Federico is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of MacStories, where he writes about Apple with a focus on apps, developers, iPad, and iOS productivity. He founded MacStories in April 2009 and has been writing about Apple since. Federico is also the co-host of AppStories, a weekly podcast exploring the world of apps, Unwind, a fun exploration of media and more, and NPC: Next Portable Console, a show about portable gaming and the handheld revolution.
Editor’s Note: There are a couple of complex prompts and code blocks in this story that may not render perfectly in every email client. If you see something that seems off, please consult the web version here. This year’s research and writing process for my annual iOS and iPadOS review has been very different. Like...
This week, Federico and John discuss their annual OS reviews. Federico digs into the details of iOS and iPadOS 26, while John considers what macOS 26 Tahoe means for users.
On AppStories+, John updates listeners on what he bought after last week’s Apple event and why.
Widgetsmith: Make your phone your own with custom widgets and wallpapers. Ready for Liquid Glass in iOS 26. Use our link for a free month of Widgetsmith Premium.
Steamclock: We make great apps. Design and development, from demos to details.
This week, Federico and John do their annual pre-Apple event “vibe check,” discussing what they expect and hope to see at the upcoming September Apple event. They explore the rumored iPhone 17 lineup, AirPods Pro 3, and debate the Apple Watch Ultra. Plus, they share thoughts on the prospect of an Apple TV with Apple Intelligence capabilities, HomePods, and updates to AirTags.
On AppStories+, John and Federico explore the divisiveness surrounding the Liquid Glass update coming to macOS Tahoe.
Steamclock – We make great apps. Design and development, from demos to details.
Xsolla – ? Launch a high-performing branded Web Shop in minutes—or build a fully custom storefront without the hassle. Xsolla’s modular solution reduces platform fees, supports 1,000+ global payment methods, and ships with built-in LiveOps and customization tools—so every purchase puts more revenue back in your studio’s pocket.
This week, Federico and John pick and choose their favorite AI app features to imagine a better AI app future, critiquing the leading LLM apps along the way. And, as a bonus, John explains why read-later apps should support Shortcuts and other automation schemes.
On AppStories+, the critique continues with a look at how Todoist could be improved.
This week, Federico and John share their experiences with iPadOS and macOS 26, which are now available as part of Apple’s public beta program.
On AppStories+, Federico and John discuss the state of engagement bait posting about Apple and how it’s affecting the discourse about the company and its products.
Turbulence Forecast – Know before you go. Get detailed turbulence forecasts for your exact route, now available 5 days in advance. Learn more at turbulenceforecast.com.
Federico
John](https://cdn.macstories.net/banneras-1629219199428.png)
