The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave is joined by guests Patrice Brend'Amour, Chuck Joiner, Marty Jencius, Jeff Gamet, and Ben Roethig. We analyze production rumors surrounding the Vision Pro and its impact on Apple's VR/AR future, while reflecting on the media's portrayal of the device. We also speculate on potential innovations for 2025, especially in home automation, and share positive experiences with Apple Store services. Finally, we highlight the useful features of the Tips app, wrapping up with predictions for the year ahead. The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com Direct Link to Audio Links to our Show Give us a review on Apple Podcasts! CLICK HERE we would really appreciate it! Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios Website: In Touch With iOS YouTube Channel In Touch with iOS Magazine on Flipboard Facebook Page BlueSky Mastodon X Instagram Threads Spoutible Summary The first major topic centers around the recent news surrounding Apple's Vision Pro. We explore rumors about its production status, fueled by speculation suggesting that the first generation might be doomed. Notably, we dissect the implications of the reported production cuts and what this means for Apple's trajectory in the VR/AR landscape. Tim Cook has referred to this device as a product for early adopters, and we analyze whether the current narrative around its perceived failure holds any merit. Marty and Chuck offer insights into the media's tendency toward clickbait while alluding to historical parallels with previous Apple products that faced similar criticisms early in their life cycles. We also highlight the exciting developments anticipated for the Vision Pro, including upgrades to Vision OS and the introduction of the M5 chip. The discussion highlights the importance of app developers in shaping the future ecosystem around the device. We agree that while the Vision Pro may have niche appeal, this is merely the beginning of a broader journey into immersive technology. Our conversation weaves through articles declaring the Vision Pro to be the product of the year while simultaneously being labeled 'doomed,' showcasing the contradictory narratives surrounding Apple's flagship device. Next, we pivot to Apple's performance in the hardware sector, noting the end of a 13-year streak of new product releases. Our panel speculates on what new innovations may emerge in 2025. Topics range from potential updates to existing products like the AirPods, to exciting new ventures in the home automation space. Patrice brings up the possibility of new HomeKit devices, while others share their predictions about Apple's foray into security cameras and advanced HomePods. Chuck and Marty advocate for an integrated device that improves home interactivity and automation, paving the way for the future of smart living. Following this, I share my recent experiences at the Apple Store, where I dealt with a screen replacement for a family member's iPhone and technical issues with my AirPods Pro. My visit illustrated the efficiency of Apple's service, showcasing the new express replacement program and diagnostics capabilities for quick resolutions. The discussion underscores the effectiveness of Apple's customer support and how such experiences shape user perceptions. In a lighter segment, we touch on the utility of the Tips app available across Apple devices. I champion its often-overlooked potential, highlighting how users can access manuals and locate helpful guides for their products. With many of us frequently forgetting features, we emphasize the value this resource provides in navigating Apple's ecosystem confidently. We conclude the episode with some engaging banter, tying together our insights for the year ahead, and casting predictions not just for new Apple products but also for the evolution of technology in general. Topics and Links In Touch With Vision Pro this week. Apple Vision Pro May Now Be Out of Production - MacRumors 9to5Mac Product of the Year: Apple Vision Pro These coming Vision Pro upgrades could lead to big 2025 success Vision Pro Game Controllers Surreal Touch Vision Pro demos now allow multiple users in the Apple Store. Dave discovered this during a visit this week. Beta this week. When will Apple release iOS 18.3? - 9to5Mac iOS 18.2.1 Coming Soon These new iOS features are coming to your iPhone in early 2025 Dave shares his experience at the Apple Store with repairs to his Mother in Laws iPhone 15 and his AirPods Pro 2 Dave's experience this week visiting the Apple Store for repairs. His mother in Law's iPhone 15 had a big chip on the screen. Haven't figured out how she did this. It was covered by AppleCare. Interesting find when using the Apple Support. You now can get an advanced replacement if you choose. If you can't wait for the repair you can pay $99 and Apple will
