Apple has released updates to all of its operating systems: iOS 12.1.1, macOS 10.14.2, tvOS 12.1.1, and most notably, watchOS 5.1.2. That last update also brings the ECG app to the Apple Watch Series 4 and enables irregular heart rhythm monitoring on all supported Apple Watch models—Julio Ojeda-Zapata explains how to set up and use these features. If you’re having forearm or wrist pain from mousing, Josh Centers reviews a “vertical mouse” from Anker that could ease your symptoms. For those looking to save money on their iPhone cell plan, it might be worth checking out Google Fi, but as Jeff Porten describes, there are devils in the details. Notable Mac app releases this week include Mactracker 7.7.6, Security Update 2018-003 (High Sierra) and Security Update 2018-006 (Sierra), Safari 12.0.2, Pixelmator Pro 1.2.4, Pixelmator 3.8, Logic Pro X 10.4.3, GarageBand 10.3.2, and DEVONthink/DEVONnote 2.10.2.
Apple has updated iOS, macOS, and tvOS with tweaks and bug fixes, and most importantly, you can once again switch between iPhone cameras with a single tap when making FaceTime calls.
Apple announced in September that its new Apple Watch Series 4 is capable of taking electrocardiogram readings as part of its health-monitoring features. That feature didn’t ship with the watch, but it’s now available to users in the US with the watchOS 5.1.2 update, along with irregular heart rhythm monitoring on all supported Apple Watch models.
Is your mouse making your wrist or forearm hurt? The $15 Anker Ergonomic Optical USB Wired Vertical Mouse may be able to ease your pain.
Google's Project Fi phone service has become Google Fi, with official support for using the iPhone you bring to the plan. But the iPhone experience isn't the same as for Android phones using regular Google Fi. So for now, Google Fi is worthwhile only in select circumstances.
Watchlist
Adds detailed information about all recent hardware and operating system releases, including the refreshed Mac mini and MacBook Air. (Free, 113 MB)
Patches security vulnerabilities in Apple’s last two operating systems. (Free, various sizes)
Addresses WebKit and address bar vulnerabilities for macOS 10.12.6 Sierra and 10.13.6 High Sierra. (Free)
The Mac App of the Year for 2018 brings redesigned Color Balance adjustment tools. ($39.99 new, free update, 169 MB)
Original Pixelmator app gains full compatibility with macOS 10.14 Mojave. ($29.99 new, free update, 112 MB)
Adds preferences to filter MIDI data on a port-by-port basis and eliminates a variety of crashes and hangs. ($199.99 new, free update, 1.4 GB)
Resolves some hangs and makes improvements for libraries that have been moved using Logic Pro X or MainStage. (Free, 1.01 GB)
Brings some fixes for macOS 10.14 Mojave, as well as improves performance and reliability. (All updates are free. DEVONthink Pro Office, $149.95 new; DEVONthink Professional, $79.95 new; DEVONthink Personal, $49.95 new; DEVONnote, $24.95 new)
