AirPods Max 2 are ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

When I reviewed the original AirPods Max, I loved the way they sounded, but couldn’t justify the $549 price tag.

After Apple finally upgraded its high-end headphones, Cult of Mac writer D. Griffin Jones put on a pair and experienced Apple’s premium audio magic for the first time. Read his AirPods Max 2 review to see what’s changed, what hasn’t, and if the new cans are right for you.

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

Apple celebrated its 50th birthday this week. To mark the occasion, we put together a roundup of the most important events in each year of Apple’s existence (there’s a video version as well).
The anniversary caused Cult of Mac staffers to revisit their first experiences with Apple gear.
We also looked ahead at how Apple might transform tech again over the next five decades.
Check out these setups with exemplary cable management and see how yours compares.
We reviewed a clever, clamp-on power strip (which can help with that cable management) this week, as well as a fantastic MagSafe power bank that’s shockingly thin.
Looking for something to stream this weekend? Avoid these Apple TV stinkers!
And finally, get out your credit card and take a gander at our collection of the best Apple accessories that look like vintage Apple gear.

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Feature story

AirPods Max 2 are gorgeous, dreamy headphones — for now [Review]

You don’t need to be a big audiophile to love AirPods Max 2. But you must be a little bold to buy them yourself. An AirPods Max 2 review.

A message from Cytonics

Why Pro Athletes Put Seven Figures Into This Medical Breakthrough

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How-tos

Make an Apple Music playlist automatically with Playlist Playground

Making a custom Apple Music playlist is a great way to set the mood for a party, road trip or whatever. Playlist Playground makes it easy.

Apple rolls out AirTag update with stronger antistalking protection

AirTag users will want the latest firmware for the item tracker. Here’s everything you can do to get it, and then be sure it’s installed.

Get organized with advanced features in Notes and Reminders

I have a bunch of pro tips to help you organize the Notes and Reminders piling up in your iPhone. Apple has added tons of powerful features.

A message from Hubspot

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News

The most important Apple announcement every year, from 1976 to 2026

Here’s a breezy rundown of the single biggest piece of Apple news from every year of the past five decades. (There’s also an eight-minute video.)

Plus, more on Apple’s 50th birthday:

Apple's next 50 years: Reshaping computing again

Look ahead into Apple's future for the next 50 years. Here's the technology advancements we'll see ... and the ones we won't.

Apple releases critical iOS 18 update for iPhones that didn’t upgrade

It patches the dangerous security hack DarkSword on iPhones not yet running iOS 26.

Plus, more on Apple software:

Apple cheaped out on the iPad charger: Best options for upgrading

Here's why Apple's iPad charger is a bit rubbish — it's way underpowered for the job. There are much better options.

Deals

When you're about to hop on public Wi-Fi, do this before logging in

Lock down your devices with a VPN and a password manager with the FastestVPN & Security Lifetime Bundle for just $39.99.

Plus, more software from Cult of Mac Deals:

Cut the cable from your CarPlay life with this tiny wireless adapter

Plug in this Mini Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto Adapter and your phone wirelessly connects automatically, every time you start the car.

This $20 bundle teaches you the career skills you need to succeed

The Job-Ready Advantage: Career Prep & Soft Skills Bundle courses teach you to communicate better, interview smarter and land jobs.

Reviews

Super-slim MagSafe power bank is the best I've ever used [Review]

The BMX SolidSafe Air is the world’s slimmest semi-solid-state iPhone power bank. We go hands-on ... and fall in love.

Viewer beware: Worst-rated Apple TV shows and movies

Despite its reputation for quality hits, Apple TV swings and misses sometimes.

This power strip clamps onto your desk and won't let go [Review]

Attach six electrical outlets and four USB ports to your desk with this accessory.

Best retro Apple accessories for tapping that vintage vibe

As Apple marks 50 years in business, these are some of the best vintage-inspired Apple accessories.

Setups

Top 8 clean setups: Great cable management pays off

Untangling cord spaghetti may seem tedious, but the result? Glorious. Take tips from the best cable management we've seen in setups.