Connected 546: Rumor Roundup, AI Doctor, and iOS 19 Features

Listener Follow-Up and Tech Terminology

• 💡 Federico's herb-stealing neighbor has moved, leading to a thriving balcony herb garden.
• 🗣️ New terminology for the rear camera array on iPhones has emerged: "camera turret" is now accepted, while "Mesa" and "plateau" are out.
• 🔬 Snell's Law, related to light refraction, is humorously confirmed to be named after Stephen.
• ⚠️ Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) on iOS 17.4+ have issues with video playback and device locking due to inactivity.
• 🪞 Meta Quest 3 avatars can slide due to perceived movement, similar to Vision Pro's travel mode issue when screen savers are active.

Macintosh and iPad Rumors

• 🚀 MacBook Pro models with M5 chips are expected in October 2025, followed by M5 MacBook Airs in early 2026, with annual spec bumps being appreciated.
• ✨ A more significant M6 chip refresh for MacBooks is anticipated in 2026, potentially featuring OLED displays and a thinner design, though concerns exist about losing the HDMI port.
• 📱 M5 iPad Pro models are also rumored for late 2025, maintaining the M4's thin design and OLED display, with M6 and a new Apple modem (C2) expected in 2027.
• 🤔 The utility of M5 spec bumps for iPadOS is questioned, with speculation that AI advancements or increased RAM might be the primary drivers.

Software Updates and AI

• ☀️ iOS 19's codename, "Solarium," hints at a UI that lets light in, potentially blending digital interfaces with physical surroundings, inspired by Vision OS.
• 👓 This contextual UI could be a testing ground for future AR glasses or smart home appliances.
• 🏥 Project Mulberry aims to create an AI health coach to "replicate your doctor," including food tracking and video explanations from physicians, though concerns about privacy and Apple's AI track record are raised.
• 🩺 While AI has potential in medicine for research and accessibility, replacing human doctors and Apple's current AI limitations make this a risky endeavor.
• 🍎 Recent software updates include iOS/iPadOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, tvOS 18.4, and watchOS 11.4, bringing Apple Intelligence to more languages, a new food channel in Apple News+, sketch style for Image Playground, and HomeKit support for Matter-enabled robot vacuums.

Listener Questions and Advice

• 🎙️ Stephen's "Pod Cabin" is a dedicated workspace, not a hangout spot, and lacks a mini-fridge due to size and noise concerns.
• 🧠 For habit formation, the best advice is internal conviction rather than relying on apps or trackers; start simple and be consistent.
• 🎶 A younger version of Stephen might podcast about Lego or emo music, while Federico's "innie" might explore debunking conspiracy theories.
• 📝 High-quality show notes are a hallmark of indie podcasts, driven by a passion for providing listeners with comprehensive information, unlike some larger productions.