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Crucial Applications for Your New Mac: Five Essentials

### Important Applications for Your New Mac

Whether you’ve recently bought your first Mac or upgraded to a more advanced model, installing the right tools is vital for optimizing productivity. Here’s a compilation of important applications that can elevate your Mac experience right from the start.

#### 1. Time Management: Toggl and Timery

Monitoring your time can greatly enhance your efficiency. For years, I have depended on [Toggl](https://toggl.com) for time tracking. To enhance Toggl, I utilize [Timery](https://timeryapp.com), which integrates smoothly with my Toggl account. Timery’s menu bar and widgets provide quick access to favorites, timers, and real-time task tracking. It also offers comprehensive reports that help illustrate time allocated to various projects. The synchronization between the Mac and iOS versions allows me to track my time wherever I am.

#### 2. Text Expansion: TextExpander

While macOS includes standard keyboard shortcuts, I consider [TextExpander](https://textexpander.com) invaluable. Its capacity to create tailored snippets and support for variables makes it perfect for replying to emails, completing forms, and quickly preparing documents. For those seeking more than the built-in functionalities, TextExpander is a worthwhile investment.

#### 3. Bluetooth Management: AirBuddy

[AirBuddy](https://v2.airbuddy.app) improves the experience of using Bluetooth devices with your Mac. Originally created for AirPods, it now accommodates various Bluetooth accessories, including non-Apple devices like my Logitech MX Master mouse. AirBuddy offers low battery notifications, keyboard shortcuts for tweaking settings, and other automations that simplify device management.

#### 4. Automation: Keyboard Maestro

One of the first applications I install on a new Mac is [Keyboard Maestro](https://www.keyboardmaestro.com/main/). This robust automation tool enables me to establish custom macros for different tasks, such as initiating a QuickTime recording when a designated microphone connects or managing clipboard history. Although it may appear challenging initially, resources like David Sparks’ [Keyboard Maestro Field Guide](https://learn.macsparky.com/p/km) and the active community forum can assist users in maximizing this tool’s potential.

#### 5. Writing: Ulysses

After experimenting with several writing applications,

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Anticipated iOS 26.3 Features Coming in Early 2026

Apple launched the final version of iOS 26.2 earlier this December, and the initial beta tests for iOS 26.3 are currently in progress, though you might consider delaying the installation of the first beta version of iOS 26.3 at this time. A majority of Apple’s development team is on holiday leave; the diminished workforce at the end of the year suggests that beta bug submissions may go unanswered and essential fixes could take longer to address.

iOS 26.4 is set to bring significant updates (including a completely new Siri voice assistant) when it arrives in Spring 2026, yet iOS 26.3 has more limited aspirations. Nonetheless, iOS 26.3 will serve as a crucial precursor to the major update; continue reading to discover what features it will offer and the timing of its release. While Apple previously restricted beta testing to members of the paid Apple Developer program, anyone with an Apple ID can now obtain beta iOS builds following the instructions available on Apple’s website. First, you’ll need to activate developer mode on your device through settings; this prepares your iPhone or iPad to utilize Xcode.

What features will iOS 26.3 include?

Disproving Three Widespread Misconceptions Regarding HDMI Ports

You’ve just unboxed that new TV or gaming system, only to face a series of identical HDMI ports located on the back. They all appear the same, leading to the belief that they all function identically. This assumption is at the core of several prevalent HDMI myths, and it’s a key reason many individuals fail to achieve the display quality they invested in with their televisions.

Not every HDMI port is identical, even on a single device. Certain ports may offer higher refresh rates and superior audio formats, while others may not. Connecting your console or streaming device to the “wrong” HDMI port can subtly degrade picture quality, increase input lag, or disable features that your TV openly promotes.

Grasping how HDMI ports and standards truly function is essential for maximizing the image, sound, and performance from your setup without squandering money and letting features go unused.

All HDMI ports on your TV are the same

Android Central’s Best XR/VR Headsets, Smart Glasses, and Games for 2025

Presenting our top XR/VR devices and games for 2025!

Top XR headset or smart glasses: Xreal One Pro

This year truly marked the rise of XR glasses, yet among the plethora of launches, one series shone brighter than the rest: Xreal One. Leading the pack was the Xreal One Pro, introducing a revolutionary optics configuration that not only slimmed down the design but also expanded the FoV to unprecedented levels. This enhancement builds on the exceptional performance that Xreal One offered with its exclusive X1 chip, delivering spatial tracking for any connected device—an industry first for XR glasses and a distinctive feature setting Xreal apart from competitors.

Second place: Samsung Galaxy XR

The Galaxy XR represents Samsung’s first VR headset in several years, debuting with Android XR, a completely new version of Android designed specifically for the upcoming wave of spatial computing gadgets. Though the pricing may deter some consumers, there’s undeniably a remarkable quality to the displays and the refined Android XR experience, particularly in contrast to Meta’s software. There are some bugs that will require fixing (and will as the platform evolves), but the capability to install any Android app or game effortlessly without unnecessary modifications is a significant advantage for both Samsung and Google.

Top new single-player VR game: Marvel’s Deadpool VR

Every year, the developers at Meta’s official Oculus Studios release a major title, and this year’s standout is none other than Marvel’s Deadpool VR. Created by Twisted Pixel Games, it unveils an original Deadpool narrative featuring a glamorous cast, including Neil Patrick Harris, John Leguizamo, Brina Palencia, and others.

However, don’t be swayed solely by the star power, as the game immerses you in various scenarios that Deadpool encounters, with limbs flying, swords clashing, bullets bursting, and much more. It’s tough to choose between the epic levels and the formidable bosses as the main highlight, but either way, you’ll have an incredible experience living out the role of Deadpool like never before. Plus, the moment you look down and notice your arms are gone will leave a lasting impression. It’s truly a mind-bending experience! Get it for 20% off until January 4.

Second place: Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow

Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow marks the return of the Thief franchise after more than ten years, acting as a true sequel to the original PC stealth masterpieces. Transitioning to a VR-exclusive experience maintains the essence of a Thief game, while the requirement of physically navigating the environment fundamentally alters the gameplay.

You assume the role of a new main character, but the unique element is the mechanical eye discovered at the outset of the game, which allows Garrett—his original voice actor—to guide you throughout the narrative. You’ll stealthily maneuver in classic Thief style, scaling walls, climbing buildings, concealing yourself in darkness, neutralizing guards, and even sabotaging surroundings while absconding with as much treasure as possible in each stage. This is a dream come true for stealth enthusiasts and a genuine delight for Meta Quest players!

Top new multi-player VR game: Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked

Upon the initial launch of Demeo on the Oculus Quest in May 2021, I immediately envisioned a D&D-licensed and expanded iteration of the game. That’s precisely what Demeo x D&D: Battlemarked delivers. This game utilizes the well-known turn-based strategy RPG foundations of both Demeo and Dungeons & Dragons, merging two formidable intellectual properties into one impressively comprehensive experience that’s easy to enjoy with friends.

To enhance the experience, it now features cross-platform capabilities among Meta Quest, Steam, and PlayStation, while allowing VR gamers to interact effortlessly with non-VR players. Now that’s how to do a D&D night right, making this tabletop strategy title our multiplayer game of the year!

Second place: Forefront

Forefront can be succinctly described as “Battlefield VR.” With support for 32 players, it stands out as one of the most thorough VR multiplayer experiences accessible, and it’s no surprise given that it comes from the creators of Breachers, a former VR multiplayer Game of the Year. Like you would anticipate from a Battlefield-style game, you won’t just be running around shooting other competitors.

You’ll be operating jet skis, boats, jeeps, ATVs, helicopters, tanks, and so much more. And since it’s

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Michael Dorn’s Most Disliked Star Trek: The Next Generation Episode

(which we may soon observe), there were sporadic episodes spawned from Gene Roddenberry’s revolutionary mythology that even the cast members were not pleased with.

Michael Dorn, who portrayed Lieutenant Worf in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” made a guest appearance on Michael Rosenbaum’s “Inside of You” and discussed such an episode. “Code of Honor” featured the Enterprise crew encountering a group known as the Ligonians. The significant problem with this newly introduced alien race is that they were represented through the lens of racist African stereotypes.

Dorn himself did not appear in this specific episode, yet he still expressed discontent with what he witnessed. “It was one of the worst episodes. And I don’t believe they intended to create a bad episode,” Dorn stated. “I think they genuinely thought, during the entire process, ‘This is a good idea. This is really a great idea.'” Dorn wasn’t alone in his criticism of “Code of Honor.” Regular cast member of “The Next Generation” and longtime director of several iconic “Star Trek” episodes, Jonathan Frakes, believes that making efforts to remove the episode from the franchise’s history is a more favorable option.

Jonathan Frakes advocates for the episode’s removal

Google Might Permit Users to Revise Outdated Gmail Addresses

a fresh year promotion on Google One cloud storage subscriptions and the new Google CC AI assistant, Google has further good news that some long-time Gmail users might have been anticipating. The company is reportedly going to allow Gmail users to modify their older email IDs to more professional ones than the ones they initially selected. As per 9to5Google, the feature for changing email addresses will be introduced gradually. An official Google page in Hindi outlines some specifics about the procedure.

If you’ve been using an outdated Gmail ID as your main one for years, it can be challenging to move on from the quirky email address you chose in your youth. You may have a wealth of information linked to the current ID, so opening a new Google account wouldn’t resolve the issue of embarrassment. Moreover, you might be relying on the same Gmail ID for logging in to various other platforms and services, such as Facebook, Netflix, Amazon, etc. Fortunately, that situation could soon improve.

How the Gmail address update will function

Breathe New Life into Your Vintage Laptops with This DIY Fix

ingenious ways to utilize your outdated laptops. A fantastic method to give your device a new purpose is by converting it into a DIY Chromebook, using ChromeOS Flex for this transformation.

ChromeOS Flex is an operating system (OS) provided for free by Google. You can set it up on older Windows and Mac machines, often resulting in significantly improved performance compared to their original factory OS. Similar to ChromeOS, ChromeOS Flex focuses on cloud computing, meaning you’ll primarily be engaging with web applications and services, which is ideal if your activities are largely online. If you wish to revitalize your old laptop, we will guide you through the detailed procedure of creating a DIY Chromebook from it.

Step 1: Get your laptop and USB installer ready for ChromeOS Flex

To turn your old laptop into a DIY Chromebook, you’ll need three essential items: the laptop you’re reconfiguring, a USB flash drive, and any operational computer. Your outdated laptop ought to be one of Google’s certified supported models and equipped with (at a minimum) an Intel or AMD x86-64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage capacity. Be sure to back up your data, since the current contents of the laptop’s hard drive will be wiped clean once ChromeOS Flex is set up.

For your USB drive, you can <a href="https

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The Endpoint of Returned Technology Items at Costco

Amazon is currently revising their holiday return policies to be more user-friendly, while dedicated Costco patrons might chuckle, as the retailer already provides ample return options for its members. Under the company’s 100% satisfaction promise, for instance, you can return electronics within 90 days. 

This is a contributing factor to the long return lines at your nearest Costco. However, similar to the inquiry about Amazon’s handling of returned products, you may be curious about what Costco does with returned items, especially technology. Are they recycled, returned to the shelves, or discarded? The response is, it varies. 

Most Costco returns are either resold or donated, rather than disposed of. The sole exception is perishable goods or food items, which cannot be resold. Items that are unopened and returned in their original packaging will probably be restocked. Conversely, opened products, including returned tech, are sent to a different warehouse for evaluation. Depending on their condition, these items will either be sent back to the manufacturer, sold to liquidators, or donated.

Is it possible to purchase returned tech from Costco?

NASA Satellites Take Picture of Enormous Tsunami

five biggest earthquakes ever documented, which remains remarkably potent. That quake initiated a tsunami that traversed the Pacific Ocean, and NASA’s latest SWOT satellite documented the massive wave in detail.

The SWOT satellite, which stands for Surface Water and Ocean Topography, was launched just recently in 2022. This earthquake marks the largest event the satellite has observed so far. By utilizing data from it and deep-ocean tsunami buoys, scientists were able to delineate the earthquake’s rupture area, extending approximately 250 miles and raising sections of the ocean floor by as much as 13 feet. The satellite documented how the tsunami waves transformed as they progressed, providing researchers with a comprehensive model to analyze.

The findings regarding this incident were released in The Seismic Record in November 2025. The publication emphasizes the peril of megaquakes and illustrates how satellites such as SWOT are revolutionizing scientists’ capacity to understand, monitor, and forecast tsunamis.

Insights into how the colossal tsunami was monitored

Apple’s Management Resilience Illustrated by Managing Executive Changes in the Post-iPhone Period

Numerous other exits from that period are notable, such as Greg Christie, who served as the VP of Human Interface Design at Apple. Christie and his team were directly accountable for some of the most recognizable iPhone UI features, including slide-to-unlock and the various multitouch gestures that rapidly became standard within the industry. Christie retired from Apple in 2014.

Upon Christie’s retirement, Apple released a statement highlighting that “Greg… has made essential contributions to Apple products throughout, and established a top-tier Human Interface team that has collaborated closely with Jony for many years.”

One year prior, Apple also faced the exit of Henri Lamiraux, the company’s VP of iOS engineering. Lamiraux was a 30-year veteran at Apple at the time of his retirement and was a key player in the development of the iPhone. In simple terms, much of the engineering foundation that enabled iOS is credited to Lamiraux and his team. Before that, Lamiraux was significant in guiding Apple into the OS X era.

In just three years, Apple lost three pivotal members of the original iPhone design group. Nevertheless, iPhone and iOS advancement continued. This is not to downplay the significance of these individuals, but to stress that Apple is a colossal organization with tens of thousands of staff members. It possesses the capability to endure significant employee losses in a manner that perhaps other firms cannot.

Several other instances of high-profile executive exits from Apple during the post-iPhone period include Tony Fadell, who would later establish Nest Labs alongside another former Apple engineer, Matt Rogers. Additionally, the exit of Bob Mansfield is notable, as he departed Apple in 2012 but was persuaded by Tim Cook to remain for a few additional years. Mansfield ultimately departed the company permanently in 2015. More recently, Apple executive Phil Schiller resigned as the company’s VP of marketing in 2020.

Apart from product design and development, Apple in the post-iPhone period also lost Ron Johnson, the executive who played a vital role in building Apple’s retail presence from the ground up. While there are currently hundreds of Apple retail locations worldwide, Apple’s venture into retail was a daring gamble early on. However, Johnson’s expertise facilitated Apple’s successful outcome. Johnson left Apple in 2011 to take on the role of CEO at J.C. Penney. Meanwhile, Apple’s retail ventures continued to thrive without losing momentum.

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