Before you head off for your fun weekend, be sure to load this episode of the Apple World Today News Update podcast so you can be up to speed on the latest news in the world of Apple and the telecom industry:

• Apple debuts a new portal for the Apple Online Store that features a modern design that's clean and easy to use
• The HomePod can now read the news in Canada, France and Germany
• 5G networks are coming, and it looks like the 2018 iPhones may use a new modem chip from Intel that not only supports 5G and all existing wireless standards, but also runs on both CDMA and GSM networks
• Time Warner has now officially been devoured by AT&T, and T-Mobile and Sprint will file their merger application on Monday