MacBreak Weekly 961: Put A Handle On It
Released on February 26, 2025
Host: Leo Laporte | Panelists: Andy Ihnatko, Jason Snell, Alex Lindsay

Introduction

In Episode 961 of MacBreak Weekly titled "Put A Handle On It," host Leo Laporte and his panelists—Andy Ihnatko, Jason Snell, and Alex Lindsay—delve into some of the most pressing topics in the Apple ecosystem. From the unveiling of Apple's new iPhone 16e to significant policy shifts regarding encryption and a substantial investment promise to the U.S., the panel provides insightful analysis and lively discussion.

**1. Apple's New iPhone 16e: A Shift Away from the Budget Market

The episode opens with an in-depth discussion about Apple's latest release, the iPhone 16e. Mark Gurman's report indicates that Apple is stepping back from producing budget smartphones with this model, pricing it at $600—$170 more than its predecessor, the SE.

Key Points:

• Pricing and Market Positioning:
  Andy Ihnatko expresses mixed feelings about the 16e's pricing, noting, "I'm trying to figure exactly who the 16e is for, and I haven't decided yet what it is" (01:32). The panelists compare the value offered by Android competitors at similar price points, suggesting that Android phones may offer more features for the money.

• Technical Specifications and Cost-Cutting Measures:
  Jason Snell highlights that the iPhone 16e is constructed using "various old parts and one new part," emphasizing Apple's move to maintain its profit margins: "Apple is just not going to turn down their traditional profit margin on hardware" (05:05).

• Target Markets and Global Strategy:
  The discussion touches upon Apple's strategy to compete in markets like China with mid-level phones that offer Apple’s prestige at a lower cost. Alex Lindsay questions the actual sales figures, given that many consumers receive phone upgrades through carrier plans, making out-of-pocket purchases less common: "I do whatever. It is on the... I was just like, oh, I really need a little more RAM or I need a little bit more of that" (04:52).

Notable Quote:
Leo Laporte summarizes the panel's sentiment: "The 16 is the base case. The 16E is a sub-brand below it and beneath it. And that's just what it is now" (07:05).

**2. Apple's Stance on Encryption and the UK Investigatory Powers Act

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Apple's response to the UK's Investigatory Powers Act (often referred to as the Snoopers’ Charter). The UK government had reportedly requested that Apple provide keys to access encrypted data globally, a demand Apple has refused.

Key Points:

• Discontinuation of Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the UK:
  Andy Ihnatko notes, "Apple has announced no more ADP for the UK," suggesting compliance only in a limited and regulated manner: "They have to have the keys... they have to basically show the paperwork to Apple and put a... it's no longer a secret" (41:57).

• Implications for User Privacy:
  The panel discusses the impact on users who rely on iCloud backups for their data. With ADP turned off, iCloud data becomes accessible to UK law enforcement upon proper legal request, though end-to-end encryption for services like Messages remains intact: "Apple has access to everything stored in the iCloud. Unless you turn ADP on" (50:37).

• Apple’s Legal and Ethical Position:
  The discussion underscores Apple's commitment to user privacy, even at the cost of easing certain protections in specific regions: "Apple does not want to be under the thumb of Qualcomm... it's a convergence of wanting to go to an OLED Face ID platform and having Apple intelligence that makes the bill of materials way higher" (08:17).

Notable Quote:
Jason Snell provides clarity on Apple's compliance: "Apple is saying we are not going to provide a backdoor key to everything that's encrypted. We're just going to put that door back open and not let people in the UK close it" (60:23).

**3. Apple’s $500 Billion Investment Promise to the U.S.

Amidst geopolitical tensions and challenges related to tariffs, Apple has pledged to invest over half a trillion dollars in the United States over the next four years. This commitment is aimed at job creation, primarily focusing on research and development, silicon engineering, and AI and machine learning sectors.

Key Points:

• Scope of Investment:
  The investment includes contributions to data centers, corporate facilities, and Apple TV productions across 20 states: "The $500 billion commit includes Apple's work with thousands of suppliers across all 50 states. Direct employment, Apple intelligence infrastructure, data centers, corporate facilities, Apple TV productions in 20 states" (74:23).

• Economic and Political Implications:
  Andy Ihnatko expresses skepticism regarding the authenticity and allocation of the funds: "It's more about optics. It's showing your work that you are a legitimate American company who invests in America" (69:55). The panel debates whether this investment is genuine or primarily a public relations maneuver to align with governmental expectations.

• Manufacturing Shifts and Challenges:
  Alex Lindsay discusses Apple's ongoing efforts to shift manufacturing out of China to countries like India and Vietnam, highlighting the complexities and long-term nature of such transitions: "It's a 20-year problem. It's not like we won't be using... it's, it's a 20-year problem" (75:30).

Notable Quote:
Leo Laporte highlights the government's role in influencing corporate investments: "Good on the US Government for putting pressure on Apple to re-home this stuff" (74:23).

**4. Vision Pro and MacBook Air M4 Updates

The panel briefly touches upon upcoming hardware releases, including the anticipated M4 MacBook Air and updates to the Vision Pro headset.

Key Points:

• MacBook Air M4:
  Stocks for the MacBook Air M4 are dwindling, indicating its imminent release in March: "We're at the end of the month... it makes sense" (95:29).

• Vision Pro Enhancements:
  Discussions revolve around new features and updates in the Vision Pro ecosystem, including improved guest access and spatial gallery functionalities: "They did add a new Arctic surfing video. Is it good? It did have some issues with wide shots feeling 2D, but immersion remains strong with close-up views" (102:50).

Notable Quote:
Jason Snell remarks on the incremental advancements: "Every year there's a cadence though? Like they're opposite ends of the year or opposite halves of the year" (95:47).

**5. Other Highlights

• Steve Jobs’ 70th Birthday:
  The panel commemorates Steve Jobs’ 70th birthday, reflecting on his enduring legacy and Apple’s tribute through internal communications and potential commemorative coins: "Tim Cook posted something nice on Twitter, a very nice portrait of Steve. 'Steve saw the world not just as it was, but as it could be...'" (123:20).

• Security Concerns with Pegasus Spyware:
  Apple revealed that its systems can detect Pegasus spyware in approximately half of the infected devices, leading to discussions about the credibility and effectiveness of third-party detection apps: "Iverify sells a $1 app that lets you scan your phone. Is it credible? I didn't know how to process this one myself" (65:09).

• App Recommendations:
  The panelists recommend tools like John Siracusa’s Hyperspace for managing duplicate files and Frame for enhancing screenshot presentations, emphasizing their utility and seamless integration with macOS: "Hyperspace scans your files, finds duplicates, and removes them while leaving them in place" (127:12).

Conclusion

Episode 961 of MacBreak Weekly offers a comprehensive exploration of Apple's strategic shifts in hardware offerings, privacy policies, and economic commitments. The panel provides a balanced view, highlighting both the potential benefits and the challenges these moves present to consumers and the broader tech landscape. As Apple continues to navigate complex global markets and regulatory environments, its decisions will undoubtedly shape the future of its product lineup and its relationship with users worldwide.

Final Notable Quote:
Leo Laporte encapsulates the essence of the panel's discussion: "This is Apple saying we do not want to provide a backdoor key to everything that's encrypted. We're just going to put that door back open and not let people in the UK close it" (50:37).

Note: For a more immersive experience and detailed discussions, listeners are encouraged to tune into MacBreak Weekly Episode 961.