The Lab Report for September 13, 2024

In this week’s episode of The Lab Report: details on the iPhone 16 line, all OS updates releasing on Monday September 16, software update to AirPods Pro 2 adds basic hearing aid functionality, and my Labs video on a useful app for finding and deleting duplicates on your Mac.
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Focused 212: Living the Llama Life, with Marie Ng

Llama Life founder Marie Ng joins Mike and me on this episode of Focused to talk about the relative time-boxing, the importance of systems, and eating your productivity vegetables.

This episode of Focused is sponsored by:

  • Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code FOCUSED.
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The Waterfield Shield Case for Vision Pro

closed waterfield shield case in brown, for vision pro. it is on a dark wood desk.
Sparky’s Waterfield Shield Case for Vision Pro

When it comes to protecting my Vision Pro, the apt word for my approach is anal retentive. The thing is amazing, but also very delicate with expensive screens and the most cutting-edge tech Apple has to offer. So I am careful when moving it, I keep a little cover over the monitors when not in use, and I keep it in a secure bag.

The question I faced was, “What bag?” The Apple bag didn’t appeal to me. It seemed overpriced and oversized. I wanted something of equal quality but smaller. That’s what led me to the Waterfield Shield Case, a product that promises not only to safeguard your Vision Pro but to do so with style, durability, and a thoughtful design that makes it an ideal companion for anyone on the go.

Waterfield Designs, a company that does both design and production in San Francisco, is known for its thoughtful design and craftsmanship. I first bought a Waterfield bag at Macworld nearly two decades ago. I’ve since given that bag away but it is still in daily use and looks only better with the years on its leather.

a size comparison: apple vision pro case next to the water field shield case, which is smaller than apple's, with a visible handle on top.
The Shield Case from Waterfield is quite a bit smaller than Apple’s.
waterfield shield case and its inside companion for accessories, open to reveal vision pro and accessories inside

Their Vision Pro case is no different, with ballistic nylon or waxed canvas variants, the materials feel premium and substantial. The ballistic nylon variant has that high-tech, no-nonsense vibe, while the waxed canvas option offers a more classic, timeless look that I prefer.

The Shield Case design is compact enough to fit into larger bags or be carried on its own, yet it’s spacious enough to hold the Vision Pro and its essential accessories. The exterior is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, with water-resistant materials and tough enough to handle the occasional bump or scrape.

close-up of waterfield shield case accessories pouch on its side, showing its contents.
There is lot to like about the Waterfield Shield Case.

The case features a semi-rigid shell that offers excellent protection without being overly bulky. It strikes a balance between being lightweight enough to carry around all day and sturdy enough to give you peace of mind that your Vision Pro is well-protected. The leather accents are probably not necessary, but they seem appropriate for this amazing Vision Pro.

As with all Waterfield products, the zippers and pockets are well-designed and executed. The main compartment has plush padding to cradle your Vision Pro, ensuring it stays scratch-free and secure. One of the standout features is the smart organization inside the case. There’s a dedicated slot for the Vision Pro itself, along with pockets for the charger, cables, and other small accessories. These pockets are strategically placed to prevent items from shifting around during transport, which is a thoughtful touch that frequent travelers will appreciate. There’s even a zippered pocket for storing more delicate items, like a cleaning cloth or extra lenses.

waterfield shield case flat on a wooden table, with its lid open, showing vision pro.
Vision Pro fits snugly inside Waterfield’s Shield Case.

The interior is lined with soft material that feels gentle against the Vision Pro’s delicate components, yet durable enough to handle the wear and tear of regular use. The attention to detail is evident in the way the interior compartments are sized and positioned; there’s a place for everything, and everything has its place.

If you are on the road, this thing is sized for travel. It comes with a removable shoulder strap, allowing you to sling it over your shoulder or carry it by hand using the sturdy top handle. Whether you’re heading to the office, traveling across the country, or simply moving between rooms in your home, the Shield Case is ready to go wherever you go.

One of the things I appreciate most about the Shield Case is how it seamlessly integrates into my workflow. The case’s design makes it easy to pack and unpack my Vision Pro, and the organized interior means I’m not wasting time rummaging around for cables or accessories. Everything has its place, and that level of organization is something I really value, especially when I take my Vision Pro on the go.

I’ve been using the Shield Case for four months and there are no signs of wear. The zippers are as smooth as the day I got it, and the materials still look and feel as premium as ever. If you’re looking for a case worthy of your Vision Pro, check this one out.

Mac Power Users 762: It’s Glowtime

Apple’s September event brought new iPhones, updated AirPods, and a revised Apple Watch line. Stephen and I sort through the news and share our thoughts on this episode of Mac Power Users

This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by:

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