Apple Macbook Setup

This is a living document that might evolve over time. Setup I generally try to keep the setup as simple and minimal as possible. I also use most of the Apple apps so that I do not need to install third party alternatives. Of course there are some apps that I just need because there is no Apple counterpart. General For password management I like to use Bitwarden so that I have access on my Fedora Linux PC as well. For AD blocking in Safari I like to use 1Blocker. The experience with it has been great and it blocks all ADs - as far as I can tell. NordVPN has been working well so far and I also have another year prepaid. The best AirDrop alternative is hands down LocalSend and it is my preferred method to send files between devices. Calibre is a great tool to store and manage e-books. Currently I also use TickTick as a task manager for my project. Mainly because it has a nice kanban board and the ability to convert notes to tasks and vice versa. Because I want to try out game development I also installed Godot. I also want to create a nice family tree so I also got myself the MacFamilyTree software. Homebrew VSCodium (cask) - as an alternative to VSCode lazygit - nice GUI inside the terminal to make git usage simpler and faster Exiftool - to manage metadata on images, especially when posting online fastfetch - simple command to display key information of your device node + yarn - used for Astro development hugo - static site generator to create my blog git - self explanatory? Future Programs? Little Snitch (mini) might be interesting to try sometime. It is a simple Network usage tool. Xcode if I ever decide to develop apps for Apple devices natively. Portfolio Performance for stock portfolio tracking. Gramps as an open-source alternative to MacFamily Tree. Gimp if the iPad apps I use for sketching and drawing aren’t enough.

January 24, 2026 · n1jos

The Current State of the iPhone

Sometimes I question myself if I should switch back to an Android phone. This time it is because of the Liquid Glass redesign and probably just wanting to try something new, shiny and different. Current iPhone lineup iPhone 17 The standard iPhone is the best deal of an iPhone we have seen in a long time. It has everything the normal consumer needs (apart from maybe the ultrawide camera in specific scenarios). The design is simple but I really don’t like the pill camera array on the back. ...

December 6, 2025 · n1jos

Why the Apple TV elevates media consumption

The Apple TV is the better way to consume media on a TV. Its smooth interface, instant performance, and seamless integration with my Apple ecosystem makes watching anything feel effortless. The price is significantly more than a Fire TV Stick, but the experience is absolutely worth it. Minimal design Great image & audio quality No intrusive ads Apple ecosystem Snappy performance Simple remote Home Hub functionality

June 19, 2025 · n1jos

Apple Airpods - Big Sound Small Formfactor

The Apple AirPods Pro are by far the best in-ear headphones I’ve ever used. The seamless connection and effortless switching between my Apple devices make them an absolute game-changer. They’re my go-to travel headphones thanks to their compact size. I’d much rather pack these than bulky over-ear ones. Great sound Noise cancelling & passthrough mode Small footprint Lasting battery life Simple wireless charging Intuitive volume control Seamless device switching Find My support

June 18, 2025 · n1jos

Apple iPhone - A Masterclass in Refinement

When it comes to smartphones, I always come back to the iPhone. I’ve tried others, but nothing quite matches the consistency and polish that Apple delivers. The minimal design, solid build quality and smooth performance make it a device that feels refined from day one and stays that way over time. One of the most underrated things about using an iPhone is just how well it fits into everyday life. It’s not flashy or overwhelming - it’s focused. Whether I’m taking a quick photo, checking messages, or navigating with Maps - everything feels fast, clean and intuitive. ...

June 15, 2025 · n1jos

Apple iPad - The Modern Notebook?

When it comes to tablets, the iPad stands in a league of its own. I’ve used others, but nothing quite delivers the same balance of power, design and everyday usability. It’s clean, lightweight and built with purpose — whether I’m reading, sketching, or working on the go, it just fits into my workflow. The display on the newer models, especially with the tandem OLED technology, is stunning. It’s bright, crisp and handles color with incredible accuracy. Watching movies, editing photos, or simply browsing feels immersive. It’s one of those features you instantly notice and it’s hard to go back once you’ve seen it. I also use the Paperlike screen protector, so in all honesty I do not take advantage of the screen, but the writing and sketching experience is more important for me. ...

June 14, 2025 · n1jos

Why the MacBook Is My Ultimate Productivity and Programming Companion

When it comes to getting work done, I always choose a MacBook. I’ve used other laptops, but nothing matches the smooth, reliable experience Apple delivers. The solid aluminum body, minimal flex, and clean design give it a premium look and feel. It’s a device that holds up both physically and functionally over time. As a programmer, I rely heavily on the Terminal. On macOS, it’s fast, clean, and generally works like magic. The touchpad is the best I’ve used. It’s responsive, spacious, and supports gestures that actually improve workflow. You don’t need a mouse especially when writing code. The keyboard is also excellent, Comfortable, quiet, and reliable. ...

June 13, 2025 · n1jos