Is it just me or are we hurtling our way through 2022 at breakneck speed? It's hard to believe it's the middle of February already, but maybe that's just because it still feels like March 2020 to me. On the other hand, we're still a little ways away from the next Apple event taking place, rumored for early March, so it feels like we're all just holding our breath until Apple unveils its next new thing.
Despite a dearth of Apple news, this time of year does have plenty to offer with both the Super Bowl and Valentine's Day taking place. We've got you covered for with tech-related guides to both of those things as well as some advice on better ways to spend your time if neither of them are your thing.
In Apple news
Before we get to all things sports and love, let's kick off with a pair of Apple news stories that are worth revisiting this weekend.
The first was of the confirmation that Tap to Pay is coming to iPhone, allowing businesses to accept digital wallet and contactless card payments directly on their phone. It could be a huge deal for the likes of market traders and other small business who would otherwise had had to fork out for a dedicated device like a Square reader and pay the accompanying fees. I actually think it has the potential to make contacts payments way more mainstream in the U.S. (where it is exclusively launching for now), allowing the country to catch up with other developed economies like the UK and Australia.
Also coming out of Cupertino this week were some changes to the Find My network in relation to recent stories surround misuse of AirTag trackers. There have been a few reports of AirTag trackers being used to keep tabs on people rather than items, something which Apple needs to take really seriously, so it's good to see Apple paying attention and clearly outlining areas it can and will improve. As Apple says, each instance of AirTag misuse is one too many, and there are real safety concerns to consider with this product.
Though this part of the year is traditionally something of a lull for those writing about Apple, it just goes to show that, even on a quiet week, there's never zero Apple news. On top of that, we're continuing to get iOS 15.4 beta releases that are giving us a better look at upcoming features like Universal Control, Face ID mask unlocking, and more, making your best iPhone and iPad even better.
The big game
Today is Super Bowl Sunday and, after another hard-fought season, we have two teams set to duke it out for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Ahead of the season, few would have predicted that it would be the Cincinnati Bengals taking on the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi stadium today.
With both team's quarterbacks having recorded zero career playoff wins before this season, two young head coaches, and only one Super Bowl win between the two teams, it's an unlikely matchup and one that's going to make for interesting viewing no matter which way it goes.
Whether you're interested in the game, the commercials, or you're just watching for the half-time show, we've got all the advice on how to watch Super Bowl on iPad and iPhone 2022. The big game should be seen on the biggest screen in your house though really, so check out our other guide too; Super Bowl on Apple TV: how to watch Rams vs Bengals for free.
Not at all interested in the Super Bowl? Well, we've also got you covered there with our guide to the best alternative programming to the Super Bowl 2022. It includes favorites like the adorable Puppy Bowl plus other top picks from broadcast TV and streaming services.
Love is in the air
Straight after the Super Bowl comes the second most important event in February (unless my wife is reading this in which case it's totally number one): Valentine's Day.
Sure, it's a made up holiday to sell cards and gifts, and we should show our loved ones affection all year round, but it's still a good opportunity to get all lovey dovey with your significant other if that's your thing. If you want to watch something romantic, we've rounded up our top picks for Valentine's Day movies and we've also crafted a guide to the best dating apps for those on the lookout for romance this year.
Conversely, if you want to skip V Day altogether, we've rounded up several TV shows and movies to avoid Valentine's Day with. With comedies, thrillers, dramas, documentaries, and more, there's plenty on that list to enjoy solo, with family, or with friends.
Have a great weekend!
Whether you're rooting for your favorite team later today (or rooting against a rival team…), spending some time with your significant other, or just kicking back with a good movie, I hope you have a stellar time. We'll be back next week, as always, to cover all the biggest Apple news as we count down the weeks until we see some shiny new products.
Until next time!
— Adam Oram
