Month: October 2025

Apple Attains $4 Trillion Market Valuation, Joining Two Additional Firms

Reuters, Apple’s shares increased by 0.2% to $269.2 in early trading, allowing the company to reach a record high — exceeding the $4 trillion threshold. Although Apple’s stock faced challenges at the start of the year because of the Trump administration’s tariffs and a shortage of AI progress, Apple managed to overcome these obstacles by diversifying its supply chain, establishing local partnerships for U.S. manufacturing, and witnessing a boost in demand for the iPhone 17 models.

Moreover, the company reported its best quarterly performance in years during the April-June timeframe with double-digit growth, attributed to the new M4 Macs, sales of the iPhone 16, and a continually expanding services sector. With the company’s outlook appearing more favorable than anticipated, there is a possibility that Apple’s market capitalization continues to gain traction and expand further.

Apple still needs to refine its AI strategy

Complimentary Giveaway: $175 Burton Goods Gift Cards Up for Grabs

### 9to5Toys x Burton Goods Giveaway – $175 in FREE Gear

Burton Goods, renowned for its premium American handcrafted leather accessories, is presenting a thrilling opportunity for enthusiasts of fine leather products. This week, in partnership with 9to5Toys, they are offering three gift cards valued at $175, enabling fortunate winners to select from an array of their beautiful items.

#### About Burton Goods

Burton Goods focuses on creating stunning leather accessories, such as iPad cases, MacBook sleeves, and Apple Watch bands. Their items are crafted with a classic aesthetic, merging practicality with style. The brand has recently launched new versions for the M5 iPad Pro, ensuring that gadget lovers can safeguard their devices with sophistication.

Among their products, the leather Apple Watch bands are particularly noteworthy. Offered in traditional designs alongside vintage military and aviation-inspired styles, these bands are praised for their quality and visual charm, making them an ideal complement to any Apple Watch.

#### How to Enter the Giveaway

Joining the 9to5Toys x Burton Goods giveaway is simple. Interested parties must provide their name and email address, with one entry permitted per email account. The giveaway is accessible solely to U.S. residents and will run for one week, from October 24 to October 31, 2025. Winners will receive notification the following week.

To enter, click the link included in the giveaway form. Moreover, participants are encouraged to follow 9to5Toys on their social media platforms for updates and additional chances.

#### Conclusion

This giveaway offers an excellent opportunity for leather accessory lovers to obtain high-quality items from Burton Goods at no cost. With various options available, including iPad cases, MacBook sleeves, and fashionable Apple Watch bands, winners will have the chance to elevate their collection with exceptional craftsmanship. Don’t let this limited-time opportunity slip away!

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Present Promotions: M3 MacBook Air Price Cut by $659, Apple Qi2 25W MagSafe Charger Offered, M3 iPad Air Priced Down by $370, and Additional Offers

### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Key Discounts on Apple Products

In the latest installment of 9to5Toys Lunch Break, we showcase remarkable savings on an array of Apple products, including the M4 MacBook Air, M3 MacBook Air, M5 iPad Pro, and accessories like the Qi2 MagSafe Charger. Here’s a thorough overview of the top deals currently available.

#### Mid-Generation MacBook Air Savings

**Midnight 16GB M3 MacBook Air – $659 Off**
If you’re aiming to cut costs on a reliable laptop, the 16GB/512GB 15-inch M3 MacBook Air in Midnight is priced at **$775.99 shipped** in open-box condition from Best Buy. Initially introduced at $1,699, this model now enjoys a substantial markdown. Best Buy’s open-box program guarantees these units are Geek Squad verified, restored to factory settings, and come with a 1-year warranty.

– **Condition Options:**
– **Excellent Condition:** $839.99
– **Fair Condition:** $775.99

This offer presents a strong alternative to the newer M4 versions, which carry higher price tags, making the M3 an excellent choice for those on a budget.

#### M3 iPad Air Price Reduction

**1TB M3 iPad Air – Lowest Price Ever**
Amazon is presently providing the **11-inch M3 iPad Air with 1TB storage** for **$878.77 shipped**, representing a reduction of over **$370 from** the standard price of $1,249. This is the lowest price ever noted for this model, making it a splendid opportunity for anyone requiring a high-capacity tablet.

#### Qi2 MagSafe Charger Price Cut

**Qi2 25W 1-Meter MagSafe Charger – $30**
Apple’s newly released **Qi2-certified 25W MagSafe Charger** is currently selling for just **$30.02** on Amazon, down from its standard price of $39. This compact charger is perfect for those who prefer a shorter cable for a tidier charging experience.

#### Additional Mac Mini Discount

**24GB/1TB M4 Mac Mini – $150 Off**
B&H is providing a **$150 discount** on the **24GB/1TB M4 Mac Mini**, lowering the price to **$1,049 shipped**. This model isn’t available on Amazon, making this deal especially significant for those in search of a powerful desktop solution.

### Conclusion

With these impressive discounts on Apple products, this is an ideal moment to think about upgrading your technology. Whether you’re looking for a new laptop, tablet, or accessories, these deals offer considerable savings that are worth taking advantage of.

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Comparison of Google Pixel Buds 2a and Pixel Buds Pro 2: Deciding Between Affordable and High-End Choices

Here’s a comparison of the two current models of Google Pixel Buds.

**Google Pixel Buds 2a**

*The economical choice*

Google has enhanced the Pixel Buds 2a by providing improved sound quality, active noise-canceling, and extended battery life, all while keeping it budget-friendly. These earbuds deliver a snug fit and come equipped with a Tensor A1 chip, though they miss some features found in higher-end models.

**Pros:**
– Snug fit with four sizes of ear tips and a stabilizer
– ANC and transparency mode driven by Tensor A1 chip
– Customizable five-band EQ within the Pixel Buds app
– Extended battery life with a serviceable charging case

**Cons:**
– Lacks some features of Pixel Buds Pro 2
– Touchpad supports playback only, lacking swipe functionality for volume adjustments
– Audio quality declines at maximum volume
– Charging case does not support wireless charging and lacks a speaker

**Google Pixel Buds Pro 2**

*Packed with features*

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are Google’s comprehensive wireless earbuds, delivering exceptional sound and ANC alongside the longest battery life. They are powered by the Tensor A1 chip and come with unique features like Adaptive Audio and Conversation detection.

**Pros:**
– Superior sound quality that remains crisp even at high volumes
– Noteworthy ANC with support for Adaptive Audio
– Up to 48 hours of battery life with the charging case
– Additional sensors and volume control swipes on the earbuds
– Often available at significant discounts

**Cons:**
– Spatial audio with head tracking accessible only on Pixel smartphones
– Live translation may seem superficial
– Lacks support for Dolby Atmos
– Higher price point

**Design and Fit**

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 have moved away from the design of the Pixel Buds A-series, eliminating the wingtip design in favor of a silicone stabilizer. This approach has resulted in the Pixel Buds Pro 2 being compact and secure, without large wings. The newer Pixel Buds 2a adopt a similar design to the Pixel Buds Pro 2.

This design revision decreases the overall size and enhances comfort by removing the wingtip. Like the Pixel Buds Pro 2, the more affordable Pixel Buds 2a feature a silicone stabilizer and come with four sizes of ear tips. There are minor design variations, with the Pixel Buds Pro 2 appearing a bit smaller.

Additionally, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 feature a small “G” logo embossed into their plastic surface, while the Pixel Buds 2a have a flat painted logo. The main body of the Buds 2a is shiny, whereas the Buds Pro 2 has a matte finish. Only the Pixel Buds 2a come in solid colors — the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will have a matte black exterior except for the outer-facing area of the buds.

These are merely cosmetic design distinctions. In terms of comfort, both the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Buds 2a are suitable for users who favor compact earbuds. Lacking a stem, neither model is prone to falling out. Weighing 4.7 grams each, there is no difference in weight across these Google earbud models.

A useful trick for achieving the ideal fit is to insert the buds and rotate them until the “G” logo is upright. When it aligns properly, you can be confident that either the Pixel Buds 2a or Pixel Buds Pro 2 are correctly positioned. Both sets of earbuds also come with an ear tip seal check feature that utilizes software to confirm the correct ear tip size.

In comparison to earlier models like the Pixel Buds A-series, the Pixel Buds 2a and Pixel Buds Pro 2 should provide enhanced comfort and stability for the majority of users. Nonetheless, the distinctions between the Buds 2a and Buds Pro 2 will likely feel minimal, if noticeable at all.

**Hardware and Specs**

On the specifications sheet, the Pixel Buds 2a and Pixel Buds Pro 2 appear quite alike. Both sets of earbuds utilize custom 11mm dynamic speaker drivers and the Google Tensor A1 chip for audio and active noise-canceling (ANC) functions. They both incorporate capacitive touch sensors, an IR proximity sensor for automatic play/pause, and Hall effect sensors in the case.

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 distinguish themselves by including swipe capabilities for on-earbud volume control, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a speaker in the case.

The case also allows for wireless charging and is noticeably taller than the Pixel Buds 2a case. This is likely due to the larger battery in the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case, enabling up to 48 hours of cumulative listening time with the case and earbuds when ANC is deactivated.

While both earbuds are equipped with the Tensor A1 chip, this only provides part of the overall picture. The Google Pixel Buds Pro

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“BURGA Surfaces as a Fashionable Substitute to CASETiFY for Pixel 10 Accessories”

Both smartphone accessory labels adopt the Gen Z maximalist vibe.

Vibrant patterns and vivid hues are traits typically linked with CASETiFY, yet a Lithuanian label known as BURGA has subtly adopted a comparable style. If you’re passionate about the Gen Z maximalist movement that fuses Y2K aesthetics with contemporary design in your phone cases, power banks, grips, and other gadgets, you now have an alternative to CASETiFY.

Examining the types of cases offered by both brands left me pondering whether BURGA is the new CASETiFY. However, after testing several of BURGA’s products and contrasting the offerings from both brands, I can assert that they aren’t mere replicas.

Maximalism is trending, while minimalism is fading away.

Each brand brings distinct products to the table, even if the aesthetics are alike, rendering them rivals. And one thing I am certain of about competition is that the ones who gain from it are us, the consumers.

So if you appreciate the aesthetic of CASETiFY’s collection and seek corresponding cases, phone grips, watch bands, and power banks, but can’t locate a pattern you fancy, you can always give BURGA a shot instead. Both brands exhibit considerable creativity and playfulness, along with comparable pricing and quality.

While CASETiFY mainly focuses on Apple, Google, and Samsung devices, BURGA also incorporates OnePlus, Motorola, Huawei, and Xiaomi alongside Apple, Google, and Samsung phones.

I had hands-on experience with a couple of BURGA’s Google Pixel 10 accessories, including the Google Pixel 10 Pro Case, Magnetic Ring Holder, Magnetic Power Bank, and StickPad.

The phone case, power bank, and magnetic ring holder all sport the same designs, allowing for full coordination. BURGA even offers matching tumblers, AirPod cases, and items like yoga mats, which is impressive. Clearly, they prioritize matching, and I am fully supportive of it.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro Case boasts dual-layered protection, elevated bezels, and a shiny finish. What’s particularly interesting is the option to use both layers or just attach the first layer for a slimmer, lighter fit. Naturally, shock absorption is enhanced with both layers in use. My only wish is that these cases were compatible with MagSafe or Qi2.

The Magnetic Ring Holder and 5,000mAh Magnetic Power Bank adhere magnetically to the Pixel 10 thanks to Pixelsnap on the latest Google phones. However, with the case applied, you’ll need to purchase a separate adapter ring and affix it to the back for compatibility.

I opted to use the spinning ring and power bank with my Pixelsnap-compatible Mous Super Thin Case instead, as I wanted to keep the striking Lemon Tart pattern that BURGA provided clean. The ring holder is quite impressive; it spins a complete 360 degrees and features a flat section for use as a stand in landscape mode. Unlike the base of the ring holder, the ring itself isn’t made of metal, raising some questions about durability. However, this makes it quite lightweight.

The Magnetic Power Bank functions seamlessly, connecting magnetically and wirelessly charging the Pixel 10. It has LED indicators to show the battery level. You can select from 5,000mAh, 10,000mAh, and 15,000mAh options, as well as various color patterns and customizations when purchasing the power bank. Prices begin at $99, whereas CASETiFY’s 5,000mAh power banks start at $70.

Some accessories become sticky…in a good way.

The BURGA StickPad captured my attention the most. CASETiFY offers several similar products with sticky suction cups on the back, such as the Snappy Snap & Grip Stick Grip Stand or the Stick-It Case, but they’re all MagSafe accessories or integrated into phone cases.

However, the story is different with the StickPad. This device works with any phone as long as there’s a smooth surface to create suction. Any BURGA case fits perfectly with the StickPad. There are suction cups on both the front and back of the pad, instead of a magnetic ring on one side.

And if you noticed the dust on the BURGA StickPad in the photos, here’s an interesting tidbit: it’s washable!

So if you find that your StickPad has become dusty and the suction isn’t performing optimally, you can simply rinse it with water.

The StickPad is such a playful concept, and at $19.95, it’s also very economical. You won’t have to lug around a tripod or search for a suitable place to set your phone for shooting photos or videos in public. Simply stick the suction cups onto something smooth, like a pole, a door, a whiteboard, or even a smooth wall.

Since the StickPad utilizes suction cups on both sides, any of your friends can borrow it.

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EarFun Clip Evaluation: A Remarkable Entry into Open-Ear Earbuds

**Android Central Verdict: EarFun Clip Open-Ear Earbuds**

The EarFun Clip open-ear earbuds represent a distinctive entry in the wireless audio accessory sector, crafted with an emphasis on spatial awareness and comfort. In contrast to conventional earbuds that separate you from your surroundings, these are ideal for individuals wishing to remain conscious of their environment, making them perfect for outdoor activities or for those who dislike having things in their ears. With a score of 4 out of 5 stars, they appeal to specific users who prioritize comfort and awareness over deep sound immersion.

**Pros:**
– Incredibly comfortable, unobtrusive wearing experience.
– Ears stay cool as you can feel the breeze.
– Incorporates hi-res audio, LDAC, Bluetooth 6, and Google Fast Pair.
– Provides an impressive 40 hours of playback.
– Quick charging features.
– IP55 rating for water and dust resistance.
– Physical buttons allow for straightforward control.

**Cons:**
– Noticeable sound leakage.
– Not tailored for audiophile preferences.
– Microphone performance is somewhat muffled.
– Absence of Auracast support.

**Conclusion:**
The EarFun Clip open-ear earbuds are an excellent option for individuals seeking comfort and situational awareness. Although they may not meet the needs of audiophiles due to sound leakage and a somewhat muffled microphone, they shine in delivering a comfy and unobtrusive listening experience. With functionalities like Bluetooth 6 and an extended battery life, they make a reliable choice for those who emphasize these features.

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“Maono T5 Wave: The Ideal Wireless Lavalier Microphone for Amateur and Hobby Videographers”

It’s time to launch that podcast you’ve been planning to start with your friends.

Embarking on a podcasting journey with friends can be both thrilling and gratifying. As digital media continues to grow, podcasts have established themselves as a favored way to share ideas, narratives, and conversations. This is a guide to kickstart your podcasting endeavor.

### Why Create a Podcast?

Podcasts present a distinctive platform for conveying your ideas, showcasing your knowledge, and connecting with an international audience. Whether you’re enthusiastic about discussing your cherished interests, exploring specific subjects, or delivering educational material, a podcast is a superb method to engage with those who think like you.

### Planning Your Podcast

1. **Theme and Format**: Determine the theme of your podcast. What subjects will you address? Will it feature interviews, a storytelling format, or a panel discussion? Establishing a well-defined theme will assist you in drawing the appropriate listeners.

2. **Intended Audience**: Pinpoint who your podcast is aimed at. Knowing your audience will inform your content creation and promotional tactics.

3. **Episode Framework**: Outline the format of your episodes. Think about duration, different segments, and any recurring elements you wish to incorporate.

### Getting Started

1. **Gear**: Purchase quality recording gear. A reliable microphone is crucial for clear sound. Look into USB microphones for newcomers or XLR microphones for more experienced setups.

2. **Recording Software**: Opt for recording and editing software that meets your requirements. Common choices are Audacity, GarageBand, and Adobe Audition.

3. **Hosting Service**: Choose a podcast hosting service to share your episodes. Services like Anchor, Libsyn, and Podbean provide various features and pricing tiers.

### Recording and Editing Process

1. **Recording**: Locate a tranquil environment to capture your episodes. Ensure all contributors have clear audio and reduce background sounds.

2. **Editing**: Refine your episodes by eliminating errors, incorporating music or sound effects, and ensuring a seamless flow. Consistent editing contributes to a polished sound.

### Debuting Your Podcast

1. **Visual Identity and Branding**: Design captivating cover artwork and establish a cohesive brand for your podcast, encompassing your podcast name, logo, and episode titles.

2. **Releasing**: Upload your episodes to your chosen hosting service and register your podcast with directories such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.

3. **Marketing**: Utilize social media, email campaigns, and collaborations to market your podcast. Interact with your audience and motivate them to share your episodes.

### Expanding Your Podcast

1. **Regularity**: Publish episodes on a consistent schedule to cultivate a dedicated listener base.

2. **Input**: Solicit listener feedback and leverage it to enhance your content.

3. **Monetization Opportunities**: After establishing a consistent audience, investigate monetization avenues like sponsorships, merchandise, or listener support via platforms such as Patreon.

Creating a podcast with friends can be an enjoyable and rewarding endeavor. With thoughtful preparation, high-quality content, and strategic promotion, you can develop a podcast that resonates with listeners and distinguishes itself in the bustling podcasting arena.

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The True Tracking Distance of Apple AirTags

Apple launched its AirTag accessory designed for finding misplaced or lost belongings in 2021. There are speculations about a forthcoming AirTag 2 version anticipated in late 2025, but the initial AirTag continues to be an exceptional tool. You can attach it to items such as keys, a purse, luggage, or a wallet, or you may place it in your car, on a pet collar, or in a child’s backpack.

When the item is within reach, like keys in an unexamined pocket or a wallet tucked under the car seat, you can utilize Siri or the Find My app to trigger the AirTag to play a sound. With Precision Finding, you can obtain navigational guidance directly to it via the app.

AirTags can function from even greater distances, for instance, if you left your keys on a patio table at the local coffee shop or in a gym locker. By utilizing the expansive Find My network globally, you could even track your luggage if it accidentally ended up in another country. Essentially, you can locate AirTags up to roughly 30 feet away using Bluetooth (potentially more outdoors), but virtually limitless distances leveraging the network of Apple device users.

Using an AirTag to locate nearby items

It’s crucial to set up Apple’s Find My network when you acquire an iPhone so you can track both the phone and potentially dozens of items by signing into the app on any other Apple device. Ringtone a misplaced iPhone, show a message on the screen for it to be returned, or even remotely lock or erase a lost or stolen iPhone through Find My.

Connect items to the Find My app, including AirTags and third-party accessories utilizing the Find My network. For instance, I have a Satechi Passport Cover linked to my Find My network, ensuring I never misplace that vital document. I once inadvertently left it at an airport counter and managed to recover it!

If the item is within the 30-foot Bluetooth range, you can view its location and use sounds for assistance. While using an iPhone 11 or later, Precision Finding (which employs Ultra Wideband technology from the U1 chip) can direct you right to it, offering turn-by-turn navigation. It utilizes the phone’s camera, ARKit, accelerometer, and gyroscope to guide you to the AirTag’s location like a treasure hunt.

Apple AirTag’s nearly infinite range

How does it function if the AirTag is located miles away? Apple’s Find My network, consisting of over 2.35 billion active Apple devices globally, collaborates with those devices to locate yours. When someone with an iPhone or other Apple device (with Bluetooth enabled) comes within at least 30 feet of your AirTag, it will “ping” the device with its location. You can then view its approximate position via the app’s map.

The individual who encounters the AirTag can tap their iPhone or any NFC-enabled device against the AirTag, and it will open a webpage displaying your contact phone number if you included it during Lost Mode setup. From there, the good Samaritan can call or text you to inform you they have found your item and make plans for its safe return. The process is secured by end-to-end encryption, ensuring it remains private and protected.

The anticipated AirTag 2 is expected to feature enhancements such as a sleeker design, an improved Ultra-wideband chip for increased Precision Finding range, and better privacy. Thus, you might want to hold off to see what the new iteration brings.

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Apple Streamlines iPhone 18 Camera Management for Surprising Causes

Weibo insider Instant Digital indicates that the company intends to eliminate the capacitive sensing layer of the Camera Control, retaining only pressure sensing functionality.

This modification would align Apple with other smartphone manufacturers, such as Oppo and Vivo, which utilize a single-sensor method capable of detecting taps, presses, and even sliding motions. While this might suggest that Apple is preparing to discontinue the Camera Control, given the mixed reactions from users, it could also imply that the company is exploring ways to reduce expenses.

Thus, even if Apple simplifies the Camera Control, it would still possess the capability to detect various pressure levels and sliding gestures. Notably, for the iPhone’s 20th anniversary, Apple may implement piezoelectric ceramics for haptic feedback, as there are rumors about the company finally transitioning to solid-state buttons.

Apple ought to eliminate the Camera Control feature