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Report Suggests Minor Sales Effect from M5 Vision Pro Introduction

Apple introduced a completely new M5 Vision Pro update last autumn, but a recent report suggests it might not have significantly influenced the ailing Vision Pro sales.

### Vision Pro Sales in M5 Model’s Launch Quarter Estimated at Merely 45,000 Units

Apple has not disclosed sales figures for the Vision Pro, but a recent Financial Times article depicts a grim situation for the product as 2026 begins.

The article highlights a number of adverse trends for Vision Pro:

1. Low sales projections for Q4 2025
2. Marked decrease in digital advertising
3. General decline in VR devices

IDC is mentioned as indicating that only 45,000 new Vision Pro units were anticipated to be sold during the 2025 holiday quarter, coinciding with the launch of the M5 model.

Data from Sensor Tower indicates that Apple has slashed its Vision Pro digital marketing budget this year by more than 95% in both the US and UK.

Lastly, the report underscores an overall softening of the VR headset market. According to Counterpoint, the past year witnessed a 14% drop.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

Since Apple does not publish official sales figures, it is challenging to confirm the validity of these differing reports. While it is evident that Vision Pro has not achieved notable success, I am cautious about placing too much emphasis on these precise figures.

Apple has significant endeavors to undertake to turn Vision Pro into a consumer favorite, but I am optimistic about the advancements made in visionOS since its release. The M5 model’s enhancements in comfort, battery endurance, and performance exceeded expectations as well.

The glasses form factor still appears to be the direction Vision Pro is heading towards, and in that regard, 2026 could be a particularly thrilling year. However, I do not anticipate Vision Pro will unexpectedly transform into a surprise success in the interim.

What are your thoughts on this report regarding the condition of the Vision Pro? Share your views in the comments.

### Top Vision Pro Accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.*

What to Expect from Apple in January

### January Could Start a Hectic Year of New Apple Offerings

As Apple prepares for 2026, the company is anticipated to unveil more than 20 new offerings, with January likely signaling the start of this thrilling launch. Here’s what to expect from Apple in the upcoming month.

#### M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro

Following the debut of the base model 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M5 chip in October, Apple is poised to release higher-end versions featuring the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. These upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to improve performance without significant design alterations, as a more substantial redesign is projected for later in the year.

#### New Budget MacBook

In addition to the MacBook Pro updates, Apple is rumored to be developing a new, budget-friendly MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same processor utilized in the iPhone 16 Pro. This would mark a significant first, as Apple has never employed an iPhone-class chip in a Mac previously. The new MacBook is expected to showcase a 12.9-inch display and be priced well below $1,000, with potential casing colors such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow.

#### Further Hardware Enhancements

While the MacBook and MacBook Pro updates are likely to launch in January, other hardware enhancements are also on the horizon. These include the M5 MacBook Air, a new iPad Air, and a new entry-level iPad, which are anticipated to be announced in March. Furthermore, a new Mac mini and Mac Studio are expected by mid-2026, along with the iPhone 17e, likely slated for a February launch. Long-anticipated updates for the AirTag and Apple TV are also rumored, though their release dates remain unclear.

### New Software

In conjunction with hardware launches, Apple is gearing up for software updates that are expected to be revealed this month.

#### iOS 26.3

iOS 26.3 has commenced beta testing and is expected to go public in January. While it represents a minor update, it encompasses significant modifications such as:

– A new interoperability framework for data transfer between iPhone and Android devices.
– EU compliance adjustments for notification forwarding and proximity pairing for third-party accessories.

#### Other Software Updates

In addition to iOS, Apple is also developing updates for its other platforms, including:

– macOS 26.3
– tvOS 26.3
– iPadOS 26.3
– watchOS 26.3
– visionOS 26.3

These updates primarily target bug fixes and performance enhancements rather than introducing new features.

### Conclusion

With a bustling month in store, Apple fans have a lot to anticipate in January. Whether it’s fresh hardware or software updates, the excitement around Apple’s upcoming offerings is tangible. What are you most eager to witness from Apple this month?

Chilling AI suspense film now streaming on HBO Max

HBO Max. The film from 2015 quickly evolved into a cult favorite, a sci-fi thriller that might be more chilling than other films focused on AI. In the “Terminator” and “Matrix” films, you already experience a battle with forms of sentient AI against humanity. “Ex Machina” stands out as it presents the early phases of a catastrophic narrative involving AI that could spark a conflict. “Ex Machina” illustrates the rise of sentient AI and how humanity responds to AI gaining consciousness.

“Ex Machina” debuted to rave reviews in 2015, boasting a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score and a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb as of now. The film garnered nearly $37 million at the box office on a $15 million budget, winning an Oscar for Best Visual Effects, and receiving a nomination for its screenplay. While Garland did not clinch the Oscar for the story, “Ex Machina” is regarded as a crucial turning point in the writer/director’s journey. Garland proceeded to create other well-received films and series following this, including “Annihilation” (2018), “Devs” (2020), and “Civil War” (2024). He has also written for several notable horror films, such as “28 Days Later” (2002) and “28 Years Later” (2025).

The cast of “Ex Machina” is equally remarkable: Alicia Vikander (“The Danish Girl,” “Tomb Raider”), Domhnall Gleeson (“Harry Potter,” “Star Wars”), Oscar Isaac (“Star Wars,” “Dune”), and Sonoya Mizuno (“Maniac,” “Annihilation”) portray the key roles of Ava, Caleb, Nathan, and Kyoko, respectively. The iconic “Ex Machina” dance sequence, depicted below, ranks among the film’s standout moments, featuring an extraordinary dance performance shared by Nathan and Ky.

Apple Fitness+ Unveils New Enhancements to Boost Exercise Routine Development

### New Multiweek Programs and Features in Apple Fitness+ for 2026

With the arrival of the new year, numerous individuals are setting new health and fitness aspirations. In reaction, Apple Fitness+ has unveiled a variety of new features designed to assist users in reaching their goals, including creative multiweek programs intended to foster and sustain exercise habits.

#### Launch of Multiweek Programs

Commencing January 5, 2026, Apple Fitness+ will introduce three fresh multiweek programs, with an additional program debuting on January 12. These programs are crafted to help users develop steady workout habits through organized workout sequences. The new offerings encompass:

– **Make Your Fitness Comeback**
– **Build a Yoga Habit in 4 Weeks**
– **Back-to-Back Strength and HIIT**
– **Strength Basics in 3 Weeks**

These programs are designed to accommodate diverse fitness levels and preferences, motivating users to remain engaged and inspired throughout their fitness journey.

#### Upcoming Features and Content

Beyond the multiweek programs, Apple Fitness+ will expand its workout library with new sessions featuring music from the acclaimed artist KAROL G. Additionally, in February, as the Super Bowl approaches, a special Bad Bunny Artist Spotlight series will be launched, offering a distinctive musical backdrop for workouts.

The celebrated **Time to Walk** series will also introduce new episodes, showcasing guests such as actor and producer Penn Badgley, singer Mel B from the Spice Girls, and actress Michelle Monaghan. This series allows users to connect with motivational stories and personal narratives while walking, making fitness both engaging and inspiring.

#### Accessibility and Subscription

Apple Fitness+ is available to anyone with an iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV. Users equipped with an Apple Watch or AirPods Pro 3 can take advantage of live metrics shown on-screen, including heart rate and calories burned, enhancing the workout experience.

The subscription for Apple Fitness+ is set at **$9.99 per month**, and it is also available as part of the **Apple One bundle**, which includes additional services.

As the new year commences, many are contemplating integrating Fitness+ into their workout routines. With the launch of these new programs and features, Apple aims to assist users in achieving their health and fitness aspirations throughout 2026.

Integrate Apple CarPlay into Your Vehicle with a Wireless Plug-and-Play Device

tips and strategies for maximizing your experience with Apple CarPlay, but what options do you have if your car or truck lacks compatibility with the infotainment system?

Of course, you can obtain a free application that allows you to replicate Apple CarPlay in any vehicle, but if you prefer not to burden your mobile device with extra tasks, solutions like the Paslda 7-inch HD Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Touchscreen might be beneficial.

Achieving a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon from nearly 3,000 reviews, the Paslda Touchscreen is an independent unit powered by your vehicle’s 12-volt to 24-volt DC outlet. Once set up, simply pair your iPhone to access a full CarPlay interface. The touchscreen accommodates high-definition images up to 1080p, and several Amazon users commended the display’s vivid and crisp visuals. For sound playback, the device includes built-in speakers but also provides an auxiliary cable and output. Provided your vehicle has an auxiliary input, you can link the Paslda to your car’s audio system. For vehicles without auxiliary ports, it additionally features an FM transmitter that broadcasts audio when you adjust your vehicle’s radio to the correct frequency.

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Utilizing Google Chromecast Without Internet: An Overview

was a digital media streaming gadget that allowed users to stream or transmit audio/video from their Android device or computer to a television or monitor. For more than ten years, this compact device has been the ideal and economical option for individuals lacking a smart TV or owning a model that was already outdated and unable to support streaming video applications, like Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, etc.

Although Google has recently ceased production of the Chromecast as we once knew it, the company continues to provide support for some of the newer models through software updates and security patches. Consequently, one of the frequently asked questions by users regarding Google Chromecast is whether it can function without an internet connection, to which the response is: while an internet connection is not strictly necessary, a local Wi-Fi connection is essential.

Ultimately, the Chromecast was designed with IP networking in mind, which emphasizes simplicity and security over peer-to-peer adaptability. Furthermore, Google has never incorporated Wi-Fi Direct for casting, meaning the Chromecast becomes ineffective if the device and your Android phone are not connected to the identical network. Here’s how to utilize your Chromecast without an internet connection, along with what functionalities are available and what limitations exist.

Google Chromecast operates as long as it maintains a Wi-Fi connection

Reasons to Opt for Costco Instead of Amazon for Electronics: 5 Persuasive Arguments

Purchasing electronics at Costco can not only help you save money on items that are usually costly, but it also offers you easy access to features such as tech support, along with additional benefits like annual cashback, a flexible return policy, extended warranties, and more. If you hold a Costco membership and can easily get to a location, it would be advisable to stop by the warehouse before finalizing your purchase on Amazon.

High-value purchases tend to be less expensive

Roku’s Backdrops Mode Changes Your Television into a Gallery Showcase

Roku streaming devices and smart televisions provide a broad range of features and personalization options, including a capability known as Roku Backdrops, which converts your TV into an art showcase. This function enables users to display fine art and personal images on their screens. The Backdrops application is complimentary and can be located in the Streaming Store. To enable it, go to Settings > Home Screen Menu > Backdrops > Open Backdrops app. Users have the option to present entire art collections or individual images, with settings available for adjusting image duration.

Formerly referred to as Roku Photo Streams, the Backdrops app also permits users to upload their own images. This is achievable by opening the app, selecting Add your photos > Upload photos, and following the prompts after scanning a QR code. Users can create up to 10 albums containing 100 photos each, accommodating formats such as JPG, PNG, HEIC, and WEBP. Furthermore, users can link their Roku account to Google Photos for additional options.

For individuals deliberating between a Roku Streaming Stick or a Roku-enabled smart TV, employing Backdrops with a Roku TV provides the convenience of managing the app using the remote’s power button, facilitating easy start and stop features.

Top 5 Applications That Greatly Deplete Your Mobile Device’s Battery

enhance your smartphone’s battery endurance. If you notice that your device’s battery seems to deplete quicker than expected, you’re not alone.

A study carried out by the U.K. telecoms and network firm Elevate (via Yahoo) shows that many devices now require daily charging, in contrast to 2019 when most could last at least a day and a half before needing a charge. While heavy usage contributes to this battery depletion, the apps you have can also impact battery life due to background processes.

Naturally, you can easily identify which apps are causing your phone’s battery to drain by checking your phone’s Settings app. However, it may surprise you to find that some of your favorite installed apps appear high on that list, as they are known to consume more battery. If any of these applications are present on your device, you might want to think about uninstalling them or at least limiting their background activity, as they have been identified as significant battery drain offenders.

Netflix

Netflix’s Significant Mistake: Terminating the Celebrated Sci-Fi Show

“The OA” is notable due to Netflix’s choice to discontinue the show after two seasons, even though “Part II” concluded with a remarkable cliffhanger that the series’ fanbase longed to see resolved.

Immediately, fans of “The OA” began protesting, imploring Netflix to rethink its decision. The outcry wasn’t confined to the internet, as some supporters rallied in person outside Netflix’s headquarters following the cancellation of Season 2 in 2019. Nonetheless, Netflix remained steadfast. Although there were discussions about producing a film to wrap up “The OA” narrative, it ultimately did not happen, despite enthusiasm from fans and the creators.

While “The OA” was canceled, Netflix brought other projects back to life. It revived shows like “You” (Lifetime), “Manifest” (NBC), and “Lucifer” (Fox) between 2018 and 2021. These are merely a few instances of canceled television series that Netflix opted to revive and provide a new opportunity on its service. This further solidifies why the cancellation of “The OA” is easily regarded as one of Netflix’s greatest blunders to date and continues to be one of the company’s most perplexing choices, even after an executive disclosed how Netflix selects shows for cancellation.

Why did Netflix cancel The OA?