With WWDC just weeks away, Apple has released updates to all its operating systems, largely to roll out a new Apple TV app and support for AirPlay 2-enabled smart TVs. Also this week, we ask whether the Do Not Disturb While Driving feature, which debuted in iOS 11, is actually saving lives. Adam Engst dives into the numbers. Despite having a mix of Amazon Echo and Google Home smart speakers, Josh Centers recently switched from Spotify to Apple Music because of Spotify’s user-hostile family plan requirements. Finally, if you like consuming your news through an RSS reader, Julio Ojeda-Zapata reviews the new Reeder 4 for Mac and iOS. Notable Mac app releases this week include ScreenFlow 8.2.3, Piezo 1.6.0, Tinderbox 8.0.1, and Little Snitch 4.3.2.
Apple has released its new Apple TV app with the iOS 12.3 and tvOS 12.3 updates, while macOS 10.14.5 updates AirPlay 2 and fixes bugs and watchOS 5.2.1 brings ECG and heart rate monitoring to additional countries.
Managing Editor Josh Centers dropped Spotify after finding out the bizarre and user-hostile way the music-streaming service tries to ensure that family members live at the same address.
It has been over 18 months since Apple introduced the Do Not Disturb While Driving feature in iOS 11. Has it made a difference in the number of automobile crashes and, most importantly, fatalities related to distracted driving? Unfortunately, the answer is unsatisfying.
Reeder has long been a favorite among news junkies wanting an attractive, capable RSS reader. The just-released Reeder 4 for Mac and iOS provides several new interface and feature enhancements while preserving the program’s minimalist aesthetic.
Watchlist
Maintenance release for the screencast recording and video editing app focused on bug fixes. ($129 new, free update, 54.3 MB)
Improves the reliability of audio recording under heavy loads. ($19 new, free update, 8.8 MB)
Maintenance update to the recently upgraded note-taking assistant and information manager. ($249 new, free update, 34.5 MB)
Brings a variety of improvements and bug fixes to the network traffic management utility. ($45 new, free update, 39.0 MB)
