40 tech giants ask for your help in Day of Action to protect net neutrality [Video]

It’s not often that a huge list of tech giants get together to speak with one voice, and it’s even more remarkable when they are protesting legislation which could actually benefit them, but that’s what’s happening today. A Day of Action has been called to ask the FCC to retain net neutrality rules.

Amazon, Dropbox, eBay, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Netflix, Reddit, Snap, Spotify and Twitter are just 11 of the 40 tech companies encouraging you to have your say. Sadly, Apple isn’t among them …

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Apple launching first data center in China in response to new local cybersecurity laws

Apple is opening a new data center in China, in partnership with a local Chinese data management firm, following tightened legislation over how companies can store data about users in the country.

Apple says the new data center will allow it to comply with the regulations and improve the speed of Apple cloud services in the region. It reaffirmed earlier statements that it would not create a backdoor for any third-party (via CNBC).

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Apple adds PayPal as payment method option for the App Store, iTunes Store and Apple Music

Apple today announced that it is adding PayPal as a new payment method to the App Store, iTunes Store, iBookstore and Apple Music services. Tis means Apple users will be able to add PayPal to their Apple ID in order to buy apps, musics, movies, TV shows and more.

The option is available now in Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom and will roll out soon to more countries, including the United States …

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Report: Apple in ‘panic’ mode as iPhone 8’s 3D face detection & wireless charging potentially delayed

Apple’s trials and tribulations over the upcoming iPhone 8 have been well documented thus far and a new report this evening from Fast Company continues that trend. The report explains that Apple’s team of engineers and designers working on the iPhone are operating with a “sense of panic in the air” as we near the device’s unveil later this year…

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New Bolt USB-C cable brings MagSafe functionality to all MacBook models

Apple’s decision to move completely to USB-C was met with mixed reactions following the unveil of the redesigned MacBook Pro models last year, with the removal of MagSafe charging a notable point of contention. We’ve seen a few third-party companies aim to bring magnetic charging, but they’ve generally had their limitation.

A new solution from accessory maker Vinpok, however, aims to solve everyone’s problems…

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Hands-on: Khomo’s 10.5-inch iPad Pro rear case – a great Smart Keyboard companion [Video]

Last week I received the Khomo charcoal gray case for the 10.5-inch iPad Pro. This case is billed as being a perfect companion case for the iPad Pro + Smart Keyboard. Because Apple has decided not to sell a companion rear case for either the Smart Cover or Smart Keyboard, users are essentially forced to go the third-party route if they desire to protect the rear of their iPad Pro.

The good news is that there are some really good third-party options available. We already covered one such option, an all-in-one solution that can be had for less than $20. But for those of us that gravitate towards the Smart Keyboard, a rear case that’s specifically designed to complement Apple’s front cover protection is required.

As you’ll see from my hands on video walkthrough, the Khomo case is one of the best Smart Keyboard companion options that you can buy right now. Not only is it an excellent fit, but its color and texture match the Smart Keyboard almost perfectly. more…