Just how good is Apple's M5?

The M5 chip that hums inside Apple’s latest Pro devices packs a wallop, boosting performance while increasing efficiency.

Shocking, I know. It’s not like each new version of Apple silicon does that every … single … time.

Still, despite what you might’ve heard, the new M5-powered devices — MacBook Pro, iPad Pro and Vision Pro — are more than simple “chip and ship” upgrades.

Read our MacBook Pro and iPad Pro reviews, or watch The CultCast for our first impressions of the Vision Pro, to find out what makes each of these new devices special.

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

Need to unsend or edit a text message you just fired off? This tip could spare you some embarrassment.
We recently polled readers of Cult of Mac Today, our free daily newsletter, about Apple’s controversial Liquid Glass user interface. Turns out they love it!
If you’re a fan of slick setups, or just want some inspiration on how to make your workstation work for you, don’t miss our roundup of 10 awesome Mac mini setups.
It sounds like the super-slim iPhone Air is a gorgeous flop.
And finally, to scratch your weekend shopping itch, check out these incredible deals on MacBook Airs and iMacs. (Or bag yourself an iPhone power bank that doubles as a retro gaming console.)

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Featured reviews

M5 iPad Pro review: What’s actually new — and worth your attention

Seven specific features make the M5 iPad Pro far better than earlier models. Our review proves it’s more than a “chip and ship” upgrade.

Don't call it boring. M5 MacBook Pro gets a lot right. [Review]

Our hands-on M5 MacBook Pro review finds it overly familiar -- and also the best iteration of a base model laptop Apple has produced.

M5 Vision Pro's killer feature is ... [The CultCast]

This week on Cult of Mac's podcast: Griffin gets his hands on the new M5 Vision Pro and shares his first impressions.

How-tos

Split View is still in iPadOS 26 — here’s how to use it

Apple kept Split View side-by-side multitasking in iPadOS 26, despite what you might have read online. And setting it up is as easy as a couple of flicks

How to unsend iPhone messages to avoid blowing up your life

The ability to edit or unsend iMessages on your iPhone could come in clutch. Thankfully, it’s easy to rewrite history in iMessage.

Safety tip: Make your iPhone alert you to breaking glass, smoke alarms and other dangers

With Sound Recognition, you can get a prominent alarm and a buzz on your Apple Watch or iPhone when your phone hears the sounds you choose.

How to hide apps on your iPhone and iPad

Find out how to hide apps on iPhone, plus how to lock them behind Face ID. This hidden feature makes extreme privacy easier than ever.

News

What controversy? Cult of Mac readers love Apple’s Liquid Glass.

Despite the criticism you might have read online, there’s plenty of love for the iPhone’s new Liquid Glass user interface.

Even Apple realizes a $3,000 foldable iPad is sheer lunacy

Apple’s effort to push its tablet lineup to the cutting edge with a folding iPad reportedly runs into multiple snags.

Plus, more Apple rumors:

iPhone Air flop proves Apple should make fewer phone models

While the iPhone Air is a beautiful, Apple makes more handsets than customers are interested in. It’s time to pare down the list.

New Apple TV trailer sucks you deeper into freaky, funny world of ‘Pluribus’

Time for another trailer for "Pluribus" season 1 from Vince Gilligan of "X-Files" and "Breaking Bad" fame. And it's the weirdest one yet.

Plus, more Apple TV news:

Deals

New deal drops latest MacBook Air to just $849.99

The M4 MacBook Air is Apple’s best notebook for most people. It’s already affordable, and a deal knocks 15% off the price.

Plus, more deals on Apple gear:

Score a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2021 for Mac for just $60

Get a Microsoft Office for Mac lifetime license (2021 Home and Business edition), with essential productivity apps Word, Excel and more.

Plus, more software and services from Cult of Mac Deals:

Play 1,500 retro games and charge your phone with this hybrid gadget

The PowerBoy 2-in-1 retro game console and power bank is built for players.

Reviews and buying guides

5 best Sennheiser earbuds for iPhone users

When it comes to Sennheiser earbuds, you're spoiled for choice from budget to sporty to audiophile.

Ugreen MagFlow Qi2.2 charger tops up iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch fast [Review]

Our hands-on Ugreen MagFlow 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charger review finds speed, convenience and a hassle or two.

This brilliant Bluetooth travel keyboard/stand works with any iPad [Review]

The Satechi OntheGo Bluetooth Keyboard with Stand works with all the current iPad models and probably every future one. We go hands-on.

Setups

Top 10 mighty Mac mini workstations

Into Mac mini setups? Lucky you. The little powerhouse is one of the best desktop computers you can buy. Check out our top 10 looks.