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Good riddance to Google

Good riddance to Google

Why Google "monopolist" ruling is good new for Apple users.

Leander Kahney
August 06, 2024

On Monday, a U.S. federal judge issued a blockbuster ruling that declared Google an illegal monopolist in the online search business.

The ruling is set to have massive implications not just for Google, but also for Apple and Apple users.

The judge’s ruling stems directly from the billions of dollars Google pays to Apple to be the default search engine in Safari on hundreds of millions of devices. (Google also pays others like Mozilla for prime placement, but Apple’s the key partner here.)

It’s a lucrative arrangement for both Apple and Google. But it’s a sleazy deal that undermines Apple’s moral standing and should have been ditched years ago.

Also in today’s newsletter:

Check out all the changes in the latest iOS 18 beta. In addition to major tweaks to the much-hated Photos app, there’s a flashy new feature called “Distraction Control,” which disappears online distractions. It’s already been dubbed “Thanos mode” because of its Snap-like disappearing animations, but it’s more than a regular ad blocker.
I just introduced my mom to StandBy mode, and it’s now one of her favorite iPhone features. Here’s how to get the max out of StandBy.
NBA legend Sean Elliott kept getting heart warnings on his Apple Watch. He initially ignored them because he felt fine, but luckily decided to get his ticker checked. It likely saved his life.
Today’s the day in Apple history that archenemy Microsoft bailed out Cupertino. It made Bill Gates look good for once, although he still got booed at Macworld Boston when the deal was announced.

— Leander Kahney, EIC.

Why Apple's dodgy deal with Google should have ended years ago

A deal with Google that made a mockery of Apple's privacy promises is coming to an end. It should have never been made.

Paying Apple to be Safari default search engine makes Google a 'monopolist'

A judge rules that "Google is a monopolist." Learn more about this antitrust case and its implications for Apple.

iOS 18 beta 5: All the new features and changes

iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 beta 5 bring several changes and enhancements. Here's a roundup of all the changes in the latest beta builds.

^{A message from the Cult of Mac Deals team}

Shop iPad mini models at lowest-ever prices

Head to Amazon to grab the lowest prices on iPad mini 6 models. It's the biggest sale on the tablets since Prime Day.

Apple's new Distraction Control in Safari is not an ad blocker

Safari Distraction Control in iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia lets you remove irritations from web pages. But it's not an ad blocker.

NBA legend learns to heed Apple Watch heart warnings

Apple Watch AFib warnings are not to be ignored. NBA star and commentator Sean Elliott found that out recently.

^{A message from the Cult of Mac Deals team}

This $20 LED speaker is perfect for kids

Keep your kid entertained with this affordable wireless speaker. The Waloo Mini LED Base Bluetooth Speaker comes with its own light show.

‘NFL Retro Bowl '25’ plus 2 more titles rush Apple Arcade

New Apple Arcade games in September: retro-style simulation "NFL Retro Bowl '25" plus "Monster Train+" and "Puzzle Sculpt."

Use your AI-generated virtual twin to create videos quickly and easily

Create videos quickly and easily without acting. Use AI avatar generator X-Me to create a virtual rep you can use in videos.

How to turn your iPhone into a smart display with StandBy

One of the coolest features in iOS 17, StandBy mode turns your iPhone into a smart display on your nightstand, at your desk or in the kitchen.

Today in Apple history: Microsoft throws Apple a $150 million lifeline

On August 6, 1997, Steve Jobs revealed a $150 million Microsoft investment in Apple. The controversial cash infusion saved Cupertino.

Tweets of the day

This is my iPhone 15 Pro Max…. full story next CultCast
— Erfon Elijah (@erfon)
4:18 AM • Aug 6, 2024

This might sound crazy but I think I’ve found my ideal Apple Vision Pro setup: both the ANNAPRO strap and the Air Cover, with Apple’s Solo Knit Band, no light seal.
— Dylan (@DylanMcD8)
3:53 AM • Aug 6, 2024

Apple Makes a Surprise Appearance at the Paris Olympics with this UNEXPECTED Campaign. 🤯‼️
Here's why it's a BIG deal. 👇🏽
— Nikias Molina (@NikiasMolina)
10:50 AM • Aug 6, 2024

Wallpaper of the day

Grand Canyon National Park In Arizona, USA 🇺🇸
— National Parks (@onationalparks)
9:05 PM • Aug 5, 2024

One more thing ...

❝

There needs to be someone who is sort of the keeper and reiterator of the vision. It really helps if there's someone saying, “We're one step closer, the goal definitely exists, it's not a mirage.” The vision needs to be reiterated. I do that a lot.

— Steve Jobs, 1985.

Today’s poll

Will Safari users be better off without Google as the default search?

Results from yesterday’s poll: Would you give an Apple Watch SE to a kid?

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