Source: Stephen Warwick/iMore
The news this week has rightfully been dominated by George Floyd, protests in the U.S., and the #BlackLivesMatter movement. It's no surprise then that much of our Apple news this week comes through this lens, as Apple took to making statements, suspending Apple Music for a day and more, all in support of the cause. In between, we heard about a big potential change in the next iPad, a new stock record, and more. Here's all the Apple news you should have read this week.
Apple closes retail stores... again
Source: @Ben Goggin
Unfortunately, protests about George Floyd and police brutality in the U.S. have been marred by rioting, violence, and looting. Following attacks on several Apple stores, Apple decided to close some stores, in particular ones damaged by looters.
Riots, looting push Apple and others to shut down retail stores ... again
"We must do more"
Source: Apple
Tim Cook sent a memo to all Apple employees, describing the killing of George Floyd as senseless, and saying that Apple must do more.
Tim Cook says "we must do more" in memo to employees about George Floyd
Black Out Tuesday
Source: iMore
Apple changed the programming of Apple Music in solidarity with 'Black Out Tuesday', playing a curated playlist of music by black artists.
Apple Music observing 'Black Out Tuesday' to support #BlackLivesMatter
Apple News+ Audio
Source: 9to5Mac
A new audio feature for Apple News+ stories has been spotted in the latest iOS 13 beta.
Apple News+ Audio feature leaked in iOS 13.5.5 beta
USB-C iPad Air
Source: iMore
A new report suggests the new iPad Air might feature USB-C.
New report claims the next iPad Air will switch to USB-C just like iPad Pro
A new record
Source: Apple
Apple's share price broke a new record of nearly $328 on Friday. The landmark also represents a full recovery from Apple's COVID-19 induced slide, which began in February.
Apple share price cracks new all-time high marking full recovery from COVID-19 slide
Open letter
Source: Apple
Finally, Tim Cook posted an open letter titled 'Speaking up on racism', which was shared on the homepage of Apple's website.
Tim Cook pens open 'Speaking up on racism' letter
App Store prevented $1.5bn in fraud last year, removed 150,000 spam apps
Apple's App Store helped to prevent $1.5bn in potentially fraudulent transactions last year, whilst its App Review process saw nearly 2 million rejections, removing 150,000 apps that were considered spam or tried to mislead customers into making purchases.
Apple TV+ thriller 'Lisey's Story' gets its disturbing first trailer
Apple TV+ has shared the first trailer for the upcoming Stephen King thriller Lisey's Story.
Applications open for Detroit Apple Developer Academy
The Apple Developer Academy in Detroit is now accepting applications from both students and mentors who wish to study take part in the program either learning or mentoring students.
How will you attach your AirTag to the item you wish to track?
Apple's AirTag doesn't have any hooks or adhesive for attaching to your precious items. Luckily there are plenty of accessories for that purpose, both from Apple and third parties.