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Microsoft Will Conclude Support for Two Outdated Products in 2026
Samuel Boivin/Shutterstock
Microsoft intends to retire almost 70 applications within its product lines during 2026. This process has already commenced, with 15 applications being discontinued as of January 13, 2026, based on Microsoft’s own documentation. Many of these may not be encountered unless you are engaged in the IT sector, overseeing various elements of a Windows-operated environment.
Up to this point, Microsoft has added to its expanding repository of discontinued products software such as Advanced Threat Analytics, which has been on the road to obsolescence since 2020. This product has been replaced by the cloud-centric Azure Advanced Threat Protection. Support is also wrapping up for virtualization software, as Application Virtualization 5.0 and 5.1 will be retired. Numerous smaller tools like these exist, which are primarily utilized by individuals entrenched in IT operations, including SQL Server and Project Server 2016.
For regular users, the significant takeaway is that this serves as the most advisable moment to upgrade your Windows 11 systems. Included in the end-of-support is two iterations of Windows 11, alongside Microsoft’s ultimate push for those yet to transition to the Office successor, Microsoft 365.
Windows 11 SE
Apple Introduces tvOS 26.5, HomePod 26.5, and visionOS 26.5 Upgrades
Apple has recently unveiled its newest software updates, encompassing tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and HomePod 26.5. These updates are currently being distributed across Apple’s platforms, particularly for Apple TV 4K, Vision Pro, and HomePod and HomePod mini devices.
The official release notes from Apple reveal that these updates mainly emphasize “performance and stability enhancements.” This implies that the 26.5 cycle does not bring about significant changes visible to users or new features. Individuals who have been using the beta versions for over a month have not indicated any significant additions or alterations.
Looking forward, Apple is anticipated to reveal new features in the forthcoming tvOS 27, visionOS 27, and HomePod 27 updates, which will be presented at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) next month.
In contrast to the 26.5 releases, other platforms like iOS 26.5 have rolled out various new features for iPhone users, with some of these functionalities also accessible in iPadOS 26.5. Apple continues to advise users to update to the latest software versions on all devices to ensure they take advantage of the latest security updates, compatibility enhancements, and bug fixes.
For those looking to enrich their Apple TV 4K and HomePod experiences, seeking the best available accessories can further enhance the use of these devices.
Arrange Your Nightstand using the NOCO XGrid XDP3 This MagSafe Monday
### NOCO XGrid XDP3: The Premier 3-in-1 MagSafe Charging Pad
For those with an iPhone, an Apple Watch, and AirPods, dealing with the mess of tangled cords on your nightstand or desk can be difficult. The NOCO XGrid XDP3 3-in-1 MagSafe charging pad seeks to remedy this by offering a stylish and effective charging option. Recognized for its robust power accessories, NOCO infuses a high-end feel into this charging pad, making it a stellar addition to any Apple enthusiast’s arrangement.
#### Design and Build Quality
Upon opening the NOCO XGrid XDP3, the first striking aspect is its heft. Made from a die-cast metal frame, this charging pad is substantial and sturdy, ensuring it stays put while you lift your devices. In contrast to lighter plastic chargers that may slide around, the NOCO XGrid XDP3 remains securely positioned on your desk. A convenient feature is its status light, which enables users to easily verify if their AirPods are properly situated or if any device is misaligned and failing to charge.
#### Charging Capabilities
The NOCO XGrid XDP3 incorporates Qi2 technology, allowing for rapid 15-watt wireless/MagSafe charging for your iPhone. Additionally, it includes a dedicated 5-watt fast charger for the Apple Watch and a 5-watt Qi pad in the middle for AirPods and AirPods Pro. The package comes with a 45-watt USB-C wall charger and an extended 6.5-foot USB-C cable, boosting its practicality. Moreover, the presence of interchangeable global plugs makes it a perfect travel companion for overseas journeys, a thoughtful inclusion as many brands are doing away with wall adapters altogether.
#### Conclusion
The NOCO XGrid XDP3 emerges as a remarkable 3-in-1 charging pad that significantly cuts down on cable clutter while facilitating rapid charging for multiple devices. Its superior build quality guarantees longevity, making it a smart investment for Apple users aiming to optimize their charging arrangement. With the added advantage of a 45-watt power adapter and international plugs, the NOCO XGrid XDP3 is highly advisable for anyone in search of a tidy and efficient charging solution.
You can acquire the NOCO XGrid XDP3 directly from [NOCO](https://no.co/xdp3b) or on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4wjcIxn).
iOS 26.5: Providers Offering RCS End-to-End Encrypted Messaging
**iOS 26.5: Boosted Security with End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging**
The launch of iOS 26.5 represents a notable leap in mobile messaging security, bringing forth end-to-end encrypted RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging. This capability improves the confidentiality of dialogues between iPhone and Android users, ensuring that messages stay protected and are only accessible to their intended recipients.
**End-to-End Encrypted RCS Messaging Supported Carriers**
With the introduction of iOS 26.5, multiple carriers in the United States and Canada have pledged to support this innovative RCS capability. The deployment is currently categorized as ‘beta’ and will progressively include all RCS conversations, subject to carrier involvement.
**Carriers in the United States:**
– AT&T
– Boost Mobile
– C Spire
– Cellcom Wisconsin
– Consumer Cellular
– Cox Mobile
– Cricket
– Family Mobile
– FirstNet
– Metro by T-Mobile
– Mint Mobile
– Nex-Tech Wireless
– PureTalk
– Red Pocket
– Spectrum
– Strata
– T-Mobile
– TracFone / Straight Talk
– Ultra Mobile
– US Cellular
– Verizon
– Visible
– Xfinity Mobile
**Carriers in Canada:**
– Bell
– Chatr
– Fido
– Freedom Mobile
– Koodo
– Lucky Mobile
– Public Mobile
– Rogers
– SaskTel
– Telus
– Videotron
– Virgin Mobile
For the latest details on carrier support, users can check the [Apple support page](https://support.apple.com/en-us/109526), which also provides information about carriers in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other areas.
**Functionality Overview**
End-to-end encryption is activated automatically in iOS 26.5. When a conversation is secured, users will notice an ‘Encrypted’ label within the Messages app, signifying that their messages are safe. This feature is designed to give users reassurance, as their communications are shielded from unauthorized access.
For more information regarding the RCS feature and its effects on mobile messaging, further coverage can be found [here](https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/11/ios-26-5-adds-end-to-end-encryption-for-rcs-messaging-rolling-out-now/).
In summary, iOS 26.5 not only improves the messaging experience but also emphasizes user privacy through strong encryption, establishing a new benchmark for secure communication in the mobile sector.
Top 4 Phone Offers at Best Buy That Are Worth Buying
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Historic Laser Found 8 Billion Light Years Distant in Serendipitous Discovery
Scientists have identified a microwave laser beam approximately 8 billion light-years away, recognized as the most potent and distant of its type. The author of the study informed New Scientist that the signal is about 100,000 times brighter than a typical star. It’s so intensely luminous that researchers have established a new classification for it: the “gigamaser.”
A maser operates as the radio-wavelength equivalent of a laser. Both represent focused, coherent streams of electromagnetic radiation; however, a laser emits wavelengths visible to the eye, while a maser produces radio waves that remain unseen. Hydroxyl masers, like the recently discovered one, arise when two galaxies collide. This collision compresses gas and excites hydroxyl molecules, which subsequently amplify the incoming radio waves into a concentrated beam. Such amplification results in a maser with a 7-inch wavelength, significantly longer than that of visible light.
A group of astronomers made use of the MeerKAT radio telescope located in South Africa to uncover the maser within the galaxy HATLAS J142935.3–002836. This galaxy is undergoing a tumultuous merger over 8 billion light-years away, marking it as the most distant signal of its kind recorded to date. The Milky Way will eventually encounter a similar merger, albeit on a much smaller scale. The HATLAS maser discovery was aided by a fortunate occurrence and the utilization of advanced technology.
How a fortunate alignment of galaxies unveiled the record-breaking laser
We are observing the maser and its galaxy as they were over 3 billion years prior to the existence of Earth. Typically, a signal from such a distance would be too weak for the MeerKAT to capture. However, researchers experienced a stroke of luck. In this instance, while stars were not aligned, a galaxy was perfectly positioned. It was located in almost perfect alignment between Earth and HATLAS J142935.3–002836. The galaxy’s substantial mass of stars, gases, planets, black holes, and dark matter warped the local space-time, enhancing the signal as it traveled through. The maser’s signal took advantage of that curvature to reach the MeerKAT’s receivers. Without such alignment and amplification, this groundbreaking space laser would have remained concealed.
However, the discovery required more than mere luck. The MeerKAT ranks among the most sensitive radio telescopes globally, specifically designed to capture faint signals from throughout the universe. It collects around 2.5 terabytes of data each hour. Astronomers rely on advanced computing and custom-designed processing pipelines to analyze the data efficiently. This is how the team detected the gigamaser’s signal. They aspire to uncover hundreds or even thousands more. Masers typically emerge in the most tumultuous galaxy mergers, which instigate starbursts and nourish supermassive black holes, a phenomenon more prevalent than previously believed. Investigating them could significantly alter astronomers’ understanding of galaxy formation and evolution.
Bravo Develops Unscripted Microdramas for Peacock App
As microdrama apps like ReelShort and DramaBox quietly rake in billions, Peacock announced on Monday that is launching two unscripted Bravo microdramas, which will stream in the Peacock app.
Defense tech Helsing, backed by Daniel Ek, to raise $1.2B at $18B valuation
Five-year old European military drone startup Helsing is close to raising another monster round.
Apple Developer App Unveils Liquid Glass Aesthetic and Fresh iMessage Stickers for WWDC 2026
### Apple’s Developer App Offers Access to Everything WWDC
Apple has unveiled an updated version of its cross-platform Developer app, now at version 11.0, just prior to WWDC 2026. This release features a contemporary Liquid Glass design in preparation for iOS 27.
Initially launched as the WWDC app, the Apple Developer app has transformed to offer developers extensive tools and resources. The newest version includes an updated app icon, transitioning from the earlier design featuring bread sticks to a more traditional appearance incorporating elements like a pencil, ruler, and brush, echoing the original App Store aesthetic.
#### Update Highlights
The newest iteration of the Apple Developer app boasts several significant improvements:
– **Modern Look with Liquid Glass**: The app now showcases a stylish design that elevates user experience.
– **Content Filtering Features**: Users can filter content by Unwatched, Bookmarked, and Downloaded items, alongside their preferred topics, simplifying navigation.
– **Enhanced Image Capture Dependability**: Upgrades have been made to ensure greater reliability during the enrollment phase.
– **Bug Fixes and Improvements**: Various updates have been introduced to boost overall app efficiency.
The Apple Developer app is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. It also includes an animated iMessage sticker pack, refreshed for WWDC 2026, featuring a unique sticker to honor Apple’s 50th anniversary.
Users can obtain the latest Apple Developer app from the [App Store](http://%EF%BF%BChttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-developer/id640199958).
WWDC 2026 is scheduled to begin on Monday, June 8, with promising announcements and advancements for the Apple developer community.
