Author

Justin Kahn

justinkahnmusic

Editor

9to5Mac / 9to5Toys

Justin is the Editor-in-Chief at 9to5Toys and a senior editor covering all things music for 9to5Mac, daily deals, and more. A senior deal Jedi over at 9to5Toys where he heads up our Apple gear and game/app coverage, Justin is also an audio engineer/producer with well over 10 years experience in the music industry.

Connect with Justin Kahn

justinkahnmusic

SANDMARC-Minimal-Leather-Case best iPhone 15 cases

The best iPhone 15 cases [2024 Update #3 – Second Action Button, more]

Justin Kahn Apr 20 2024 - 1:01 am PT

Update: Our 2024 roundup of the best iPhone 16 cases is now live!

Our latest roundup of the best iPhone 15 cases is now ready to move into 2024 with all of the newest releases. While the FineWoven covers certainly weren’t as popular as Apple would have hoped, there are plenty of notable options from other brands stepping up to offer everything from thin minimalism to luxurious genuine leather and everything in between. We have now updated this roundup with some new brands as well as additional releases that have cropped up over the last month or so. Head below for a closer look at the best iPhone 15 cases for 2024.

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BANG!CASE iPhone

BANG!CASE is the ‘world’s first’ iPhone 15 case to add a second customizable Action Button

from 9to5Toys Apr 16 2024 - 7:50 am PT

We have featured a near countless number of iPhone cases around here over the years, but today it’s time to take a look at “the world’s first action-button phone case.” Apple introduced the new haptic Action Button on its latest iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone Pro Max handsets, and now the folks at Bitmo Lab – a brand that originates from collaborations with sspai and JSAUX – are ready to debut the new BANG!CASE. Alongside the see-through case back, onboard LED lighting, and magnetic charging, the case also sports an Action Button (or BANG!Button as the brand puts it) you can customize to trigger any number of things with single, double, and long press clicks. Now available with early bird pricing, be sure to head below for more details.

M3 Macbook Air - Apple Store

Deals: New 15-inch M3 MacBook Air $95 off, 24-inch M3 iMac $150 off, more

Justin Kahn Mar 29 2024 - 8:43 am PT

Friday is here, and with it we are tracking some notable price drops on Apple gear as we head into the weekend. Joining a new Amazon all-time low on Apple’s 2024 15-inch MacBook Air with M3 starting from just over $1,200, we also have even lower prices on the latest M3 iMac. You can now score the 24-inch Apple desktop machine at $150 off the going rate, and be sure to scope out our exclusive discount down below on the new Burton Goods leather iPhone 15 case. Hit the jump for all that and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Best AirTag Cases 2024

AirTag

Best AirTag cases, keychains, and straps [2024 update: Magnetic, waterproof, more]

Justin Kahn Feb 11 2024 - 12:05 am PT

It’s now time for our 2024 update of the best AirTag cases, mounts, straps, and more. While you will find some mainstay options, there have also been a number of new releases in the AirTag accessory space over the last year or so. Those include everything from Apple’s FineWoven treatment, to new genuine leather carriers, options made specifically for the inside of bags and fabric, mini magnetic waterproof models that can take a beating, carabiner-equipped sheaths, and more. Down below we have updated our ongoing list of the best AirTag cases, mounts, and straps for folks looking for a new solution or for those who might have just scored a bunch of new Apple item locators over the holidays.

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Mega Man X

Massive collection of discounted games to enjoy on iPhone and iPad over the holidays

from 9to5Toys Dec 22 2023 - 11:21 am PT

It’s now time to roundup all of the best holiday iOS game deals. The big day is inching closer and closer now, and that means the App Store has exploded with notable price drops on top-tier games from many of the best developers. Whether you’re looking for something to stay entertained in the backseat or on a flight while traveling this weekend, or just something to stay busy in-between visiting family and friends, there’s plenty of fantastic experiences to enjoy on iPhone and iPad without paying full price. From RTS games and classic Square Enix RPGs to Capcom fighters, platformers, and wonderfully relaxing puzzlers, there’s a little bit of something for everyone on sale this weekend. Head below for our annual roundup of the best holiday iOS game deals.

Best MIDI keyboards for Mac and the new Logic Pro for iPad [2023 Edition]

Justin Kahn Dec 16 2023 - 1:01 am PT

Best MIDI keyboard for iPad and Mac Logic Pro for iPad

Welcome to our 2023 edition of the best MIDI keyboards for iPad and Mac. With the reveal of Logic Pro for iPad (it’s about time, Apple) and the holidays on the way, it seems a fitting time to go over some new releases and the best hardware keyboard controllers to put both the Mac and new mobile version of Apple’s flagship music software to work. The touch interface on Logic Pro for iPad looks fantastic thus far, but there’s nothing quite like getting hands-on with a MIDI keyboard when it comes to playing chord progressions, writing riffs and melodies, banging out beats on some bonus drum pads, and supplementing the touchscreen controls with assignable control pots. So let’s take stock of the newest releases as well as some mainstays still worth your time (and money) as part of our 2023 edition of the best MIDI keyboards for iPad and Mac.

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Expressive E Osmose review

Review: The Mac-ready Expressive E Osmose is the multi-gesture 3D keyboard controller of your dreams

from 9to5Toys Dec 6 2023 - 1:21 pm PT

Not all MIDI keyboard controllers are made equal and the new Expressive E Osmose is a great example of this. Now available stateside, the new 3D gestural music instrument and controller is ready to grace home studios, live performances, and professional sound stages everywhere. If it’s not the best MIDI keyboard controller out there, it is certainly one of the most interesting, not to mention being an incredibly compelling standalone instrument. Taking on the form of a traditional piano setup, it is anything but traditional in its execution. Head below for our hands-on impressions of the Expressive E Osmose 3D gesture-based music controller and instrument.

best Black Friday app deals

Here’s all of the best Black Friday app deals now live for Mac and iOS users

from 9to5Toys Nov 24 2023 - 1:26 pm PT

It is now time to gather up all of the best Black Friday app deals for iOS and Mac users. Our gigantic annual roundup collates all of the most notable price drops on games, apps, professional software suites, and more that have amassed over the last week or so for Thanksgiving and Black Friday, putting everything in one place for your browsing pleasure. Many of these productivity suites really only ever go on sale during holiday events like this, so now’s the time to strike, and many of the best iOS game developers follow suit with solid price drops for the holidays. Head below to browse through all of the best Black Friday app deals.

Deals: HomePod mini from $79, Apple’s Leather AirTag Loop $13, 24-inch M1 iMac $599 off

Justin Kahn Nov 6 2023 - 8:38 am PT

Apple now selling HomePod mini in Sweden and more countries

Monday morning’s collection of the best Apple deals are now ready to go. You’ll find a rare discount on Apple’s HomePod mini in all five colors starting from $79 in new condition. From there, we move over to a chance to secure some of the official AirTag Leather Loops starting from just $13 Prime shipped before they are gone for good alongside some refurbished offers on the latest 24-inch M1 iMacs with at least $599 in savings. Head below for a closer look.

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Deals: New M3 MacBook Pro $200 off, Beats Studio Buds+ $130, AirPods Pro 2, more

Justin Kahn Nov 3 2023 - 8:28 am PT

M3 MacBook Pro

Friday’s best deals are headlined by $200 in savings on pre-orders for the brand new M3 MacBook Pro configurations in both silver and the new Space Black. Those deals are joined by the same offer on the M3 iMac as well as a return of all-time low pricing on Beats Studio Buds+ and a solid discount on the latest USB-C AirPods Pro 2. All that and more awaits down below in today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Deals: Leather/Metal Link Apple Watch bands 48% off, MagSafe charger, iPad 10th Gen, more

Justin Kahn Nov 2 2023 - 8:43 am PT

Today’s collection of Apple deals are headlined by a host of notable first-party accessories. Those include the Apple Watch Leather Link and metal Silver Link bands at up to 48% off with deals from $57 alongside Apple’s official MagSafe charger at $30. We are also tracking a solid deal on the iPad 10th Gen 2 from $399 as well as discounts on the upgraded configurations. Head below for more.

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SANDMARC Titanium Apple Watch Ultra Band

Tested: SANDMARC makes the best steel and titanium Apple Watch bands I have ever seen [Exclusive deal]

from 9to5Toys Oct 3 2023 - 10:02 am PT

It’s time go hands-on with SANDMARC’s beautiful titanium Apple Watch bands. After the release of its more affordable stainless steel variants and just before the launch of its amazing new iPhone 15 cases, SANDMARC unleashed a high-end take on the Apple Watch Ultra bracelet-style strap. And not to spoil this entire review, it’s absolutely gorgeous. Made from Grade 4 titanium and now joining its stainless steel models, head below for a closer look and some hands-on impressions of the SANDMARC Titanium Apple Watch Ultra Band – you’ll also find an exclusive discount.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 hits $774 all-time low, new Beats Studio Pro at $100 off, more

Justin Kahn Oct 2 2023 - 8:53 am PT

We are ready to kick off another work week with the best deals on Apple gear and accessories starting with the new Apple Watch Ultra 2. Apple’s latest flagship wearable has now dropped to the lowest price we have tracked yet at $774 shipped. That deal is now joined by the new Beats Studio Pro over-ear headphones with Spatial Audio at $100 off the going rate alongside a $99 price drop on iPad mini 6. Hit the jump for all that and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Apple 13-inch M2 MacBook Pro $250 off, iPhone 12 from $270, leather Apple Watch straps 45% off, more

Justin Kahn Sep 29 2023 - 8:53 am PT

m2 macbook pro reviews

Today we are showing the Touch Bar fans some love with a solid $250 off the 13-inch Apple M2 MacBook Pro starting from $1,049 shipped alongside some of the best deals ever on previous-generation iPhone 12 handsets starting from $270 Prime shipped. Moving over the accessory space, Amazon is now offering its best price ever on Apple’s 96W USB-C Power Adapter at under $50 and we are now seeing as much as 45% off handmade genuine leather Apple Watch Ultra/2 and Series 6/7/8/9 bands alongside some exclusive deals on beautiful metal bracelet-style bands. Hit the jump for all that and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Deals: 10th Gen Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad from $529, M2 Mac mini $100 off, more

Justin Kahn Sep 28 2023 - 8:51 am PT

10th-gen iPad reviews

Today’s best deals on Apple hardware and accessories are headlined by Wi-Fi + Cellular 10th Gen iPad models alongside a solid $100 price drop on M2 Mac mini that is currently sitting at a new all-time low. Moving over to the accessory side of things, the new iMac G3-inspired translucent MagSafe iPhone 15 cases from Spigen have now dropped even lower during the launch phase and Woot is giving folks a chance to scoop up some leather Apple AirTag holders before they are gone for good. Hit the jump for all that and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Labor Day deals: AirPods Max up to $179 off, iPad mini 6 $400, MacBooks, and more

Justin Kahn Sep 1 2023 - 8:51 am PT

Apple discount

As we get ready to head into the Labor Day weekend, price drops are now live on AirPods Max, iPad mini 6, iPad Pro, and more. You’ll find as much as $179 in savings available on Apple’s flagship AirPods Max right now with new condition pricing at $450 and refurbished options from $370. On the iPad side of things, the mini 6 has dropped $99 while $150 discounts are now live on iPad Pro models. All of that and more awaits in today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Best MacBook Air 15-inch sleeves

Best 15-inch MacBook Air sleeves: Sumptuous leather, wool, models from $15, and more

from 9to5Toys Jun 19 2023 - 12:13 pm PT

Apple’s latest notebook is now out in the wild, so it’s time to take a look at some of the best MacBook Air 15-inch sleeves. While this list will inevitably grow over time, there are already some gorgeous new 15-inch MacBook Air sleeves to protect your new machine in style, or just without spending a fortune. Whether you’re looking for something you can strut into the board room or office with or just something quick to head out to the coffee shop, we have rounded up some notable picks worth taking a look at for ensuring your new MacBook stays in tip top shape this summer and beyond. Head below to browse through the best MacBook Air 15-inch sleeves.

Harber London City Leather MacBook Backpack review

Tested: Harber London’s City Backpack delivers a luxurious leather mobile home for MacBook and iPad

from 9to5Toys May 15 2023 - 1:43 pm PT

It’s now time to take a hands-on look at Harber London’s luxurious City Leather MacBook Backpack. The brand delivers higher-end leather goods for just about any Apple product, and its carriers have been a real highlight for me after getting a chance to give them a go. The City Backpack on display here, though, is easily one of my favorite designs in its lineup of back-mounted bags ready for lugging around MacBooks and iPads in style, but is it worth the hefty price tag? While it is just what you expect from a bag handmade in Spain and constructed of premium leather, let’s dig in and find out for sure in the latest entry to our long-running Tested with 9to5Toys series.

AirPods Max case

Friday’s deals: AirPods Max $99 off, Apple’s latest 35W Dual USB-C Charger, more

Justin Kahn May 12 2023 - 8:56 am PT

We are almost ready to head into the weekend, but first let’s check out some of the best deals spotted over on 9to5Toys headlined by AirPods Max. Now back down to the lowest price we have tracked this year, almost all colorways are now selling for $450 shipped via the official Amazon listing to deliver a solid $99 in savings. Joining a wide-ranging Best Buy 3-day sale event loaded with discounts on various MacBook configurations, AirPods Pro 2, and much more, Amazon is also now offering its best price ever on the Apple’s latest 35W Dual USB-C Charger alongside some more powerful models to refresh your first-party power kit. Hit the jump for all that and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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DistroKid iPhone app

Apps

DistroKid – ‘the world’s largest distributor of independent music’ – launches on iPhone today

Justin Kahn May 4 2023 - 9:00 am PT

The DistroKid iPhone app has finally arrived with an official launch on iOS today. DistroKid – “the world’s largest distributor of independent music” – is taking its platform to mobile starting right now. Previously only available on the browser, the all-in-one indie music distribution service is easily the most affordable and hassle-free service I have ever used, and things are about to get even more convenient for folks looking to make use of its services on mobile. Today it is announcing the first-ever DistroKid mobile app scheduled for launch on the App Store with what appears to be the full suite of features found on the web. Take a closer look below.

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Best iPhone 14 cases 2023 update

iPhone 14

Best iPhone 14 cases [Mid-year update: New releases, top picks, and more]

Justin Kahn Apr 22 2023 - 1:00 am PT

Update: Our 2023 roundup of the best iPhone 15 cases from all of our favorite brands is now live.

It is now time for our mid-year update on the best iPhone 14 cases. You’ll still find all of the best iPhone 14 cases out there in our list below, including our favorite options like the SANDMARC leather models and Spigen’s budget-friendly collection as well and options from Nomad, Twelve South, and more, but we have seen a number of new releases over the last few months as well. Apple’s official silicone, leather, and clear MagSafe iPhone 14 cases remain a pricey but solid option, but there are also plenty of others worth taking a look at for your spring/summer 2023 refresh. Not everyone buys a new Apple handset every year and updating your case can be a great way to add new life to your device as well as to match up with your seasonal outfit/vibe. Head below for a closer look at our mid-year update on the best iPhone 14 cases for your most important piece of EDC.

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apple watch se 2

Deals: Apple Watch SE 2 starting from $220, Nano-Texture Studio Display $150 off, more

Justin Kahn Mar 6 2023 - 8:56 am PT

Monday morning has arrived and with it we have all of the most notable price drops on Apple gear live right now starting with Apple Watch SE 2. Apple’s most affordable current-generation wearable has now gotten even less expensive with configurations starting from $220. Those offers are joined by the nano-texture glass, tilt-adjustable Studio Display at $150 off and dropping back down its best price yet alongside the new Volt Yellow, Coral Pink, and Tidal Blue Beats Fit Pro colorways. Head below for all of the best deals and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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M2 iPad Pro

Deals: Apple’s M2 iPad Pro from $1,299, Midnight Apple Watch Series 7 $329, more

Justin Kahn Jan 27 2023 - 8:55 am PT

Friday has now arrived, and we have been tracking some big-time Apple gear deals this week headlined by the M2 iPad Pro. Price drops on both the 11- and 12.9-inch models are alive and kicking with new all-time lows starting from $1,299 in various configurations. Those offers are joined by holiday-worthy pricing on the 45mm Midnight Apple Watch Series 7 wearable that rarely drops as low as some of the less popular colorways. Lastly, you’ll be able to expand your first-party Apple Watch band collection with sport models down at $35 alongside everything else you’ll find in our Apple deal hub right here. Head below for all of the best discounts and more in the latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break.

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Here’s your massive collection of top tier iOS apps and games on sale for the holidays

from 9to5Toys Dec 23 2022 - 6:59 am PT

Well, it’s the Friday before the holidays truly kick off and, as expected, the App Store is now dishing up a massive collection of price drops. Every year at this time, a giant series of the best apps and games for iPhone and iPad go on sale, giving folks a chance to load up their library at a massive discount to both be ready for the new year and to enjoy some mobile titles over the holidays, on upcoming travels, and more. We have now collected and organized the best of the best into one handy list for your reference down below the fold. Happy holidays and enjoy!