Microsoft this week activated beta accounts for a select number users interested in testing out the iOS version of its Cortana personal assistant, the software giant’s alternative to Siri and Google Now.

Source:: Apple Insider

Apple’s next-generation iPhone design is so thin that engineers are mulling the removal of the standard 3.5mm headphone jack, meaning users might have to invest in Lightning or Bluetooth-connected headphones, according to a rumor on Friday.

Source:: Apple Insider

Apple authorized reseller B&H is running a Deal Zone this Black Friday for 8 hours only on its remaining mid-2014 15″ MacBook Pro (2.5GHz, 16GB, 512GB, 750M) models, selling them at $1,599 — a $900 discount from its original MSRP — with free shipping and no tax outside NY.

Source:: Apple Insider

With the 2015 shopping season now officially in full swing, finalized Apple Black Friday deals are now live. We’ve curated the creme of the crop in this roundup that highlights $50-$100 off Apple Watch, $25-$150 off current iPads, up to $650 off MacBooks, up to $500 off iMacs, and much, much more.

Source:: Apple Insider

While Apple has again chosen to forgo offering discounts on its products this Black Friday, many Apple Authorized Resellers and big-box retailers are competing aggressively for the business of Apple shoppers. Here’s how to quickly and easily find the lowest prices anywhere on your iPad, Mac, AppleWatch and Apple accessories of your choice.

Source:: Apple Insider

Whether you want a free Apple TV plus discounts, a free AppleCare extended protection plan plus discounts, or just the lowest prices anywhere on a new 2015 iMac, we’ve got you covered. See how our exclusive coupons can save you hundreds on Apple’s brand new iMac HDs, iMac 4Ks and iMac 5Ks this Black Friday.

Source:: Apple Insider

This Black Friday weekend, readers looking for a 2015 13″ MacBook Air can get a free Apple SuperDrive and 65% off AppleCare with exclusive $150 coupons. In almost all cases these are the lowest prices anywhere before the free SuperDrive. Plus free shipping and no tax in 48 states.

Source:: Apple Insider

Apple authorized reseller Best Buy on Thursday kicked off its Black Friday Sale, with the lowest prices we’ve seen this season on iPad Air 2s, Apple Watch, and Apple Watch Sport.

Source:: Apple Insider

An Apple patent application published Thursday details methods of implementing a powered shutter system to protect sensitive device elements from exposure to contaminants. that automatically covers port speaker, microphone and other port openings in an iPhone or iPad.

Source:: Apple Insider

Apple’s new Apple Pencil and and Apple Watch charging stand are the focus of this week’s AppleInsider podcast, as Neil and Mikey share their thoughts on the Pencil after a week’s worth of testing.

Source:: Apple Insider