Beta Tested: Apple’s Big Software Updates Artwork

Basic AF: a (mostly) tech podcast

Spilling trash, talk, tech, and tea (though Tom says no politics). Plus, games, plenty of Apple tech, or whatever else comes into our heads. It’s a show where we get to hang out and talk tech, talk shit, and have fun every couple of weeks (and sometimes more often - only your podcast app knows for sure). We'll give you the lowdown on the gear we're using, some knowledge bombs to help you use your gear better, and answer listener questions.

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Basic AF: a (mostly) tech podcast

Beta Tested: Apple’s Big Software Updates

August 18, 2025 • Tom Anderson & Jeff Battersby • Episode 68

If you’re wondering whether it’s finally safe (or fun) to jump into the Apple public betas, this episode is for you. From iPadOS 26’s dramatic windowing overhaul to macOS Tahoe’s subtle UI tweaks — plus new features in iOS 26 and watchOS 26 — we’ve lived with them all and have thoughts.

You’ll hear why the new iPad multitasking feels like macOS (in a good way), how Liquid Glass adds personality, and where the Mac beta stumbles hard (spoiler: Tom's disk filled up fast). We also dive into CarPlay changes, and watchOS 26.

Find out what works, what’s still rough, and which betas are actually changing how we use our Apple gear — including a full week of iPad-as-primary-computer testing.

And yes, Jeff crashed out over creatine. Hit play and stick around.

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