Hands-on: Late-2016 13-inch MacBook Pro without Touch Bar [Video]

While we wait for the so-called real MacBook Pro to arrive, we wanted to take some time to explore the entry level 13-inch model that’s already available in stores. Despite its lack of Apple’s flagship Touch Bar and Touch ID features, there’s a whole lot that’s changed with the Late 2016 MacBook Pro refresh.

Have a look at our hands-on video walkthrough as we step you through many of the changes and features, and tell you who might be wise to consider this machine. more…

Filed under: Apple

Facebook agrees to stop WhatsApp data collection in UK after warning from authorities

Facebook appeared to do something of a U-turn back in August, when it started collecting data from WhatsApp despite an earlier statement that its acquisition of the messaging app would not impact user privacy. It has now agreed to cease doing so in the UK after the government privacy watchdog warned it that it may be breaking the law, reports the FT.

Facebook has agreed to pause its collection of WhatsApp user data in the UK as a result of a probe by the Information Commissioner’s Office.

“We’ve set out the law clearly to Facebook, and we’re pleased that they’ve agreed to pause using data from UK WhatsApp users for advertisements or product improvement purposes,” Elizabeth Denham, the information commissioner said.

The UK is not the only country where the legality of Facebook’s actions is being questioned …

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Filed under: Apple

New MacBook Pros appear to be selling well as supply chain report says Apple is raising components orders

Apple’s latest line of MacBook Pros appear to have been received well by the market, although the most interesting models with Touch Bar are yet to ship to customers. Digitimes reports that Apple is upping component orders for the new MacBook Pros, expected to continue at least until the end of 2016. Apple is apparently “optimistic” about fourth quarter sales.

The new 13-inch MacBook Pro and 15-inch MacBook Pro feature high-speed Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports, faster SSDs, Skylake processors, better GPU options, larger trackpad and an OLED display ‘Touch Bar’ touchscreen panel to replace the physical row of function keys.

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Filed under: Apple

Apple sells out of refurbished 15” last-gen MacBook Pros, but you can still get one

Apple has sold out of refurbished last-generation 15-inch MacBook Pros from its online store as the company introduces new models expected to ship to customers in the coming weeks.

As noted by customers on Reddit, Apple previously had several models of refurbished last-generation MacBook Pro models available at discounted prices, but that supply is now dwindling as customers pickup remaining stock.

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Filed under: Apple