HeyWhatsNew: Apple Plans Affordable Mac with iPhone Chip and Epic Settles App Store Case with Google
Heyuppers, ready for another roundup? Here’s what’s trending across tech, innovation, and gaming this week, beginning 03/11/2025.
Google and Epic Games Propose Settlement to Shake Up App Store Rules
Google and Epic Games have reached a proposed settlement that could change the way apps and payments work on Android. If approved, users will have an easier time downloading third-party app stores that meet security standards, and developers will be able to offer alternative payment options inside apps or through web links. Google also plans to cap service fees at 9% or 20% for transactions using these options. The deal still needs approval from U.S. District Judge James Donato, who previously ruled in favor of Epic and issued a major injunction on Google’s app store policies.
Both companies are framing the changes as a win. Google says the proposal keeps users safe while giving developers and consumers more flexibility. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney called it “awesome,” noting that it reinforces Android’s vision as an open platform. Google continues to deny any wrongdoing and is facing other lawsuits around its search and advertising practices, but this settlement could be a big step toward more choice and competition on Android.
Apple Plans a More Affordable Mac with iPhone Power Inside
Apple might soon make owning a Mac a lot easier on the wallet. According to Bloomberg, the company is developing a new low-cost Mac laptop powered by an iPhone chip, set to launch in the first half of 2026. It will feature a slightly smaller LCD screen than the current 13.6-inch MacBook Air and is expected to cost well under $1,000. Despite being more affordable, early tests show the iPhone chip could actually outperform older M1-powered Macs. This new model will reportedly come with a completely fresh design and is aimed at students, casual users, and anyone who wants Apple performance without the premium price tag.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo adds that the laptop may use the same A18 Pro chip as the iPhone 16 Pro lineup and could be available in fun color options like silver, blue, pink, and yellow. Apple is also gearing up to launch a MacBook Air with its new M5 chip early next year, followed by upgraded M5 Pro and M5 Max models for the MacBook Pro.
Canva Introduces Smarter AI Tools
Canva is taking creativity to the next level with its brand-new design model that truly understands layers, objects, and formats. Instead of generating flat images, it now produces editable designs that can be easily customized across everything from social posts and presentations to websites and whiteboards. The company has also improved its AI assistant, which now works across the entire platform. You can tag it in comments for instant ideas, generate 3D objects, or even copy the style of any design. Canva is also making it easier to connect data and creativity by linking its spreadsheet and app-building tools so users can turn numbers into interactive widgets.
On the business side, Canva is introducing Canva Grow, an all-in-one marketing hub that helps create, analyze, and publish ads directly to platforms like Meta. It’s powered by MagicBrief, the ad analytics company Canva recently acquired. Users can also design branded emails, create client forms, and enjoy new integrations with Affinity, which is now free forever. With Affinity and Canva AI working together, designers can switch between professional tools and collaborative projects seamlessly. Canva’s latest updates make it clear the company is aiming to be a one-stop shop for creators, marketers, and design pros alike.
GTA 5 Mod Turns NPC Accidents into Full-On Courtroom Drama
Twitch modder Blurbs has taken GTA 5 chaos to a whole new level with a mod that lets NPCs fake accidents and take players to court. When a pedestrian jumps in front of your car, you’re instantly transported to a virtual courthouse where Twitch chat acts as judge, jury, and prosecution. Players fill out a viewer-generated “incident report” with questions ranging from practical to hilarious, turning every fake collision into a full-blown trial that’s as unpredictable as it is entertaining.
The courtroom antics don’t stop there. Jurors can include aliens, sharks, and even cows trying to claim damages, making each case completely absurd. Blurbs, known for bringing community ideas to life in games like Skyrim and Red Dead Redemption 2, shows once again that GTA 5’s modding scene can still surprise, entertain, and keep players laughing.
Pantheon: Rise of the Fallen Gets a Big Boost with New Funding
After more than ten years in development, Pantheon: Rise of the Fallen is finally getting the support it needs to grow. The MMORPG has faced its share of challenges, from funding struggles to the loss of founder Brad McQuaid, and the small Visionary Realms team has often had to juggle multiple roles. Now, with a seven-figure investment from someone who truly believes in the game, the team can expand and focus on adding exciting new content. Visionary Realms assures fans that this isn’t a takeover—just a chance to work more efficiently and bring their vision to life.
The funding means more artists, programmers, and even a dedicated project manager can join the team. Players can look forward to updates like the Wildblood faction, upgrades to Wizard and Summoner classes, and a mount and taming system. The developers are especially excited to involve the community, saying fans’ feedback and passion help shape the game. For both longtime fans and newcomers, this funding milestone promises a deeper, richer, and more vibrant world in Pantheon: Rise of the Fallen, now available on PC via Steam.
We’ve covered this week’s highlights, Heyuppers. Tune in next week for the latest stories and trends in tech and gaming.
