The author advocates for Linux as a user-friendly, reliable alternative to commercial OSes like Windows and macOS, criticizing the latter's agenda-driven design, intrusive services, and hardware limitations. They highlight Linux's customization, hardware support, and independence from corporate control, while also discussing the challenges and frustrations with other operating systems and UI design trends.
OpenAI will retire the Voice feature in the ChatGPT macOS app on January 15, 2026, focusing instead on improving voice experiences across other platforms like iOS, Android, and Windows, likely due to architectural updates.
LightBuddy is a new customizable ring light app for Mac that creates a ring-light effect on the display, supporting HDR, color customization, and multi-display setups, and works on any Mac running macOS 14 or later, regardless of hardware architecture.
The article recommends five essential apps to install first on a new MacBook: Discord for communication, GIMP for image editing, Google Chrome for browsing, Steam for gaming, and VLC for media playback. The author also mentions using Macapps.link for easy app installation and emphasizes the importance of these tools for work and entertainment on a Mac.
Apple has released the macOS Tahoe 26.1 Release Candidate for developers and public beta testers, introducing under-the-hood improvements, new icons including a redesigned Macintosh HD and Apple TV, a toggle for Liquid Glass design options, and references to the second-generation Apple Pro Display XDR, with instructions on how to install the update.
Originally Published 2 months ago — by Hacker News
The article reflects on the decline in Apple's attention to detail and ecosystem cohesion, contrasting the past era of innovative, cohesive design and interoperability with the current state marked by increased features, less polish, and a more fragmented, web-influenced approach, raising concerns about the future of the Macintosh experience.
Apple's upcoming iOS and macOS 26.1 update introduces a toggle for Liquid Glass UI, allowing users to switch between a Clear and Tinted look to improve readability and contrast without altering the default aesthetic.
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Atlas, an AI-powered browser for macOS that integrates ChatGPT directly into the browsing experience, allowing users to interact with the chatbot while surfing the web, with plans to expand to other platforms soon.
Meta is discontinuing its Messenger desktop apps for Windows and macOS, with support ending in December, pushing users to use the web versions or other apps for messaging.
Apple has updated the Macintosh HD icon in the macOS 26.1 beta 3 to address user feedback, replacing the controversial design from earlier versions with a new one that more accurately resembles modern SSDs, though opinions on the change vary.
The base M5 MacBook Pro is expected to launch soon, while higher-end M5 Pro and M5 Max models are delayed until early 2026, with the release timing split due to different testing and macOS versions.
Logitech has launched the MX Master 4 mouse, featuring new haptic feedback for enhanced tactile control, a new Action Rings system for app-specific shortcuts, improved connectivity, and a more stain-resistant design, catering to professional users and Mac enthusiasts.
