While subscription-based podcasts aren’t a new thing per se, the tools from Spotify and Apple make setting up and maintaining a paid podcast a lot easier than it was before. Discovering and listening to paid podcasts will also become much more convenient. Additionally, it’s great that creators finally have other ways to monetize their work than just the traditional ad-based model. When comparing the new tools from both Spotify and Apple, I must say that Spotify has surprised positively, and at least on paper it looks like Spotify has produced the winning concept. Therefore, for my own part, I will definitely continue my podcast experimentations on the Anchor / Spotify platform.
Read MoreMy wishlist for Apple's next M-series chip
The M1 Macs we’ve seen so far are mainly targeted towards consumer grade customers. We still haven’t seen a “real” new MacBook Pro, a Mac Pro, or an iMac Pro with an M-series chip. This raises the question: what’s to be expected in the next M-series chip? Here’s my wish list for the next iteration, and specifically for the one which will be targeted towards pro users.
Read MoreWill subscriptions take over the podcasting scene?
There’s a lot going on in the podcasting ecosystem and it seems clear that more and more podcasts will become subscription based. It also means that there will probably be less ads in podcasts going forward and that’s also going to have an impact on AdTech development in the podcasting space. However, subscription based podcasts aren’t for every creator, and I don’t expect that the majority of podcasts will end up behind a paywall. Many podcasters will probably do what’s commonplace in the newsletter space, i.e. offer selected bits of your work for free to everyone, and then place the premium content behind a paywall.
Read MoreA deeper look at the new iMac
I’m still impressed by the new iMac and it’s a big improvement to the previous generation. The new form factor is fabulous, despite the slightly oversized chin, and after a long break we got some color alternatives again! Much of the improvement is thanks to the small but powerful M1 chip and this new iMac proves that Apple is making good progress on their 2-year transition to Apple Silicon. The main drawback is the size of the display and I would have loved to hear that they’re planning to release a larger model later this year.
Read MoreWe got AirTags but the completely revamped iMac stole the show
The “Spring Loaded” Apple event delivered a solid package of relevant updates and we even got a completely new product – the Airtag – which of course is a rare treat. I’m also very excited to see how the new updates to Apple Podcasts will impact the entire podcasting ecosystem. The new iMac with its stunning new sleek design stole the show and the iPad Pro, especially the larger 12.9” version with the Liquid Retina XDR display, continues to be an impressive device.
Read MoreThose AirTags might be handy after all
It will be interesting to see if Apple can once again do its magic, i.e. enter a market not as the first player, but as the one who actually delivers a winning product. This is a product that clearly needs to be launched at an event because Apple wants to tell its own story about how it’s different from the competition and how it deals with potential privacy and security issues.
Read MoreIf showing charts is your #1 AR use-case, think again!
Don’t get me wrong, charts are great, but if you want to get the early adopters excited, you might instead want to emphasize with examples what AR can do for your workouts, your in-store shopping experiences, or your business conferences. And don’t forget about gaming and entertainment! I, for one, am hoping that using the AR glasses will be as much fun as useful.
Read MoreShould I upgrade my Apple Watch to Series 6?
I’m intrigued by blood oxygen measurements and I applaud Apple for adding yet another health sensor to the watch, but the main reason I’m considering upgrading to Series 6 from Series 4 is the always-on display and the improved battery.
Read MoreApple should re-enter the wireless router market
As I’m currently looking for a new mesh WiFi networking system for my apartment, I’ve been wondering about Apple’s decision to abandon the wireless router market back in November 2016. I’m hoping Apple would reconsider their decision regarding wireless routers and re-enter the market. It would be a powerful space for Apple to command. After all, Apple wants to be present all around your smart home and they’re working hard on technologies like HomeKit, Siri, and AppleTV. They’re also always touting the importance of security and privacy.
Read MoreAmbient computing is a great goal
Considering how much development is now happening in the realm of Automation, Machine Learning, and Digital Assistants, it’s safe to assume that ambient computing will take a giant leap forward during this decade. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
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