How does GPT-5.5 compare to Claude Opus 4.7? We take a look at benchmarks, leaderboards, and overall feature set.
High-Priced Mac Minis Overrun eBay Due to AI-Induced Shortages
Appleâs sold-out Mac mini is spawning marked-up eBay listings as demand surges for the compact desktop, now favored for running local AI models and tools.
Cornell’s Complimentary iPhone Application Unveils Solutions to Nature’s Springtime Enigmas
### Merlin Bird ID: An Free Application for Bird Identification by Sound
As spring arrives, the melodies of birdsong resonate throughout the environment, leading many to contemplate the different species involved in this natural concert. For those interested in pinpointing these avian performers, the **Merlin Bird ID** application from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology provides an outstanding option without requiring a paid membership.
#### Characteristics of Merlin Bird ID
Merlin Bird ID is freely available on both iPhone and Android devices, featuring an impressive 4.9-star review rating from over 109,000 feedbacks on the App Store. The application employs your geographical location and avian sounds to assist in identifying their species. Users can also capture images of birds to label them; however, many find the Sound ID function especially beneficial for recognizing birds by their calls.
A notable aspect of the app is the **Life List**, enabling users to monitor their bird sightings by date, location, and species. This attribute converts casual birdwatching into a more involved pastime, motivating users to investigate and record their observations.
#### Utilizing Merlin Bird ID
To recognize birds in your backyard or nearby surroundings with the application, simply launch it and allow it to listen to the surrounding sounds. The app will evaluate the audio and offer recommendations for possible matches based on the birds typically seen in your area. This interactive method not only assists in identification but also enriches your comprehension of local avian species.
For those wishing to enhance their birdwatching journey, combining the app with a camera-equipped smart bird feeder can create extra chances to photograph visiting birds, further enhancing the identification experience.
#### Final Thoughts
Merlin Bird ID serves as a significant resource for anyone fascinated by birds, whether you are an experienced ornithologist or a casual nature lover. With its intuitive interface and thorough features, it renders bird identification accessible and enjoyable. To find out more about the app, visit the [Merlin Bird ID website](https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org) or download it at no cost from the [App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/merlin-bird-id-by-cornell-lab/id773457673).
World’s First 480Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Receives $100 Price Cut
As of April 24, you can get the 27-inch Asus ROG Swift OLED gaming monitor for $699, down from $799, at Amazon. That’s a 13% discount or $100 savings.
Claude Now Connects with Spotify, Uber, and Many More Apps
Anthropic’s Claude chatbot can now interface with a bunch of major apps, including Spotify and Uber.
Comparison between Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 7: Is the Upgrade Worth the Delay?
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360-Degree Cameras Gain a New Superpower
Imagine Google Street View, except you can walk around like it’s a video game. Now imagine you don’t need to wait for Google to come film because it’s completely DIY. Insta360, the leading maker of 360-degree cameras, is now partnered with a 12-person UK startup called Splatica to help creators do just that. Last January, […]
X-energy, a nuclear startup, raises $1B in data center-focused IPO
Amazon-backed X-energy was able to raise around 20% more money in its IPO as demand for nuclear power surges.
iPhone 18 Anticipated to Include a Minimum of One New Pro-Level Enhancement
All indications suggest that Apple’s standard iPhone 18 will be absent from this autumn’s premium lineup, with a launch expected in early 2027 instead. Nevertheless, when it finally arrives, it will supposedly include at least one new Pro-level enhancement: 12GB of RAM.
### 12GB of RAM Expected for iPhone 18 with A20 Chip, According to Analyst
Recent updates regarding the standard model iPhone 18 have emphasized the drawbacks. Confirmation has been obtained that the iPhone 18 will not debut this fall, as is customary. Instead, Apple is rescheduling its release to early 2027, alongside the iPhone 18e.
Moreover, Weibo leaker Fixed Focus Digital suggests that Apple intends to reduce the iPhone 18 manufacturing process to save costs. This could lead to some slight declines in specifications compared to the iPhone 17.
On a brighter note for Apple’s entry-level model, analyst Dan Nystedt, who has previously discussed Apple’s A20 chip and its new 2nm process, has provided an additional detail regarding the A20: it will include 12GB of RAM.
Last autumn, there were signals that 12GB of RAM could be a possibility for the iPhone 18, but it still seemed doubtful. With Nystedt’s confirmation, it now looks like 12GB is a more reliable expectation. This marks a 50% increase over the 8GB of RAM present in the standard iPhone 17.
Apple implemented a similar enhancement for its Pro models last year, upgrading from 8GB in the iPhone 16 Pro to 12GB in the iPhone 17 Pro. Given the increasing significance of AI tasks, it’s understandable to learn that the standard model will soon align with this trend.
Are you thinking about choosing a standard iPhone 18 as your next device, or are you opting for a different model? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Current Promotions: Enjoy a $200 discount on the latest M5 Pro MacBook Pro, $150 off the 1TB MacBook Air, with Alpine and Trail Loops beginning at $35, and additional offers
### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Discounts and Offers on Apple Products
In today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break edition, we showcase remarkable savings on Apple’s newest offerings, including the M5 Pro MacBook Pro, M5 MacBook Air, and a selection of Apple Watch bands.
#### Apple’s Economical New M5 Pro MacBook Pro Achieves Record Low Price
Amazon has revealed a price reduction on Apple’s most budget-friendly M5 Pro MacBook Pro model, now priced at **$200 off**, reducing the cost to **$1,999**. This model boasts a 14-inch screen, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage, making it an excellent selection for individuals in search of a robust yet affordable laptop. The previous lowest price recorded was **$2,048**, making this an exceptional offer for prospective buyers.
Here’s a brief summary of the latest MacBook Pro discounts:
– **14-inch M5 MacBook Pro 16GB/1TB**: **$1,591** (Reg. $1,699)
– **14-inch M5 MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: **$1,759** (Reg. $1,899)
– **14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB**: **$1,999** (Reg. $2,199)
– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/2TB**: **$2,499** (Reg. $2,699)
– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro 48GB/1TB**: **$2,899** (Reg. $3,099)
#### Apple’s Latest 15-inch 1TB M5 MacBook Air on Sale
The new **15-inch M5 MacBook Air** is experiencing a price cut of **$150**, now available for **$1,549**. This model features 24GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, proving to be a great choice for users in need of a powerful laptop without opting for the Pro series. This pricing marks the lowest recorded since the M5 Air’s introduction.
Current offers on the M5 MacBook Air include:
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: **$1,149** (Reg. $1,299)
– **13-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: **$1,349** (Reg. $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB**: **$1,149** (Reg. $1,299)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 16GB/1TB**: **$1,349** (Reg. $1,499)
– **15-inch M5 MacBook Air 24GB/1TB**: **$1,549** (Reg. $1,699)
#### Official Apple Watch Band Promotion
Woot has introduced a sale on official Apple Watch bands, promoting discounts of up to **65%**. Highlights from the deals include:
– **Alpine/Trail Loops**: Originally $99, now **$35**
– **Sport models**: Starting at **$15**
These bands are compatible with the latest Apple Watch variants, and availability in sizes and colors might be limited, hence early shopping is advisable.
#### More Accessory Discounts
Besides the featured products, Amazon is offering the **current-generation iPad** for **$299**, an economical choice for casual use or as a gift. This price aligns with the best offer seen this year.
For those seeking more robust tablets, explore the clearance deals on the M4 and M3 iPad Air models.
### Conclusion
With these impressive savings on Apple’s latest products, it’s a perfect moment for consumers to think about upgrading their technology. Whether you are looking for a new laptop, tablet, or accessories, these offers present an excellent opportunity to save.
