ExpressVPN update allows it to run natively on Apple silicon-based Macs

ExpressVPN rolled out a new update for macOS users. Version 11.5.0 of the app adds native support for Apple silicon Macs, allowing it to "enjoy the full performance benefits of Apple silicon Macs by updating to the latest Mac app." The app developer doesn't specify what benefits it'll bring. Still, it says the app will work "even more seamlessly on the newest Mac computer models, allowing users to enjoy a performance boost along with lower battery consumption."

If you are on an older, Intel-based Apple computer, this app version will still work fine since it is a "universal binary that supports both architectures."

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Spotify Friends Mix makes you a playlist based on what your friends are listening to

If your friends have excellent taste in music and you want to get in on that, Spotify has another automated playlist that brings you the latest tracks your friends are listening to. You will need to use Spotify's Blend feature for Friends Mix to work. According to Spotify, Your Friends Mix will create an ever-updating playlist based on what you and your friends are listening to.

The Friends Mix relies on your old Spotify Blends, so if you haven't made those yet. You need to first. When you've created three Blends, the Friends Mix should automatically generate. You'll have access to it on your Made For You hub. This playlist updates daily. It's currently available on iOS and the desktop.

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Check out the first extended trailer for 'House of the Dragon'

If you've been waiting for the Game of Thrones prequel, House of  theDragon, we finally get a better look at the series. It's going to premiere in Canada on August 21 on Crave. The show takes place approximately 300 years before the events of Game of Thrones. It also focuses on the story of the House of Targaryen. 

House of the Dragon stars Paddy Considine, Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke, Emma D'Arcy, and Fabien Frankel, among others. The series is created by Ryan Condal, Miguel Sapochnik, and A Song of Ice and Fire author George R.R. Martin. (In case you don't know, Game of Thrones was based on Martin's fantasy novel series.) 

Apple Store is down for some regions, including Canada

If you want to do middle-of-the-night shopping at the Apple Store, it looks like it's down right now. It's offline here, in the US, and some countries like Australia and the UK. It comes with a notice that says, "We'll be right back." And it promises that "updates are coming to the Apple Store." But it still seems to be live in countries like China, New Zealand, and Japan, so it's unclear what this maintenance is for.

Apple typically takes down the Apple Store when it plans to release a new product, but that's typically a worldwide "shutdown." It's most likely just maintenance. But if you're wondering why you can't shop right now, well, the site isn't down just for you. And maybe by the time you see this, the site might already be up.

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