such as XProtect and Gatekeeper, and macOS security is stronger than ever. However, these defenses mainly target known threats and cant fully prevent social-engineering attacks or credential theft. Modern antivirus tools with features like anti-phishing protection, malicious site blocking, behavior monitoring, and password and identity safeguards therefore remain essential for Mac users. To see which ones actually defend against todays threats, weve tested the leading antivirus apps for Mac and you can see our recommendations below. Weve tested the top Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios, performance benchmarks, and independent lab results, alongside usability, performance and reliability checks. Use this guide to find the best antivirus for your needs. Below are our expert picks for 2026, including the best overall, best value, and best free options. Whats new this month : On June 29, Apple released macOS Tahoe 26.5.2 , delivering dozens of security fixes for vulnerabilities across the operating system. The update patches flaws in Safari and WebKit that could potentially leak sensitive information between websites, allow malicious web content to crash apps, or trigger memory corruption. Apple also said that several fixes originally planned for macOS 26.6 were brought forward into 26.5.2. Apple told Reuters it is accelerating security releases because AI is reducing the time it takes attackers to identify and weaponize vulnerabilities, despite there being no evidence that the patched flaws were being actively exploited. Security researchers also uncovered a new Mac malware campaign dubbed Reaper at the end of May. Distributed through convincing fake software installers, Reaper relies on social engineering to trick users into running malicious AppleScripts. Once installed, it can steal browser data and documents, search for cryptocurrency wallets, and collect financial information. Best Mac Antivirus in 2026: At a Glance The best antivirus for Mac in 2026 is Intego ONE, thanks to its Mac-specific design, strong protection, and low performance impact. Norton 360 and Bitdefender are also top alternatives. Scroll down for full reviews and testing results. How we test Mac Antivirus We test Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios and independent lab data from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. Starting with a clean macOS system, we downloaded malware samples and visited malicious websites to measure protection against online and offline threats, including Windows-based malware. We also assessed system performance, ease of use and macOS integration, along with features like ransomware protection, VPNs and firewalls. Only products that deliver strong protection without slowing down your Mac make our top recommendations. Best Mac Antivirus: Benchmarks We compared independent lab results with our own real-world testing to identify the best Mac antivirus software for 2026. Antivirus AV-Test Protection AV-Comparatives Score Our Malware Detection Performance Impact (Our Tests) Scan Speed Overall Score Intego 6 / 6 Approved 99% Low Fastest 4.7 / 5 Norton 360 6 / 6 Approved 100% Medium Medium 4.7 / 5 Avast One 6 / 6 Approved 99% Medium Medium 4.5 / 5 Moonlock 5.5 / 6 Not available 100% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 Surfshark 6 / 6 Approved 100% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 Avira Free 5.5 / 6 Approved 97% Low Fast 4.4 / 5 AVG Internet Security 6 / 6 Approved 99% Low Medium 4.5 / 5 Bitdefender 6 / 6 Approved 100% Low Fast 4.8 / 5 ESET 6 / 6 Approved 95% Low Fast 4 / 5 Best Mac Antivirus: Our top picks tested and ranked Weve tested and reviewed the best Mac antivirus software below. Our summaries explain how each product performed, why it ranks where it does, and its key features with links to our full, in-depth reviews. Updated July 3, 2026. 1. Intego ONE Best antivirus for Mac users Pros Extremely fast malware scanning Excellent firewall control options Strong macOS-focused protection Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: Intego ONE Essential from $2.50 a month/one device/first year, then $3.33 a month or $29.99 for the first year and then $39.99 a year. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Intego (annual) $29.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Intego ONE is a powerful Mac-focused security suite with excellent malware detection, extremely fast scan speeds, and strong firewall controls. Specifically designed for macOS, it works seamlessly with Apples XProtect and Gatekeeper tools. Why we picked it as our top choice Intego ONE stands out for its outstanding malware detection, very fast scan speeds, and powerful firewall controls, making it one of the most reliable security tools specifically tailored for macOS. Intego delivers reliable, no-fuss security that integrates seamlessly with Apples ecosystem. Key strengths include: Near-perfect malware detection rates. Industry-leading scan speeds. Firewall with excellent visibility and control over network activity. Clean interface with no aggressive upselling Designed specifically for macOS, not a ported PC app Intego delivers consistent, real-world protection with better usability for Mac users. Key features Antivirus : Full, quick, custom scans and scheduling (Intego ONE Essential) Firewall : With network monitoring and rule creation (Intego ONE Essential) VPN : With 51 global servers, Lightway protocols (Intego ONE Complete) SmartClean : Disk cleanup, app uninstaller, system optimisation (Intego ONE Advanced & Complete) Whos it for? Intego ONE has a user-friendly interface, making it well suited to Mac users who want easy security management while prioritising powerful malware protection, strong performance, and advanced network control. Intego is ideal if you: Use a single Mac or MacBook Want strong protection without complexity Prefer software designed specifically for Apple systems Considerations & drawbacks Mac-only (no cross-platform support) Fewer extras than some rivals (e.g. no password management) Verdict If you want the most Mac-native antivirus experience, Intego is the best choice. It may not have the longest feature list, but it focuses on what matters most: effective protection, ease of use, and seamless macOS integration. Read our full Intego ONE review 2. Avast One Best for malware and phishing protection Pros Excellent malware protection Outstanding Email Guard Capable VPN Comprehensive security suite Cons Excessive upselling and fragmentation Basic AI Assistant Occasional malware detection gaps Some interface limitations Price When Reviewed: Premium Security: $49.99 first year / renews at $77.99/yr, Ultimate: $49.99 first year / renews at $109.99/yr Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Avast $49.08 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Avast One is a comprehensive security suite for Mac that combines antivirus protection with phishing defense, a VPN, and privacy tools in a single application. It helps protect against malware, malicious websites, and email threats while keeping system impact low, making it a strong all-round security solution for everyday users. Why we picked it Avast One impressed with excellent malware detection, outstanding phishing protection, and a capable VPN that has little impact on Mac performance. Features such as Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site provide effective real-world protection against spam, phishing, and fraudulent websites. Key strengths include: Excellent malware protection Outstanding phishing and spam filtering Effective VPN with low system impact Comprehensive security feature set Strong web and email protection Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site work particularly well together, providing some of the strongest real-world phishing and scam protection weve seen. Key features Real-time malware protection Email Guard for phishing and spam detection Web Guard and Real Site website protection Integrated VPN AI Assistant for security advice Whos it for? Best for Mac users who want a feature-rich security suite with particularly strong phishing protection. Avast is ideal if you: Want all-in-one security rather than a basic antivirus Need excellent phishing and email protection Want a built-in VPN Prefer security software with minimal performance impact Value comprehensive web protection Considerations & drawbacks Frequent upselling throughout the app Confusing, fragmented subscription options AI Assistant provides limited value Missed some malware installers during testing Some interface limitations Verdict Avast One is one of the strongest all-round security suites for Mac, combining excellent malware protection, first-rate phishing defenses, and a capable VPN. Its confusing subscriptions, constant upselling, and underwhelming AI Assistant prevent it from being an easy recommendation, but its core protection is excellent. Read our full Avast One review 3. Norton 360 Best all-round, multi-platform security suite Pros Virus Protection Promise Instant reassurance for scams Includes Nortons VPN and Password Manager Cons Some features Windows only Price When Reviewed: Standard (3 devices): $39.99 for first year, usually $94.99 a year; Deluxe (5 devices): $29.99 for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Norton Security (first year, 1 device) $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Norton 360 is one of the most comprehensive security suites available for Mac, combining antivirus protection with a wide range of additional features, including a VPN, password manager and AI-powered scam detection. A well-known and trusted name in cybersecurity, Norton also offers its Virus Protection Promise, meaning youll get your money back if it cant remove a virus from your device. Why we picked it Norton stands out for its all-in-one feature set and excellent lab performance, making it ideal for users who want complete protection across multiple devices. Key strengths include: Top scores in AV-Test and AV-Comparatives (June 2025) All-in-one suite: antivirus, VPN, password manager and more AI-powered Genie Scam Protection for real-time threat advice Strong cross-platform support (Mac, iOS, Windows, Android) Good value considering the breadth of features The addition of Nortons Genie Scam Assistant is particularly impressive, offering real-time help with suspicious emails and messages a useful tool as phishing attacks become more sophisticated. Key features Real-time antivirus, anti-malware and ransomware protection Built-in VPN for secure browsing Password manager Genie Scam Protection (AI assistant) Dark web monitoring (on select plans) Multi-device support Whos it for? Best for users who want a full-featured security suite across multiple devices. Norton is ideal if you: Want an all-in-one security solution Use multiple devices (Mac, iPhone, Windows, Android) Value extra features like VPN and identity protection Want real-time help spotting scams Considerations & drawbacks macOS version feels less fully featured than Windows version Some features (e.g. cloud backup) are not available on Mac Interface and settings can feel complex for beginners In our testing, missed a small number of threats and struggled with some file types (e.g. ZIP files) Browser protection didnt block all suspicious links in testing Bottom line If you want a feature-rich, all-in-one security suite, Norton 360 is one of the best options available. While its not as Mac-focused as Intego, it offers excellent protection, powerful extras and strong cross-platform coverage, making it a great choice for households with multiple devices. Read our full Norton 360 review 4. MacPaw Moonlock Great antivirus protection for beginners Pros Excellent malware detection Fast scanning performance Useful built-in VPN Helpful security guidance Clean, focused interface Cons Leaves some support files behind No phishing website blocking No scan time estimates Trial requires payment information Price When Reviewed: 1 Mac: $54 per year; $13.50 a month; $150 one time payment (licences for more Macs available) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price MacPaw (annual) $45 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Moonlock is MacPaws dedicated antivirus and security app for Mac, combining malware protection with a VPN, system security checks and educational guidance. It aims to keep Macs protected from malware and online threats while helping users understand and improve their overall security without unnecessary complexity. Why we picked it Moonlock impressed with excellent malware detection, effective real-time Active Protection, a capable VPN and helpful educational resources. Rather than simply blocking threats, it also teaches users better security habits, making it particularly approachable for less technical Mac owners. Key strengths include: Excellent malware detection and removal Active Protection blocks threats before installation Built-in VPN with solid performance Helpful security education and guidance Flexible purchase options, including a one-time licence We particularly like how Moonlocks Security Advisor focuses on helping users develop better security habits through clear, practical guidance. Key features Quick, Balanced and Deep malware scanning Real-time Active Protection Built-in VPN Network Inspector for blocking traffic from selected regions System Protection and Security Advisor with security recommendations Whos it for? Best for Mac users who want strong malware protection with straightforward security tools and guidance rather than an overwhelming all-in-one suite. Moonlock is ideal if you: Want effective malware protection with minimal fuss Appreciate built-in security guidance and learning resources Prefer a clean, Mac-focused security app Want integrated VPN protection Like the option of a one-time purchase instead of only subscriptions Considerations & drawbacks Security Advisor is more informational than practical Menus and navigation can be confusing Scan scheduler only allows 15-minute intervals VPN defaults to the nearest server automatically Some features and options are buried in the interface Bottom line Moonlock delivers excellent malware protection backed by effective Active Protection, a capable VPN and useful security guidance. While its interface and menus need refinement, its a strong first standalone security suite from MacPaw and well worth considering for Mac users seeking straightforward protection. Read our full MacPaw Moonlock review 5. Surfshark One Best for privacy and multi-device protection Pros Supports unlimited devices Excellent malware protection Includes VPN, identity and privacy protection Cons Cheaper options available Price When Reviewed: Surfshark One, 24 months at $2.49 a month with 3 free months (Total for 27 months: $67.23); 12 months at $3.39 a month with 3 free months (Total for 15 months: $50.85); or $17.95/month. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Surfshark $50.85 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Surfshark One+ Antivirus is best suited to Mac users who want antivirus protection, a VPN, and privacy tools combined in one affordable package. It performs especially well for home users, remote workers, and small offices that prefer a simple all-in-one solution instead of managing several separate subscriptions. The software integrates smoothly with macOS and causes very little slowdown during everyday use. Why we picked it The best aspect of Surfshark One+ is the combination of strong malware protection and an excellent built-in VPN. During testing, the antivirus engine detected nearly all malware samples, while the VPN delivered stable connections and advanced privacy features normally found in standalone VPN services. Key strengths include: Excellent malware detection Powerful VPN with advanced features Low system impact on Macs Affordable introductory pricing Strong privacy and identity tools The biggest advantage of Surfshark One+ is its overall value. Users receive antivirus protection, VPN services, identity monitoring, and privacy features in one subscription, making it a convenient and cost-effective cybersecurity package. Key features Real-time malware protection Surfshark VPN with MultiHop and Dedicated IP Identity breach monitoring Alternative ID privacy feature Surfshark private search engine External drive scanning Whos it for? Surfshark One+ is best for users who want strong Mac protection alongside privacy-focused tools and VPN functionality. Surfshark One is ideal for: Remote workers and travelers Home users wanting simple security Privacy-conscious Mac users Considerations & drawbacks Weak phishing and scam-site browser protection Slow full-system scans Some beta tools feel unfinished Browser extensions can be unreliable Renewal prices rise significantly after discounts Verdict Surfshark One+ Antivirus is a strong choice for Mac users who want reliable malware protection, a feature-rich VPN, and privacy tools in one affordable package. While weak browser phishing protection prevents it from being among the very best security suites, it still offers excellent overall value for everyday users. Read our full Surfshark One review 6. Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Customizable, user-friendly protection Pros Clean, customisable and easy to navigate Low system impact Cons Missed some threats in our testing Limited extras Price When Reviewed: $24.99 per year for 1 device (usually $49.99), $29.99 per year for 3 devices (usually $69.99) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Bitdefender (first year, 1 device) $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is a malware protection app that combines real-time antivirus scanning with tools such as ransomware protection, a browser extension and a basic VPN. It helps protect your Mac from malicious software while offering a straightforward, customizable interface that integrates well with macOS. Why we picked it Bitdefender impressed with its clean, customizable interface, straightforward scanning options and the ability to quickly scan external drives. The generous trial period and good macOS integration also make it easy to try and use, particularly alongside Apples built-in Gatekeeper protection. Key strengths include: Clean, customizable and easy-to-use interface Simple scanning of external drives and removable media Works well alongside macOS Gatekeeper Generous free trial period Good range of core security tools One standout strength is how easy it is to scan external drives on demand, making it particularly useful for users who regularly connect USB drives or other removable storage. Key features Real-time malware protection with Bitdefender Shield On-demand and scheduled malware scanning External drive and removable media scanning Browser extension for web protection Included VPN (200MB daily limit) Whos it for Bitdefender is best for Mac users who want an easy-to-use antivirus with a customizable interface and straightforward malware scanning. Bitdefender is ideal if you: Prefer a simple, uncluttered security app Frequently scan external drives or USB devices Want security that complements macOS protections Like being able to customize the interface Want a generous trial before subscribing Considerations & drawbacks Malware can slip through if Bitdefender Shield is disabled Occasional freezes during full-system scans Safari anti-phishing protection is limited Included VPN is restricted to 200MB per day and frequently encourages upgrades Overall malware protection still has room for improvement under some circumstances Verdict Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac delivers a polished interface, useful core features and convenient scanning tools, especially for external drives. However, inconsistent malware blocking under certain conditions, occasional scan freezes and limited web protection prevent it from being among the strongest Mac antivirus solutions. Read our full Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac review 7. AVG Internet Security for Mac Best for ease of use Pros Easy to use Strong malware protection and removal 60-day trial available Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: $3.89 a month for 1 Mac ($46.68 for the first year, then $77.99 a year), or $4.99 a month for 10 devices ($59.88 for the first year, then $99.99 a year). Best Prices Today: Retailer Price AVG $46.68 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket AVG Internet Security for Mac is a reliable, feature-rich option that combines strong protection with a clean, easy-to-use interface. Best known for its free antivirus, AVGs premium suite builds on that foundation with broader security tools and consistently strong lab performance. In independent testing, AVG achieved top scores from AV-Test (Protection, Speed and Usability) and maximum ratings from AV-Comparatives across Mac malware, Windows malware and potentially unwanted applications confirming its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Why we picked it AVG stands out for its balanced mix of protection, usability and features, making it a strong choice for users who want dependable security without complexity. Key strengths include: Top scores in independent lab tests (AV-Test and AV-Comparatives) Strong malware and phishing protection Clean, intuitive interface Effective malware removal capabilities Generous 60-day trial and 30-day money-back guarantee While it doesnt dramatically outperform rivals in any one area, AVG delivers consistently solid performance across the board. Key features Real-time malware and threat protection Web and phishing protection Email security tools Ransomware protection Scheduled and on-demand scans Whos it for? Best for cautious Mac users who want reliable, no-fuss protection with the option to try before they buy. AVG is ideal if you: Want strong protection without a steep learning curve Prefer a clean, easy-to-navigate interface Like the flexibility of a long free trial before committing Considerations & drawbacks Mac-only (separate products needed for other platforms) Scan activity could be communicated more clearly Missed some test scenarios (e.g. fake installer in our testing) Doesnt stand out as strongly as top competitors AVG uses the same core engine as Avast Verdict AVG Internet Security for Mac is a well-rounded and trustworthy antivirus solution. It may not lead the pack in any single category, but its strong lab results, ease of use and solid protection make it a dependable choice for most Mac users. Read our full AVG Internet Security for Mac review 8. ESET HOME Security Best for power users seeking control Price When Reviewed: Essential: $49.99 a year for one device; Premium: $79.99 a year for one device; Ultimate $179.99 a year for five devices Best Prices Today: Retailer Price ESET (first year, 1 device) $34.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket ESET Cyber Security is a Mac security suite that combines antivirus, anti-phishing, spam filtering, ransomware and identity protection with a powerful built-in VPN. It focuses on delivering strong malware protection and extensive customization for security-conscious Mac users who want deep control over their security software. Why we picked it ESET impressed us with its excellent malware protection, highly configurable VPN, and administrator-level customization. It runs lightly in the background while providing strong real-time protection, making it particularly appealing to experienced Mac users who value configurability over simplicity. Key strengths include: Excellent malware protection with over 95% of malware samples blocked or quarantined Feature-rich VPN with multiple protocols, router support and Kill Switch Extensive administrator-level customization and security controls Minimal impact on everyday Mac performance Strong real-time protection that quietly removes threats in the background Its standout strength is the combination of outstanding malware protection and one of the most configurable VPN implementations bundled with Mac antivirus software, giving advanced users an exceptional level of control. Key features Real-time antivirus and malware protection Anti-phishing and spam filtering Ransomware and identity protection Built-in VPN with WireGuard, IKEv2, UDP, TCP, Stealth and WStunnel support Advanced VPN features including router support, Kill Switch and automatic connection rules Whos it for? Best for advanced Mac users and administrators who want deep control over their security software alongside excellent malware protection and a capable VPN. ESET is ideal if you: Want administrator-level security customization Need excellent malware protection with minimal performance impact Value a powerful built-in VPN with advanced networking features Prefer security-focused software over all-in-one maintenance utilities Are comfortable configuring advanced security settings Considerations & drawbacks Discord compatibility issues caused update and launch failures during testing Scheduled scans failed to execute reliably Logging tools are limited and lack useful export options Scan progress indicators provide little feedback during long scans Interface and settings are aimed at experienced users rather than beginners Verdict ESET Cyber Security Ultimate delivers excellent malware protection, an outstanding bundled VPN and exceptional configurability while remaining light on system resources. Although software bugs and a few usability issues prevent it from feeling fully polished, its a compelling choice for experienced Mac users who prioritize security and control over simplicity. Read our full Eset Home Security review Other Mac antivirus software we tested Macworld reviews many more antivirus products than you see in our ranking above. Not appearing in our top six doesnt mean a product isnt going to do a good job of protecting your Mac, merely that it failed to stand out among the best of the competition. Youll find some more top contenders below, with links to our full reviews for more details. We wouldnt advise installing any Mac antivirus without first checking our antivirus software reviews . (For PC antivirus, see our sister site PCWorlds guide to the best Windows antivirus .) Avira Prime We recommend: Avira Prime Read our review Price When Reviewed: From $59.99 for first year, then $109.99 a year. Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Avira Prime (first year, 5 devices) Why we recommend it : Avira Prime offers a sleek, modular approach to antivirus with solid customization, a zippy Quick Scan, and strong cleanup tools. While Full Scan times drag and phishing defense needs sharpening, features like unlimited VPN and Identity Assistant shine. Whos it for: Avira Prime seems best suited for privacy-focused users who want full control without overwhelming complexity. Read our full Avira Prime review Malwarebytes Premium Security We recommend: Malwarebytes for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: Standard plan $59.99; Plus plan $79.99; Ultimate plan starts at $279.99 (currently $139.99) a year for three devices Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Malwarebytes (first year, 1 devices) Why we recommend it : Malwarebytes for Mac is a user-friendly tool that delivers fast malware detection, external drive scanning, VPN and identity tools. Whos it for : Its best for casual users seeking set-it-and-forget-it defence, not power users needing granular control or all-surface threat coverage. Read our full Malwarebytes Premium Security review McAfee Total Protection We recommend: McAfee Total Protection Read our review Price When Reviewed: Single: $29.99 (1 device) for first year, usually $89.99; Essential: $39.99 (5 devices) for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: $29.99 at McAfee Total Protection (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it : McAfee Total Protection covers the bases with solid antivirus, real-time scanning, and a basic VPN feature, but stumbles with vague alerts, an outdated WebAdvisor protection system, and noticeable performance hits. Whos it for : Its a decent all-in-one for casual users wanting broad protection, but power users or privacy hawks might want something leaner, faster, and easier to configure. Read our full McAfee Total Protection review Is free antivirus for Mac good enough? Free antivirus software can provide basic protection, but it often lacks advanced features such as ransomware protection, firewalls and real-time web security. Paid options offer more comprehensive, all-round protection. Apple includes built-in security tools like XProtect and Gatekeeper , which block known malware and unverified apps. However, in our testing, it was still possible to install Mac malware or suspicious software if warnings were ignored, showing that Apples protections alone are not foolproof. Free third-party antivirus tools offer an advantage in that they are updated more frequently and can protect against a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans and ransomware . The core antivirus engine is often the same in both free and paid versions. The difference lies in the extra features included in premium suites, such as web and phishing protection, VPNs, identity monitoring, parental controls and customer support. Ultimately, you get what you pay for. If security is a priority, a paid antivirus offers the most complete protection. However, if youre on a tight budget, a free antivirus is still better than relying solely on Apples built-in security tools. If youre on a really tight budget, a free antivirus is still going to do a better job of protecting you than Apples security tools. For some low-priced AV options, check out the best Mac antivirus deals for the best prices. Whats the best free Mac antivirus? Here are the best free antivirus for Mac apps we have reviewed: Apple Gatekeeper & XProtect Review | Built into macOS Avast Security for Mac Review | Download Avira Free Antivirus for Mac Review | Download AVG Antivirus for Mac Review | Download Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac Review | Download Intego VirusBarrier Scanner Review | Download Malwarebytes Antivirus for Mac Review | Download Best Mac Antivirus: Specs Comparison Developer Product Name Malware Protection Ransomware Protection Adware Prevention Anti Phishing Protection Email Protection Firewall VPN iOS Version Parental Controls Support Trial /Free version Intego Intego ONE Excellent, Mac focused Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Email/Phone 30 day trial and free option Surfshark Surfshark One Strong Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Chat/Email 30-day money back guarantee AVG Internet Security for Mac Good Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Email 60 days Avast Premium Security Very good Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Email/Forum 60 days McAfee Total Protection Good Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Phone/Chat 30 days/money-back guarantee Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Email 30 days Norton Norton 360 Very strong Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Phone/Chat 30-day money-back Avira Avira Prime Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Email 30 days Bitdefender Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Email/Chat 30 days MacPaw Moonlock Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes No Email 7 days Pocket Bits LLC BitMedic Pro Antivirus Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes No Email/Support Form 7 days Sophos Sophos Home Premium for Mac Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Chat/Email 30 days ESET ESET HOME Security Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Email/Phone 30 days Malwarebtyes Malwarebytes Premium Security No Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Email/Forum 14 days Why you can trust Macworld for antivirus advice Macworld has been testing Mac software since the launch of the Mac in 1984, giving us decades of experience and deep expertise in Apples ecosystem. We understand how Macs work and how best to protect them. While Apple includes built-in security tools to combat malware, todays threat landscape means additional protection is often worthwhile. Our antivirus reviewers have decades of industry experience, including hands-on work supporting users and solving real-world IT and security issues. Our recommendations are based on a combination of independent lab data, structured testing and real-world usage not just specifications or vendor claims. We regularly review and update our rankings to reflect the latest threats, software updates and performance improvements. How we test Mac antivirus software To identify the best antivirus software for Mac, we combine hands-on testing, real-world threat simulation and independent lab data. Our goal is to assess how effectively each product protects your Mac without compromising performance, usability or value. Real-world testing environment : We begin with a clean installation of macOS, which is then cloned for each antivirus product. Each app is installed and tested in isolation to ensure results are not affected by other software particularly important as antivirus tools can sometimes flag each other as threats. We simulate real-world attack scenarios by: Downloading known malware samples Visiting malicious and phishing websites Testing suspicious files and drive-by downloads Running malware in controlled conditions This allows us to evaluate how well each product detects and blocks both online and offline threats, including Mac-specific malware, adware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). We also assess how effectively each tool detects and handles Windows-based malware, which can still pose a risk when sharing files. Independent lab validation: To support our findings, we reference results from leading independent testing organisations: AV-Test AV-Comparatives These labs evaluate antivirus software against large sets of known malware and potentially unwanted applications, measuring detection rates, false positives and overall protection. Where lab data is unavailable, we carry out more extensive in-house testing using real malware samples. Performance impact : Antivirus software should protect your Mac without slowing it down. We measure performance by assessing: System responsiveness during full and quick scans Impact of real-time protection on everyday tasks Background CPU and resource usage We prioritise solutions that deliver strong protection with minimal noticeable slowdown, since overly demanding software is more likely to be disabled by users. Features, usability and user experience : We spend time using each product to evaluate how intuitive and practical it is in daily use. This includes: Ease of installation and setup Interface design and macOS integration Clarity and relevance of alerts and notifications We also assess additional features, including: Ransomware protection Web and phishing protection Firewalls and network monitoring VPNs and privacy tools Password managers and parental controls Importantly, we consider whether these features are genuinely useful or simply added complexity. Value for money : We evaluate pricing and overall value, including: Subscription costs and renewal pricing Number of devices covered Features included at each tier Our focus is on products that offer a strong balance of protection, performance and features at a reasonable price. Should I get an antivirus for my Mac? Scenario Recommendation Low-risk user (App Store only, trusted devs, automatic updates on) Apples built-in tools are sufficient. High-risk user (downloads from various sites, torrents, handles sensitive data) Paid antivirus is strongly recommended. Business user (handles client data, shares files with Windows PCs) Paid antivirus is recommended for an extra safety layer. User wanting extra features (VPN, password manager, phishing protection) Paid antivirus is worthwhile for the bundled features. Best Mac Antivirus: FAQ 1. Do Macs need antivirus software? Yes while Macs are generally more secure than Windows PCs and include built-in protections like XProtect and sandboxing, which helps limit how far malware can spread, these measures are not enough to defend against modern threats such as phishing, adware and ransomware. Adding a dedicated antivirus tool helps close those gaps, provides broader coverage against evolving threats and extra layer of security when browsing the web or downloading files. For more detail, see our guide to whether Macs need antivirus , along with our Mac security tips and advice on how to remove a virus from a Mac . Do iPhones need antivirus software? You may be considering a Mac Antivirus that also offers to protect your iPhone, but is that protection really necessary? Apples iOS is designed with strong built-in security, including app sandboxing, strict App Store review processes and system-level protections that prevent traditional viruses from infecting your device. This makes it very difficult for malware to spread in the same way it can on other platforms. So, no iPhones generally dont need antivirus software. However, iPhones are not completely risk-free. Threats like phishing attacks, malicious websites and data breaches can still affect users. Instead of installing an antivirus app the best advice is to keep iOS up to date, avoid clicking on suspicious links, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and dont download anything unless you are sure it is safe. 2. How does antivirus software protect your Mac? Mac antivirus software protects your device using a combination of on-demand scans and real-time (always-on) protection. On-demand scanning checks files when you run a manual or scheduled scan. This can take time, especially on systems with lots of data, and may temporarily use more system resources. For best results, scans are often scheduled to run at convenient times. See how to scan a Mac for malware Real-time protection works continuously in the background. If malware arrives for example via an email attachment or downloaded file the antivirus can detect and block it immediately. Suspicious files are typically quarantined , meaning they are moved to a secure location where they cant cause harm while you decide whether to delete or restore them. The effectiveness of these two layers of protection is the most important factor when choosing antivirus software, but additional features can also make a difference. Many Mac antivirus tools now include ransomware protection , which prevents unauthorised apps from accessing sensitive folders such as Documents or Photos. Only trusted apps are allowed access, and you can customise these permissions. Web protection is another key feature, often delivered via browser extensions. This helps block malicious websites, phishing attempts and unsafe downloads, reducing the risk of accidentally exposing personal information. 3. Should my Mac antivirus include a VPN? Yes, a VPN can be a useful addition to Mac antivirus software. It encrypts your internet connection, helping protect your data especially on public Wi-Fi. However, built-in VPNs are often limited, so a dedicated VPN service usually offers better performance and features. Some Mac antivirus packages include a built-in VPN (virtual private network), although VPNs are also widely available as standalone products. For many users, VPNs are appealing because they can mask your location and allow access to region-restricted content, such as streaming services. More importantly, a VPN improves security by encrypting your internet connection, which is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks. This helps protect your data from interception and reduces the risk of cyberattacks. While we generally recommend a dedicated Mac VPN service for the best performance and features, a VPN included with antivirus software can still be a useful extra. Just be aware that bundled VPNs often come with limitations, such as data caps or reduced functionality, and may prompt you to upgrade to a full subscription. 4. What is the best value Mac antivirus? Value means different things to different users. For some, its the best free option; for others, its a reasonably priced product with the most useful features. We define value as the best overall balance of protection, performance and features and for protecting a single Mac, we believe Intego offers the best value. That said, there are ways to save money on even the top antivirus products. Most Mac antivirus apps are sold as annual subscriptions, often with significant discounts for the first year. When that period ends, you can switch providers to take advantage of new introductory offers, or opt for longer-term plans (such as two- or three-year subscriptions) to reduce the overall cost. Many antivirus suites also cover multiple devices, including Windows PCs and Android smartphones. If you have several devices in your household, a multi-device plan can offer excellent value. For the latest offers, see our guide to the Best Mac Antivirus deals , which includes the most affordable options. 5. How to spot fake Mac antivirus software? Because many of us are waking up to the idea that malware is a threat to the Mac, malware writers have made it their business to play on that fear. There have been cases of malware writers disguising their viruses as antivirus apps two notable examples are Mac Auto Fixer and MacDefender. Its important to always read reviews on reputable sites such as Macworld before installing any software on your Mac or MacBook. At the same time, dont believe everything you read. MacKeeper is a great example of an antivirus program that has got a bad rap, but its worked hard to repair its reputation. It has gained Apple Notarization, which means the software has been checked by Apple for malicious components, and the company has garnering certification from various bodies to prove it isnt a PUP (potentially unwanted program), including an AV-Test certificate. That said, we havent recommended it here, and thats simply because we feel that there are better options available. If you have already installed MacKeeper and wish to try one of our alternative recommendations, we explain How to uninstall MacKeeper . 6. What cant Mac antivirus protect you from? Using a Mac antivirus product, especially one that includes tools to improve your online privacy, may lull you into believing youre completely safe from personal and private information leaking out and that you no longer need to keep your wits about you. Thats not quite the case. While theres no reason to panic, you should still practice caution and there are a few more issues you should consider when using Mac antivirus, too. First, an antivirus for Mac product may upload the complete text of files flagged to the cloud, where it can be analyzed by separate tools hosted there. This practice is normal and sensible: some malware can detect when a running process may examine it, and will then engage in subterfuge. Antivirus software makers also can access their massive databases to examine files with characteristics that trigger their algorithms certain elements that match known malware. As a result, security researchers discover new viruses, worms, Trojans horses, and the like. However, helping the greater good means youll have to be comfortable with trusting a third-party with your file contents. Where appropriate, we noted privacy policy issues in individual reviews. Second, this software may also rely partly or entirely on cloud-based checks of URLs, malware, and the like. Accordingly, an antivirus package might upload every URL you visit, metadata about files, signatures of files, information about your computers hardware, a list of running or installed applications, and more. Companies vary on their disclosure of such policies, and may not let you opt out of this kind of sharing. We note issues in each review as appropriate. Third, antivirus software makers also get a sense of what behavior is happening on your computer thats being monitored or blocked, and may use that information for their own purposes. In some cases, you can opt out of this information gathering. 7. What virus cleaner does Apple recommend? Apple has never recommended a third-party virus cleaner, and has instead focused on the Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions found within macOS, which are regularly updated with operating system updates. 8. How good is Apples virus protection? Its actually very good, and there isnt much that gets past it in the way of viruses and malware, given its Xprotect and Gatekeeper features but these can be overridden, and questionable software can be installed and activated if the user knows what theyre doing. Still, the protection is present, its updated well, and Apple keeps a good eye on things, but new viruses and malware are sent out from bad actors all the time, and this is where a good third-party application can come in handy. We have tested Apples own solution against a range of malware samples . While it did a reasonable job overall, we found instances where questionable applications could be installed without any warning. A helpful analogy is to think of Apples built-in antivirus system, XProtect, as the lock on your Macs front door, while a paid antivirus solution acts more like an alarm system with security cameras. Third-party tools update their virus definitions including not just viruses, but also adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware several times a day, often more frequently than Apples protections, providing real-time defense against new and emerging threats. During our testing of Apples malware protections, recovery options were limited. In some cases, the only solution was to wipe the Mac and restore from a backup made before the risky behavior hoping nothing had already spread. Apple does not offer dedicated malware removal support or guarantees if an infection occurs, nor does it protect against cross-platform threats across multiple devices. Paid antivirus software typically includes these services, along with additional features such as web and phishing protection, vulnerability patching tools, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, secure cloud backup, and dark web monitoring. That said, macOSs built-in security may be sufficient for low-risk users who install apps only from the App Store or trusted developers, keep automatic updates enabled, avoid pirated software, do not disable Gatekeeper, have limited exposure to risky email attachments, and do not handle sensitive client data. Ultimately, investing in a reputable security suite for Mac adds an extra layer of protection and for many users, its a case of being safe rather than sorry. 9. Is there free virus protection for Mac? The Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions serve as free virus protection for macOS, but you can also get basic virus protection from many of the well-known antivirus providers, we have some recommendations above. 10. How to choose the best Mac antivirus for your needs There are a lot of Mac antivirus programs to choose from. What you want is one that offers a familiar and easy-to-use interface that works well on a Mac a key reason why we recommend Integos antivirus. You should also look for antivirus with a good detection rate not just for Mac viruses, but also for PC viruses, unless you want to be passing viruses on to friends and clients running Windows. Low impact on system resources is also critical, especially if your Mac isnt the most powerful model. Consider the type and number of devices you want to protect are you looking for an app to cover one Mac, or Mac, iPhone, iPad and even a PC? Your budget matters here, too: do you prefer a subscription model or a one-time payment? Mac antivirus vendors typically offer different add-ons, and it is certainly a case of you get what you pay for: free products will have fewer bells and whistles, but the most comprehensive Mac security suites will include password managers, parental controls, cloud storage and more. The underlying antimalware engine will usually be the same for all security products from a particular company, so you can save money if you dont need all those extra features. 11. Whenare Applesbuilt-inprotections sufficient For many users, Apples layered security XProtect, Gatekeeper and Rapid Security Responses is more than adequate. If you fit into the low-risk category described below, you can probably rely on macOS alone. You only download apps from the Mac App Store or trusted developers . Gatekeeper ensures that only notarized software from identified developers can run, and XProtect scans these apps for known malware on launch. You keep automatic updates enabled . Apple regularly updates XProtects malware definitions in the background, and with macOS Tahoe, Background Security Improvements can now install critical patches silently without requiring a restart. You avoid pirated software, torrents, and cracks. These are common vectors for malware that can bypass Apples checks if a user overrides warnings. You do not handle sensitive client data or work in a high-risk environment . For casual home use, the built-in tools are generally enough to block the most obvious threats 12. When paid Antivirus is worthwhile Despite Apples strong foundation, there are clear gaps that third-party software fills. You frequently install software from various internet sources . In our hands-on testing, we have found that it is still possible to install malware by ignoring or bypassing Gatekeeper warnings. Our testers were able to install trojans, fake apps, and software that requested access to the microphone, webcam, and keystrokes. You want protection against phishing and malicious websites . Apples XProtect primarily focuses on known malware files. It does not offer the same level of real-time web and phishing protection that suites like Avast One or Bitdefender provide. You need more frequent updates and broader threat coverage . Third-party tools update their virus definitions several times a day, often more frequently than Apples updates. They also cover a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware. You want features like a firewall, VPN, password manager, or identity monitoring . Apple does not offer a dedicated, configurable firewall for macOS (it relies on the built-in one) and does not include a VPN, password manager, or dark web monitoring in its security suite. Paid suites bundle these features. You share files with Windows users. An unprotected Mac can unknowingly harbor Windows viruses that wont affect macOS but can be passed on to friends and colleagues. A good antivirus will detect and clean cross-platform threats.
Backwards Nike Giannis T-Shirt 67% off alongside shoes, bags, and more in Back to School sale
It doesnt matter if youre heading back to school or not, the current DAYONE code at Nike is ready to be used by anyone and there are loads of great deals right here . That promotion takes an additional 25% off eligible items, so weve combed through and picked 10 items that we think are worth a look. Highlights include the Nike Giannis T-Shirt, Nike Air Force 1 07 LV8 Denim Shoes, Nike Calm Slides, and more. Just note that you can also score stretch golf pants from $24.50 , Bruno Marcs 10.4-ounce shoes at $23 Prime shipped , and much more in our apparel guide . With that out of the way, here are todays Nike deals.
Save big when you bag fall sweaters for just $15 each (Reg. $25)
COOFANDY Crew Neck Sweater Buy for $15 (Reg. $25) What we love I covered a sweater deal yesterday, and I am very much aware that its not exactly the right time of the year to wear these, but the prices are good right now. To be fair, its likely that youll be able to reach for these in the next couple of months, so you might as well cash in now.
