658: Your First Mistake Phone

Key takeaways

AppleCare's express replacement service can vary significantly in efficiency, with some users experiencing long delays.
The iPhone Air, although lightweight and attractive, may not meet the expectations of users seeking excellent battery life and camera features.
Setting up a new iPhone can be frustrating, and using iCloud may offer a more reliable experience for data transfer.
High-quality laser printers like the HP M553/M554 can provide exceptional longevity and performance, making them worthwhile investments.

Summary

AppleCare Replacement and Podcastathon Recap

The podcast begins with the hosts discussing their experiences with AppleCare's express replacement service after breaking their iPhones. Marco describes a frustrating replacement experience that took significantly longer compared to Casey's streamlined process. They also touch on the recent podcastathon held to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where they raised over $522,000.

iPhone Air vs iPhone 17 Pro

The hosts delve into the features and drawbacks of the newly released iPhone Air as compared to the iPhone 17 Pro. Marco and another co-host discuss how the Air feels lighter and thinner, but also too large for some users. They analyze the performance metrics of both models, specifically the differences in camera quality, battery life, speaker capabilities, and thermal management. Marco expresses disappointment with the Air's compromises while Casey compares it favorably against the Pro.

Technical Issues and Set-Up Troubles

Casey recounts a series of unfortunate events while setting up his new iPhone, highlighting a deeply frustrating experience with transferring data, losing functionality, and running into issues with his wireless CarPlay dongle. They discuss how he opted for iCloud and device-to-device transfers, and some tips for future users regarding managing their data during a transfer, including using Messages in iCloud.

Printer Longevity and Printer Recommendations

The discussion shifts towards Casey’s experience with laser printers, specifically praising the HP M553 and its successor, M554 for their durability and performance. He explains how these printers last for years without needing replacements while providing high-quality printing services. The conversation reveals insights into choosing the right printer in an evolving marketplace.

Show notes

Marco’s AppleCare “Express” Replacement
🗣️ It’s St. Jude time again! 🗣️
- The Marco Offset
- Podcastathon 2025
Follow-up:
- Auburn’s colors are UVA’s colors (via Tony Scida)
- You don’t need the trick new Apple charger to charge an iPhone 17 at full speed
- iPhone Air
  - Why people are buying the iPhone Air / 15” MacBook Air
  - Bending the iPhone Air
    - Apple (via Tom’s Guide)
      - Direct video link
    - JerryRigEverything (timestamp link to 6m35s)
      - Same video, different timestamp (7m37s)
  - Battery life
  - Speaker (via Steve Troughton-Smith)
  - Thermals
    - MaxTech
  - iFixIt Teardown
  - Thickness
    - Visual comparison of thickness (via Ludwig Schubert)
    - Thin iPhone future? (via Ian)
- iPhone 17 Pro
  - Teardowns
  - Scratches on the back?
- iPhone sales
  - The Information (MacRumors summary)
iPhone setup advice
- Casey’s tale of woe (see also Upgrade #582: First Chance to Make One Impression)
First impressions: iPhone 17 Pro
- Scratchability
- Telephoto camera
  - iPhone 16 Pro 5× vs. iPhone 17 Pro 8×
Post-show:
- HP M553
- HP M554
Members-only ATP Overtime: Anthropic’s $1.5B book piracy settlement
- The Verge: Settlement announced, 5 September
- Previously, on ATP #656: Anthropic asked for $1.5B/yr from Apple
- The Verge: Settlement paused, 9 September
- Ars Technica, 9 September