AirTag reviews, iOS 14.5 released, Apple's broken Podcasts app on the AppleInsider podcast

Apple's iOS 14.5 launches with mask unlock, initial AirTag reviews are out, and M1 iPad Pro and iMac are now available to purchase, all on this week's episode of the AppleInsider podcast.

Apple released its Q2 earnings statement with impressive numbers including revenue up 53.6%, and net profit up 110.1%. The Mac had one of its best quarters thanks to the M1 lineup, and Apple confirmed paid subscriptions hit 660 million subscribers.

AirTag orders are now arriving and we'll give our own full review on the next episode. Initial coverage, though, is showcasing the benefit of Apple's large network of devices and the U1 chip allowing for precise location tracking.

Next on the pre-order list is the M1 iMac, the iPad Pro, and also Apple TV 4K. Apple has been refusing to reveal shipping dates beyond "second half of May". But a hidden description in the source code of Apple's website briefly revealed that these devices should be available May 21.

It's also emerged that the new Apple TV Siri remote no longer has motion controls. Consequently, games on the Apple TV that used the first generation Siri remote will now display an error message and require use of a third party controller. Apple also revealed that the previous 12.9-inch iPad Pro Magic Keyboard will not fit the 2021 model — or at least not very well — meaning users may have to buy a new model for $349.

Then iOS 14.5 was released allowing users to unlock their iPhone with Apple Watch if they are wearing a mask. Other improvements include incident reports in Apple Maps and a redesigned Apple Podcasts app. Unfortunately their first-party Podcast app has significant bugs after the iOS update and podcast creators are hoping a fix comes soon.

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Links from the show

Apple's Q2 Earnings

• Apple's paid subscriptions hits 660 million in Q2 2021
• Notes of interest from Apple's Q2 2021 earnings report and conference call

AirTag Reviews and more

• MKBHD Reviews AirTag
• iJustine Review AirTag

iPad Pro Magic Keyboard and Availability

• Magic Keyboard won't 'precisely fit' new 12.9-inch iPad Pro but still works, says Apple
• Apple inadvertently confirmed May 21 availability for iPad Pro, M1 iMac, Apple TV 4K

iOS 14.5, Face ID Mask Unlock

• Apple releases iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 with Apple Watch unlock, App Tracking Transparency
• Apple releases watchOS 7.4 with Face ID unlock assistance
• Apple releases tvOS 14.5 with extended game controller support

Apple Podcasts app

• Current bugs with Apple Podcasts Connect: April 27, 2021
• Spotify launches paid podcast subscriptions via Anchor

Apple Watch Wristcam and Shortcuts Notification Tip

• Neil's Apple Watch camera band
• Photos from the Apple Watch camera
• Ben's Tweet on Shortcuts notifications
• Turn off Shortcuts notifications

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