Today in Tech

While we wait for confirmation about Apple's rumored April event, the company has confirmed its annual developers conference, WWDC, will take place the week of June 7. Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld executive editor Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss what Apple is expected to unveil at the conference, including iOS 15, macOS 12 and maybe even some new Apple Silicon Macs. If you have any questions about WWDC, leave them in the comments and we'll answer them live.

It's been a year since rumors began to swirl that Apple would sever its ties with Intel, and a few months since that transition became official. Apple has released a few Apple Silicon/M1 Macs already, and there's more in the pipeline. Intel has responded by releasing anti-Mac ads with Justin Long, the star of Apple's "Get a Mac" ads from the 2000s. It begs the question: What will Intel look like without Apple as a customer? Macworld executive editor Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss what comes next for Intel, including how Intel-powered PCs compare to Apple Silicon Macs.

Peter High, president of Metis Strategy and author, joins Maryfran Johnson for this special edition CIO Leadership Live interview, which is jointly produced by CIO.com and the CIO Executive Council. They will talk about lessons and advice in his new book, Getting to Nimble: How To Transform Your Company into a Digital Leader.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States will auction off previously reserved 5G spectrum, potentially speeding up next-generation wireless rollout. As device makers continue to release 5G-enabled phones and tablets, Macworld executive editor Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to analyze what a speedier rollout could mean for consumers and enterprises alike. Plus, French regulators recently sided with Apple over its new privacy rules that would allow users to opt out of ad tracking across apps and websites. Michael, Ken and Juliet will compare Apple's new policy to its competitors, and discuss whether or not those competitors would ever adopt similar guidelines.

Apple has confirmed it is discontinuing the iMac Pro, as rumors suggest an M1 iMac is on its way. Macworld executive editor Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss what they wanted from the iMac Pro, if its discontinuation could mean for the future of 'Pro' Macs and whether or not Apple's M1 processors could diminish the demand for 'Pro'-level devices.

Last month, the Perseverance rover successfully landed on Mars following a six-and-half-month journey from Earth through space. Over the next Martian year (or, over 600 days here on Earth), the rover will search for signs of ancient life, collect data about the climate and geology on Mars and pave the way for human exploration of the Red Planet. This mission is a group effort by the scientists, engineers, technologists and more at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Jim Rinaldi, former CIO and current Chief Information Technology Advisor at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, joins Juliet to discuss IT’s role in a successful mission, and how his team at JPL supports mission personnel from early planning stages through landing and beyond.

A year into the coronavirus pandemic, IT continues to support remote employees. As organizations begin planning to bring workers back into the office, IT must now consider upgrading their networks to best support employees in a post-COVID world. IDC Senior Research Analyst for enterprise networking, Brandon Butler, joins Juliet to discuss what permanent changes IT should implement as workers prepare to return to the office, and how these changes differ from the temporary solutions put into place last year. From upgrading to Wi-Fi 6, to implementing SD-WAN, to shifting network management to the cloud, Brandon explains what steps IT teams can take to make the transition back to the office seamless for in-person and remote employees alike.

Although the arrival of the next iPhone is likely months away, rumors about what it may look like are circulating. On this episode of Today in Tech, Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld executive editor Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss the next iPhone, which could be called the iPhone 12s or the iPhone 13. Potential features include up to 1TB of storage, an upgraded ultra-wide camera lens and an always-on display similar to the latest Apple Watches.

Security researchers uncovered malware affecting tens of thousands of macOS devices, but it's unclear what exactly the malware does. Affecting both Intel and Apple Silicon processors, this malware, nicknamed "Silver Sparrow," still poses a threat. And in other Apple news, some M1 Mac users have reported that the SSDs on their new systems are being overused. Macworld executive editor Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss Apple's response to the virus and SSD issues and what users can do if they've been affected.

Apple's existing M1 Macs may not be the only Apple Silicon Macs for long. Rumors about the next generation of M1 chips have leaked, and they suggest the powerful new chip, the M1X, will possess more cores than the M1. On this episode of Today in Tech, Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld executive editor Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss the predicted performance of M1X Macs and whether this next generation of Apple Silicon will widen Apple's enterprise share.

A worldwide shortage of semiconductors is hurting the sales of everything from smartphones to cars. Apple said the chip shortage affected sales of its latest iPhones. Automakers, who also rely on semiconductors in newer car models, expect to take a $61 billion hit due to the chip shortage. Coincidentally, Apple has recently been in talks with carmaker. Is the Apple Car on the horizon? On this episode of Today in Tech, Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss the effect of the chip shortage and what to expect from the rumored Apple Car.

Beta testing for the latest update to Apple's mobile operating system is underway, and users can expect to see some heavily anticipated features once it rolls out. The newest iteration of iOS, iOS 14.5, will include updated privacy measures, the ability to use Face ID to unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask and 5G support. Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss these features and when users can try them out.

Apple announced its first quarter of 2021 was its most successful in company history, boasting $111.4 billion in revenue. While the coronavirus pandemic has ravaged businesses big and small across many industries, Apple managed to increase its revenue 21 percent year over year. Around half of that revenue comes from iPhone sales alone. Despite the fact that Apple is one of the largest companies in the world, there’s still room for growth. Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss how Apple can continue to grow its services and wearables businesses and how the company can further push itself into the enterprise. They discuss the future of Apple Silicon and M1 Macs, the possibility of an Apple Car and what Apple enterprise apps could look like.

It was a banner year for Apple, from the release of the first 5G iPhone, to the Apple Silicon announcement and subsequent rollout of the first M1 Macs. Apple isn’t showing any signs of slowing down as 2021 approaches. It’s expected that Apple will continue to improve its M1 Macs, and release other Apple Silicon-powered Macs into next year. Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss Apple’s 2020 wins and what else they expect to see from Apple in 2021 and beyond.

Apple announced its new and long-awaited Mac lineup at its “One More Thing” event on Tuesday. These new Macs, powered by the new M1 processor, are the first Macs released after Apple announced it would shift away from Intel chips. But, were they worth the wait? Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld senior writer Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss the most impressive features of the new Macs, whether or not they’re waiting for future releases to purchase and why Apple’s move to its own silicon is such a seismic shift.

The first batch of iPhone 12s have arrived in the hands of our two Apple experts. Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss first thoughts on the iPhone 12, whether to buy an iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro and how many Apple expects to sell. Plus, Mike sheds light on Apple’s Q4 earnings call and when the next Apple event (and the release of the first Apple Silicon Mac) will be held.

By now, you’ve probably heard that Apple’s iPhone 12 lineup will have 5G capabilities. And you have also probably heard us discuss how 5G speeds are still only available in some parts of the country with some carriers. Apple will almost certainly sell millions of iPhone 12s. With millions of new 5G users, will carriers accelerate the rate of 5G deployment? And when can consumers expect to get the most out of 5G speeds? Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld senior writer Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss how the iPhone 12 may or may not change the 5G landscape and who exactly can take advantage of these new speeds.

Apple announced its second fall event for Tuesday, October 13. Expect to see the new additions to the iPhone lineup, including the iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Mini. Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld writer Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss features of the new iPhone 12, whether or not users will be able to access 5G speeds and what other products may be announced at the Hi, Speed event.

Google recently announced its latest addition to its smartphone lineup, the Pixel 5. It comes with a lower price tag than previous Pixel phones and a new Google smartphone strategy. Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld and PCWorld senior writer Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss strategy, how it compares to Apple’s and Samsung’s strategies and what it means for the future of the Pixel and the smartphone landscape as a whole.

As some people continue to work and learn from home six months into the coronavirus pandemic, reliable and fast internet access is as important as ever. But in rural communities without access to broadband, or for those who simply can’t afford it, the shift to doing everything from home becomes even more complicated. While the lack of internet access among rural or lower-income communities isn’t a new problem, it’s especially apparent now. It’s a challenge for IT departments as they support employees without reliable internet. And it’s a talent problem--while remote work policies can expand a talent pool, it’s difficult to recruit and employ a candidate with slow internet. Businesses, ISPs, future technology and government can all play a role in assisting these communities. Zeus Kerravala, founder and Principal Analyst at ZK Research joins Juliet to discuss what options are available for people without reliable internet access, how enterprises can help and how promising technology like 5G will play a role.

Apple released two new Apple Watches, new generations of the iPad and iPad Air and new subscription services and plans at its Time Flies event on September 15. Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss highlights and how new releases compare to previous generations. Plus, is the iPad Air as good as the iPad Pro for enterprise use? And when can you expect to see the iPhone 12 and new MacBook events? Let us know your thoughts about Apple One, the new Apple Watch SE and Series 6 and new iPads in the comments below.

Apple’s September event may look a bit different this year, but the (virtual) show will still go on. Expect to see the new Apple Watch Series 6 and updated iPad Air at the September 15 “Time Flies” event. Rumors suggest that Apple will not announce the upcoming 5G iPhone 12 at this event and opt for an event later this fall. Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld senior writer Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss why Apple may host multiple events this fall and what product launches to expect when. Check out Mike’s latest article about the September 15th event: https://www.macworld.com/article/3574449/if-new-iphones-arent-coming-at-the-annual-iphone-event-what-will-apple-release.html Follow everyone on Twitter-- Juliet: https://twitter.com/julietbeauchamp Ken: https://twitter.com/kmingis Mike: https://twitter.com/morlium For more on all things Apple, check out Mike’s articles on Macworld: https://www.macworld.com/author/Michael-Simon/ And the Apple Holic blog on Computerworld: https://www.computerworld.com/blog/apple-holic/?nsdr=true

While medical workers and scientists work on the front lines to fight the coronavirus, robots have been deployed to perform more menial tasks to combat COVID-19. From sanitizing floors to taking inventory, robots have played a critical role in keeping humans safe. Robotics expert and co-founder of Robotics Data, Keith Shaw, joins Juliet to discuss how robotics companies shifted strategies during the coronavirus pandemic, what types of robots are being deployed and how this pivot will affect the robotics industry as a whole.

Low code and no code platforms are valuable IT tools. They make it easy for employees outside of the IT team to develop apps that simplify business processes. And in some cases, they can aid in the transition from amateur developer or Excel power user to professional programmer. InfoWorld senior writer Serdar Yegulalp joins Juliet to discuss how employees interested in development can use low code platforms to learn basic skills before jumping into code.

It’s almost September, which means Apple’s fall product launches are right around the corner. While there may not be a single big event this year, expect individual events around the release of the new 5G iPhone 12 and the first Apple Silicon Mac. Plus, be on the lookout for the refreshed iPad Air, new AirPods and the Apple Watch Series 6. Macworld senior writer Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss this fall’s biggest Apple announcements and when to expect them. Check out last week’s episode about the new 27-inch Mac: https://youtu.be/ZSPcvEpp6ho Follow everyone on Twitter-- Juliet: https://twitter.com/julietbeauchamp Ken: https://twitter.com/kmingis Mike: https://twitter.com/morlium For more on all things Apple, check out Mike’s articles on Macworld: https://www.macworld.com/author/Michael-Simon/ And the Apple Holic blog on Computerworld: https://www.computerworld.com/blog/apple-holic/?nsdr=true

The iMac was due for an upgrade, and earlier this month, Apple released the new 27 inch iMac. It’s armed with an Intel processor, SSD across the board and a new 1080p FaceTime webcam. If you’re at the end of your life cycle, is it worth the upgrade? Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld senior writer join Juliet to discuss the new features, its status as potentially the last Intel-based Mac and who should buy it.

Software development for new ARM-based Macs has its own set of challenges and changes for developers. As developers begin optimizing their apps to run on Apple Silicon, InfoWorld senior writer Serdar Yegulalp joins Juliet to discuss why the transition from Intel to Apple Silicon is so seismic, how the change is affecting developers and what it means for iOS/macOS compatibility.

Artificial intelligence is useful for sorting through massive amounts of data and identifying anomalies within that data. Given the swaths of data healthcare workers and scientists are sorting through due to the coronavirus pandemic, Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies have proven helpful in everything from predictive modeling to vaccine research and reading X-rays. InfoWorld senior writer Serdar Yegulalp joins Juliet to discuss how AI/ML tech is helping fight COVID-19 and how these technologies could be used by scientists, pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals alike in the future.

On this episode of Today in Tech, Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld writer Michael Simon join Juliet to debate whether or not the iPad Pro is a practical enterprise device. Can the iPad Pro ever replace a traditional laptop like the MacBook Pro? What use cases are there for a tablet versus a laptop or desktop device? They also discuss whether or not iPad 14 OS makes the iPad better for work. Plus, Mike fills Ken and Juliet in on his week ditching his MacBook Pro for the iPad. Let us know in the comments

Most future Macs will be armed with new, Apple-made processors called Apple Silicon. Since Apple will have more control over the manufacturing of those devices, is there potential for cost savings? And will any savings be passed onto the consumer? Plus, will Apple Silicon render the power of last year’s Mac Pro obsolete? Macworld’s Michael Simon and Computerworld Executive Editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss how Apple Silicon may or may not affect the price of new Macs. Check out last week’s episode about the future of the Mac: https://youtu.be/NYvBbe_PN1E

The Mac is getting a major update in Apple’s own processors. But, what about changes to future Macs that aren’t just about ditching Intel chips? From touch to speed to Thunderbolt, Macworld’s Michael Simon and Computerworld’s Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss their predictions about the future of the Mac. Let us know in the comments what new innovations you’re hoping to see in Macs later this year and into 2021.

Hopefully you caught last week’s episode with our WWDC predictions… This week, we’re back discussing which WWDC announcements we’re most excited about. From Apple Silicon to App Library, Car Key and sleep tracking, Juliet, Mike and Ken rehash the event and dive into the features they’re most looking forward to using. If we didn’t discuss your favorite new feature, let us know what it is in the comments below. For more on all things Apple, check out Mike’s articles on Macworld: https://www.macworld.com/author/Michael-Simon/ And the Apple Holic blog on Computerworld: https://www.computerworld.com/blog/apple-holic/?nsdr=true Follow everyone on Twitter-- Juliet: https://twitter.com/julietbeauchamp Ken: https://twitter.com/kmingis Mike: https://twitter.com/morlium

Apple’s annual developers’ conference, WWDC, will happen virtually next week. Per usual, Apple is expected to announce updates to all of its operating systems: iOS, iPad OS, macOS, tvOS and watchOS. Apple may also announce its new ARM processors and potentially an updated iMac. Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld writer Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss hardware and software predictions and their number 1 wishlist item for OS updates.

After 15 years of Intel processors, Apple is expected to announce its transition to its own ARM chips at WWDC 2020. These new chips will power future generations of MacBooks and iMacs, and allow Apple to deliver more power-efficient Macs with sharper graphic and faster speeds. Macworld's Michael Simon and Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis join Juliet to discuss why Apple is ditching Intel, when you can buy ARM-powered Macs and what to expect out of the new machines. Check back next week for our WWDC preview episode! Read more on Macworld: https://www.macworld.com/article/3561594/apple-might-be-dumping-intel-sooner-than-we-think.html Follow everyone on Twitter-- Juliet: https://twitter.com/julietbeauchamp Ken: https://twitter.com/kmingis Michael: https://twitter.com/morlium

Using AI to identify people is a powerful tool for individuals, businesses and government organizations. However, privacy advocates and legal experts have called into question the ethics of using artificial intelligence to analyze faces without a person's consent. Infoworld senior writer Serdar Yegulalp joins Juliet to discuss the mechanics of AI facial recognition technology, how AI works to analyze your face data, why it's used by law enforcement agencies and privacy concerns.

Apple’s new rumored wearable has been getting a lot of buzz. The Apple Glass (or iGlasses… just kidding) will likely be an augmented reality (AR) headset. But what will they look like? Who will use them, and why? Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld’s Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss consumer and enterprise use cases, expected features and how the Apple Glass will integrate with Apple’s existing ecosystem.

With more of us connecting with our healthcare providers virtually during the coronavirus pandemic, hackers may find it more appealing to attack medical or hospital systems. Increased amounts of data due to telemedicine and medical internet of things (IoT) devices must be secure to protect individuals’ privacy and for HIPAA compliance. Network World senior writer Jon Gold joins Juliet to discuss medical IoT security risks, why these attacks may or may not be especially prevalent now and how to mitigate IoT security risks.

Google and Apple delivered their contact tracing app API to public health agencies across the globe. The apps would allow Bluetooth pings between smartphones within six and a half feet of each other. And in theory, these apps would notify you if you had been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19. In practice, public health authorities will have to encourage around 60% people in a given state or country to download the app in order to meaningfully conduct contact tracing/exposure notification. Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and PCWorld/Macworld’s Michael Simon join Juliet to discuss Apple and Google’s unprecedented collaboration, privacy concerns and how state and federal governments will utilize the API.

Apple’s newly launched iPad Magic Keyboard brings even more enterprise capabilities to the iPad Pro. But is it worth it? If a MacBook Air is cheaper than a souped-up iPad Pro and keyboard, which is the better buy? Computerworld executive editor Ken Mingis and Macworld writer Michael Simon join Juliet to debate the new Magic Keyboard. They go over their iOS 14 must haves, whether or not they’d use the keyboard and if it’s worth the price. Stick around for some 2020 Apple predictions, too, including a potential 5G iPhone, the iPhone 12 Pro and over-the-ear AirPods.

With more of us connecting with our healthcare providers virtually during the coronavirus pandemic, hackers may find it more appealing to attack medical or hospital systems. Increased amounts of data due to telemedicine and medical internet of things (IoT) devices must be secure to protect individuals’ privacy and for HIPAA compliance. Network World senior writer Jon Gold joins Juliet to discuss medical IoT security risks and how some device makers are utilizing IoT to give healthcare providers and private citizens alike valuable data about the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.

Computerworld contributor Preston Gralla and Executive Editor Ken Mingis answer viewers' questions about the latest Windows 10 release. If you have a question, post it as a comment.

The economic impact of COVID-19 has forced many businesses to readjust their budgets and cut costs where possible. That could mean halting PC and smartphone upgrades or pausing software rollouts. One IT sector that may experience growth during the recession is infrastructure. As cloud becomes central to business operations, enterprises may be unwilling to cut costs entirely. And cloud service providers are buying up more hardware to cater to existing clients that are now working in the cloud more and more often. Stephen Minton, IDC analyst and program vice president of the Customer Insights & Analysis group, joins Juliet to discuss 2020 spending predictions and when IT spending may return to normal. More about IDC’s IT spending predictions: https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS46268520 IDC’s Coronavirus Index Report: https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=US46272920

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the U.S. recently approved some wireless spectrum within the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi 6 use. This will nearly quintuple the existing Wi-Fi 6 spectrum. The version of Wi-Fi that will take advantage of this spectrum is called Wi-Fi 6E. Existing Wi-Fi 6 clients operate within the 2.4 GHz and 5GHz bands, so they will not be immediately able to access this new 6GHz band. Deploying Wi-Fi 6 may be appealing to enterprises’ employees now working remotely, many of whom are working off of Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 4 networks. Network World senior writer Jon Gold joins Juliet to discuss what Wi-Fi 6E, when to adopt the much-hyped Wi-Fi 6 and what it means for the future of networking.

More people are relying on video conferencing software to do their jobs and chat with friends and family. This uptick in use highlighted some security concerns like “Zoombombing” and the lack of end-to-end encryption in popular video conferencing/collaboration tools. CSO Online’s J.M. Porup joins Juliet to discuss what end-to-end encryption is, why it’s important for video calls and what privacy expectations users should have when using these tools.

The coronavirus pandemic forced IT teams around the world to adapt to serving an almost entirely remote workforce. But once we all return to work in an office, those lessons shouldn’t be forgotten. Jack Gold, president and principal analyst at J. Gold Associates, joins Juliet to discuss how IT teams can apply lessons learned during this mandatory work from home period to a pandemic disaster recovery plan. They also dive into how enterprises can prepare for potential quarantine periods in the future and which companies stand to fare the best amid the coronavirus crisis.

More and more tech companies are stepping up to the plate to assist frontline workers and healthcare organizations as the coronavirus continues to take its toll around the world. Computerworld’s Ken Mingis joins Juliet to discuss how tech companies are helping, from working with supply chains to donate PPE, to providing comprehensive statistics about the virus.

Consumer privacy laws like GDPR or CCPA give enterprises a standard to comply with… or risk trouble with the law. Your company doesn’t need to dodge regulators to get valuable use out of your data for your customers, employees and business alike. As more of us are relying on data-collecting software and applications while working from home, vendors stand to learn a lot about our habits. This new data may also require new privacy standards on the part of vendors, which in turn could usher in policies that honor privacy by design. Michelle Dennedy, CEO of Drumwave, joins Juliet to discuss privacy engineering, ensuring that your data’s value is greater than its risk and the benefits of a strong privacy practice.

With most of (if not everyone in) your household now working from home, you’re perhaps asking more of your home network than ever before. Multiple devices may now be hosting a video conference, streaming and using chat tools all at the same time. On top of those demands, you may also be accessing sensitive company data from home. Your home Wi-Fi network needs to be both fast and secure. PCWorld/Macworld’s Michael Simon joins Juliet and gives tips on how to prioritize certain traffic on your home network, boost speeds and secure it all without leaving your house.

Amid concerns about the coronavirus, Apple released its latest iPad Pro and MacBook Air without an official event in mid-March. But one piece of hardware was noticeably absent… the iPhone 9 or iPhone SE 2. Early rumors suggested a March 31st announcement, but we haven’t heard anything from Apple yet. Macworld’s Michael Simon joins Juliet to discuss how the coronavirus has impacted the iPhone 9 launch, clues to its official release date and what features to expect in Apple’s newest budget phone.