Author: Richard

The HDMI Port of the Steam Machine Encounters Compatibility Challenges

Valve’s introduction of the Steam Machine has generated considerable excitement about the forthcoming gaming PC. Equipped with an AMD Zen 4 CPU, an AMD RDNA 3 GPU, and up to 16GB of RAM, the cube-shaped device isn’t expected to arrive until 2026 — providing gamers ample time to speculate on specifications and the launch of Steam’s new VR headset, revealed alongside the Steam Machine.

That being said, a perplexing issue has emerged: The Steam Machine’s HDMI is merely 2.0-certified. For those who may not be aware, HDMI 2.1 has been around since 2017, and it’s the type of connection you’ll find on contemporary consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, along with various gaming PC graphics cards. It certainly seems peculiar that Valve’s latest gaming system is categorized as a 2.0 device, but the intrigue only deepens.

Examining the Steam Machine’s specifications more closely, one will note that the HDMI 2.0 port supports up to 4K/120Hz and is compatible with HDR, FreeSync, and CEC. All of these are HDMI 2.1 specifications — which essentially indicates that the Steam PC is technically HDMI 2.1-compatible. The sole reason the new device can’t claim the official 2.1 designation is that the HDMI Forum prohibits HDMI 2.1 on Linux devices, the operating system that powers all Steam hardware.

HDMI 2.0, or HDMI 2.1 in disguise?

Does this imply you’ll be able to connect the Steam Machine to an HDMI 2.1 port on a 4K television effortlessly? The reality is that we’re uncertain, at least until we can put it to the test. However, we do know that Steam’s newest hardware will also feature a DisplayPort 1.4 connection, an alternative that some users may choose when connecting the Machine to a PC monitor. On paper, DisplayPort 1.4 surpasses HDMI 2.0 in terms of bandwidth capabilities, supporting up to 32.4Gbps compared to HDMI 2.0’s 18Gbps.

Nonetheless, this is not to suggest that gamers won’t experience excellent performance from the Steam Machine’s HDMI 2.0 port, which appears to function as an HDMI 2.1 in disguise. 4K/60Hz and even 1440p/120Hz are still visually impressive, and that’s before incorporating features like FreeSync. Still, since we’re compelled to deal with the HDMI 2.0 label, some gamers might end up evaluating the port by standards it no longer truly fits.

While the Steam Machine’s HDMI port seems to be experiencing an identity crisis, the Steam Deck’s USB-C port possesses a multitude of tricks, all of which are delightful surprises.

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Top 3 HDMI Cables for Purchase Recommended by Users

dynamic HDR formats along with eARC/ARC compatibility. While cable producers are more inclined to secure formal accreditation for HDMI 2.1 cables, the earlier models usually lack certification, which places you at the mercy of the manufacturers. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t be concerned; we have carefully selected the top HDMI cables that come highly recommended by satisfied customers.

HDMI 2.1 cables from Anker and Ugreen

If you’re in the market for a UHS or HDMI 2.1 cable for your gaming or home theater arrangement, you can’t go wrong with the Anker A8743 UHS HDMI cable or the<a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FUGREEN-Braided-S

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Google Pixel 9a discounted by 30% for Cyber Monday

Although labeled as the Pixel 9 (which was Google’s flagship for 2024), the Google Pixel 9a was actually launched later, in April 2025. Initially priced at $499 on Amazon, it is now available for $349 — a 30% reduction — for Cyber Monday. This mid-tier Android smartphone is equipped with the Google Tensor G4 chip and 8GB of RAM, offering two options for internal storage: 128GB and 256GB.

The phone features a 6.3-inch Actua display shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. It provides a resolution of 1080×2424, a refresh rate between 60 to 120Hz, with HDR support and 16 million color options. The front-facing camera is 13MP, while the rear offers a dual-camera setup; one camera is 48MP for wide shots, and the second is 13MP for ultrawide perspectives. Both rear cameras support Super Res Zoom up to 8x. For video recording, the rear cameras can shoot up to 4K@30 or 60fps with up to five times digital zoom. The front camera can also record 4K videos, albeit at only 30fps.

In addition to the Corning Gorilla cover glass, the Pixel 9a is constructed from other durable materials. Its body has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The metal frame features a fingerprint-resistant coating, and color options include obsidian, porcelain, iris, or peony. For power, the Pixel 9a is backed by a 5,100mAh battery, offering about 30 hours of usage, extendable to 100 hours with the Extreme Battery Saver mode. On the software side, the Pixel 9a runs on the latest Android 15 version and will receive support for seven years.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (512GB) now priced at $1,019.99

The <a href="https://r.b

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T-Mobile Expands Tablet and Watch Payment Plans to Two-Year Duration

Will smartphone payment plans be the next to exceed 36 months?

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential Information

  • T-Mobile is lengthening its installment plans to 36 months for selected devices.
  • Smartwatches and tablets must be purchased outright or via three-year installment options.
  • Currently, smartphones are still available through 24-month installment opportunities.

Notice

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Verizon Provides Complimentary Smart TV or $200 Gift Card with Home Internet Service Trial

Cyber Monday 2025 will be remembered for years to come.

(Image credit: Verizon)

With Black Friday behind us, Cyber Monday is on the horizon, and Verizon is ready to demonstrate that amazing tech deals can be found beyond conventional retailers. For a limited time, when you enroll in Verizon’s Fios 1 Gig or 2 Gig Home Internet service, you can select from a host of FREE gifts, including a 43-inch Samsung QLED smart TV, a portable Marshall speaker, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE tablet, and several others. If these gadgets don’t catch your eye, Verizon’s Cyber Monday promotion is also offering a FREE $200 Target gift card for those who, like me, can’t make up their minds.

Not keen on Verizon Fios? It’s notable that Verizon 5G Home Internet is also providing the same array of free gift choices. The only caveat is that these Verizon Home Internet offers will end at midnight on Cyber Monday, so act quickly if you’re interested!

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Enjoy More Than 50% Discount on Google Pixel 10 and a Year of Wireless with This Can’t-Miss Cyber Monday Offer

If you’re in search of an exceptional deal this holiday season, the Google Pixel 10 promotion from Mint Mobile is worth your attention. Although Black Friday and Cyber Monday are filled with offers, this specific deal has flown under the radar despite its remarkable value. Mint Mobile is featuring the Google Pixel 10 at a considerable discount, along with a year of their Unlimited plan.

The Google Pixel 10, a premium smartphone, usually retails for $799. Yet, Mint Mobile’s promotion reduces the phone’s cost by $450 and provides 50% off the wireless plan. This translates to acquiring the phone and a year of unlimited T-Mobile-supported wireless service for just $529. This is $70 lower than Amazon’s phone-only deal, which lacks any wireless service.

The Pixel 10 is a premier device, boasting a 6.3-inch OLED display, 12GB of RAM, and the Tensor G5 processor. It also showcases outstanding camera technology and seven years of software updates. Mint Mobile, recognized for its budget-friendly plans and T-Mobile network coverage, supplies unlimited talk, text, and data, as well as a mobile hotspot and international calls to select nations.

This offer is ideal for those considering a carrier switch or seeking a complete package without the inconvenience of purchasing phone and service separately. With no trade-in necessary, it’s a simple proposal that could lead to savings and enhance your mobile experience for the upcoming year.

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Apple Unveils Two Major Enhancements for Vision Pro

# Apple Vision Pro: Significant Enhancements in visionOS 26

The Apple Vision Pro, now approaching two years of age, has seen considerable upgrades through both software and hardware refinements. Recently, Apple unveiled substantial enhancements across two fundamental areas of the product, elevating user experience and comfort.

## New Spatial Personas in visionOS 26

The introduction of Personas was among the most discussed aspects when the Vision Pro debuted, initially receiving a mix of feedback. Critics observed that although the technology was remarkable, it frequently skirted the edges of the uncanny valley, rendering it less relatable. However, with the launch of visionOS 26, Apple has transitioned the feature out of beta, offering a strikingly realistic enhancement.

The advancements in Personas have garnered positive reactions, as they now provide more authentic interactions. Prominent technology reviewers, including Brian Tong and iJustine, held discussions with Apple representatives utilizing the upgraded Personas feature during a FaceTime call within visionOS 26, demonstrating its functionalities. In addition, Vincent Zhong showcased the new capabilities by participating in shared spatial activities, such as playing mahjong with friends, which further highlighted the improved social interactions facilitated by the revamped Personas.

This evolution of the Personas feature holds particular importance as social isolation may pose a challenge for Vision Pro users. The realistic shared spatial experiences now accessible signify a considerable advancement, enhancing the device’s appeal for social engagements.

## Dual Knit Band for Enhanced Comfort

Another domain where Apple has progressed is in the comfort level of the Vision Pro headset. Users have often raised concerns regarding the device’s weight, leading Apple to offer several band options at launch. With the arrival of the M5 Vision Pro, Apple has substituted the older bands with a new Dual Knit Band.

While heavier than its predecessors, the Dual Knit Band is engineered to enhance comfort by redistributing weight, reducing pressure on the face. Available for a separate purchase at $99, this new band has garnered favorable reviews from users and critics alike. Chance Miller from 9to5Mac remarked that the Dual Knit Band represents a noteworthy improvement, delivering increased comfort, adjustability, and ease of use compared to earlier versions.

Although achieving a lighter Vision Pro remains a goal for future models, the Dual Knit Band acts as a productive interim solution, enhancing the overall user experience during prolonged use.

In summary, the latest enhancements to the Apple Vision Pro, especially the new spatial Personas and the Dual Knit Band, represent a considerable advancement in responding to user feedback and boosting comfort and functionality. As Apple continues to fine-tune its offerings, these enhancements are poised to play a vital role in the device’s acceptance and success in the market.

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Anker Unveils 14-in-1 Docking Station for MacBook with 30% Black Friday Savings

### Anker’s DL7400 Desktop Dock: A Detailed Overview

Anker has recently launched an intriguing collaboration with Black Myth, presenting a selection of limited-edition themed products. The initial product in this series is the 14-in-1 DL7400 desktop dock, which is now open for hands-on evaluations.

#### Black Friday Offers

For Black Friday, Anker is providing considerable reductions on the DL7400 desktop dock. The base model is available for $209.99, while the limited edition collaboration is offered at $271.99. These promotions present an excellent chance for consumers aiming to upgrade their workspace.

#### Product Summary

The Anker DL7400 desktop dock boasts an impressive selection of 14 ports, creating a flexible addition to any arrangement. Notable features include:

– **USB-C Uplink Port**: A 10Gbps, 140W USB-C uplink port for effortless connectivity with Mac devices.
– **Extra Ports**: Three additional 10Gbps USB-C ports, an SD and microSD slot, three USB-A ports, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and an audio jack.
– **Ethernet Connection**: A 2.5GB Ethernet port for dependable internet access.

This dock is especially advantageous for MacBook Air or iMac users, who generally face limited connectivity options. The DL7400 not only enhances connectivity but also delivers up to 140W of power, ensuring swift charging for attached devices.

#### Display Features

A standout characteristic of the DL7400 is its capacity to support multiple displays through DisplayLink technology. Users can connect up to three displays via a single USB-C cable, supporting one 8K display or two 4K displays. This functionality is particularly beneficial for users with older generation Apple Silicon Macs, which are often restricted to a single external display.

#### User Experience

The dock includes an intuitive LCD screen that shows charging speeds and port connections. Users can also modify settings using the display and a side dial, improving the overall user interaction.

#### Initial Thoughts

The limited edition design of the DL7400 is visually appealing, taking cues from the Black Myth Wukong series. While the design infuses character compared to regular models, it does come with a higher price tag.

In practical application, the DL7400 has shown itself to be an essential tool for both MacBook and iMac users, effectively minimizing desk clutter by merging multiple cables into a single dock.

#### Final Thoughts

For those keen on enhancing their workspace, the Anker DL7400 desktop dock is available at a reduced price during Black Friday. The standard version is up for grabs at $209.99, while the limited edition version is set at $271.99. These deals are limited-time, making this the perfect opportunity for consumers to acquire a premium docking solution.

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CardPointers iOS 26 Upgrade: Introduces Liquid Glass Aesthetic, Apple AI, and 50% Discounts

**Maximizing Credit Card Rewards with CardPointers: A Detailed Overview**

As consumers strive to enhance their credit card rewards, applications such as CardPointers have become indispensable resources. With its most recent update on November 30, 2025, CardPointers presents noteworthy improvements intended to assist users in efficiently maximizing their credit card points and rewards.

### Special Offers for Users

In a unique offer for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, readers of 9to5Mac can benefit from a 50% discount on CardPointers subscriptions. Furthermore, new users will be granted a $100 Savings Card as a sign-up incentive, making it a prime opportunity to delve into the app’s features.

### What is CardPointers?

CardPointers is a groundbreaking app for iPhone users, designed to streamline the handling of credit card rewards. The app enables users to keep track of which credit card to utilize for particular purchases, ensuring they obtain the maximum rewards available. It consolidates information such as credit card promotions, monthly credits, and annual fee renewal dates, simplifying financial management for users.

### Key Features of CardPointers

1. **Seamless Amex Offers Integration**: A key feature of CardPointers is its capability to automatically incorporate available Amex Offers, removing the necessity of manual entry on the Amex website.

2. **Safari Extension**: The app features a Safari extension that clearly indicates the card to use during online shopping, improving the user experience.

3. **Redesign and New Capabilities**: The most recent version, CardPointers 7, presents a complete redesign in Liquid Glass, enhancing the app’s interface for a more contemporary appearance.

4. **On-device Apple Intelligence**: Users can engage with the app using Siri by inquiring about their cards or offers, courtesy of the integration of Apple’s Foundation Models.

5. **Interactive Widgets and Shortcuts**: The app now accommodates a wide range of keyboard shortcuts and interactive widgets, streamlining navigation and access to information.

6. **Privacy-centric Location Services**: The Watch app now displays nearby stores while guaranteeing that user location data stays private and on-device.

7. **Customizable CarPlay Widgets**: New functionality includes AutoPilot live activity and personalized widgets for CarPlay, enhancing usability while driving.

8. **Enhanced User Management**: Users can classify cards as Primary or Authorized User, and the app also features an Offer Streak chart for monitoring offers over time.

### Availability and Pricing

CardPointers is obtainable for download on the App Store. With the current promotion, users can enjoy a 50% discount on both annual and lifetime plans. The lifetime plan additionally features a complimentary $100 savings card, representing a worthwhile investment for those aiming to optimize their credit card rewards.

### Conclusion

For individuals seeking to improve their credit card rewards strategy, CardPointers delivers a powerful solution with its latest features and user-friendly interface. With exclusive discounts and beneficial tools at their fingertips, users can fully leverage their credit card offers and points.

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Home Key Black Friday Weekend: Incredible Savings Beginning at Just Above $100

# Smart Lock Solutions Featuring Apple Home Key Integration

As smart home technology advances, intelligent locking mechanisms have gained immense popularity, especially those that integrate effortlessly with Apple’s HomeKit. Among these, only a few select models offer the handy Home Key feature, granting users the ability to unlock their doors with their Apple devices. With Black Friday weekend arriving, numerous top models are being offered at substantial discounts, making it the perfect moment to invest in a smart lock.

## Premier Smart Locks on Discount

### Level Lock+ (Matter) Smart Lock
The Level Lock+ is notable for its unobtrusive design and refined functionality. This model has recently been marked down for Black Friday, rendering it an appealing choice for anyone aiming to enhance their home security without compromising on style. The lock is Matter-compatible, ensuring it works seamlessly with a diverse array of smart home devices.

### Schlage Encode Plus
This sturdy lock provides immediate Home Key functionality and comes in multiple fashionable designs. Presently, it is available at nearly a 25% discount during the Black Friday promotions, making it an attractive option for shoppers who desire both performance and aesthetic appeal.

### Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus
Yale is a reputable brand in the realm of smart locks, and the Assure Lock 2 Plus exemplifies this reputation. It boasts a durable metal construction, a sizable illuminated touchpad, and compatibility with Apple Home Key. Currently, this model has been reduced by as much as $100, providing exceptional value for those focused on security and user-friendliness.

### Aqara U Series Smart Locks
For individuals seeking more economical choices, the Aqara U300, U200, and U100 models deliver great quality without sacrificing features. These locks now come with Apple Home Key support and are available at a reduced price. Plus, readers of 9to5Mac can utilize an additional 15% discount using the code BFFP3MAC until December 1.

## Conclusion

With the array of smart locks that support Apple Home Key, consumers can enhance their home security while benefiting from the ease of smart technology. The Black Friday weekend offers an excellent chance to invest in these cutting-edge solutions, allowing you to unlock your door with a mere tap of your Apple Watch or iPhone. Whether you favor the sophistication of the Level Lock+, the sturdiness of the Schlage Encode Plus, or the affordability of the Aqara models, there is a smart lock suited for every requirement and budget.

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