Apple’s fixed a serious OS X security flaw, but only for Yosemite users
There are times in life when you wonder what it is that you’ve done to deserve such neglect from those you hold dear. It’s a feeling that plenty of Mac users will be experiencing today as Apple has announced that it found a serious security flaw in OS X, but will only fix it for users of the latest version. If you aren’t running Yosemite, which was updated yesterday with the relevant patch, then you’d better get it, and quick.
The long story here is that the flaw enables nefarious types to get root access to your system by exploiting a backdoor API in the system preferences app. Essentially, this enables any hacker to make themselves the administrator of your computer, with all of the terrible consequences that come with it.
The flaw was discovered by security researcher Emil Kvarnhammar at TrueSec back in October, but has actually existed since at least 2011. According to AppleInsider, Apple has declined to make the fix work for Mavericks and Mountain Lion users because of the “complexity of the fix.”
Did we mention that you should probably get onto the Yosemite bandwagon right now? Because that’s something you should be doing right now. It’s still free, you know.
Filed under: Desktops, Laptops, Software, Apple
Via: Apple Insider
Apple Watch Sold Out in Less Than 6 Hours as Shipping Times Slip on All Models
Apple has officially sold out of Apple Watch stock to be delivered within the April 24 launch day timeframe, as shipping times for all models have slipped to 4-6 weeks or later less than 6 hours after pre-orders started at 12:01 AM Pacific today. Apple Watch Sport models were the first to sell out, with delivery estimates shifting to 4-6 weeks, and then June, on the Apple Online Store in the United States.
The stainless steel Apple Watch retained fairly better shipping estimates after the pre-order window opened, with most models available to ship in 4-6 weeks after the first hour of availability. The 38mm Stainless Steel Apple Watch with Black Classic Buckle was the last model to maintain its original April 24th to May 8th shipping time, finally slipping at approximately 6 AM Pacific.
It appears that prospective buyers of the Apple Watch Edition will have a difficult time getting their hands on the 18-karat gold watch before summer, as shipping estimates for those models slipped to June-August almost immediately after pre-orders became available. Apple Watch Edition stock will also be limited to select Apple Stores in the United States and other launch countries.
Apple confirmed on Thursday that it expected Apple Watch demand to exceed supply upon launch, although it is unknown how many devices the company made available for pre-orders. Multiple reports in recent weeks claimed that Apple Watch stock would be limited at launch, possibly due to manufacturing delays or, as some critics suggest, an attempt to generate artificial hype for the wrist-worn device.
Many Apple Stores Not Carrying Retina MacBook Stock on Launch Day
A significant number of users have turned to Twitter and other social networks to voice their frustration that Retina MacBook in-store stock and display models at many Apple Stores in the United States and other launch countries are nowhere to be found. MacRumors has independently confirmed that the Retina MacBook will be limited to online purchases in many locations around the world.
It looks like Apple Stores are NOT stocking Retina MacBooks today. pic.twitter.com/VhXIYJlVc6
— Andrew Kunesh (@andrewkunesh) April 10, 2015
A spot check of several Apple Stores in the United States, Canada and United Kingdom resulted in us being given the same response about Retina MacBook stock being unavailable at each location, at least on launch day. April 10 is already an eventful day for Apple as Apple Watch pre-orders and in-store try-on appointments became available at 12:01 AM Pacific, so it is possible the MacBook is not a priority right now.
Retina MacBook shipping times also slipped especially quick out of the gate, with custom configured models available to ship in 3-4 weeks from the moment orders became available, and gold stock models following shortly thereafter. Apple’s new 12-inch MacBook starts at $1,299 and features an ultra-thin design, one USB-C port, redesigned keyboard with an all-new butterfly mechanism, Force Touch trackpad, fanless architecture and all-day battery life.
Apple Watch Out-of-Warranty Service Fees Range From $229 to $2,800
Apple has disclosed that it will charge an out-of-warranty service fee of $229, $329 and $2,800 for the Sport, Watch and Edition models respectively for repairs not covered by Apple’s limited one-year warranty or AppleCare+ extended coverage plans. Out-of-warranty battery service is also available for $79 plus an applicable $6.95 shipping charge if required for all Apple Watch models.
The prices listed are based on official service through Apple in the United States, with pricing and terms varying for service through an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Apple will not repair an Apple Watch under certain circumstances, such as if the device is broken into multiple pieces, and did not provide pricing information for other accessories or peripherals.
Apple will be providing out-of-warranty service for the Apple Watch in all nine first wave launch countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan and United Kingdom. Service charges vary based on local currencies, with out-of-warranty fees costing, for example, a higher $299, $419 and $3,599 for the Sport, Watch and Edition models respectively in Canada.
Apple will also be offering Express Replacement service for the Apple Watch for customers that purchase an AppleCare+ for Apple Watch plan. When requested, Apple will send you packaging to return an Apple Watch in for repair or service, and ship out a replacement unit approximately two to three business days. Apple ensures that the replacement will be the same model you originally bought and new or equivalent in performance and reliability.
Express Replacement service pricing for the Apple Watch costs $300 to $350 for the Apple Watch Sport, $500 to $600 for the stainless steel Apple Watch and $8000 to $10,000 for Apple Watch Edition based on 38mm or 42mm case sizing. Apple will charge a late or non-return fee of $35.50 to $60.50 (Sport), $85.50 to $135.50 (Watch) or $2,600 to $3,600 (Edition) if Apple does not receive your original Apple Watch after more than 10 business days, with some exceptions.
New Retina MacBook Now Available to Order on Apple’s Online Store
Along with accepting pre-orders for the Apple Watch, Apple has also begun accepting orders for the new 12-inch Retina MacBook through its online store. Orders are available through the website and through the Apple Store app.
Shipping estimates for most pre-configured MacBook models are currently at one to three days, while custom configurations will ship in three to four weeks. Shipping estimates for the high-end gold MacBook have slipped to three to four weeks.
The 12-inch Retina MacBook features Apple’s latest technology, with an ultra thin chassis that’s 0.31mm thick (a half-inch), a Retina display, a Force Touch trackpad that enables a range of new gestures, a thinner keyboard with larger keys stabilized by a new butterfly design, a single USB-C port, and a low-power Core M processor that lets it operate without a fan for silent performance.
Reviews of the new MacBook came out on Thursday morning and are worth a read before purchasing the new MacBook. Many reviewers have compared it to the first-generation MacBook Air, praising its cutting-edge design while highlighting some of the performance compromises compared to the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro.
The machine’s Core M processor lags behind the more powerful Intel-based processors available in Apple’s other notebooks, but it runs all modern apps (including those like Photoshop and Final Cut Pro). It is, however, noticeably slower, which may be a concern for users who use system intensive tasks on a regular basis. For day to day use, many reviewers found it more than adequate, but there was a general consensus suggesting that it’s somewhat impractical in its current incarnation, given the price to performance ratio.
The Retina MacBook is available in three colors: Silver, Gold, and Space Gray. It’s available in two configurations at two price points. The entry-level model ships with a 1.1GHz processor, 8GB of memory, Intel Graphics 5300 HD, and 256GB of flash storage for $1,299. The higher-end model includes a 1.2GHz processor, 8GB of memory, Intel Graphics 5300 HD, and 512GB of flash storage for $1,599.
Both models offer an optional processor upgrade, boosting the 1.1GHz processor to 1.2 or 1.3GHz, and boosting the 1.2GHz processor to 1.3GHz.
Official Retail Box for Apple Watch Edition Revealed [iOS Blog]
Apple started accepting Apple Watch pre-orders at 12:01 AM Pacific today, and official retail packaging for the 18-karat gold Edition model is now beginning to appear on social media. Instagram user Iris Decreus shared the picture below of an Apple Watch Edition next to its suede box, which has a premium look compared to the regular packaging for the Apple Watch Sport and stainless steel Apple Watch.
Apple Watch pre-orders and try-on appointments began today ahead of the wrist-worn device’s release on April 24 in the United States, Australia, Canada, China, Germany, France, Hong Kong, Japan and China. Apple Watch shipping times quickly slipped to 4-6 weeks or later after pre-orders became available, and the Apple Watch Edition and certain other models are not available to ship until at least June based on current estimates.
Apple Watch Now Available for Pre-Order Through Apple’s Online Store
Apple has begun accepting online pre-orders for the Apple Watch in the United States and other first wave launch countries, including the U.K, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, and Japan.
Orders can be placed through Apple’s online store or through the Apple Store app on iOS devices. Supplies are expected to be limited, so customers interested in April 24 delivery dates should order as soon as possible.
Shipping estimates for Apple Watch models were as follows at launch, but are slipping rapidly:
– Apple Watch Sport: Delivers 4/24-5/8
– Apple Watch with Sport Band: Delivers 4/24-5/8
– Apple Watch with Classic Buckle: Delivers 4/24-5/8
– Apple Watch with Milanese Loop: Delivers 4/24-5/8
– Apple Watch with Leather Loop: Available to ship 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Modern Buckle: Available to ship 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Link Bracelet: Stainless steel 4-6 weeks, Space Gray June
– Apple Watch Edition: Available to ship May
The Apple Watch will officially launch on April 24, which is the same date that some customers will begin receiving their devices at their homes. Pre-ordering is recommended, as Apple will not be accepting walk-in orders for the Apple Watch during the first weeks following launch. All orders must be placed online.
AppleCare+ is available for the Apple Watch, and is priced at $49 for the Sport models, $69 for the stainless steel models, and $1,500 for the gold Apple Watch Edition models. There’s also a combined AppleCare+ option for the iPhone and the Apple Watch, priced at $149 for Apple Watch Sport, $169 for the stainless steel Apple Watch, and $1,600 for the gold Apple Watch Edition. Combined AppleCare+ can be purchased up to six months after an iPhone purchase.
AppleCare+ service fees for accidental damage are priced at $69 for the Apple Watch Sport, $79 for the stainless steel Apple Watch, and $1,000 for the Apple Watch Edition.
Apple is also selling standalone bands that can be purchased alongside the Apple Watch, and most band orders will ship in May. Modern Buckle bands are unavailable, and Milanese Loop, Link Bracelet, and Leather Loop ship in two to four weeks.
Apple is also accepting try-on appointments in its retail stores beginning today, giving users a chance to see the watch before placing an online pre-order. Appointments for models besides the Apple Watch Edition will last for approximately 15 minutes and will give customers an opportunity to try on multiple devices. We’ve written a post covering what to expect at your try-on appointment, which is worth checking out before you visit an Apple Store. Try-on appointments can be scheduled through Apple’s concierge service, both online and in the Apple Store app. The try-on appointment system is currently experiencing difficulties and may be down for some users.
Apple Watch pricing begins at $349 for the entry-level aluminum Sport model, $549 for the stainless steel Apple Watch, and $10,000 for the gold Apple Watch Edition. All three models can be ordered from the online store beginning now.
AppleCare+ for Apple Watch Priced at $49/$69/$1500, Combo Plans With iPhone $100 More
Apple began accepting Apple Watch pre-orders at 12:01 AM Pacific today and disclosed further AppleCare+ pricing details for the wrist-worn in the process. AppleCare+ for Apple Watch plans cost $49, $59 and $1,500 for the Sport, Watch and Edition models respectively, while accidental damage coverage is subject to an additional service charge of $69 for Sport, $79 for Watch and $1,000 for Edition.
Apple is also offering AppleCare+ combo plans that cover both an Apple Watch and iPhone for a combined price of $149 (Apple Watch Sport and iPhone), $169 (Apple Watch and iPhone) and $1,600 (Apple Watch Edition and iPhone). These plans are likely offered for convenience purposes only, as they only cost one dollar less than purchasing AppleCare+ for Apple Watch and iPhone separately.
One potential benefit of purchasing an AppleCare+ combo plan for Apple Watch and iPhone is that Apple appears to be covering undamaged iPhones that are up to six months old. Apple’s standalone AppleCare+ for iPhone plan requires that customers purchase the warranty plan within 60 days of buying an iPhone. You are still required to add an iPhone to the AppleCare+ combo plan within 60 days of buying the coverage.
AppleCare+ extends an Apple Watch’s warranty coverage to two years from the date of purchase for the Sport and Watch, and three years for Edition, and provides accidental damage coverage for up to two incidents. Without AppleCare+, purchases of the Apple Watch Sport and the stainless steel Apple Watch will be covered by a limited one-year warranty for hardware repairs and 90 days of complimentary support.
Apple Watch and MacBook pre-orders are open
Apple’s Watch is now on pre-order at Apple’s Store, but unlike Katy Perry, you’re going to have to wait until at least April 24th to get one. If you don’t want to wait a lot longer than that, you should probably order one sooner than later, and you may have to settle for a model you didn’t have your heart set on. Apple said that it expects “strong customer demand will exceed our supply at launch,” and information on the Apple Store backs that up. For instance, the 38mm sport model is shipping between April 24th and May 8th, but the 42mm model isn’t going out until May 8th at the earliest.
Nevertheless, some folks are reporting that the ordering process was smooth, and if you’re so inclined, you can grab up to two of them. If you choose to go ahead and not buy a $350-minimum fashion item sight-unseen, you can head to an Apple Store, even though you won’t be able to order it there. Should you take that option and risk a later delivery date, Apple recommends using its concierge service to book an appointment. Another option to try one out is to visit three department store pop-up shops in Tokyo, London and Paris.
If you’re more interested in a new laptop than a watch, the retina-screened MacBook is also up for grabs. There’s no issues about buying that model, which is showing ship times of 1-3 days. The only downside? The price for that lack of weight and a retina screen is a princely $1,299 – $1,599.
Apple Watch Pre-Order Shipping Estimates Slipping Rapidly
Apple Watch pre-orders began at 12:01 AM Pacific Time in first wave launch countries, and models available for delivery on April 24 quickly sold out. Apple Store shipping estimates for new orders of the Apple Watch have slipped to 4 to 6 weeks for many models that were originally listed with 4/24 to 5/8 shipping dates.
Some Apple Watch models started out with 4 to 6 week delivery estimates, including the stainless steel Apple Watches with Modern Buckle and Leather Loop bands. Stainless steel Apple Watch models with Link Bracelets had a June delivery date at launch, while Apple Watch Edition models listed May delivery dates.
Shipping estimates are now as follows and will likely slip even further as orders come in:
– Apple Watch Sport White 38mm: Delivers 4/24 to 5/8
– Apple Watch Sport White 42mm: June
– Apple Watch Sport Blue 38mm: Delivers 4/24 to 5/8
– Apple Watch Sport Blue 42mm: June
– Apple Watch Sport Green 38mm: Delivers 4/24 to 5/8
– Apple Watch Sport Green 42mm: June
– Apple Watch Sport Pink 38mm: 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch Sport Pink 42mm: June
– Apple Watch Sport Space Gray 38mm: 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch Sport Space Gray 42mm: June
– Apple Watch with Sport Band: 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Classic Buckle: Delivers 4/24 to 5/8
– Apple Watch with Milanese Loop: 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Leather Loop: 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Modern Buckle (Brown): 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Modern Buckle (Black): 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Modern Buckle (Soft Pink): June
– Apple Watch with Modern Buckle (Blue): June
– Apple Watch with Link Bracelet Stainless Steel: 4-6 weeks
– Apple Watch with Link Bracelet Space Gray: June
– Apple Watch Edition Rose Gold: July
– Apple Watch Edition Yellow Gold: August
Just hours ahead of Apple Watch pre-orders, Apple made the unprecedented move of announcing restricted supplies. In a press release, Apple retail chief Angela Ahrendts warned potential customers that Apple expects “strong customer demand” to “exceed our supply at launch.”
Because supplies are limited, all Apple Watch orders must be placed online. Apple does not plan to accept walk-in orders of the Apple Watch in the early weeks after launch, so customers planning to purchase a watch should order as soon as possible.
Wait times will only grow longer as people attend try-on appointments in retail stores and place pre-orders. Try-on appointments begin today, giving customers a chance to test and wear the Apple Watch ahead of its April 24 launch. Customers who already placed early orders for the Apple Watch will see April 24 delivery dates for some models, while customers who order today will need to wait several weeks to get their new Apple Watch devices.
Try-on appointments can be scheduled through Apple’s concierge service, both online and in the Apple Store app. The try-on appointment system is currently experiencing difficulties and may be down for some users.
AIVAnet 