Leaving the Apple Ecosystem | Digital Minimalism & Accessibility

[@djross95]

I made the same decision, Laura. I've never owned an iPhone, but had a Mac and iPad Mini. Apple's relentless price inflation finally wore me down. I now have a Pixel 8, Chromebook, inexpensive Lenovo laptop, and a Garmin fitness watch. They do everything I need for far fewer $$. Loved your video!

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Great to hear and you have a good setup. I was looking at the Garmin fitness watch since I heard it doesn't need a smartphone to work.

[@djross95]

@@LauraMalvoyante I love it! The app works with every OS and the battery lasts nearly a week. Fully waterproof as well, I never take it off except to charge it!

[@ovojdabanks210]

how is there price inflation?

[@azmedz]

There's no need to leave Apple there's so many devices you can have both. At one time I hated Apple and Samsung and I only use pixel devices but now I have a Samsung and an iPhone LOL no need to hate on any of them they're all great (edit and I'm not trying to lose my smart devices I like smart devices)

[@ladybankrupt]

MMA of mobile phones

[@Fr4nkSanchez]

Exactly. I want to to use a basic phone but still capable of using whatsapp and buy an ipad mini. I find that the apple ecosystem is the best of all other systems. You dont need subscriptions or going through third parties. I just want to reduce screen time but still capable of managing what I need.

[@williamktips3364]

Unless if your stuck paying for storage

[@mdlindc]

Is she hating on Apple, or just saying it no longer fits her needs - both for minimalism and budget. I’ve reached a point where I accept that people use/buy/shed what works for them or what does not.

[@zebratroopfan6695]

I have both. My family is entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. My wife doesn’t like change. We’ve left the ecosystem before and always returned. Our kids all use Apple products and our home has Apple home , AirPods etc. I love tech and have all kinds of gadgets. I have Google , Sonos, Amazon, and various other brands. It’s fun but when it comes to staying connected to my family its Apple. It’s easy and we are off the upgrade train. My wife still has a iPhone 9 and is happy. I have a 2018 iPad which if fine. It still does everything I need it to do. Getting off the upgrade train was more important for us than the ecosystem. I’m retiring and we are looking forward to travel. The “toys” are becoming less important to me as well. Anyway loved the video.

[@chubbcurry30]

@@zebratroopfan6695 Do you maybe mean she has the iPhone 8, or X? There is no iPhone 9…

[@zebratroopfan6695]

@@chubbcurry30 my mistake. She has a X

[@luisbperez368]

As an old fart that went through the computer wars in USENET in the 80s, I can say that the best device is the device you are more comfortable with. Back in the day, my first computer was the Amiga 1000. You cannot imagine the computer wars between the Amiga and Macintosh; up to a point, it got personal. One thing that got us (Amiga and Mac users) united was when we went to “war” against the PC users with MS-DOS. To make the story short, nowadays, most computer users have grown up, and if you are happy with your choice of operating system, then you are ok. I have a very long list of computer systems that I use in my daily routine. I still have three Amigas that I still use occasionally. I also have a Mac SE 30 and a Mac Classic II that are in perfect working order. I have a few mini PCs running Win 10 (I will not upgrade that PC to Win 11) and Win 11. I have a few mini PCs with different Linux distros. I have a 2017 Macbook Pro and a dual-boot Laptop with Win 11 and Linux. And last but not least, a nice collection of Raspberry Pi. If I go to the local coffee shop, I take my Raspberry Pi400 with a small monitor, and everyone asks me about it. Nowadays, the system that you use is the system that is important to you. I am writing a research paper on my Raspberry Pi400. You'd to prove a point that you can use a $100 PC with a $50 monitor to do so. My final writing is done with LaTEX. Good luck with the new system.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks for this and I had no idea about the Amiga and Macintosh feud. I love tech, old and new. I honestly get bored and like to switch up every 5 years to keep my skills sharp. My vision is pretty bad so I'm rediscovering devices with a pretty bad visual handicap but I love how each system approaches accessibility. I don't have anything against any company and I think it's important to experience and enjoy life as you want.

[@kaleidoscopeon]

I’m like you too. Recently got rid of my Apple Watch and got a casino watch. Too many distractions so keeping everything to minimal is the way to go.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Great to hear! Less is more when it comes to tech sometimes.

[@SFAutor]

I am a long time fan of Apple's operating systems and hardware. It is the best infrastructure for my work and I would never think about to switch to Android or Windows or any other system. However, I do cross my fingers that your choice and journey will be successful, because bottom line, every user must feel comfortable with his choice and I wish you will get what you were looking for.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks for understanding my perspective. I have nothing against Apple and who knows where I'll end up. I have switched between platforms my whole life. I like to shake things up when I get too comfortable I guess.

[@stephenvalente3296]

I'd definitely agree on one thing, Apple are certainly out of control when it comes to pricing, having lost touch with reality some time ago. Mind you, don't think I've paid full price for any Apple hardware I've owned since my Intel based iMac in 2006! MacBook Pro 15" from 2015 still going well in it's own way, and I upgraded the SSD to a 2Tb model relatively easily. Had several iPhone's, the latest being 5 years old, and hopefully will upgrade this year as I don't want to be at the mercy of my network provider like when Vodafone here in the UK made my Samsung S5 run like treacle for 6 months until they finally admitted they'd botched the previous update! On my third iPad, last one was bought nearly 3 years ago now. My son got the previous one, and the old iPad 4 still works. Few iPad minis around too for various things. Would like the new M4 model, but a lot more money than it should be. I thought long and hard about getting the Apple Watch S5, and working great for me, so sticking with that. Last new Mac was an M1 Studio Max last summer, my first new Mac in 7 years. So I'm not a regular upgrader or buyer, and get the most from my hardware in terms of usage and outlay. I just like the way the ecosystem interacts, and when it comes to the store with apps, etc., I kind of feel happier with a store that is locked down to shut out malware better than PC, Android, etc. Still have a PC that I built last October, first one in years. Loads of old Macs around the place, and even an Apple IIe. Like the hardware, like the software, just hate the way the company is run totally focused on profit rather than serving it's customers nowadays, and that comes from the top down. Steve Jobs could be an absolute so & so, but he knew that customers mattered, where as with Cook, Wall Street matters more than the customers.

[@SFAutor]

@@stephenvalente3296 I also own a Mac Studio with M1 Max and bought it two years ago. The Mac will certainly serve me for another five to seven years, at least that's my plan. My last Mac was a Mac Pro 2013 (trash can), which was in use for nine years and is now with my daughter, who continues to use it. Macs are very durable if you look after them. They are more expensive than a PC, but the long service life puts it all into perspective.

[@hdtravel1]

You might want to take a look at the Framework laptops - I bought one ( Framework 13 ) in Dec 2023 - totally upgradable and all parts are user replaceable - a very superior laptop to all of them out there. Definitely worth looking into.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks for the tip! I really like the concept of being able to replace and upgrade myself.

[@signalcabin]

Owned an Intel Mac Mini bought in 2019. Retired 2022. Owned a Lenovo IdeaPad Z500 from 2013 to earlier this year 2024.

[@bazosmarek7981]

why retired in 2022?

[@signalcabin]

@@bazosmarek7981 I forgot the password. The recovery process did not work. Formatted hard drive and Went for OS reinstall. OS X would not reinstall. Brought thing to CeX store. They couldn't revive it. The fact there is NO Apple store here in Ireland might have something to do with it too from my point of view :/

[@phbrinsden]

I’m 81 and I love the Apple ecosystem. I like that my iPhone, iPad, MBAir and even my Apple TV all work nicely together. I especially like that Apple ensures everything is up to date. I used to use Windows pre 2011 and got quite proficient at fixing endless issues. Never again. Apple Watch is next when it has a really good biometric suite. At 81 that is helpful. I am OK paying a bit more if that is even true if it gives me commensurate value. I can’t imagine having all different systems.

[@Fr4nkSanchez]

Yes, the apple ecosystem is very good. As long as you have an apple tv as hub you dont need extra subscription going through alexa, trealife, etc. You can control everything from homekit. What I want to do is to reduce my time in phone. I dont waste time at work, nor church or while my family but I do consider that during free time I do spend 2 hrs in social media mostly when I am at bed before sleep or when sitting outside. Now that gardening and growing vegetables and fruits becoming my new hobby. I am planning to use a basic phone just for communication and buy an ipad mini for other things that I need to take care such mail, pay bills, etc. Since ipad mini is bigger is not something I will be carrying around in my pocket and eventually will reduce the necessity of open the phone and see what news. The only reason I am still hesitating is because like 80% family and friends uses whatsapp not regular SMS/MMS and this is a problem as well. The minimal phone looks promising but we'll see.

[@WeDontWantYourWar]

This! this is what Apple make their products for. People who just want things to work. Apple have ALWAYS had a strong focus on accessibility.

[@BTRPCN]

No way this is a real comment

[@willxowo]

being into computers since I was around 5... (gamer since age 2 according to my mom lol) in my 30s, i'm clearly into tech, but my first and only apple product was uh... iphone 8 in 2020. It ended up kind of malfunctioning, in the very thing it's supposed to do, make phone calls, everything else works but a little slow, couldn't hear each other mostly couldn't hear me. I just had to try Apple one time while I could because I always had android, my first smart phone in 2013 the Galaxy S3.. I've had multiple galaxies, in 2015 I actually got a Windows Phone lol, it.... was neat. I actually like it a little more than that iphone 8, downside is the app store was dead empty and it's probably worse now, I mostly did Solitaire/Minesweeper gaming like the good ol windows days lol. So fast forward my first apple product the iphone 8... 10 was out and all yeah but i'm still disappointed, i felt lied to by the entire media for years, saying "Apple app store has more, it's better", blah blah blah, totally false lol, Google playstore is indeed bigger, maybe it has too much crap, and yeah some things are exclusive to 1 or the other, but a slightly outdated iphone years after tech experience felt like "The tip of an iceberge of inconvenience" If I was to ever get something else lol. That new ipad looks ok, i have nothing against it, I use AI tools and drawing tablets myself, but they took a while to make a more convenient USB, too stuck-up with their featureless devices, connect an iphone to a PC and you can drag pictures only, music if you go through a hurdle/difficult process... why iphones are super popular in korea is beyond me, i saw things how they treat android users with some disrespect lol, that's insane to me. Digital Minimalism sounds like a good idea ^^ I think the watch concept was pointless all together, people around me are confused why I carry a normal flash light instead of my phone, well.. phone is heavier and less potent LED, and don't wanna feel over-reliant on one thing.

[@hdtravel1]

I dumped ALL my Apple devices in Aug 2022 and I am so happy that I did. Android is far superior and offers so many more hardware choices and customization options.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I agree!

[@davepounds8924]

I commend you for doing this Breaking away from the digital devices we all use and obsessed with isn’t easy The breaking point for me came when I entered a restaurant and 80 percent of the crowd were sitting at their tables with their heads down with their phones in their hands It’s hard breaking away from the digital gadgets

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yes I feel that whenever I go anywhere and see most people on their phones while walking down the street or while grocery shopping. It feels pretty dystopic.

[@aliensporebomb]

I'm a systems administrator by profession. I own 2 Mac computers and 2 windows machines. After a day of dealing with the windows BS the Mac is a refreshing change although some of the OS changes trying to make MacOS more like IOS is less optimal to me.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I'm sure you have a lot to deal with when it comes to working as a systems admin. I think having a different OS when you come home from work is completely understandable. I like macOS but I also like to switch it up every couple years to keep it interesting. I will probably install Linux on my Thinkpad and get a desktop PC for gaming and editing purposes.

[@keng8883]

Congrats for getting out. I too came from Android but went all in again after the latest iPad release. The cost is outrageous. Why would I pay for an M4 chip locked down by iPadOS? I dusted off my Surface Pro 7 and I'm quite happy with it.

[@coreyhall]

Humans are so funny. We want so badly to be seen and noticed that we allow marketing teams to divide us into tribes that do not matter. We will never ever evolve past tribalism culture. Great video, new sub.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Love this analysis and it's sadly true 😄

[@hunternemmers3861]

Literally started to do the same thing starting with my iPhone. I switched to a Samsung Galaxy S24+ and after a month, Im back on an iPhone. The grass isn't always greener. Androids are amazing devices, but kinda suck as daily drivers. Im still in awe that I had to enable Developer Mode just to get Spotify to work through Android Auto. It's like Google set out to create an opposing operating system to iOS that was everything that Apple didn't do, but left out the things that Apple did well, like ease of use. I don't see Android ever overtaking iOS. Don't get me started on Windows. Built a PC that was going to replace my MacBook Pro and couldn't stand it. Every Windows menu is basically an advertising billboard, even when you strip it down. TLDR; Tried to walk away from Apple Eco and found that the grass isn't always greener.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I get this and life is harder outside the apple ecosystem. This is the reason I left. Apple makes everything easy to use therefore I could waste my life on it. Android is a bit frustrating and it makes me put it down more than my iphone and that's what I need. I never used apple services like iMessage or facetime and I didn't use apple to drive because I can't drive anymore due to vision loss. I've left all streaming platforms and I buy CDs to rip MP3s so I don't need an Android for music. I just need call, text, bank apps and gps. That's it.

[@jumper1096]

Exactly why people prefer Windows 10 over 11. The UI might look better but Microsoft is alienating it's userbase with it's advertising and Cortana/copilot bloatware and terrible UI.

[@hunternemmers3861]

@@jumper1096 Absolutely agree with this. I used to be a Windows used when 10 first came out and I used it for work with my Mac at home. Windows never bothered me until 11 came out and they started shoving ads down our throat and preloading with bloat, with some that we can't seem to uninstall without breaking something.

[@hunternemmers3861]

@@LauraMalvoyante I think we are looking for the same thing, but have different ways of getting there. I found that my screen time was higher on the Android vs my iPhone. Things were easier on iPhone which let me get the task down faster and spend more time engaging with the environment around me. Im not trying to convince you of anything, just sharing my experience. I absolutely think people should try out different ways of doing things, it just happened that I am used to working in Apple to the point its second nature. Even Terminal commands don't really bother me on it.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

@@hunternemmers3861 yes I get it. If I need to get work done fast and efficiently an Apple is the only way to go for me too. I exclusively use mac's for work but I've just switched up my personal devices. The keyboard shortcuts are hard to relearn but I'm getting better. I don't think I'll stay in any ecosystem forever. I like to switch around a lot.

[@Alfonso732]

I thought about it for many years but can't. developers just seem to love apple sooooo much that at this point there are still companies that have no android app for equipment I use for work on a daily basis, and everything just connects so much better. I will always have a windows pc for gaming at home though

[@LauraMalvoyante]

This is true. In the past five years I've seen developers shift, and companies too, to using Apple exclusively. I think for work it works great. I really enjoy having a PC again and I still think Apple makes great devices but I don't want to be locked in for every device.

[@Jose_T131]

I just use my smartwatch (amazfit gts mini4) for checking my workouts or tracking my running on GPS but absolutely not for notifications

[@pj61114]

Love the competition. Makes all systems better. Some are going LINIX too.

[@baddboo]

I am coming close to upgrading from an iPhone 12 max. I am seeking other options before I come to the iPhone 16. So I hope the minimal phone will be a simplistic approach… Thanks for ur channel and thoughts on your channel

[@robb5828]

If you want a really great phone for quite ,,cheap,, and are ok downgrading the cameras a bit,look up the OnePlus 12R(Flagship Killer). It's performance is amazing,

[@olethembones]

The comments section for this gave me a good laugh. Everything from Apple Fanboys to people who suggest buying things not made in China by suggesting other things made in China. So funny! I also am breaking out of the walled garden. Not completely as I like my Mac and AppleTv but the iPhone and Apple Watch, bleh. I'm using a Pixel 8 Pro and a Xiaomi 14 Ultra for the camera. I ditched the iPhone as the 15 Pro Max was a let down and swapped out my Apple Watch for a Pixel Watch 2. I enjoy having the option for third party watch faces and found some great minimal faces that I can customize just how I want. I am slightly vision and hearing impaired so the "reading mode" on android really helps me. Eliminating ads and images and making the text large or having assistant just read me the article is such a better experience than iPhone reading mode offered. The last thing I have from Apple I want to ditch is the Apple Card which will be gone in a couple of months. Good luck on your journey! It's not easy.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yeah the comments are all over the place for this video. I think mixing up your devices over all ecosystems is the best. I love Apple hardware and I like how things just work. I also like gaming on Windows and if Linux was more compatible for games and certain editing softwares I would ditch windows in a heart beat. I didn't like the watch faces on Apple watch either. The Pixel watch 2 looks like a great smartwatch. I love the Pixel 8 and I find the camera way better than my Apple 15 pro Max was. It's hard to justify the price for these flagships that can't perform better than midrange devices. My Thinkpad is a beast and I have no regrets leaving my MacBook pro (Intel). I will always jump around devices and ecosystems since I love tech.

[@HarpTreeHillMedia]

I´m on the way, also. Got rid off the MacMini at first. At the moment I try to use an android-phone instead of my iPhone 11 Pro Max. I got a iPad for my daily worx. It doesn´t belongs to me, so I think this will be easy to drop. I´m still searching for an (reliable and coequal) alternative laptop (maybe I should think about an ThinkPad, like you did, same reasons like yours). But as much as I hate MacOS I love the performance and the accu-capacity of my MacBook Air (M1). I think this will be the hardest part to change...

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Honestly my MacBook pro was the device I was addicted to the least. I can't blame anyone who uses Apple because I know they are great and reliable. I can't say I will never go back but it has been refreshing leaving the ecosystem and getting my life/money back. Leaving my iphone was the hardest step. But now I really like not having one. My Thinkpad is by far my favorite device. I have just bought a Lenovo M9 tablet to help manage tasks and entertainment needs and the size is great. I am changing things everyday 😄

[@HarpTreeHillMedia]

@@LauraMalvoyante live is changing. Day by day. Breath by breath.

[@rebeccaw9656]

New subscriber! I left iPhone in 2020 for an Android, and while I have an iPad and a Mac mini, I too am looking at value for money for my next devices. Having mixed devices, I am not fully in any ecosystem, but use a bit of everything that sync together - and I’m completely fine.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

That's the best way! I think mixed devices works perfectly. I still use my airpods and have no issues connecting them with any device not in the apple ecosystem.

[@fairygurl5448]

I have “low vision” as well and I find the iPad (and other devices) so handy.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I think everyone has their own preference for their visual needs. Apple worked great for me but I became addicted to my devices and it caused me more eye strain in the end.

[@adminofsugas]

I enjoy all the eco systems available - but for the phone I have the iPhone mini as it’s just used as a phone & its portability is light. I have tablets , computers I don’t need a huge phone. More smaller smartphones are needed

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I had the iPhone 12 mini until recently. It was a great device but my vision got too bad to continue using it. It is the best size iphone in my opinion.

[@misstornton3848]

That was interesting! I never was in someones system, ive got samsung phone, macbook just becauseit has big and good screen (15 inch), samsung tablet to study languages and garmin watch for sport!

[@LauraMalvoyante]

That's the best setup. Nobody should be stuck in one brand or ecosystem. I've learned my lesson.

[@philipbaldassini9528]

For me you can decide when not to be on the phone, for me I dont have an Apple Watch, but i have a g shock that connect via Bluetooth only good if I bring my phone in. With my EMS job at a hospital I have to have it for the messaging system. There are time I dont have anything connected say an old iPhone that just has music, and I love music when I work out, or just go for a walk or a hike…. But, that being said the phone will be in the backpack turned off in case of emergency.

[@SimplisticallyDigital]

This is definitely helpful. I am a person that works in the tech space professionally so it’s hard to not use a lot of these products because that’s what I use with my clients and on my KZbin channel, but it’s great to know that there is a time to put put down the tech to reflect or downgrade for personal use. I didn’t realize you were visually impaired. I am a teacher of the visually impaired. I definitely learned something from this video. I didn’t think of using my AirPods to connect to my Google pixel seven. I’m definitely doing that soon. Thank you for the tips in this video.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I'm glad to help and I love mixing devices in different ecosystems. Airpods work well with all my devices. I love that you're a teacher for the visually impaired!

[@Agent77X]

I use Windows 11 Pro for my desktop PC for business. For content consumption: buy always latest iPhone and iPad Pro model. I just upgrade to Ultra 2 black iWatch.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Apple is better in regards to content consumption. It was too good in my case. It was hard to separate but I'm sure I'll be back to Apple some day.

[@Agent77X]

@@LauraMalvoyanteIf you can not afford new, buy refurbished models. Android device are very cheap after one year!😊

[@LauraMalvoyante]

@@Agent77X I do but a lot of refurbished or open box devices.

[@rolf7135]

Interesting journey. I hope more people are looking outside the Apple ecosystem. Things are getting really expensive and quite frankly some of the design have not been that good, the butterfly keyboard period was really bad and now that none of the desktops can be upgraded with more storage. I've been looking at Mac Mini, but ended up buying a refurbished HP Elitedesk 800 G4, and plan to upgrade it with two 2TB drives(double the max storage of current Mac minis). The total cost is about 65% of just upgrading a Mac Mini from 256GB to 2TB(!).

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yes I agree about the price. The upcharge for memory and ram for the Mac mini is crazy. I am happy to have switched to a device that is cheaper and upgradable.

[@DoctorAtomTNT]

Great channel, found this video by looking at tech minimalism, glad to find I’m not the only one. I am even looking at using Palm PDA again for notes and voice memos. Modern tech is too addictive, on purpose.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks and welcome to my channel! There are more and more people becoming fed up with the addictive nature of new tech. I am trying to break the habit but it has been a battle.

[@Gurenn83]

I had an Intel 2018 macbook air and on the 13th month, it started to have a vertical dead pixel. Since it is out of warranty, I asked Apple repair how much it will cost. To my surprise, they are charging more than half of the macbook’s value. I then bought an M1 macbook air instead. After one year and six months, it suddenly stopped charging for no reason. Again, I went to Apple repair (different store) and was told the logic board needs to be replaced. This time, they are charging me for half of the laptops original price. They even added the touch ID which is working but I was told it is integrated with the logic board. I refused to have both repaired. Apple is selling expensive entry models that come with ludicrous repair pricing. I went back to Windows instead and no issues so far. No regrets at all.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Wow that is crazy. I hesitated on getting the MacBook Air M1 to replace my Intel MacBook but I had chosen the Mac mini M2 instead. I was really disappointed by the performance for basic editing. My MacBook Intel had been better. I think the marketing is very good for Apple and has it has convinced people that they are the best (I used to be this way). After going back to windows and a 2018 Thinkpad I am blown away by how good the device handles my editing and light gaming. If I had the money to get a high end Mac I would not get it. I would probably build my own PC.

[@Rfpepe7295]

Hi Laura… Just wanted to say Hello from the US… I stumbled upon your channel and love your content and your delivery.. You have a very believable and calming way about you. I am also on a search for Digital Minimalism and am getting a lot of great tips from you.. Best of luck with your channel and don’t forget us OG followers when you hit a 1 million Subs!! lol

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks for the kind words. I am very appreciative of all my followers and thanks so much for the support!

[@fatimoiz]

And keep your first 1K in special list 😂

[@jumper1096]

I really get the frustration with the Apple 'tax'/expense. I wanted to move from MBP Intel to Apple Silicon 6 months ago (just when they released M3 MBAs) but just like you they increased the prices to 1-2k higher than I expected. Felt insanely ripped off, especially with what's they're doing to repairability/upgrade cost, and went for a Dell Inspiron 11th gen i7 and GTX 4050 GPU, it was half the cost of what Apple were offering for what I felt was similar performance (and cheaper to upgrade memory) - abt 1.7k at the time and about the same as Apple's Intel MBP from 2020. I could then game on Windows. Apart from the occasional Microsoft annoyances e.g. adverts/updates I quite like Windows 11. Precision trackpads improve gestures (you can setup 3-finger desktop swiping and Mission Control/expose swipe-up gestures, and the move to W11 glassy theme makes it so much closer to what I enjoyed from Mac OS. My major frustration is typing blocking the trackpad (which is much more forgiving on MacBooks when editing multiple lines of text quickly). Then I got annoyed with thermal throttling/low TDP which gave me bad framerate drops regardless of the type of game or whether it was plugged in, bad battery life when idling (2h instead of 4-5h) and the fan noise/heat. Fiddling settings to save battery did little. Worst of all I tried some music DAWs but Garageband/Logic is just much easier for creative hobbiests like myself who just want to play/create than figuring out samples, instruments and twiddling settings/UI elemets etc, and missed the performance I used to get out of my MBP. Even my previous MBP could run Adobe suite and a DAW perfectly fast on battery (albeit less life ofc). So missing my music and battery life... I recently decided to bite the bullet after so much um-ahing over choices (there's too many upgrades/tiers). In the end went for a Mac Mini M2 Pro 32GB because it's cheaper (just under 2k in UK) and specs are better than the cheaper MacBook Air, and I'm not as mobile/portable as I would have myself believe. I nearly bought the Studio (only few more ports and better heatsink/cpu for £200) but it was a last minute saving I thought I could live without. I was right. The Mac Mini seems like a great fit and I'm very happy with the price-to-performance/performance-per-watt ratios. Everything is amazingly smooth, lots of memory room to grow, I have Garageband back, typing/click action back and it just sips power in comparison to PC and Laptop. I was incredibly impressed for the price. The energy savings will help too. I think you could get by on a MacBook Air 24GB/512GB, storage wise moving videos off afterwards, similarly the 16-32GB M2 Pro would work for you. Out of all this I realised I overestimated the power I thought I needed for an Apple desktop and/or MacBook, and the desire for a beefy and 'black' MBP and should've just gone Mac Mini M2 as soon as it came out. I guess I learnt a dislike of other DAWs because they're too complicated for what I need, and then putting too much importance on costs vs needs for happiness. I guess I grew from the experience, I now know what I like and need; I like the simplicity and their software and hardware, and by avoiding it I was affecting my happiness and ability to enjoy a hobby. Sometimes the grass is greener and you think it works until it doesn't. I just hope you find the same because swapping can be just as expensive and won't always reap the rewards we seek. Sometimes we look for change, don't need it and should wait. After all, they're just desires for change and/or simplicity, or desire to get out of the walled garden. I get it, I feel and felt it. This time it took a while because I was unsure of what I really wanted, and it's annoying that businesses can convince/exploit us too.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

The grass is greener is a big thing. If had the money I would have probably stayed with apple and I won't rule out going back eventually at least for a desktop. I think the 32gb of ram is the minimum I need and I found the Mac mini was a great device just not the base model for my use case. I think no matter what device we use we make compromises on what we want. The perfect setup doesn't exist and I'm someone who switches from apple to Android every 4 years or so. I like tech and I like using different setups but sometimes it's a lot to think about and Apple makes it easy. I also like to complicate things sometimes to see how far I can make myself uncomfortable and learn some new skills.

[@jumper1096]

@@LauraMalvoyante Yeah the 8GB Mini is okay for very simple work but anything with video needs 16GB+ and better to have a Pro/Max chip for better render times. I thought about a Pixel for the past few years and I like what they've done and get tempted to buy one but it's just exensive to switch when my iPhone 11/Watch 6 is still fast and does everything I need, and when I forget to charge my watch I will happily use a basic/cheap analog watch. I only like the Apple watch due to the integration, design and fitness. I tried FitBit Inspire years ago but felt too utilitarian and they tend to break all the time. No other brand has convinced me yet. I think I won't bother upgrading watches and will stick with analog in future. I never even used to wear watches, it was only for fitness at the time. The latest tech revision bumps have made tech a bit boring and expensive nowadays. Too expensive to switch, and not enough features to want to switch/spend money. At least it's better for the planet that way though.

[@appleztooranges]

I hate that Apple doesn’t improve the iPhones anymore. It’s the same phone every year. Still holding on to the 13 pro max as they don’t improve battery life. I’ll prob just swap the battery this year if the 16 pro max doesn’t deliver

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yes definitely stay with the 13 Pro Max. I had updated from the 12 mini to the 15 Pro Max and was pretty disappointed. The battery life was the only thing I liked about it. They really need to step it up to motivate people to upgrade.

[@appleztooranges]

@@LauraMalvoyante yep they don’t do anything

[@Romeoforbes]

Same here, my iPhone 15 pro is an embarrassment. I can also relate to your situation. We are so glued to the rhythm

[@MichielMessink-dm9et]

Just had to check, but you're Thinkpad has a TPM 2.0 chip, which means you should be good to keep receiving Windows 11 updates :) The cutoff date for windows 10 is october next year. I'm going to have to convert one of my desktops to Linux to keep using it.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks for checking! I would like to switch to Linux but running my editing software would be an issue but I've seen some workarounds.

[@born2enjoy102]

1:20 On the point that Apple devices work too well to make you use it more I will say for me it worked other way round. Since pro devices were so expensive I always went for base versions which always lacked 120 hz display. And this is one feature which Android makers give to as many segments as possible and that's what make us use it more. With 60, I use it very limited as far as scrolling apps are concerned.

[@BenjaminHari]

It's funny how our phone is the core of us and the hardest thing to change out. But at least with Android you have a TON of customization and there are quite few launchers that are built on the minimalism and trying to cut you off from spending too much time with your phone. Hope you'll able to continue your minimalism life as much as possible!

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thank you and I hope so too. I am already feeling a lot better with changing my phone. It was the hardest to change but it has the most impact on my day to day.

[@ColouredShapes]

I find it interesting that you wanted to move away from Apple because of accessibility issues. I also have a severe visual impairment but basically rely on Apple's implementation of the Zoom Controller to mitigate most of my difficulties, so wouldn’t even consider switching to another OS out of fear that they would implement considerably different features. Beyond the Home Screen /UI customisation are the accessibility features really that different between them?

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Most of my issues were the lack of UI and display customization. I can make the icons and text much larger as well as modify the fonts. Apple has excellent accessibility features as far as screen readers and zoom are concerned. I think whichever you are used to works the best. I like to try different devices to continually test what is available and could be better. No OS is perfect.

[@sherrilltechnology]

I run a Windows machine for gaming, Linux for development and Mac for content creation. I like parts of all 3 except for Windows if I could play Warzone on Linux I would switch away from Windows and never go back. I want to start developing on Linux in the form of helping to build new Distros. I really enjoyed your video and I now own a Pixel 6 Pro. How do you like the Pixel 8?

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I would 100% move to Linux if it were more compatible with games and my editing software. I may get a separate desktop computer for editing/gaming and convert my Thinkpad to a productivity and development machine. It's been years since I used Linux exclusively and I'm sure newer versions have more to offer.

[@fernando_her85]

Great video, love it!, I need to take some of your courage and determination to do the same, I would love to do that however I might need some extra help, because one of my biggest reasons to stay into the Apple Ecosystem is her, she loves her IPhone and sharing photos, videos, the location, the check-in feature is lovely to have. I need some help over here :)

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yes it's hard to leave when others have you tied to Apple. Luckily my husband and family use WhatsApp. It was hard to cut out icloud and Apple pay but it's been a couple months and I have no regrets.

[@KensReviews]

What are you doing for music? Did you have to move all your Apple Music over to a new service? Loved the video 😊

[@LauraMalvoyante]

A few months ago I stopped using Spotify and switched to an MP3 player. I go into more detail here 😉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rX7Cq42Kaax4ftU

[@Nomadjackalope]

Wow! that's a lot of changes. I have my android set up with nova launcher and have hidden any apps from the app drawer I don't want to be using. The home screen is blank other than a shortcut to the camera and a date widget. It's helpful for the distraction

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I like the look of the icons with Nova launcher and I may use it. I am testing a few out to see which works. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@user-rn9uy2rq1w]

It will be very interesting to see how you set up your Pixel

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I am working on an ideal setup. I am trying to find a good launcher and icon pack

[@user-rn9uy2rq1w]

​@@LauraMalvoyante KZbin is removing my comment about alternative apps for Pixel..

[@prokopisv97]

Hi, interesting journey, keep on moving. I have a question about a video that you did about your new Blackberry Q20. I to have the same problem, any further updates on rectifying this. I’m very interested your progress. Thanks …..✌️

[@LauraMalvoyante]

It's still not working. I am good bg to stop by a repair shop next week to see if they can help. I saw its a common problem with Q20s unfortunately.

[@prokopisv97]

@@LauraMalvoyante If you can please keep me posted……

[@LauraMalvoyante]

@@prokopisv97 yes I'll keep you posted!

[@FubarMike]

If you want to take it to the next level of minimalism, put a version of linux like linux mint on your thinkpad and one of those specialized minimalist launchers on your android. You'll still get what you need to get done done but it will be a little less comfortable to do fun addicting things and you'll be supporting the free open source FOSS community.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I'm definitely going to do this for my android but I have to do more research for the Thinkpad. I've seen issues with my editing software not working well with Linux but I need to test it.

[@FubarMike]

@@LauraMalvoyante I use the software kdenlive on linux for video editing. Actually I use it on windows too. It's pretty much sony vegas but free.

[@RobertWilke]

Linux can be great but not everything works depending on your needs. Case in point I have a gaming laptop (Dell 7577 with an i5 7th gen processor with an nvidia 1060 gpu) runs both windows 11 and Fedora Linux fine. But and there’s always a but, on windows 11 I can run the base free version of DaVinci Resolve fine for video shot on my phone. In Linux I’m forced to either convert the video first to mpeg2 to edit it or pay for the full pro edition. Since Linux doesn’t come with the support for mpeg 4 codex as it’s a proprietary codex that is paid for. For most everything else though I have no problem and quite prefer it to windows. Hope it works for you.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

@@RobertWilke yes I heard this about the video formats. I'm looking into Ubunto studio to see how it works and if it does what I need I have no reason not to switch. I'm okay with learning a new software if needed.

[@brachiator1]

Very interesting video essay. I think the point is to be able to find the technology that works for you. It is good to have options.

[@suspectizm]

Sounds like a great switch, congratulations 👍

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Thanks!

[@Agent77X]

Technology is the future now! Get with or it will leave you behind! Like those who refused to own or ride in an automobile in the 1900s!😮

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I love tech, I just don't like letting it run my life. Apple was stopping me from exploring other options. I still love their hardware but I don't like being stuck with one company for too long. I am not against tech by any means.

[@blitzerx7]

Please reconsider. Apple is just about the few tech companies that actually take user privacy and security seriously. You don’t get malware installed by default (as is almost the norm with many Windows laptop manufacturers) and their tech progression towards higher energy efficiency is also remarkable. They do care about quality as well. Yes, you pay a hefty premium for that; and they are by no means perfect. But as a consumer, I find alternatives do not come close to them in these metrics.

[@GOODTAGO]

The pixel buds are so awesome!

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I'm thinking about getting them. I'm having issues with the airpods connecting to my pixel.

[@olethembones]

Only issue I had with the Pixel Buds is the charging contacts contain nickel and they are positioned so they make constant contact with the skin inside your ear. Got an awful outer ear infection and was told that was the cause. If you like the stem style of the airpods give the new Nothing Ear a look. Almost on par with airpods pro other than the transparency mode not being as useful.

[@josh3326]

I left the Windows computers I didn't want to give Bill Gates anymore of my money. Also recently Android because I just don't trust Google with my data and their involvement with the government. I moved back to a basic iPhone with just the basic Apple apps. I picked the lesser of all the evils. I have just a phone, timex watch, and started carrying a camera again. Powered up an old MB pro and using it again. I miss the old days where this tech shit wasn't in our lives. People were so much more friendlier, they spoke to you, held the door, and so on. Now they're all brainwashed bye social media, glued to their devices like squirrels on nuts.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I agree. I really miss talking to people and just feeling like we all lived on the same planet. I don't care much for any company or device these days. I don't like Windows or Mac. I like using older devices with batteries. I switched to Android for storage costs and to be able to customize my phone to see it better. I'm struggling with vision loss and grasping at straws to see basic things.

[@garrykanter5773]

Apple's entry-level stuff works for me. I love the way it all works together.

[@luhlezy6460]

I love this

[@jil4122]

Love your video. Keep it up!

[@Sozialkompetenz]

Leaving Apple for Google. One way to go.

[@santimendoz]

If you are someone who values Minimalism, just think about it like this: The best Galaxy phones allow you to have your WHOLE COMPUTER in your smartphone with Samsung Dex. Just plug it to a tv or monitor, or with wireless connection you'll get a full PC-like experience with ALL OF YOUR FILES AND SETTINGS straight from your phone without having to buy another device. Plus, if you also take all of the free APKs that reign over Android with free services, you'll also save a lot in streaming, games, and literally any other app if you have an Android. Apple is a jail. A pretty jail, but a jail nevertheless

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I think the next setup I will get will be with Samsung because of Dex. Apple is a jail and I'm trying to learn to live with choices again.

[@m.hreels9822]

I can relate I just stopped buying Apple products last year for the first time! I feel like a weight has been lifted! 😂🍎🚫🙏🏻

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Congrats!

[@mikekelly702]

Apple is a cult. I was a life-time iPhone user till August of this year.when I bought a refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.....Much better phone does way more than my iPhone 14 did...takes much better pictures and so far has made my life alot easier.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I have heard a lot of great things about Samsung devices. I am still tempted to get one to manage content. The Samsung Dex feature is amazing. Plus the photos and videos are great. I am currently using a Pixel 8 and it is way better than the iPhone 15 Pro Max was in regards to video. Apple is a cult and it's not even a fun one. The devices are ugly and don't stand out like they used to.

[@flybalbu]

I agree with the fact the apple ecosystem is so restrictive and also encourages device use. Android has distraction free apk versions of apps like instagram while apple does not. Apple has no way of removing the app library, android has custom launchers. Android also has way for screen time restricting apps too I'm still in the apple ecosystem but trying to slowly move away myself too

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yes there are so many options for Android. It's going to take me some time to get the setup right but I think it will be easier to manage my addiction with a good launch and hiding the app drawer

[@gianniclaud]

Oh no, it sounds like it's the relationship you have with the devices more than the device(s) itself. Best luck to you

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Yes this is the issue. I have an addiction and it's not Apples issue, it's mine.

[@thecfamily5294]

The market will correct this soon. I was in a target the other day and there were more Chromebooks being sold than Windows and soon Microsoft will stop supporting windows 10 and the machines stuck on them. Same for Apple when they stop supporting intel machines. All those machines will be going to chrome os. Apple and Microsoft will need to adjust quickly or Google will be king. And the new cult. Edit: I am an Apple guy for now. But I have Intel Macs and don’t want to spend a fortune going to Apple silicon.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I saw a lot of Chromebooks in the store recently too. I had an Intel MacBook until a couple weeks ago. I could see Google trying to take over the computer market. I don't think it's a good place if there is only one company running the show for many reasons. I love switching devices and environments and I'd be pretty sad if they all disappeared and we are only left with Google.

[@favour9189]

Welcome to the android world

[@joshuareuss2472]

Ummm… the only thing you minimalized was the watch.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I'm not a minimalist, I'm a digital minimalist. It means being more intentional with tech. It doesn't mean not using tech.

[@stevennovakovich2525]

I did the same thing several months ago. Apple phones and other stuff improves enough to warrant an upgrade like every 3 to 5 years. Samsung S24 Ultra and the Samsung ecosystem is much better IMHO. Apple is great, but it is also boring.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

The S24 Ultra is an amazing phone. I think Samsung is really on top of their game right now and their devices are more innovative than anyone else at the moment.

[@EdouardTavinor]

i try to avoid products that support china because of the terrible human rights situation in that land. my current situation with phones is i have an old google pixel at home without a sim card (got before i started being interested in how my money flows into different abusive regimes) and i have a nokia dumbphone for my daily carry. i may get a 4g dumb phone at some stage to be more available. when my pixel stops getting updates i'll have a look at something like the fairphone (unfortunately also made in china) or the samsung devices made in south korea and vietnam

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I commend your efforts to avoid products made in China. I wish there were more options for devices not being made in China. I try to buy second or third hand items in general which helps not support big tech and helps the environment.

[@kiosh]

Nice video!!

[@eink-reviews]

How’s the noise level of the think pad?

[@cnsrsxton]

As thinkpad p53 user i can say that noise level while working from battery is pretty low, it feels like ultrabook, not powerful machine. When plugged in or under load noise level is like normal windows laptop, nothing crazy

[@eink-reviews]

@@cnsrsxton Just for context, this is a continuation of a prior conversation about the Apple silicon Mac Minis running silent even under heavy load. Thanks for additional details about thinkpads!

[@LauraMalvoyante]

It's not as bad as my MacBook pro was surprisingly 😀

[@dragonballjiujitsu]

I made the switch from android/PC to Mac/iOS years ago and you couldn't pay me to go back. If I had to use Windows or Android I'd rather not even have a computer or phone. After running a computer repair business for over 15 years I wont even allow those devices in my home.

[@Joniyah444]

Just don’t go to windows 11 and beyond , 😅 maybe .

[@TechRant-jf6qe]

I will embark on this journey next year. I’m too deep into Apple ecosystem now 😢

[@LauraMalvoyante]

It's taken me 8 months to slowly leave it and I still have airpods. It wasn't easy but I'm glad I finally was able to get out. I love using different devices and no being locked in the apple ecosystem.

[@TechRant-jf6qe]

@@LauraMalvoyante yeah I need to phase out slowly too. First I need to get all the data out of iCloud then it will be easier I guess 😃

[@LauraMalvoyante]

@@TechRant-jf6qe yes I left that part till the last second. I already had my photos backed up with Google and I just transferred my documents to my Drive as well. I pay for storage and it's half the price with Google so it was easier to switch with that in mind 😅

[@TechRant-jf6qe]

@@LauraMalvoyante glad u got out of this rabbit hole 👍😃

[@aleksandarvlasonjic7178]

@@LauraMalvoyante Congratulation! I moved away from Windows to m1 mba but the screen is way too small and hurting my eyes for way too long. Then I thought about macmini but simply hate mac os and all the additional useless steps. I found Lenovo Ideapad 5 pro 16 inch with nvidia and the screen is beautiful and text size and all. Most of the people I know get myopia from Iphone .

[@BrownyTheGamer15052003]

Never used apple..I use a old 2012 pc..got it from uncle for free ^^ i basicly like to sew still or cook..me creates gaming content and got a rule: only sims when recording

[@vewilli]

From the future to the Stone Age! I use Apple products because of the operating system. If MacOs and iOS worked on other devices as well, I‘d probably use a cheaper solution, but Windows and Android are an absolute no go for me. If I won such a product, someone could possibly very happy because he would get it without any costs!

[@kevinwong_2016]

Yay, you followed my advise💀

[@ladybankrupt]

Your cue cards are placed too high 😂

[@LauraMalvoyante]

I don't have cue cards, I'm blind

[@andrewbalogh9868]

Apple is the best.

[@positiverootsproductions]

Your opinion

[@polardiscoball]

I’ll be long long dead in the cold cold ground before I use windowz 😂

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Tbh windows may put me in my grave 😅 I am going to switch to Linux

[@jumper1096]

@@LauraMalvoyante Update us with a video, I would be very interested to hear your Linux experience/adventure. Da Vinci would be available on Linux to edit videos.

[@cruisertechgt]

Goodlyck

[@jamesecurtis1705]

LMAO.Well good for you.I happen to love the ecosystem. I love love love it. There is no other company that has accomplished what they have. In Europe everyone uses WhatsApp. Don’t lose your phone. It’s the only place to talk to friends and family.

[@willharrah9381]

Why would anyone leave apple

[@izoyt]

this is a joke, right?

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Why not? Freedom to choose is a beautiful thing.

[@willharrah9381]

Is it really freedom though. Freedom from what other technology companies that are mostly plastic stuff that breaks all the time. When you look at people reviewing other companies products nobody really wants anything else except for apple. I’m not going back to a rotary phone

[@LauraMalvoyante]

@@willharrah9381 freedom is the choice. You can do what you want. I can do what I want and we can agree to disagree. I have nothing against Apple products, I just don't want to use them anymore.

[@willharrah9381]

I’m not taking away free will go with whatever

[@JoBlower]

You CrApple iPooped apple products 🥰💩

[@mtbeers1670]

Lenovo is made in China. Some of your big government contractors have stopped using that brand due to the fact of they can implant keyloggers that you will never find my suggestion would be go something on the effect of Microsoft instead or Dell do you want to try to stay away from the Chinese manufacturers if possible

[@ThePJE2011]

Goodbye

[@Mmacrossfirekenai]

Bye

[@CeeMKE]

BYE 👋🏾 👍🏾

[@DennisBloodnokPhotographyVideo]

I have (partially at least) made a similar journey, but in another direction. I have switched from Apple to Samsung / Android. I have the Galaxy phone, watch and tablet. Certainly an interesting journey to make !!

[@LauraMalvoyante]

Wow that is a journey as well. I hesitated with Samsung since I like the Dex feature. I just went back to Pixel for the price and the basic features. Samsung has an excellent ecosystem and I believe today it is better than the Apple ecosystem.

[@DennisBloodnokPhotographyVideo]

I would be interesting to see you review the Blackberry Playbook.

[@LauraMalvoyante]

If I can get my hands on one I would love to review it!