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Introduction

It’s been a mixed week for Apple, with both positive and negative news. In this episode, we’ll dive into Devindra’s review of the M4-equipped MacBook Air and briefly discuss the new Mac Studio. We’ll also talk about Apple’s surprise announcement that it’s delaying its smarter, AI-infused Siri, which may not arrive until next year. Did Apple over-promise last year, or is it wise to hold off on advanced AI features until they’re ready?

MacBook Air M4 Review

Devindra recently reviewed the MacBook Air M4, and it’s a great computer. The M4 chip is less than 20% faster than the M3, and it has a lower starting price, which is a great deal. The battery life is also excellent. Cherlynn agrees that the review is straightforward, and the fact that it’s a lower starting price is a significant advantage. However, she notes that the screen tech and webcam are also improvements on this model compared to the older M1 model.

Apple’s Delayed Siri

Apple announced that it’s delaying its smarter, AI-infused Siri, which was shown off at WWDC. The company gave an on-the-record statement to John Gruber, saying that it’s going to take longer than expected to deliver on these features and that they anticipate them rolling out in the coming year. Cherlynn thinks that Siri has historically been one of the less smart assistants, and Apple may need to tap into the help of open AI or Google to make it better.

Microsoft’s Xbox Handheld

There are rumors that Microsoft’s Xbox handheld could come out at the end of the year, and it might not be built by Microsoft. Devindra thinks that’s not a bad idea, as long as it has access to Game Pass and is priced decently. Ben notes that the next-generation consoles are targeted for 2027, which is only two years away, and they might feel more like Windows PCs.

Other News

There have been widespread protests around the country against Tesla, and Elon Musk has been responding to them. Donald Trump has also gotten involved, buying a Tesla and promoting it on social media. Devindra thinks that the situation is disgusting and that Trump is acting like a used car salesman. There’s also news about researchers saying that Musk’s explanation for X being down for a day is not believable, and a book coming out from a former Facebook executive that Meta is trying to stop.

What We’re Working On

Devindra is testing the Ryzen 9950 X3D chip and working on a review. Cherlynn is digging herself out of a pile of Apple reviews and other coverage. Ben is working on a review of the Eero Pro 7 router, which has good performance but requires a monthly subscription for basic features.

Pop Culture Picks

Cherlynn recommends the app Finch, which is a self-care and mental health app that helps you take care of yourself by taking care of a virtual pet. Devindra is catching up on Severance and recommends it, as well as the new film Mickey 17 by Bong Joon Ho.

Outro

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Engadget Podcast. Our theme music is by Dale North, and our outro music is by Terrence O’Brien. The podcast is produced by Ben Ellman. You can find Devindra online at @devindra on Twitter, and Cherlynn at @cherlynnlow on Instagram. Email us your thoughts about the show at podcast@engadget.com, and leave us a review wherever you’re listening.


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