

AppStories
Federico Viticci, John Voorhees
AppStories is a weekly exploration of the world of apps by MacStories’ Federico Viticci and John Voorhees. Each week, they discuss the best new apps, the impact of apps on our culture, and cover the stories behind popular apps. Hosted by Federico Viticci and John Voorhees.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 18, 2024 • 44min
Hardware Ideas Apple Should Steal
The hosts dive into fascinating hardware ideas that Apple should explore, from a foldable iPhone that could become a compact tablet to innovative peripherals that support seamless connectivity. They discuss the potential for an updated Mac Mini and envision sleek designs with external battery support. Criticism of Apple's App Store policies highlights how they hinder creativity and business growth. Enthusiastic thoughts on incorporating features like an OLED display for the iPad Mini and stylish smart glasses round out this inspiring conversation.

Aug 11, 2024 • 33min
Rethinking Podcast Apps
Delve into the tricky world of podcast apps, where data portability is key for seamless user experience. Discover essential iOS features that enhance podcast discovery and playback. Tune in to hear personal habits and preferences on playback options like sleep timers and speed controls. Explore the strengths and quirks of popular platforms such as Overcast, Castro, and Pocket Casts. This conversation offers insights into the perfect blend of features that can elevate the podcast-listening experience for everyone.

Aug 4, 2024 • 47min
watchOS 11 Preview
Jonathan, a tech aficionado and expert on wearable devices, joins to preview the exciting features of watchOS 11. They dive into Smart Stack and Live Activities, enhancing the Apple Watch's interactivity. Health and fitness updates are spotlighted, including insights on training load and customizable fitness metrics. A new safety feature for workout check-ins is discussed, along with enhancements in workout tracking, particularly for running. The duo also explores the innovative cycle tracking and map features for hikes in national parks.

Jul 21, 2024 • 36min
macOS Sequoia Preview
The podcast delves into the macOS Sequoia public beta, covering iPad and iPhone feature integration, SetApp's app subscription service, window management in Sequoia, enhancements like a new password app and Notes improvements, and a review of the macOS update features.

5 snips
Jul 15, 2024 • 41min
iOS and iPadOS 18 Preview
In this podcast, Federico and John discuss the exciting features of the iOS and iPadOS 18 public betas, focusing on app-related changes, customization options, and new tools like SetApp Mobile. They explore the impact of the absence of Apple Intelligence, highlight enhancements in Control Center and home screen customization, and provide insights on maximizing efficiency through single home screen layouts and larger icons. The hosts also cover improvements in Calendar, Reminders, Passwords app, and Photos app in iOS 18, emphasizing scheduled reminders, enhanced shortcuts, and calendar integrations.

9 snips
Jul 7, 2024 • 40min
A Feature-Packed Fall
Discover exciting new developer features coming in the fall, such as App Intents, Core ML, Translation API, SwiftUI, and more. Explore the evolution of technology with App Intents, customizable Control Center, iOS 18 innovations, Notion benefits, and Journal API enhancements. Stay updated on APIs, Embedded Swift progress, and the future of app development on Apple devices.

13 snips
Jun 30, 2024 • 36min
The Tip Jar
Listen to tips on managing multiple windows on iPadOS, organizing Downloads on Mac, tweaking headphone volume alerts on iOS, transferring files with Tailscale, using Quick Note for quick capture, and managing RSS feeds with Feedbin. Also, discover handy apps like DropOver, Amphetamine, and EchoFeed for social media posts.

Jun 23, 2024 • 32min
Rethinking Email
This podcast episode covers clearing up confusion on AI web crawlers, rethinking email apps, and discussing various email applications such as MimeStream, Spark, Superhuman, and Missive. The hosts share insights on protecting websites from AI bots and explore the evolution of iOS email apps, user preferences, and outlook of email clients.

Jun 16, 2024 • 31min
The Pizza Is the Model
In this podcast, Federico and John share their disappointment with Apple's language model training decisions. They also discuss their early experiences with iOS and iPadOS 18 betas from WWDC week. The episode covers topics like AI model training, the challenges of CarPlay functionality, and the ethical implications of using online content for AI models.

Jun 14, 2024 • 41min
WWDC 2024: The AppStories Interviews with ADA and Swift Student Challenge Distinguished Winners
Listen to this special episode where ADA and Swift Student Challenge winners share their experiences. Discover the innovative features of apps like Crouton, Gentler Streak, and Procreate Dreams. Learn about the creative potential unlocked by the latest iPad Pros and Apple Pencil Pro. Hear about winners' encounters at WWDC, including meeting Tim Cook. Explore Apple's AI advancements and future development plans.


