Top 10 Soundbars for Audiophiles Recommended by Experts
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Read MoreThe OnePlus 15 is an eye-catching smartphone featuring a design that merges flat edges with gentle curves, ensuring a comfortable handling experience. Its aluminum chassis and ceramic-like rear deliver a high-end sensation, while Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front ensures strong defense against minor impacts. The camera setup, located at the top left corner, is engineered to reduce wobble, improving stability when it rests on surfaces.
The rear sports a matte finish that, although susceptible to noticeable smudges, can be easily wiped clean to preserve its immaculate look. This design decision guarantees the device stays visually striking even with regular use.
With an impressive IP rating of IP66, IP68, and IP69K, the OnePlus 15 showcases remarkable durability, protecting against dust, water immersion, and powerful water jets. This degree of protection is uncommon among smartphones, emphasizing the device’s toughness.
The addition of the “Plus Button” on the left side signifies a departure from the conventional alert slider, providing customizable features, albeit currently more limited than Apple’s Action Button. The phone also comprises essential power and volume buttons, a USB-C port, stereo speakers, and an IR blaster, enriching its capabilities.
Offered in black, purple, and sandstone, the OnePlus 15 presents a stylish and sturdy design, making it an attractive option for individuals in search of a fashionable and durable smartphone.
Read More### The Shelly Plug Gen4: A Revolutionary Advancement in Smart Home Automation
Smart plugs have emerged as essential tools for individuals aiming to improve their smart home journey without the complications usually linked to sophisticated automation systems. The recently launched Shelly Plug Gen4 embodies this movement, presenting an economical and adaptable option for smart home aficionados.
#### Key Features of the Shelly Plug Gen4
One of the prominent characteristics of the Shelly Plug Gen4 is its compatibility with Matter, a universal connectivity standard that enables devices to interact across various ecosystems. This allows the plug to effortlessly merge with major smart home platforms such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Apple Home/HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant. This interoperability makes it a perfect selection for users who might have gadgets from different manufacturers.
The plug functions over Wi-Fi and Zigbee, offering flexibility in how it connects within a smart home arrangement. It also allows for local control, ensuring users can manage their devices even without an internet connection.
#### Automation and Customization
The Shelly Plug Gen4 is more than just a basic on/off switch; it is crafted to promote automation and energy management. Users can develop custom routines and scripts using JavaScript or leverage pre-existing scripts from the Shelly library. This degree of customization appeals to tech-oriented users who relish modifying their smart home configurations.
Moreover, the plug can manage loads up to 1800 watts, making it appropriate for a diverse array of appliances, from lamps to office equipment, without the danger of tripping circuit breakers.
#### User-Friendly Setup
Establishing the Shelly Plug Gen4 is uncomplicated. Users merely plug it into an outlet, download the Shelly app, and select either local or cloud control options. The app interface is crafted to be intuitive, enabling even novices to smart home technology to navigate it effortlessly.
#### Additional Features
The Shelly Plug Gen4 encompasses a built-in lux sensor, which can initiate automations based on surrounding light levels. This feature is particularly beneficial for creating mood lighting or for practical uses such as turning on lights during dark conditions. The customizable LED ring on the device can also be modified to indicate status or function as a night light, providing an additional layer of functionality.
#### Conclusion
At a cost of under $20, the Shelly Plug Gen4 delivers an impressive range of features that make it an attractive option for anyone wanting to elevate their smart home. Its Matter compatibility, user-friendly nature, and customization possibilities establish it as a significant enhancement to any smart home ecosystem. As users start to receive and experiment with the device, it is expected that the Shelly Plug Gen4 will be recognized as a standout in the domain of smart home automation. For those interested, it is available for acquisition on Shelly’s official website.
Read More### Grasping Instagram’s Updated “Your Algorithm” Feature
A frequently voiced annoyance with algorithm-based applications such as Instagram is that users lack control over their feeds. Instead, they are presented with what the app presumes they wish to view, which often misses the mark. To tackle this concern, Meta has launched a fresh feature named “Your Algorithm,” designed to provide users with greater sway over their content journey.
#### The Change in Instagram’s Strategy
Before this enhancement, Instagram’s Reels feed functioned much like TikTok, showcasing a flow of content driven by algorithmic forecasts without any user involvement. Nevertheless, Meta is now taking measures to modify this situation. As reported by Wired, the new feature enables users to access a list reflecting what Instagram deems their primary and recent interests. This insight into the algorithm marks a significant deviation in social media norms.
#### The Functionality of “Your Algorithm”
With the roll-out of “Your Algorithm,” users can now shape the content they encounter in Reels. Upon entering this new section, users will discover a summary of their interests informed by recent actions within the app. This overview is produced using AI and encompasses subjects that users can opt to see more or less frequently. Illustrative topics might include “Horror films,” “Chess,” and “College football.”
Furthermore, users are empowered to share their algorithmic overview with their Instagram followers, promoting a sense of community and interaction centered around shared passions.
#### Constraints of the Feature
Despite the enhanced control provided by “Your Algorithm,” users cannot entirely break free from the impact of AI. The feature still depends on algorithmic evaluation to establish which interests are showcased, implying that while users can steer their experience, the foundational AI continues to play a substantial role in content organization.
#### Final Thoughts
Meta’s “Your Algorithm” feature marks a crucial advancement towards granting Instagram users more authority over their feeds. By enabling users to view and influence their interests, Meta is responding to a widespread grievance regarding algorithm-guided platforms. As this feature becomes more widely available, it will be intriguing to observe its effects on user engagement and satisfaction within the platform.
Read More# Most Downloaded Apps and Games of 2025 in the United States
In a recent update, Apple disclosed the most downloaded apps and games of 2025 in the United States, following the App Store Awards that honored applications for their technical brilliance and cultural significance. This year, the prominent free iPhone app was ChatGPT, while HotSchedules emerged as the leading paid iPhone app.
## Top Free iPhone Apps
1. **ChatGPT**
2. **Threads**
3. **Google**
4. **TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE**
5. **WhatsApp Messenger**
6. **Instagram**
7. **YouTube**
8. **Google Maps**
9. **Gmail – Email by Google**
10. **Google Gemini**
## Top Paid iPhone Apps
1. **HotSchedules**
2. **Shadowrocket**
3. **Procreate Pocket**
4. **AnkiMobile Flashcards**
5. **Paprika Recipe Manager 3**
6. **SkyView®**
7. **TonalEnergy Tuner & Metronome**
8. **AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch**
9. **Forest: Focus for Productivity**
10. **RadarScope**
## Top Free iPhone Games
1. **Block Blast!**
2. **Fortnite**
3. **Roblox**
4. **Township**
5. **Pokémon TCG Pocket**
6. **Royal Kingdom**
7. **Clash Royale**
8. **Vita Mahjong**
9. **Whiteout Survival**
10. **Last War: Survival**
## Top Paid iPhone Games
1. **Minecraft: Dream it, Build it!**
2. **Balatro**
3. **Heads Up!**
4. **Plague Inc.**
5. **Geometry Dash**
6. **Bloons TD 6**
7. **Stardew Valley**
8. **Papa’s Freezeria To Go!**
9. **Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp C**
10. **Red’s First Flight**
## Top Free iPad Apps
1. **YouTube**
2. **ChatGPT**
3. **Netflix**
4. **Disney+**
5. **Amazon Prime Video**
6. **TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE**
7. **Google Chrome**
8. **Goodnotes: AI Notes, Docs, PDF**
9. **Canva: AI Photo & Video Editor**
10. **HBO Max: Stream Movies & TV**
## Top Paid iPad Apps
1. **Procreate**
2. **Procreate Dreams**
3. **forScore**
4. **ToonSquid**
5. **Nomad Sculpt**
6. **Shadowrocket**
7. **AnkiMobile Flashcards**
8. **Bluebeam Revu for iPad**
9. **Teach Your Monster to Read**
10. **Feather: Draw in 3D**
## Top Free iPad Games
1. **Roblox**
2. **Block Blast!**
3. **Fortnite**
4. **Perfect Tidy**
5. **Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game**
6. **Mini Games: Calm & Chill**
7. **Goods Puzzle: Sort Challenge**
8. **hole.io**
9. **Subway Surfers**
10. **Township**
## Top Paid iPad Games
1. **Minecraft: Dream it, Build it!**
2. **Geometry Dash**
3. **Stardew Valley**
4. **Balatro**
5. **Bloons TD 6**
6. **Plague Inc.**
7. **Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp C**
8. **Poppy Playtime Chapter 3**
9. **Purple Place – Classic Games**
10. **Papa’s Sushiria To Go!**
## Top Apple Arcade Games
1. **NFL Retro Bowl ’26**
2. **NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition**
3. **Balatro+**
4. **Snake.io+**
5. **Sneaky Sasquatch**
6. **Hello Kitty Island Adventure**
7. **Fruit Ninja Classic+**
8. **Bloons TD 6+**
9. **PGA TOUR Pro Golf**
10. **Solitaire by MobilityWare+**
These rankings illustrate the choices and trends among users, highlighting a blend of productivity, entertainment, and creativity across various app categories. For a comprehensive view, users can check out these lists directly on the App Store.
Read MoreWe have moved beyond solely depending on smartphones for our mobile computing requirements. iPhones and Android devices are frequently complemented by unique wearable accessories: Wireless earphones allow us to enjoy music, converse with friends, and interact with AI. Smartwatches showcase notifications, operate applications, and track crucial health and fitness metrics. Smart rings can also assist with the latter, minimizing the necessity for a wrist wearable. In this competitive environment where concepts are frequently reused, the wearable brand Pebble has introduced an unexpected accessory; a ring devoid of health sensors. Instead, the Pebble Index 01 is a smart AI ring designed to help you effortlessly remember things by capturing your thoughts through voice and transmitting that information to your smartphone.
The ring is capable of storing five minutes of voice recordings and utilizes private AI models to transcribe those thoughts on iPhone or Android devices via the Pebble app. The surprises continue: The Pebble Index 01 boasts a battery life so extensive that you won’t ever need to recharge it. Simply return it to Pebble for recycling when needed, and you might consider ordering a new one. The price is reasonable as well, with the Pebble Index 01 starting at $75 during the preorder phase. Once shipping commences in March 2026, the price will rise to $99. The Pebble Index 01 comes in eight ring sizes (6 to 13) and three colors (silver, gold, and black).
Regarding the actual battery life, the Pebble Index 01 can last up to two years with typical use, assuming you utilize it around 10-20 times daily to record thoughts of 3-6 seconds. Overall, the ring can capture approximately 12-15 hours of audio throughout its lifespan.
How secure is the Pebble Index 01’s AI?
Pebble chose a “single-use” design rather than a rechargeable battery like health-monitoring smart rings for usability reasons. The company aimed to ensure the device is perpetually ready for use; users should not need to worry about charging it. Additionally, eliminating charging capabilities helped Pebble reduce costs. The Pebble Index 01 is equipped with a button, a microphone, a Bluetooth chip, and built-in memory that stores thoughts when a phone is not nearby. The wearable is constructed from stainless steel 316 and silicone rubber (for the button), and it is water-resistant up to one meter (3.2 feet).
To operate the Pebble Index 01, wear it on your index finger with the button easily accessible by your thumb. Press the button to record your thoughts wherever you are. The device doesn’t have always-on features, with Pebble stating it is “exceptionally private and secure.” An open-source speech-to-text system manages voice recordings. AI models function locally on the phone, with support for 99 languages, via the Pebble app. The link between the smart ring and your iPhone or Android device is encrypted, and the entire operation works offline with no cloud processing necessary. However, optional cloud storage may be utilized, and in the future, it might also be encrypted.
The primary function of the Pebble Index 01 is to capture voice notes and save them on your phone, where you can incorporate them into notes and reminders. The button supports both single and double clicks, allowing for some customization: One of the gestures could be linked to music playback, smartphone control, and even ChatGPT access in the future.
Read MoreBeginning today, functionalities from three of Adobe’s key products will be incorporated into ChatGPT, at no cost. Here’s how it works.
Adobe has announced that effective today, users of ChatGPT can send natural language commands to modify images, produce animations, and manage, combine, extract, or edit text and content from PDFs with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express, and Adobe Acrobat.
The company asserts that while these features effectively showcase the capabilities of its products to users who may not be familiar with their comprehensive tools, they also provide a quicker way to make rapid edits, even for experienced users.
Ely Greenfield, Chief Technology Officer and Digital Media business head at Adobe, remarked on today’s launch, stating that their advancements in conversational interfaces enable the integration of Adobe’s applications into external platforms like ChatGPT. This connectivity allows users to engage in creative tasks—editing images, designing invitations, modifying documents—while offering the accuracy and control characteristic of Adobe’s tools, all within the chat environment. Users can smoothly switch from ChatGPT to Adobe’s native apps for complete functionality.
### Adobe Photoshop on ChatGPT
With this integration, users can upload an image to ChatGPT and request edits, such as modifying brightness levels. If the outcome doesn’t meet expectations, users can manually tweak it using sliders for brightness, contrast, and exposure, similar to the actual Photoshop interface.
ChatGPT and Photoshop can also detect elements in the image, enabling more precise requests, like applying a charcoal drawing effect to an image while omitting certain components. Users can ask for effects like glitch, glow, or motion blur, and receive previews to refine further. If needed, users can hit an “Open in Photoshop” button to access the web-based version of Photoshop directly from ChatGPT.
### Adobe Express for ChatGPT
Users can submit prompts to create design concepts via Adobe Express, such as crafting a birthday card according to particular themes and preferences. Adobe Express will supply several design alternatives, which can be tailored based on user suggestions. Users can also ask for animated versions of their designs, and if desired, they can open the web-based version of Adobe Express for more extensive editing.
### Adobe Acrobat for ChatGPT
Users can upload PDFs to ChatGPT for manual edits or formatting. In addition, users can ask to merge multiple PDFs, and ChatGPT will offer a drag-and-drop interface for effortless organization and editing. Users can also extract text, compress files, or create new versions of PDFs, reflecting the functionalities of the full Adobe Acrobat application.
All features launching today are available for free to all 800+ million ChatGPT users globally. Adobe has confirmed that these integrations are accessible starting on December 10 on ChatGPT desktop, web, and iOS, with Adobe Express for ChatGPT also arriving on Android. Support for Photoshop and Acrobat on Android is forthcoming.
Adobe intends to keep introducing new features to its applications on ChatGPT in the upcoming weeks.
Read MoreApple has been charged with breaching U.S. sanctions by permitting various applications from sanctioned firms to persist on its App Store. This discovery emerged from an inquiry by the Tech Transparency Project (TTP), which revealed that both Apple and Google featured apps associated with entities sanctioned by the U.S. government, with the issue being more evident in Apple’s case.
The TTP’s discoveries prompt serious doubts regarding Apple’s dedication to keeping the App Store as a “secure and reliable space” for its users, a statement the company has maintained since the App Store’s launch in 2008. Apple has promoted its platform as a safe environment, highlighting its initiatives to thwart fraudulent activities and safeguard users against harmful conduct. Nevertheless, the existence of apps from entities such as Russian banks backing the invasion of Ukraine and a Chinese paramilitary organization accused of human rights violations challenges this assertion.
The investigation disclosed that 52 prohibited apps were located on the Apple App Store, while 18 were detected in Google’s counterpart. Significantly, the developers of these applications did not make an effort to hide their identities, indicating that both companies could have readily recognized and eliminated the offending apps. This circumstance is particularly concerning as it is illegal for U.S. companies to engage in commerce with sanctioned organizations.
Apple’s track record regarding sanctions adherence is also significant. In 2019, the company incurred penalties from the U.S. government for similar infractions and subsequently vowed to improve its sanctions vetting mechanisms. However, the TTP’s latest findings suggest that Apple has not adequately enhanced its compliance practices in the years following.
While Apple contests the assertion that hosting these applications amounts to a violation of U.S. sanctions, it did remove the apps in the wake of the TTP’s report. This scenario highlights the persistent difficulties tech companies confront in reconciling user security with regulatory adherence, especially in a swiftly changing digital environment.
Read Morethe Galaxy Z Fold 8 expected next summer, aligning with Samsung’s typical schedule for foldable phone releases. Shortly afterward, Apple is likely to reveal its first-generation foldable iPhone, commonly dubbed the iPhone Fold, as it will directly challenge Samsung’s Fold-style devices. Even with a 7-year delay and a considerably higher sticker price, the iPhone Fold could outperform its competitors, including Samsung handsets.
Recent projections from IDC indicate that the iPhone Fold will capture over 22% of the foldable market in the upcoming year. The analysts further predict that Apple will secure 34% of the market value for foldables, attributed to an average price of $2,400. The current Galaxy Z Fold 7 retails for $2,000, excluding any promotions. Recently, Samsung announced the Galaxy Z TriFold, which is anticipated to be priced around $3,000 in the U.S., although this price has yet to be confirmed. IDC highlights that the Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to stimulate interest in the foldable category next year, while Huawei’s foldable shipments are projected to nearly double, but the iPhone Fold is poised to be the true “game-changer.”
The outlook predicts a 30% growth in the foldable segment next year, in contrast to a 6% increase in the previous forecast. In comparison, traditional phone shipments are expected to decline by 1.4%. Based on IDC’s data, the foldables market is set to continue its upward trajectory over non-foldables through 2029. Apple’s market share is anticipated
Read MoreThe functionality is progressing, yet there remains a considerable journey ahead. Reports indicate that Google is still developing an equivalent to Apple’s NameDrop for Android users. Recent findings suggest that an animation might be triggered when sharing contact information prior to the intended sharing contents being displayed. This capability was initially detected in early code snippets last month, as Google referenced “Gesture Exchange,” NFC implementation, and additional features.
Exchanging contact information is straightforward, but there’s potential for it to be quicker and more fluid, which is why Google is allegedly pursuing a solution already realized by Apple. Minor updates from Google often provide informants, like AssembleDebug at Android Authority, insights into new advancements, leading to this NameDrop-like functionality. After examining a recent beta of Play Services, AssembleDebug managed to (in a certain sense) engage Google’s adaptation of Apple’s contact-sharing feature. The tipster’s video evidence illustrates how this might function between devices as one phone is positioned over another.
There seems to be some space between the devices; however, an animation in a nearly creamsicle hue emerges shortly thereafter. Lights appear along the upper section of both devices, flowing around the rounded edges and partially down the display. The animation will probably show up alongside the contact info you’ve shared and received. It retreats to the punch hole selfie camera once the procedure finishes.
NFC continues to seem pivotal in this contact exchange, but, according to the tipster, it’s uncertain how dependent the feature will ultimately be on it. As development continues, the informant speculates that NFC might merely initiate the feature before transferring to Bluetooth or even Wi-Fi connectivity for the remaining process.
This marks the second instance of Google’s version of Apple’s NameDrop surfacing in rumors. The initial occurrence was in November when early code strings from Google purportedly hinted at its presence. The code referred to the feature as “Gesture Exchange,” while other significant elements underscored its dependence on NFC. It has been theorized that, similar to Apple’s offering, Google’s iteration would enable users to share their phone number, image, name, and email.
That prior discovery even suggested a small menu that could welcome users before they share their details. Users might encounter a list of specifics they wish to share prior to “tapping” their device on someone else’s to commence the transfer. Another menu was observed, one that would clarify the details received from the opposite device. It appears that Google’s Calling Cards are not sufficient, as it aims to genuinely simplify and facilitate staying in touch with others.
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