Basic AF: a (mostly) tech podcast The Apple Gear We're Using in Late 2025
Dec 8, 2025
Tom and Jeff explore their favorite Apple gear 18 months post last review. Jeff shares inspiring updates on his recovery journey, while Tom raves about the iPad Pro M5's enhancements. They discuss the persistence of the M1/M2 Mac lineup and weigh the value of the Studio Display’s nano-texture finish. Tune in for insights on AirPods Pro comfort, battery life quirks of iOS 26, and the allure of foldable iPhones. Plus, a brief chat about the Vision Pro’s limitations leaves listeners pondering its future.
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Desk Mac Mini With Storage Limits
- Tom recounts his Mac Mini M1 on his desk (16GB/1TB) and a 16-inch MacBook Pro M1 Pro he brings into the pod closet.
- He says the Mini is fine but wants more USB-C ports and may upgrade storage in a future Mac mini purchase.
iPad Pro M5 As Primary Device
- Tom bought an iPad Pro M5 with the new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro and traded in his M2 iPad Pro.
- He says the M5 is phenomenal, very light, and often serves as his primary device at home when docked to the Studio Display.
iPadOS 26 Feels More Like macOS
- Tom praises iPadOS 26 windowing when the iPad is connected to an external display, noting macOS-like rounded windows.
- He finds the new windowing useful especially when the iPad is docked to a Studio Display.