Summary
Overview
This tech news roundup covers major developments from tech giants including Apple's strategic shifts with Mac Pro and iPhone launches, Microsoft's crackdown on Windows activation workarounds, signs of wobbling in the AI hype bubble with notable investor exits, and various updates on smart home security, Android app regulations, product recalls, and new gaming features from Netflix and Microsoft Teams.
Apple's Major Product Strategy Shifts
Apple is making significant changes to its product roadmap, putting the Mac Pro on indefinite hold while delaying iPhone launches. The company plans to release a new M5 Ultra chip exclusively for the Mac Studio in 2026, skipping the Mac Pro entirely. Additionally, Apple is breaking a 14-year tradition by pushing the iPhone Air 2 and iPhone 18 lineup launch to spring 2027, with reports suggesting this spring release window could become the new normal rather than an exception.
- Mac Pro won't see major upgrades in 2026, with Apple focusing M5 Ultra chip on Mac Studio instead
- iPhone Air 2 and iPhone 18 lineup delayed beyond 2026 to spring 2027, breaking 14-year tradition
- iPhone Air sales roughly matched Apple's expectations despite delay rumors
- Spring launch schedule could become the new normal for iPhones
" What is tech news if not billion-dollar corporations acting like confused raccoons in a dumpster full of ethernet cables? "
" Apple is really smart, and you shouldn't want a Mac Pro anyway. Just drink the Kool-Aid and enjoy the products. It's a revolutionary act. "
Microsoft Cracks Down on Windows Activation Workarounds
Microsoft has successfully shut down a major Windows activation workaround that pirates have used for years by implementing back-end changes that broke KMS-38-based activations. The crackdown affected users relying on the mass grave method to keep Windows 10 and Office running without payment, with deactivations occurring after devices received the latest extended security update. Even legitimate business Windows 10 users experienced problems, with some systems rolling back to previous builds after update installations.
- Microsoft broke KMS-38-based activations used by pirates for years through back-end changes
- Fake installations were deactivated after receiving extended security updates
- Some legitimate business Windows 10 users experienced systems rolling back to previous builds
" Even if you forgot about that sketchy ISO you got in 2017 Microsoft absolutely did not "
" Truly the send-off Windows 10 deserves. "
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