DiscoverMac OS KenCheaper MacBooks and Pricier iPhones? (Repost) MOSK: 08.14.2025
Cheaper MacBooks and Pricier iPhones? (Repost) MOSK: 08.14.2025

Cheaper MacBooks and Pricier iPhones? (Repost) MOSK: 08.14.2025

Update: 2025-08-14
Share

Digest

This podcast discusses several key tech updates. Rumors suggest a $50 price increase for the iPhone 17 Pro, potentially justified by doubled storage. A new, budget-friendly MacBook priced between $599-$699 is also speculated, possibly featuring an A18 Pro chip. Apple is reportedly testing Daoyin Pay, a mobile payment system linked to TikTok's Chinese counterpart, within its China App Store. The Netflix app for Apple TV has received a significant interface redesign, improving navigation and information display. Finally, Spike Lee's new film, "Highest to Lowest," starring Denzel Washington, is premiering with positive early reviews (92% on Rotten Tomatoes). The podcast analyzes the market implications of these price points and updates.

Outlines

00:00:08
iPhone 17 Pro Price Hike and Cheaper MacBooks

Rumors suggest a $50 price increase for the iPhone 17 Pro, potentially offset by doubled storage. Speculation also points to a $599-$699 MacBook, potentially using an A18 Pro chip. The podcast discusses the market implications of these price points.

00:06:44
New Apple Payment Method in China and Netflix Update

Apple is reportedly testing Daoyin Pay, a mobile payment service linked to TikTok's Chinese counterpart, in the China App Store. Additionally, the Netflix app for Apple TV has finally received a redesigned interface.

00:08:57
Spike Lee's "Highest to Lowest" Premieres

Spike Lee's new film, "Highest to Lowest," starring Denzel Washington, is getting a limited theatrical release before its Apple TV+ premiere. Early reviews are positive, with a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Keywords

iPhone 17 Pro


Upcoming iPhone model; rumored price increase to potentially $1049 due to increased storage.

MacBook


Rumored low-cost MacBook; speculation points to a $599-$699 price point, 12.9-inch display, and A18 processor.

Daoyin Pay


Mobile payment service from ByteDance (TikTok's parent company), being tested for integration into Apple's China App Store.

Netflix Apple TV App


Redesigned Netflix app for Apple TV with improved navigation and program information.

Highest to Lowest


Spike Lee's new film starring Denzel Washington; receiving positive early reviews (92% on Rotten Tomatoes).

Apple


Technology company; news about their products and services.

Q&A

  • What are the potential reasons for the rumored iPhone 17 Pro price increase?

    Rising component costs and tariffs on Chinese imports are cited as potential causes.

  • What is the potential market impact of a $599 MacBook?

    Potentially appealing to budget-conscious consumers and the education market, but its impact is debated considering cheaper Chromebook alternatives.

  • How does the new Netflix interface on Apple TV improve the user experience?

    The redesign replaces sidebar navigation with a top navigation bar, offers more detailed program info, and integrates better with the Apple TV's Siri remote.

  • What is the critical reception of Spike Lee's "Highest to Lowest"?

    Early reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Show Notes

- Rumor: iPhone 17 Could Cost More (But Come with More Storage) - Considering $599 MacBook Possibilities - Report: Apple Testing Support for ByteDance-Owned Douyin Pay in China - Netflix v3.0 Finally Makes it to Apple TV - Early Reviews Give "Highest 2 Lowest" 92% on Rotten Tomatoes - Checking in on the Saint Paul cyberattack plus an upcoming tweak to the iPhone and iPad Wi-Fi picker on Checklist No. 435 - Find it today at checklist.libsyn.com - Catch Ken on Mastodon - @macosken@mastodon.social - Send Ken an email: info@macosken.com - Chat with us on Patreon for as little as $1 a month. Support the show at Patreon.com/macosken
Comments 

Table of contents

00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

Cheaper MacBooks and Pricier iPhones? (Repost) MOSK: 08.14.2025

Cheaper MacBooks and Pricier iPhones? (Repost) MOSK: 08.14.2025

Ken Ray