The vocoder was never supposed to be a revolution in music. It wasn’t supposed to be anything in music, really. Its development began a century ago, when an engineer at Bell Labs was looking for a simpler way to send phone calls across copper telephone lines. The engineer, Homer Dudley, built some pretty neat technology […]
Musk announces Terafab chip plant construction in Austin, Texas
Elon Musk announced plans to build a Terafab plant in Austin, Texas, that will be jointly run by Tesla and SpaceX. The goal is to eventually build chips at scale for robotics, artificial intelligence, and space-based data centers for Musk’s various companies. Musk has expressed concern, as have other executives, about the chip industry’s ability […]
Purpose of the Dual Silver Openings on AirPods Pro Case
the AirPods Pro might be mentioned along with other comparable premium products that provide more sophisticated features than the budget-friendly wireless earbuds available in stores. AirPods Pro include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capabilities, replaceable tips for a more comfortable fit, and intelligent functions, such as compatibility with the Live Translation feature. Additionally, AirPods Pro feature volume controls on the stems. Speaking of which, the stems are more compact than those of standard AirPods, as the AirPods Pro boast a unique design. However, it’s not only the earbuds themselves that feature enhanced built-in capabilities. The AirPods Pro case has its own set of advantages, including support for wireless charging, a range of speakers for Find My capabilities, and two silver holes on the side that are often missed.
As seen in the image above, the two holes in the metallic casing on the side of the AirPods Pro case form a lanyard loop, allowing you to attach a strap to the case and minimize the chances of losing the AirPods Pro or having them stolen. Other Apple products aside from the AirPods Pro also feature lanyard loops. Certain iPhone cases provide similar functionality, enabling you to carry the device around your neck. Apple offers lanyard accessories compatible with both the iPhone and the AirPods Pro.
Which AirPods Pro versions come with lanyard loops?
Apple launched the AirPods Pro 2 in September 2022, presenting an updated charging case that incorporated new features. “AirPods Pro feature a newly designed charging case that is water- and sweat-resistant, and includes a lanyard loop to keep it easily accessible,” <a href="https://www.apple.com/news
The Timeline of Smartphone Brands Eliminating SD Card Slots
Android devices that continue to feature a microSD card slot. Particularly within the premium sector of the smartphone market, such slots have nearly disappeared (with the exception of Sony’s flagship models), although certain brands have never adopted SD cards at all, such as Google’s Pixel line and Apple’s iPhones.
For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, Motorola Razr Ultra (2025), OnePlus 15, and Nothing Phone 3 lack microSD card support. This raises the question: when did smartphone manufacturers cease the support for SD cards? The response is not straightforward, as there wasn’t a singular date when almost all companies declared that their devices would no longer accommodate these cards. It was a gradual transition that unfolded over several years.
Smartphones started eliminating SD card slots over a decade ago
Eight Electric Vehicles That Can Supply Power to Your Home in Times of Crisis
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Actor John “The Duke” Wayne gained fame during Hollywood’s Golden Era as a prominent figure in Western films. Even if the genre is not to your liking, it’s undeniable how classics like “True Grit” (1969), “The Alamo” (1960), and “Red River” (1948) contributed to Wayne’s status as a Western legend. Wayne has since become a somewhat contentious figure owing to his overtly racist beliefs. Nonetheless, his contribution to the Western genre, along with his influence on cinema as a whole, ensures the late actor a lasting legacy.
Throughout his extensive acting tenure, Wayne appeared in 169 feature films. One particular film, John Ford’s 1939 Western “Stagecoach,” propelled Wayne to national renown. Many of John Wayne’s films can be viewed today; they are available on platforms such as Prime Video, HBO Max, and Criterion Channel, although not all are accessible. In fact, one particular John Wayne film has not been seen by anyone for decades. What was the story behind this elusive Wayne film, and what truly transpired with it?
What is The Oregon Trail?
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Apple Stores Encounter Reduced Stock Levels for Apple TV, HomePod, and HomePod Mini
### Apple’s Inventory Challenges: Implications for HomePod, HomePod Mini, and Apple TV
Recent information reveals that Apple Stores are facing inventory challenges concerning three key products: the HomePod, HomePod mini, and Apple TV. Although this scenario might spark speculation regarding possible updates, it is crucial to grasp the circumstances surrounding these shortages.
#### Current Inventory Overview
As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the diminishing supply of the standard HomePod, HomePod mini, and Apple TV often signals upcoming product updates. Typically, when Apple gears up to unveil new models, it results in extended delivery periods and decreased stock availability in their stores. Gurman points out that even though these inventory concerns are significant, they do not exclusively indicate an upcoming product launch.
#### Possible Updates on the Horizon
Apple is said to have upgraded versions of the Apple TV and HomePod mini ready since last year. Nevertheless, the company has postponed their release, likely awaiting enhancements to Siri and other AI functionalities. Gurman implies that if new hardware is indeed forthcoming, it could be due to Apple’s decision to move forward without additional delays.
The larger HomePod is also experiencing lower stock levels, even though it was updated more recently compared to the HomePod mini. While there are currently no speculations regarding a new model of the larger HomePod, it is conceivable that Apple is gearing up to synchronize its offerings with the forthcoming refresh of the HomePod mini.
#### Anticipated Features of New Models
The next version of the Apple TV 4K is expected to incorporate the A17 Pro chip, a notable upgrade from the present A15 Bionic chip, which will improve its compatibility with Apple’s AI strategies. On the other hand, the HomePod mini is projected to be equipped with a new chip to enable these advanced functionalities, moving away from the current S5 chip. Furthermore, there are rumors of new color variations for the HomePod mini, which may attract a wider customer base.
#### Conclusion
As Apple manages its inventory challenges, the tech community remains vigilant for news about the HomePod, HomePod mini, and Apple TV. While the present situation does not assure imminent product releases, it implies that Apple is poised to rejuvenate its lineup in response to changing technology and consumer preferences.
Sonos Roam 2 Discounts Over 20% This Weekend
Sonos is no stranger to the occasional sale. The iconic audio company routinely runs sales around Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day, and the Super Bowl, though itâs rare to see substantial discounts on its portable speakers outside of tentpole shopping events. Fortunately, if you have no interest in the Sonos Move 2 or forthcoming Sonos […]
The Function of the Bar at the Base of Your iPhone Display
With the launch of the iPhone X and the incorporation of Face ID authentication, Apple no longer needed a Home Button, opting instead for the Home Indicator. Nevertheless, this strip at the base of your iPhone serves a purpose beyond merely signifying how to return to the Home Screen.
iPhone’s strip at the bottom serves more than just to indicate the Home Screen
New iPad Equipped with A18 Chip Anticipated for Release in Early 2026
As part of Apple’s announcement week for new products earlier this month, many anticipated an update for Apple’s most affordable iPad, alongside the iPad Air, MacBook Neo, and other MacBook upgrades. Nevertheless, the entire week concluded without any reveal of a new base iPad.
Now, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has offered a launch update, suggesting that the product is still on course for a relatively imminent release. In the latest edition of the Power On newsletter, Gurman disclosed that Apple has been intending to launch a refreshed version of the entry-level iPad within the first half of 2026. This forthcoming model is anticipated to include a significant upgrade from the A16 chip to the A18 chip, enhancing performance and introducing compatibility with Apple Intelligence.
The iOS 26.4 release cycle does not specify an exact month for the iPad’s debut, but given that iOS 26.4 has recently reached the release candidate phase, the update is expected to launch by the month’s end, paving the way for a possible release in April or potentially slipping into May due to supply chain considerations.
### What’s New with iPad (A18)
The existing base model iPad is powered by the A16 chip from the iPhone 14 Pro series. The forthcoming model will transition to the A18 chip from the iPhone 16 series, promising significant performance improvements and the introduction of Apple Intelligence features. While extensive functionalities for Apple Intelligence may not be available until the launch of iOS 26.5, this upgrade will finally bring AI capabilities to the budget iPad, which has been deficient in this regard.
Moreover, there are speculations that Apple might incorporate its proprietary C1 modem and N1 networking chip into the budget iPad, although these specifics remain unconfirmed. Overall, the A18 iPad refresh is largely recognized as a chip enhancement.
### Wrap Up
Although the new iPad may be perceived as a modest refresh, it continues to perform its designated tasks effectively. However, the recent unveiling of the MacBook Neo has brought attention to a pricing concern regarding the base iPad. Acquiring the iPad along with the Magic Keyboard Folio equals a total of $598, a mere dollar less than the MacBook Neo.
Even though the iPad itself isn’t experiencing major modifications, there is an expectation for Apple to readdress the keyboard pricing associated with the iPad. A $349 iPad combined with a $249 keyboard raises questions about overall value.
As the launch nears, many are left pondering what additional features or modifications they would like to see in Apple’s most affordable iPad.
