Author: Richard

Best Monitors Compatible with Your New Mac: Revised Guide

# Top External Mac Monitors

If you’ve recently acquired a new Mac, such as the latest models, you may be in search of top-notch display options. Below are my suggestions, encompassing a variety of product types, price ranges, and more.

**Last Updated December 10, 2025**: Pricing and availability updated, added Samsung M9 Smart Monitor.

## Apple Studio Display (Save over $230)

You can’t compile a list of the finest displays available without highlighting Apple’s Studio Display. Although it comes with a higher price tag, it boasts an exquisite Apple design featuring a 27-inch 5K display. Additionally, it comes equipped with one Thunderbolt 3 port for connecting your Mac, plus three extra USB-C ports.

– **Display**: 27-inch 5K Retina display (5120×2880 resolution) at 218 pixels per inch
– **Brightness**: 600 nits
– **Color Support**: Wide color (P3) accommodating 1 billion colors
– **Refresh rate**: 60Hz
– **Webcam**: 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage functionality
– **True Tone Technology**: Adapts the color temperature of the display to fit ambient lighting
– **Ports**: One Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port for host connection (delivering up to 96W host charging) and three USB-C ports (up to 10Gb/s) for peripherals, storage, and networking

The Studio Display is offered in various configurations at different price points. If you want an iMac-like experience with your Mac, the Apple Studio Display is your best bet.

## Samsung M9 Smart Monitor

The 32-inch Samsung M9 Smart Monitor is a strong contender for Mac users due to its 4K OLED screen.

– **Panel**: 32-inch 4K (3840 x 2160) Quantum Dot OLED with anti-glare coating
– **Refresh rate**: 165Hz
– **Ports**: DisplayPort, HDMI, USB-C, 2x USB-A
– **Built-in camera**: Yes, 4K
– **HDR support**: Yes (HDR10/HDR10+)

While it doesn’t deliver the sharpness of 5K or 6K resolution found in some alternatives, it offers the advantages of OLED technology, including richer blacks and enhanced color accuracy and contrast.

## LG UltraFine 6K

The LG UltraFine 6K has been eagerly awaited as a budget-friendly alternative to Apple’s Studio Display and Pro Display XDR.

– **Display**: 31.5″ 16:9 IPS Black Panel
– **Resolution**: UHD 6K 6144 x 3456 at 60 Hz
– **Brightness**: 450 Nits, 600 Nits in HDR
– **Contrast Ratio**: 2000:1
– **Color Coverage**: 98% DCI-P3 & 99.5% Adobe RGB
– **Ports**: Integrated USB-C Hub & KVM, 1x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI, 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) with USB PD 96 W, 3x USB-C

## Asus ProArt 5K Display

The Asus ProArt (PA27JCV) Display 5K offers the same 5K resolution (5120×2880) in a comparable 27-inch size to the Studio Display, but at half the cost.

– **Display**: 27-inch 5K resolution (5120×2880 pixels) at 218 PPI with a matte finish
– **Brightness**: Standard brightness of 400 nits and peak brightness of 500 nits
– **Webcam**: None
– **Ports**: USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and a standard DisplayPort 1.4

## Asus ProArt 6K Display

For a larger and higher-resolution option, the new Asus ProArt Display 6K (PA32QCV) features a 32-inch display with a native resolution of 6016 x 3384.

– **Display**: 31.5-inch 6K (6016 x 3384) IPS display
– **PPI**: 218
– **Refresh rate**: 60Hz
– **Connectivity**: Dual Thunderbolt 4
– **HDR support**: HDR10 and VESA DisplayHDR™ 600
– **Color Gamut**: 98% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB

## Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K

Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 5K is another appealing choice to pair with your new Mac, currently offered at $999.99.

– **Display**: 27

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Recall Alert: Amazon-Only Power Banks Recalled Because of Fire Risk

**Recall of Inui BI-B41 Portable Power Banks Due to Fire Hazards**

Approximately 210,000 budget portable power banks, namely the Inui BI-B41 model, sold only on Amazon USA for around $18, are being recalled. This action comes after reports of 11 incidents where the devices ignited fires, leading to injuries and damage to property. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has verified that these power banks present a notable fire hazard.

### How to Check Your Power Bank

To find out if your power bank is affected by the recall, inspect the serial number found on the back of the device. It is essential to understand that the serial numbers are not unique to individual units but correspond to particular production batches.

The impacted model is the BI-B41, and the following serial numbers (SN) are part of the recall:

– 000G21
– 000H21
– 000I21
– 000L21

If your power bank does not correspond to the BI-B41 model or the serial numbers listed, it is not subject to the recall, and you can continue using it securely.

### What to Do If Yours Is Affected

If your power bank is one of those recalled, take the following actions:

1. **Cease using or charging the power bank immediately.**
2. **Keep it in a cool, dry area.**
3. **Follow the instructions provided

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Homey Pro Boosts Speed and Intelligence for Matter Homes Without Raising Prices

**Homey Pro 2026: The Future of Smart Home Hubs**

Today, Homey has introduced the latest Homey Pro 2026, signifying a major advancement in smart home technology. The highlight of this new iteration is the boost in RAM, now at 4GB, while keeping the same price of $399. This improvement is especially significant for users aiming to enhance their smart home configurations.

**What is Homey Pro?**

Homey Pro is an adaptable local smart home hub that accommodates a broad range of communication protocols such as Matter, Thread, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, and even infrared (IR) devices. This versatility enables users to oversee their entire home through a single interface, making it a compelling choice for those desiring a holistic smart home experience. A primary benefit of Homey Pro is its capacity to execute automation locally, ensuring that routines remain operable even during internet disruptions. This emphasis on privacy ensures that user data stays within the home environment unless directly linked to cloud services.

**Enhanced Performance with Homey Pro 2026**

The Homey Pro 2026 is equipped with a 1.5 GHz quad-core ARMv8 processor, which, alongside the increased RAM, guarantees better performance for larger setups and more intricate automations. The enhancement is anticipated to improve the responsiveness of sophisticated Flows, making the smart home experience more seamless and effective.

Stefan Witkamp, CEO of Athom, highlighted the significance of this upgrade, stating, “By increasing the RAM in Homey Pro 2026, we’re providing users with even greater capacity to expand their smart homes.” This statement reflects the increasing trend of integrating additional devices and automations into smart home ecosystems.

**Matter Bridge for Apple Users**

For Apple users, the Homey Pro acts as a Matter bridge, enabling non-Matter devices like Z-Wave blinds and Zigbee sensors to be incorporated into the Apple Home app. This feature is particularly advantageous for those looking to keep their current devices while reaping the rewards of the most recent smart home innovations.

**Conclusion**

The introduction of the Homey Pro 2026 represents a fantastic opportunity for anyone in the market for a smart home hub. With the rising expenses of RAM due to heightened demand from AI data centers, the extra memory in this model is a significant benefit. Homey has pledged to provide support for both the new Homey Pro and the Early 2023 model with software updates and security enhancements until at least June 2031, ensuring durability and dependability for users.

The new Homey Pro can be purchased at

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OnePlus 15 Review: Outstanding Battery Performance Hindered by a Single Flaw

The 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.

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Shelly Introduces Cost-Effective Matter-Compatible Smart Plug Gen4 Valued Below $20

### 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.

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Instagram Unveils Fresh Functionalities for Improved Feed Management

### 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.

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Top Downloaded Applications and Games on iPhone in 2025

# 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.

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Pebble’s Groundbreaking Phone Add-On Removes the Requirement for Recharging

We 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.

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Adobe Photoshop, Express, and Acrobat Now Available at No Cost on ChatGPT

Beginning 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.

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