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Top 5 Soundbars for Music Lovers in 2026: Consumer Reports Suggestions

shopping for a soundbar can begin to feel like seeking a needle in a haystack. However, this is precisely why our associates at Consumer Reports (CR) have been around for 90 years; they evaluate, test, and rate all the technology so you can avoid the hassle. We’ve been showcasing CR’s top picks in various product categories (along with some items CR suggests avoiding), which leads us to today’s topic: CR-endorsed soundbars for audiophiles.

We chose to spotlight five soundbars from CR’s collection, making an effort to focus on reputable brand names that most audio enthusiasts will recognize. Given the “premium” aspect of the majority of these systems, we also didn’t prioritize pricing considerations (the least expensive soundbar in our selection is $300).

Vizio Elevate Soundbar SE 5.1.2

Nothing surpasses three-dimensional audio immersion, and two of the finest surround codecs for achieving this are Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. But if you’re not keen on spending a fortune on a full Atmos setup, a great alternative for compact to medium-sized spaces is a soundbar capable of virtualizing object-based audio. Enter the $400 Vizio Elevate Soundbar SE 5.1.2, a CR-recommended model that includes two rear speakers and a

Suggested Enhancements for the MacBook Air Revamp Drawn from the MacBook Neo

Apple introduced the [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/4lWdfR1) earlier this month, which considerably changes the MacBook range. For those who have previously acquired a [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) and do not need 16GB of RAM for demanding multitasking, the MacBook Neo offers an attractive option.

The [MacBook Neo](https://amzn.to/4lWdfR1) acts as a robust all-purpose laptop, similar to the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy). It includes upgrades such as enhanced RAM, a quicker processor (though thermally restricted), and a larger display. In comparison, the MacBook Air seems to lack noteworthy advantages at this point. Here are a few proposed enhancements for the MacBook Air.

### Improved Display

Speculation indicates that the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) will switch to OLED technology in 2028, two years after the [MacBook Pro](https://amzn.to/4bTzthI). This transition would represent the fifth key Apple product to embrace OLED, joining the iPhone, iPad Pro, the soon-to-be-released iPad mini, and the newly designed MacBook Pro.

While the MacBook Air is projected to adopt OLED, it is unlikely to feature touch capability. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has yet to make a decision regarding touch functionality for any Macs apart from the MacBook Pro. Although the MacBook Air seems a more sensible candidate for such features, it is not expected to receive an iPhone-esque OLED screen for at least another two years.

Nonetheless, the OLED enhancement would greatly advance the MacBook Air, positioning it ahead of the MacBook Neo. There is also speculation about whether the display will include a 120Hz refresh rate, which could improve the user experience without compromising the MacBook Pro’s standing in the market.

### Enhanced Thermals

The [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) currently functions as a passively cooled unit, a design that is expected to remain consistent. However, there are various methods Apple could implement to boost performance without adding a fan. For example, the iPad Pro utilizes graphite sheets and a copper heatsink to manage heat, while the iPhone 17 Pro features a vapor chamber. Applying similar thermal management techniques in the MacBook Air could significantly enhance its performance.

### Revamped Design

The [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy) might gain from a more innovative design strategy. As it evolves beyond being Apple’s budget Mac, there exists an opportunity for the company to push boundaries. A sleeker, more portable, and unconventional design could attract users looking for something reminiscent of the 12-inch MacBook. A starting price of $1299 could enable the MacBook Air to redefine the limits of laptop design.

What features would you like to see in the [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/410UbHy)? Share your opinions in the comments.

The Legendary Manual Transmission Will Cease Production in 2026

car audio systems outperform many home speakers.

The upcoming fate of CDs for music-enthusiast drivers

NASA Suggests $20 Billion Funding for Permanent Lunar Base Development

The Artemis III lunar landing has been either canceled or, more accurately, rescheduled with an interim mission — the actual lunar landing is set for Artemis IV.

Nevertheless, the NASA team is already eagerly anticipating future missions, such as Artemis V. This is where the phased strategy for constructing a lunar base has been seriously proposed, taking place in three phases that will encompass: Phase one for building, testing, and learning; Phase Two for establishing the preliminary infrastructure; and Phase Three to achieve a prolonged human presence on the lunar surface. Over the next seven years, NASA intends to invest more than $20 billion to construct the base. That’s quite a significant expense.

Primarily, Isaacman disclosed plans to collaborate with commercial partners to fulfill this comprehensive mission. They aim for “no fewer than two launch providers,” with crewed landings planned every six months. Isaacman also asserts that “America will never again relinquish the moon.”

What will NASA create with the $20 billion?

In a distinct fact sheet and digital presentation provided by NASA, we can discern nearly precisely how the lunar base will be assembled. It will ultimately feature living habitats, likely research facilities, pressurized rovers for traversing the lunar terrain, and nuclear power systems. Everything will be constructed near the south pole of the moon, close to where Artemis III was initially scheduled to land.

Commencing with a “rapid series of robotic” and initially uncrewed missions, phase one will focus on scouting the site for the base. Phase two will mark the beginning of early habitation, where solar and nuclear-powered stations will be established, enhanced communication systems will be activated, and required cargo—up to 60 tons—will be delivered. Finally, phase three is when NASA intends to secure a long-term human

Samsung Galaxy S26 Update Improves File Sharing with iPhone

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series has unveiled an innovative function that facilitates effortless file sharing with Apple gadgets through AirDrop. This enhancement to Samsung’s Quick Share capability allows users to conveniently transfer files between Galaxy S26 smartphones and Apple gadgets such as iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks.

The incorporation of AirDrop into the Galaxy S26 series signifies a major advancement in closing the divide between Android and Apple ecosystems, simplifying the sharing of content across various platforms for users. This feature debuted on March 23, 2026, in Korea and has since rolled out to additional areas, including the U.S. and Canada.

To utilize this function, make sure the Apple device is configured to receive AirDrop transfers by modifying the settings to “Everyone for 10 Minutes.” On the Galaxy S26, update to the most recent software and verify that Google Play Services and the Quick Share application are current. Afterward, activate “Share with Apple devices” in the Quick Share configuration.

This innovation is a significant advantage for users who often work with both Android and Apple devices, streamlining the sharing of photos, videos, and other files. It removes the necessity for third-party applications or cloud services, providing a direct and effective approach to cross-platform file sharing. The feature is presently exclusive to the Galaxy S26 series, with intentions for wider compatibility in the future.