Author: Richard

Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones Now Offered at All-Time Low Price

Although they belong to the previous generation, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones remain a formidable choice. If you’re searching for an excellent headphone bargain for the festive season, there are several noteworthy options to consider. For instance, Amazon has reduced the price of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones by 38%, resulting in a discount of $152 on our top recommendation for the best wireless headphones available. This price drop makes it the lowest these headphones have ever been offered, bringing them under $250, a range where they are highly competitive against other choices.

Certainly, these headphones are from the last generation, but given their significantly lower price than the Sony WH-1000XM6 model and their impressive audio performance, they still perform admirably. With the WH-1000XM5s, users enjoy active noise cancellation, extended battery life, several integrated microphones for excellent call quality, and spacious speaker cups that are favored by most consumers.

This offer is available in Black, Midnight Blue, or White, all of which come equipped with a robust processing module for adaptive noise cancellation utilizing the microphone setup. Additionally, they boast fast charging, touch controls, and simple customization through Sony’s mobile application.

If you don’t require the expensive enhancements featured in the next-generation WH-1000XM6 headphones, these are a solid alternative at this reduced price, offering various immersive listening modes, wear detection, an included carrying case, and more.

✅Recommended if: you seek a fantastic deal on a potent pair of noise-cancelling headphones and are unconcerned about their last-generation status; you need a strong ANC profile that adjusts to your environment utilizing a broad array of built-in speakers; you want over-ear headphones with comfortable speaker cups for prolonged listening, alongside a long battery life and quick charging.

❌Skip this deal if: you would rather upgrade to the latest-generation model for access to additional microphones and a revamped audio profile, provided your budget allows; you prefer headphones with smaller speaker cups; you want headphones you can listen to while they are charging.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are our top choice in the wireless headphone category for a variety of reasons. Primarily, their regular price is more accessible for many compared to the newer WH-1000XM6s, while still providing powerful, adaptive ANC, spatial audio, and user-friendly touch controls, making them enjoyable to operate.

According to Sony, these headphones can deliver up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge, while fast charging via the USB-C port can restore up to 3 hours of battery in just 3 minutes. They also feature straightforward customization and EQ settings through the Sony Sound Connect app, alongside 360 Reality Audio and effortless access to digital voice assistants such as Siri and Google Assistant.

Overall, it appears quite difficult to make a poor choice with these, especially given the current price point.

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Upcoming iPhone Capabilities, Launch of iOS 26.2, and Apple Music Integration with ChatGPT

**iOS 26.2 Release and Upcoming Developments: Takeaways from 9to5Mac Happy Hour**

As the technology sector prepares for the late-year public debut of iOS 26.2, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller from 9to5Mac explore the new updates and upcoming opportunities in their latest podcast episode. The conversation not only emphasizes the near release of iOS 26.2 but also signals the start of the beta phase for iOS 26.3, promising thrilling new features and enhancements.

### Main Takeaways from the Podcast

1. **iOS 26.2 Release**: The highly awaited public launch of iOS 26.2 is poised to introduce a variety of upgrades to Apple devices, with an emphasis on user experience and performance enhancements.

2. **iOS 26.3 Beta Phase**: Following the release of iOS 26.2, the beta phase for iOS 26.3 has commenced, enabling developers and eager users to explore upcoming features and share their feedback.

3. **iPhone Development Insights**: Recent insights from The Information provide details on Apple’s future iPhone strategies, suggesting groundbreaking designs and functionalities that may transform user engagement with their devices.

4. **Integration of ChatGPT with Apple Music**: A significant advancement is the smart integration of ChatGPT with Apple Music, which could boost user interaction and offer tailored music recommendations.

5. **Experimentation with PSVR2 and Vision Pro**: Chance discusses his experience utilizing the PSVR2 spatial controllers with Apple’s Vision Pro, examining the prospects for immersive interactions across platforms.

### Additional Content

For those interested in deeper discussions, the podcast provides a subscription option called **9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus**. Subscribers receive ad-free episodes, exclusive pre- and post-show material, and bonus episodes for a small fee. This service not only supports the hosts directly but also enhances the listener experience.

### Feedback and Community Involvement

Listeners are invited to connect with the hosts by sending in questions or feedback through social media channels like Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads, or by reaching out via email at [email protected]. This engagement nurtures a community of Apple lovers eager to exchange insights and inquiries.

### Conclusion

The 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast remains an essential resource for Apple enthusiasts, offering timely updates and expert commentary on the latest happenings in the Apple ecosystem. As the launch of iOS 26.2 draws near, the anticipation surrounding Apple’s innovations is tangible, with many excited to see how these advancements will influence the future of their devices.

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Current Offers: AirPods Pro 3 at $199, $250 Discount on 24GB M5 MacBook Pro, $200 Discount on M3 iPad Air, Black Trail Loop, and Additional Items

### Apple Deals: Highlights from the Super Saturday Sale

As the festive season draws near, Amazon has kicked off a Super Saturday sale event, showcasing substantial discounts on a range of Apple items. This article underscores some of the top deals available, including AirPods Pro 3, various MacBook models, iPad Air, and more.

#### AirPods Pro 3 for $199

Amazon has reintroduced the AirPods Pro 3 at a record-low price of **$199**, making it an enticing choice for those aiming to buy these high-end earbuds prior to Christmas. Initially priced at **$249**, this offer provides a **$50 discount**. The AirPods Pro 3 have had few discounts since their launch, making this one of the finest deals accessible. Most customers can anticipate delivery before Christmas, turning it into a timely gifting option.

#### Discounts on MacBook Pro Models

Beyond the AirPods, Amazon is providing impressive reductions on MacBook Pro models. The following offers are currently available:

– **M5 MacBook Pro**: $250 discount
– **M4 MacBook Pro (24GB RAM)**: $350 discount
– **M4 Max**: Discounts of up to $400

These reductions offer a fantastic chance for those searching for a new laptop, particularly as the holiday season is in full swing.

#### M3 iPad Air Deals at Target

Target is presently featuring the **M3 iPad Air** at an outstanding discount of **$200 off**. The most economical configurations, including both 11-inch and 13-inch options, are now available at heavily reduced rates. For example, the 128GB 11-inch model is priced at **$399.99**, reduced from $599, resulting in a **$199 saving**. This deal ranks among the best seen this season, representing a prime opportunity for shoppers.

#### Charging and Accessory Offers

The sale also encompasses a variety of accessories and charging products:

– **Retinal 2K Ring Wired Doorbell Plus**: $144
– **Anker 25,000mAh Power Bank**: $88
– **Baseus 3-in-1 USB-C Cable**: $10

These products enhance the main Apple product deals, providing extra options for holiday gifting.

#### iPad Pro Discounts at Costco

Costco is providing notable discounts on the **M4 iPad Pro** models, with price cuts reaching up to **$699**. The 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular variant is available for **$899.99**, while the 512GB model is priced at **$999.99**. These offers are among the best currently accessible and are likely to draw interest from buyers looking for high-performance tablets.

### Conclusion

The Super Saturday sale at Amazon, alongside additional promotions from Target and Costco, presents a superb opportunity for consumers to acquire Apple products at reduced prices. With the holiday season on the horizon, these deals come at a perfect time for anyone seeking to gift premium tech products.

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AI’s Influence on Increasing Computer Expenses: Grasping the Factors

ChatGPT processes over 2.5 billion queries daily. It boasts more than 700 million users each week, a remarkable achievement given that ChatGPT isn’t the sole contender—there are also Claude, Gemini, Mistral, Perplexity, Grok, and countless others. As we integrate AI further into our everyday activities, from seeking information online to executing various tasks, AI firms must ensure their infrastructure meets the seemingly endless demand.

This is the reason behind the substantial investments flowing into AI companies, with billions allocated for AI-related infrastructure. This entails acquiring more hardware to facilitate AI workloads, from advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) provided by companies such as Nvidia to increased memory and storage. After all, AI hardware remains a computer at its core, simply more powerful to address the processing requirements of AI tasks.

While the large-scale investments in AI infrastructure benefit these firms, they pose challenges for consumers. It is leading to rising costs for personal computers. In case you haven’t noticed, RAM prices have skyrocketed in recent weeks. So much so that CyberPowerPC, a prominent manufacturer of gaming PCs and workstations, declared on X that they will revise their pricing to align with the surge in RAM and storage expenses.

How AI is causing memory and storage costs to soar

11 Budget-Friendly USB Devices Highly Praised by Users

**11 Affordable USB Gadgets That Users Rave About**

In the realm of tech accessories, USB gadgets frequently emerge as standout options for their functionality and cost-effectiveness. They serve as the often-overlooked tools that improve our everyday tech interactions without emptying our wallets. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most beloved USB gadgets that users endorse.

1. **Anker USB-C Hub**: A multifunctional 7-in-1 hub that includes various ports such as USB-A, USB-C, SD, microSD, and a 4K HDMI output. It’s a top choice for individuals who require additional connectivity for their laptops.

2. **Fifine USB Microphone**: This economical condenser microphone provides clear sound, making it perfect for gamers and remote employees who want to enhance their audio quality beyond their laptop’s built-in mic.

3. **Arcanite USB Fingerprint Reader**: A compact device that enables Windows Hello fingerprint authentication on any PC, allowing for fast and secure logins.

4. **Quntis Computer Monitor Lamp**: Offers gentle, flicker-free illumination for your workspace, minimizing eye fatigue during extended work or gaming hours.

5. **Anker PowerCore 10,000 Charger**: A sleek, dependable power bank that can recharge your phone multiple times, ideal for individuals on the move.

6. **Grandfast Rechargeable Fan**: A portable fan featuring a large battery, providing up to 20 hours of cooling. It’s perfect for outdoor events or hot travels.

7. **Logitech HD Webcam**: The C920s Pro HD webcam delivers clear 1080p video and is a preferred option for enhancing video call clarity.

8. **Samsung 25W Charger**: A compact charger capable of fast charging for Samsung devices and others, recognized for its efficient speed and portability.

9. **Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller**: A leading choice among gamers, this controller boasts a comfortable design and reliable performance, particularly when used with a USB-C cable.

10. **Anker Powerline 3-in-1 Cable**: A sturdy, adaptable charging cable that comes with three connectors, making it ideal for powering multiple devices.

11. **Ocoopa Magnetic Hand Warmers**: Rechargeable hand warmers that deliver enduring warmth, excellent for cold weather activities.

**How We Selected These Products**

Every item on this list was chosen based on stringent criteria, including a minimum average rating of 4.0 from major retailers and at least 1,000 verified reviews on Amazon. All products are priced below $100, ensuring they provide excellent value for money.

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The Explanation for John Cena’s Appearance in Apple TV’s Pluribus

No. 1 series on Apple TV and absolutely essential viewing, after all.

In the last episode, Carol finds human body parts inside a massive warehouse freezer — equally concerning and unsettling. She hurries to Las Vegas to connect with fellow survivor Mr. Diabaté to relay the news, but he is already aware. In fact, he switches on the television to let the alien hive mind clarify the situation and, surprise, it’s John Cena.

Why on earth is John Cena present? In a chat with Deadline, Gilligan elaborated: “We simply thought, ‘Who could better make the concept of consuming human flesh more acceptable than John Cena, you know?'” Gilligan mentioned a gathering in Tampa, Florida, to film the segment, highlighting that Cena is “a busy individual,” but also “kind enough to film this piece.”

Gilligan detailed the reasoning behind selecting Cena, designating him as the “human-derived protein” spokesperson due to his likable nature. “‘Man, I’d love to grab a beer with that guy. So why shouldn’t he justify why human-derived protein is the solution for humanity now?” In the scene, Cena presents the entire idea as sensible, which, according to Gilligan, was the aim. “It simply made us chuckle when we considered having him do it. And fortunately, he agreed,” Gilligan noted.

Okay, but why do they consume humans, John Cena?

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Snapchat Quick Cut: Instantly Create Music-Linked Videos in Moments

### Snapchat Unveils Quick Cut Feature for Seamless Video Production

Snapchat has launched a groundbreaking feature named Quick Cut, aimed at simplifying the experience of crafting music-synchronized videos in mere seconds. Currently limited to iPhone users, this functionality is set to revolutionize how users document and share their experiences, with an Android version anticipated in the future.

#### Key Aspects of Quick Cut

The Quick Cut feature enables users to effortlessly select a music track from Snapchat’s vast Sounds library, which is automatically synchronized with the video clips selected by the user. This automatic selection streamlines the video production process, making it accessible for anyone, whether they are documenting daily activities or creating content for Snapchat’s Spotlight.

Users are granted the option to personalize their videos by replacing the suggested music track if they desire a different sound. This customization ensures that each video embodies the creator’s distinct style and tastes.

#### How to Utilize Quick Cut

Quick Cut can be easily accessed from the Memories section or the Camera Roll within the Snapchat application. This integration facilitates a smooth transition from capturing moments to swiftly editing and sharing them.

#### The Concept Behind Quick Cut

Snap indicates that the aim of Quick Cut is to expedite video creation, making it enjoyable and accessible. The company highlights that this Lens-powered tool is intended to assist users in converting their cherished Memories into captivating, beat-synced videos with ease. By simplifying the video creation journey, Snapchat is focused on motivating more users to showcase their creativity and share their adventures with friends and followers.

#### Conclusion

With the introduction of Quick Cut, Snapchat continues to push boundaries and improve user experience, rendering video production more intuitive and enjoyable. As the feature becomes available to a wider audience, it is expected to emerge as a favored tool for those eager to tell their stories in a lively and captivating manner.

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Four Efficient Techniques to Revitalize Your Android Device’s Performance

There’s nothing more annoying than attempting to surf the web on a slow, unresponsive device. You’re trying to catch up on the latest news, yet you find yourself confronted with issues such as unexpected battery drain, app crashes, lagging, or simply waiting ages for a web page to load. While upgrading your device or disabling significant features might seem like an option to enhance performance, it’s not necessary. Simple adjustments can alleviate the strain on your Android phone, restoring its swift feel akin to when it was first unboxed. Since we all want to retain our favorite applications and keep our phone usage habits intact, none of the tips will necessitate altering your usual routine. Rather, you can implement these recommendations like clearing the cache and periodically checking background applications for an enhanced Android experience.

Reboot Your Android Device

Concerns Brought Up Regarding Apple Gift Card Safety After Disturbing Account Lockout Event

### The Dangers of Acquiring Apple Gift Cards from Third-Party Vendors

The security of buying Apple gift cards from entities other than the official company has been questioned after a disconcerting event involving a prominent developer and author, Paris Buttfield-Addison. His experience brings to light serious issues regarding account safety and the possible weaknesses within the Apple environment.

#### Paris Buttfield-Addison’s Incident

Buttfield-Addison, a dedicated Apple consumer for close to 30 years, recounted his unsettling experience on his blog. Following the purchase of an Apple gift card from a trusted physical retailer, he tried to redeem it, only to find his Apple ID locked—an online identity he has sustained for about 25 years. This account holds significant value for him, stuffed with terabytes of family images, work documents, and crucial data for synchronization across various devices.

The problem began when Buttfield-Addison learned that the gift card he bought had already been compromised and utilized by another party. His effort to redeem it was flagged as fraudulent, resulting in the deactivation of his account.

#### The Fallout and Resolution

At first, Buttfield-Addison reached out to Apple Support, only to be told that there was no solution for his predicament. However, after his case gained media attention, it was escalated to Apple Executive Relations, which eventually resolved the issue. A representative provided him with support, keeping him informed until the problem was addressed.

#### Exposing Flaws in the Apple Ecosystem

Though Buttfield-Addison’s situation was ultimately resolved, it highlights a significant flaw within the Apple ecosystem. The ease with which accounts can be frozen and the absence of a clear resolution process raise alarms about Apple’s control over user information. Essentially, Apple can act independently, suspending accounts based on perceived infractions without offering users a straightforward means of resolution.

This incident raises doubts about the security of acquiring Apple gift cards from any source other than Apple’s own retail outlets. While many consumers may trust well-known retailers, this experience demonstrates that dangers remain, particularly with gift cards that may be tampered with prior to reaching the consumer.

#### Safeguarding Your Data

In response to this event, Buttfield-Addison and his colleagues participated in discussions regarding data protection tactics. Some of the approaches they utilize include:

– **Cloud Backups**: Automatically uploading images to services like Google Photos for an added layer of backup.
– **Manual Exports**: Employing software to manually transfer photos and documents to local storage and other cloud platforms.
– **Apple’s Privacy Export Tool**: Frequently downloading data from Apple’s ecosystem to keep on external drives.

These conversations underline the necessity of having procedures in place to safeguard data housed within Apple’s systems, comprising notes, documents, calendar events, and contacts.

#### Conclusion

The account of Paris Buttfield-Addison serves as a warning for Apple users about the purchase of gift cards and the overall security of their accounts. It stresses the importance of vigilance in protecting private data and contemplating the possible risks tied to third-party purchases. Users are urged to adopt backup measures and stay cognizant of the vulnerabilities that can emerge within digital environments.

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