In many ways we are living in the future that science fiction has teased for years: An era of self-driving cars, planned space tourism, touch-based pocket computers (which we call smartphones) and flying cameras — better known as drones. And like smartphones, it has taken only a few years for drones to drop from “extremely pricey niche device” to “expensive …
5 things to consider before you buy a new MacBook
Apple’s newly updated MacBook line packs a lot punch in an ultra-thin (and ultra-sexy) case, making it a good choice for people who need the lightest laptop available but prefer a Mac with OS X to an iPad with iOS. That said, the MacBook’s form necessarily dictates some of its function. And with prices that start at $1,289, it overlaps with Apple’s …
Apple Watch, Year One: Good-looking tech, still flawed
When it comes to the Apple Watch, it’s important to know this: Before its arrival last year I was 1) initially skeptical about the whole concept; 2) willing to give it a try as details emerged; and 3) among the first wave of buyers to plunk down $599 and put it on my wrist. I’ve been loving and hating on it ever …
The iPhone SE: a classic design with modern hardware
I’ve learned in recent years that — when it comes to laptops, smartphones and tablets — bigger is better for my personal use and work. So spending time with latest round of Apple devices has been a bit odd, and a little nostalgic. Not long ago, 4-in. iPhones and 9.7-in. iPads were the high-end options in Apple’s mobile lineup. But …
Deep-dive review: For the iPad Pro, smaller is big
I’ve been an iPad user from 2010, when it first shipped; the 9.7-in. screen has been a hallmark of the iPad since it was introduced by then-CEO Steve Jobs. Since then, the screen has undergone numerous revisions and improvements, most notably, adopting the Retina display technology that first appeared on the iPhone. This latest model not only gets many of the …
Apple delivers a ‘significant’ update with iOS 9.3
iOS 9, the mobile OS that powers Apple’s iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, got a significant update Monday (when Apple also unveiled a new 4-in. iPhone and a 9.7-in. iPad Pro) with the arrival of iOS 9.3. The updated OS introduces several new features, including new 3D Touch shortcuts for existing system apps, Wi-Fi call support for Verizon customers, the ability to encrypt …
My Guest Appearance on Mingis on Tech
In this “cars n’ copters” edition of Mingis on Tech, Executive News Editor Ken Mingis sits down to talk drones with Contributing Writer Michael deAgonia and Detroit with Senior Writer Lucas Mearian. Drones are hot, hot, hot right now — witness the more than 181,000 units that have been registered with the FAA. Computerworld‘s resident drone reviewerdeAgonia explains why, covering the finer points …
Winging It With Two Camera Drones (Video)
As drones gain popularity, drone makers are looking to distinguish their devices from each other by adding features aimed at specific customers. Every generation of drones has become increasingly easier to fly, and offers more high-end features such as ultra high definition video and autonomous flight modes at lower prices. With modern drones, the technology needed to capture great photos …
In Depth: A month with the iPad Pro (w/video)
Imagine holding two iPad Air 2 tablets in your hands, side by side. If you could combine them into one tablet, you’d likely be more productive, right? That’s what using Apple’s new iPad Pro is like. When held in landscape mode, its 12.9-in. display offers the same screen real estate you’d get from two iPad Air 2s. Which means whether you’re editing a movie …
Hands on: A month with Apple’s 4K 21.5-in. iMac
Like many Apple products, the 21.5-in. iMac was refreshed just ahead of the holiday season, gaining a welcome Retina 4K display at the top of the model line-up. I’ve spent nearly a month with one of these iMacs and can tell you this is an amazing bargain if you’re looking for a desktop Mac while still keeping a close eye on …