Day: November 10, 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday
    Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday

    November has officially arrived, and we all know what that signifies! A plethora of deals! Best Buy barely waited for the calendar to change before launching a range of discounts on everything from smartphones to tablets and of course, Chromebooks.

    The retailer is presently running an assortment of “Early Black Friday Deals,” along with a selection of “Doorbusters” for even greater savings. This is truly advantageous as it means you don’t have to wait a few more weeks if you’ve been considering a new Chromebook, as there’s a solid chance it’s discounted right now.

    This time, several early Black Friday Chromebook deals caught my attention, each aiming at a different demographic.

    – **Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus (8GB/256GB)**: $749.99 $599.99 at Best Buy. If you are searching for a conventional Chromebook with a sleek design and a large screen, your search can end here. The Galaxy Chromebook Plus stands out as one of the finest Chromebooks you can buy, featuring a stunning 15.6-inch AMOLED display, and it’s so lightweight that you might hardly notice it in your bag. Additionally, this was the first Chromebook to come with the new “Quick Insert” key when it launched last year.

    – **Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11 (4GB/128GB)**: $399 $249 at Best Buy. What if you’re looking for something versatile? The Chromebook Duet 11 is virtually flawless, owing to its 11-inch touchscreen display, which is also compatible with the best USI pens. Moreover, since the Duet 11 doubles as a tablet, we’re grateful that Lenovo includes the Keyboard Cover in the package, allowing you to utilize it as either a tablet or a laptop.

    – **Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (8GB/128GB)**: $479 $299 at Best Buy. Sometimes, it’s just refreshing to have a Chromebook that’s dependable, supports the latest features, and has a classic appearance. Enter Acer’s Chromebook Plus 516, which showcases the same timeless design we’ve seen repeatedly. It boasts the largest screen in this group with its 16-inch display, making it excellent for working with side-by-side app windows or relaxing while watching a movie.

    – **ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus (8GB/128GB)**: $429 $249 at Best Buy. Completing the lineup is yet another “under-the-radar” choice, as the ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus sees a $180 reduction, dropping the price to just $249. This is probably going to be a hot seller at this price, as it provides a capable Chromebook that simply fulfills its role, while remaining lightweight and compact. Honestly, I might just pick one up as an early Christmas gift because who can say it’ll be this affordable on Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

    It’s well-known that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are among the best times of the year to get new technology, and this period often sees Chromebooks reaching their most competitive prices. However, if you happen to miss these deals, don’t worry. I believe Best Buy and other retailers will be running numerous promotions throughout the month and into December.

    Another nice aspect of these retailers competing for our holiday spending is that if a specific sale ends at one store, you’re likely to find it at another. Of course, this isn’t always guaranteed, but it’s something worth considering as you start to check items off your gift shopping list.

    **Black Friday 2025 – quick links**

    – **Best Buy:** up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
    – **Amazon:** early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
    – **Walmart:** early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
    – **Samsung:** new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
    – **Verizon:** free phones with new line, trade-in
    – **T-Mobile:** free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
    – **Mint Mobile:** 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
    – **AT&T:** get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line

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    What makes this appealing?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Vince Gilligan Highlights the Role of Humanity in the Development of Pluribus
    Vince Gilligan Highlights the Role of Humanity in the Development of Pluribus

    ### The Role of AI in Entertainment: Vince Gilligan’s Perspective

    The entertainment sector is currently wrestling with the consequences of artificial intelligence (AI) as it becomes more embedded in different facets of production. Vince Gilligan, the renowned showrunner behind legendary series like *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul*, has articulated a clear position regarding the use of AI in his new project, the Apple TV series *Pluribus*. He underscores that AI plays no part in the creative workflow of his show, underscored by a disclaimer in the credits stating: “This show was made by humans.”

    #### Concerns Regarding AI in Creative Sectors

    Gilligan’s observations mirror a wider concern within the industry about the potential effects of AI on creativity and job security. The emergence of generative AI has ignited discussions about job loss and the ethical ramifications of utilizing AI-generated material. Numerous creators fear that dependence on AI may compromise the artistry and human touch that are crucial to storytelling.

    In a conversation with *Deadline*, Gilligan voiced his doubts about AI’s capability to enhance the creative domain. He remarked, “As this technology advances, I don’t see how it will make the world a better place.” His viewpoint implies that while technology can furnish new tools, it should not supersede the human component that is essential to creating engaging narratives.

    #### A Nuanced Perspective on AI’s Possibilities

    Even with his apprehensions, Gilligan concedes that there could be a role for AI in the creative process, provided it isn’t treated as a replacement for human ingenuity. He holds that the genuine worth of storytelling stems from the distinct insights and experiences that only people can offer. This balanced perspective shows that while he is receptive to the opportunities that AI might present, he remains wary about its application in creative projects.

    Gilligan’s approach to *Pluribus* acts as a definitive statement against the intrusion of AI in storytelling. By guaranteeing that his show is wholly produced by humans, he emphasizes the significance of human creativity in a time when technology is swiftly advancing.

    #### Conclusion

    As the entertainment industry keeps navigating the intricacies of AI, Vince Gilligan’s position serves as a reminder of the necessity to uphold human creativity in storytelling. While AI may introduce new potentials, the core of exceptional storytelling is still grounded in human experience and creativity. As audiences connect with offerings like *Pluribus*, they can value the commitment and artistry that originate from human creators, untainted by AI influence.

    For individuals eager to delve into *Pluribus*, it is accessible for streaming on Apple TV, which also showcases a range of other distinguished shows and films.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Initial Glimpse of Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Design Uncovered via Leaked CAD Renders
    Initial Glimpse of Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Design Uncovered via Leaked CAD Renders

    Not a significant improvement, if you ask us.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus leaks indicate design likenesses with Galaxy S25 Plus. Expected features include a 6.7-inch AMOLED display and a largely unchanged camera setup. Anticipated release may present vibrant color variants and robust battery life.

    Leaks regarding Samsung’s forthcoming flagship line are improving continuously. We caught some whispers about a potential earlier release, albeit at higher price points. Nonetheless, this gives us a solid glimpse at the Korean manufacturer’s rumored Galaxy S26 Plus. Indeed, it seems the Plus variant is making a return, as Samsung might not introduce the S26 Edge this time.

    Earlier today, Android Headlines shared images of the supposed Galaxy S26 Plus, showcasing it from multiple perspectives. The device resembles the Galaxy S25 Plus significantly, without any discernible design alterations.

    Per these CAD visuals, the Galaxy S26 Plus might have a 6.7-inch AMOLED 2X flat display featuring slim, consistent bezels and a centered camera cutout. However, as suggested by previous leaks, Samsung may focus on making the devices more ergonomic, implying that the device could possess more rounded corners compared to the Galaxy S25 Plus. All physical buttons, including the power/lock and volume controls, appear to be situated on the right side.

    The site mentions that the phone’s dimensions might vary slightly, approximately measuring 158.4 x 75.7 x 7.35mm. The visuals also display the phone’s rear panel, which accommodates three camera lenses, with the flash positioned adjacent to them.

    Speculations propose that the Galaxy S26 Plus might include a 50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, and 12MP telephoto camera. Nonetheless, prominent leaker IceUniverse took to X to suggest that the telephoto lens might be considerably smaller this time, and the primary camera is expected to remain the same, with the ultrawide potentially being similar or identical.

    It’s crucial to highlight that the colors shown for the phone are for illustrative purposes solely, and there’s no confirmation regarding the actual colors in which the Galaxy S26 might launch. However, rumors have suggested that Samsung could adopt the bright orange color scheme from the iPhone 17 range.

    Other anticipated specifications for the device include a nearly 5,000mAh battery with 45W wired charging capability. Under the hood, the Galaxy S26 is rumored to feature either an Exynos 2600 or a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, depending on the market in which the device is purchased, combined with 12GB of RAM.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Intends to Introduce a Credit Card in the US to Rival Apple
    Samsung Intends to Introduce a Credit Card in the US to Rival Apple

    Samsung is allegedly considering the launch of its own credit card in the U.S., possibly collaborating with Barclays to compete with Apple’s financial services. The anticipated “Samsung Card” could provide benefits such as cashback on Samsung products and appliances, digital prepaid accounts, and high-yield savings options. Discussions with Barclays are reported to be at an advanced stage, with Visa likely to support the card, although no formal agreements have been reached yet. An announcement could be anticipated by the close of 2025.

    Samsung has been improving its digital payment offerings, particularly through Samsung Wallet, which now features options like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and cryptocurrency management through Coinbase integration. These advancements reflect Samsung’s dedication to broadening its presence in the financial services arena, utilizing its existing technology ecosystem to deliver comprehensive payment solutions.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Black Friday VPN Offer: Eternal Protection for Just $30
    Black Friday VPN Offer: Eternal Protection for Just $30

    A lifetime of coverage for less than a single evening out. Seriously.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    The gossip is accurate: the well-known brand FastestVPN has launched a unique promotion that allows you to secure a lifetime of protection for just $30, all-inclusive, when you apply the code FUTUREBF2025 during checkout. To enhance the offer further, the company will also provide two years of FastestPass password management, just for fun.

    This early Black Friday offer is exclusively for our readers (and those of our Future PLC sister sites), so think of it as a little festive gesture from all of us at Android Central.

    Acquire protection for LIFE with this Black Friday promotion from FastestVPN

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on 5 Unexpected Electronics You Can Buy at Ikea
    5 Unexpected Electronics You Can Buy at Ikea

    USB gadgets from Ikea, along with lesser-known smart devices and sensors that can be beneficial for both home and personal use. Thus, if you find yourself at Ikea and are looking to purchase some electronics, here are five items you likely weren’t aware you could acquire there.

    Symfonisk Floor Lamp with Wi-Fi Sonos Speaker

    No home entertainment system is truly complete without speakers, but they often present two challenges. First, they can occupy significant space, particularly the larger, more powerful models. And second, they frequently clash with your living room’s decor, easily standing out in an undesirable way. If you’re seeking something elegant that doesn’t compromise on performance, consider the Symfonisk Floor Lamp with Wi-Fi Sonos Speaker from Ikea.

    Developed in collaboration between Ikea and Sonos, the Symfonisk is a combination of a floor lamp and a Wi-Fi speaker. The floor lamp is designed with a bamboo shade to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the speaker delivers 180-degree sound and is rated at 15W. Like other Wi-Fi speakers, the Symfonisk Floor Lamp Speaker can stream your selected content from major platforms on your phone and continues to play even when you receive calls or notifications. The speaker is compatible with AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect as well.

    If you have

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Microsoft Terminates Support for Established Office Application Following 35 Years
    Microsoft Terminates Support for Established Office Application Following 35 Years

    integrating AI into current software like the Paint app. This transformation has resulted in significant changes that have left Microsoft users cautious about the new path, ranging from the unfortunate closure of Skype to AI-fueled increases in Microsoft 365 pricing. Predominantly, these modifications mirror a scenario where technology firms are reallocating resources toward budding technological markets. One alteration that disappointed longtime users was Microsoft’s announcement of the upcoming end of one of its oldest programs, Microsoft Publisher. Per Microsoft’s lifecycle webpage, the company will officially stop supporting the application on October 1, 2026. In the meantime, users are urged to convert all Publisher files to alternate formats, like PDFs or Word documents. Microsoft’s support site offers useful guidelines on how to transition Publisher documents into new formats, including a PowerShell script to streamline the process.

    Launched in 1991 and initially bundled with Office 97 Small Business Edition, Microsoft Publisher was developed in response to programs such as QuarkXPress, PageMaker, and InDesign. It allowed small businesses, students, and the publishing sector to create promotional materials with easily templated options, ranging from brochures and business cards to newsletters, magazines, and newspapers. Over the years, the product has seen numerous updates, introducing web publishing tools, PDF exports, and cloud collaboration features in a bid to adapt to the evolving publishing environment. Nevertheless, recent changes have pushed Publisher out of a saturated market. Fortunately, for supporters of the application, a variety of alternatives can readily fill the gap.

    Alternative software to Microsoft Publisher

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Postpones Launch of iPhone Air 2 Indefinitely, Based on Reports
    Apple Postpones Launch of iPhone Air 2 Indefinitely, Based on Reports

    Apple is said to be postponing the introduction of the iPhone Air 2. A report from The Information states that Apple has notified engineers and suppliers that the upcoming iPhone Air has been removed from the schedule without a new launch date. This choice is linked to sales of the current iPhone Air being lower than anticipated, resulting in considerable cuts in production.

    The second iteration of the iPhone Air was originally slated for release in the fall alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold. It was expected to be lighter than the previous version and to boast a larger battery capacity. Furthermore, Apple was developing a vapor chamber cooling system, which was first introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro, for the iPhone Air 2. There were also speculations that the device may feature dual cameras.

    Despite the delay, Apple has not entirely scrapped the iPhone Air 2. Certain engineers and manufacturers remain involved in its development, but there is no concrete release date at this time. The decision to remove the iPhone Air 2 from the timeline is considered unusual and without precedent.

    The drop in sales of the existing iPhone Air has been notable, with reports suggesting that Foxconn has decommissioned most of its production lines for the device and anticipates completely ceasing production soon. Luxshare, another manufacturing partner, has also halted the assembly of the iPhone Air.

    Consequently, Apple is now projected to roll out three new iPhones in the fall: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold. The entry-level iPhone 18 and the budget-oriented iPhone 18e are expected to arrive in spring 2027.

    There is a chance that the iPhone Air 2 is undergoing a major redesign, with speculation it might still debut in spring 2027 alongside the standard iPhone 18 and the 18e.

    In general, the news regarding the delay of the iPhone Air 2 has disappointed its fans, particularly those who value its sleek and lightweight design. The iPhone Air has received accolades for blending a large display with a slim profile, making it a distinctive addition to Apple’s product range.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple TV Removes Advertisements While ‘Pause Ads’ Rise on Other Platforms
    Apple TV Removes Advertisements While ‘Pause Ads’ Rise on Other Platforms

    **The Growth of Pause Ads in Streaming Platforms**

    Last week, Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president, mentioned that the company has “no intentions” for an ad-supported version of Apple TV. However, a recent report underscores a rising trend among major streaming services to adopt ‘pause ads’—advertisements that display on-screen when a viewer halts a show or film.

    ### Netflix, Amazon, Disney, and Others Are Establishing ‘Pause Ads’ as Standard

    Pause ads are becoming more prevalent across various streaming platforms. These ads are shown each time a viewer pauses their content, creating a novel advertising opportunity for services. According to Brian Steinberg from *Variety*, Peacock has delivered full-screen pause ads since its inception, while Netflix has rolled out commercials that take up either half or the entire screen during pauses. Warner Bros. Discovery is experimenting with full-screen pause ads globally, while Disney is examining a format called “Pause+,” which enlarges to full-screen only if the viewer chooses to do so.

    Leading streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and Peacock are acknowledging the advantages of pause ads. Reports suggest that both Amazon and Netflix have experienced heightened user interaction with pause ads in contrast to traditional video advertisements.

    ### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

    This trend distinguishes Apple TV as it remains ad-free for the time being. Eddy Cue’s confirmation of the lack of plans for ads is reassuring for subscribers who favor an uninterrupted viewing experience. For other streaming platforms, pause ads may appear as a sensible strategy to persuade users to sign up for pricier ad-free tiers or to create additional revenue from current subscribers.

    While certain viewers might find pause ads unappealing, the truth is that as long as ad-free choices are presented, streaming services may persist in seeking methods to optimize their advertising income.

    ### Conclusion

    The advent of pause ads signifies a noteworthy transformation in how streaming platforms handle advertising. As competition escalates, services are in search of innovative strategies to engage viewers and boost revenue. While Apple TV sustains its ad-free condition, the streaming landscape keeps evolving, and it remains uncertain how long this will persist.

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