Exploring the Apple Ecosystem
About macOS and Applications for Apple Mac computers.
Brick: A physical device that blocks distracting apps/notifications, promoting focus and intentional phone use. Available on iOS/Android; no subscriptions. Simply tap to activate modes for different activities, creating physical separation from distractions. 25000+ 5-star reviews. HSA/FSA eligible.
Picnic app organizes photos/videos, allowing sorting, game-like experiences, and reminders for maintenance. Users love its ease, fun, and privacy, with no data sales. It's highly rated for freeing storage and nostalgic sorting. Download available on iOS.
Adoption of iOS 26 is slower than previous updates, possibly due to user resistance to its Liquid Glass design. Statcounter data suggests inaccurate low adoption rates due to changes in iOS 26 affecting user-agent reporting. Comparatively, earlier iOS versions maintained higher adoption rates; iOS 26 faces slower uptake but may reach historical levels if properly monitored. Users may need to upgrade to receive security updates, as older versions will no longer receive support.
MacPaw is closing the Setapp Mobile app marketplace on February 16, 2026, due to unprofitable business terms. EU users must back up their app data before the shutdown, while the Mac app store will remain operational. Critics argue this highlights Apple's failure to promote alternative app marketplaces, which lack user demand. The EU's regulation efforts are seen as misguided since users generally prefer the App Store. Popular demand for third-party app solutions is not present, limiting their success.
https://daringfireball.net/2026/01/macpaw_pulls_plug_on_setapp_mobile_in_eu
Photos Backup Anywhere: Backup and restore entire photo libraries to various storage locations (NAS, external drives). Supports all media types (videos, live photos) while preserving metadata (edits, albums). Seamless iCloud integration ensures automatic backups of new media. Restorations maintain all original metadata.
The author discusses using multiple screenshot utilities: ScreenFloat (for floating shots and a shot browser) and CleanShot X (notable for combining screenshots). ScreenFloat's unique features include easy image management and border export options, while CleanShot X excels in combining images. The built-in macOS screenshot utility serves specific needs like compositing images. Ultimately, third-party tools add valuable capabilities beyond Apple's offerings, enhancing productivity for screenshot-heavy users.
https://tidbits.com/2026/01/05/why-i-use-multiple-screenshot-utilities-on-the-mac/