Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on HomePod Mini Taken Out of Retail Locations Suggesting Possible Upgrade
    HomePod Mini Taken Out of Retail Locations Suggesting Possible Upgrade

    MacRumors reports that B&H, an Apple product retailer, is marking all models of the HomePod mini as discontinued. Other retailers such as Target, Walmart, Staples, and Verizon are also indicating that certain options are out of stock.

    While the Apple store maintains availability of all five color variants, speculation about a second generation of the HomePod mini is not recent. Earlier reports indicate that Apple has a number of products planned for 2025, which may include a new version of the HomePod mini, the fourth generation of the Apple TV 4K, and the second iteration of the AirTag tracker.

    Launched in 2020, the HomePod mini saw the introduction of new colors by late 2021 and again in July 2024. Now, five years later, this $99 device is beginning to feel outdated, lacking upgraded AI features and offering subpar audio quality for a speaker positioned in this price tier.

    Potential launch of Apple’s HomePod mini 2 is near

    Earlier this month, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg indicated in his Power On newsletter that Apple retail locations were set for an overnight refresh on November 11. This refresh may be tied to the upcoming holiday season, or to soon-to-be-announced Apple TV and HomePod mini launches. Despite Gurman’s cautious stance on whether Apple will indeed release new home products this November, he mentions that they “shouldn’t be long off.” Prior rumors have pointed out that Apple may be postponing these announcements due to the delays with the newly revamped Siri.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils Exclusive Designer Strap Accessory: iPhone Pocket
    Apple Unveils Exclusive Designer Strap Accessory: iPhone Pocket

    ### Apple Introduces Exclusive iPhone Pocket Accessory

    Apple has just released an exclusive accessory for the iPhone, referred to as the **iPhone Pocket**. This cutting-edge product takes cues from the iconic iPod sock, adapting it for contemporary use with a chic flair. The iPhone Pocket is made from a singular piece of 3D-knitted material, resulting in a distinctive and wearable pocket for your device.

    #### Design Partnership

    The iPhone Pocket is born from a partnership with the renowned designer **Issey Miyake**, celebrated for his groundbreaking approach to fashion and textiles. This collaboration has infused the accessory with a combination of practicality and visual appeal, distinguishing it from ordinary phone cases.

    #### Pricing and Launch

    The iPhone Pocket will be available for purchase beginning this Friday. There are two options for the accessory: the short strap Pocket, available for **$149.95**, and the long strap variant, which will sell for **$229.95**. This pricing categorizes the iPhone Pocket as a luxurious accessory, highlighting its distinctive design and the collaboration with Miyake.

    #### Summary

    With the introduction of the iPhone Pocket, Apple persists in pushing boundaries in the accessory market, providing consumers with a fashionable and practical way to carry their devices. As a limited edition product, it is expected to appeal to both collectors and fashion aficionados.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Reports Suggest Ongoing Postponement of iPhone Air 2 by Apple
    Reports Suggest Ongoing Postponement of iPhone Air 2 by Apple

    iPhone Air in a person's hand inside a store

    Wongsakorn 2468/Shutterstock

    Recent reports indicate that Apple may have postponed the release of the much-anticipated iPhone Air 2, informing its engineers and select suppliers that the “next iPhone Air” has been taken off any forthcoming schedules without a revised launch date. These claims derive from The Information, which references “three individuals engaged in the project” as the source. While the latest version of Apple’s iPhone lineup has garnered some accolades — particularly regarding the repairability of the iPhone Air — there are those who have suggested alternatives to choosing the iPhone Air.

    Although some see the iPhone Air as a reduction in capabilities, it still provided a choice for those desiring a sleeker iPhone devoid of the extra features present in the larger iPhone 17 Pro. Nevertheless, the opportunity for Apple’s more streamlined design to truly excel in its subsequent version may have been curtailed prematurely, assuming these recent reports hold true.

    The decline of thinner iPhones?

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/apple-has-indefinitely-delayed-the-iphone-air-2-reports-claim/the-downfall-of-thinner-iphones-1762842922.webp" type="

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How AI Improvements Are Advancing NASA’s James Webb Telescope
    How AI Improvements Are Advancing NASA’s James Webb Telescope

    James Webb Space Telescope in 2021, experts celebrated the mission as the foremost achievement of its kind in more than thirty years. Nevertheless, scientists soon identified a significant issue with the globe’s most exquisitely calibrated camera: its images were out of focus. To rectify this dilemma, a duo of Australian scientists created an artificial intelligence program named AMIGO (Aperture Masking Interferometry Generative Observations) to tackle resolution challenges in Webb’s most advanced telescope cameras.

    This development illustrates how the vast distances of satellites such as the James Webb Space Telescope can hinder maintenance and repairs. Positioned a million miles away from Earth, the telescope is not as easily serviceable as its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope. For context, when NASA launched Hubble in 1990, lens alignment problems prompted a specialized mission from the Space Shuttle Endeavour to install new optics. In contrast, with JWST, manual adjustments are not feasible. AMIGO serves as an innovative solution for researchers to modify how JWST interprets and processes data, instead of traveling across the solar system to adjust the lenses directly. It accomplishes this by restoring the camera’s aperture masking interferometer (AMI), a slender metal piece punctuated with holes that enables researchers to assess whether the camera is experiencing optical misalignments based on the light it filters.

    JWST is capable of capturing images of the universe’s earliest galaxies, fundamentally altering how scientists perceive the cosmos. In less than five years, the telescope has documented galaxies formed over 13.5 billion years ago, revealed what some theorize to be stars fueled by dark matter, uncovered supermassive black holes, and even transformed how scholars view the formative phases of the universe. With the modifications provided by AMIGO, the James Webb Space Telescope could potentially illuminate humanity’s most ancient inquiries.

    Repairing the world’s priciest telescope

    To comprehend how AMIGO addressed the globe’s most costly photographic problem, one must first grasp the operating principles of the James Webb Space Telescope. Essentially, Webb employs a sequence of mirrors to reflect infrared light into the telescope’s imaging instruments. The dimensions of these mirrors, the largest of which weighs over 1

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Essential iPhone Applications for Hikers”
    “Essential iPhone Applications for Hikers”

    utilize ChatGPT as your travel aide; however, it won’t prove very useful if you find yourself disoriented in the wilderness without an internet connection. This is when dedicated hiking apps become essential. They can assist in navigating through thrilling paths or the classic road less traveled, both accurately and securely. Explore the options below and take them with you on your upcoming hiking excursion.

    AllTrails: Hike, Bike & Run

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/essential-iphone-applications-for-hikers-1.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2016296/essential-iphone-app-hikers/" data-post-id="2016296" data

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday
    Top 4 Most Loved Chromebooks Available on Discount Before Black Friday

    November has officially arrived, and we all know what that signifies! A plethora of deals! Best Buy barely waited for the calendar to change before launching a range of discounts on everything from smartphones to tablets and of course, Chromebooks.

    The retailer is presently running an assortment of “Early Black Friday Deals,” along with a selection of “Doorbusters” for even greater savings. This is truly advantageous as it means you don’t have to wait a few more weeks if you’ve been considering a new Chromebook, as there’s a solid chance it’s discounted right now.

    This time, several early Black Friday Chromebook deals caught my attention, each aiming at a different demographic.

    – **Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus (8GB/256GB)**: $749.99 $599.99 at Best Buy. If you are searching for a conventional Chromebook with a sleek design and a large screen, your search can end here. The Galaxy Chromebook Plus stands out as one of the finest Chromebooks you can buy, featuring a stunning 15.6-inch AMOLED display, and it’s so lightweight that you might hardly notice it in your bag. Additionally, this was the first Chromebook to come with the new “Quick Insert” key when it launched last year.

    – **Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11 (4GB/128GB)**: $399 $249 at Best Buy. What if you’re looking for something versatile? The Chromebook Duet 11 is virtually flawless, owing to its 11-inch touchscreen display, which is also compatible with the best USI pens. Moreover, since the Duet 11 doubles as a tablet, we’re grateful that Lenovo includes the Keyboard Cover in the package, allowing you to utilize it as either a tablet or a laptop.

    – **Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (8GB/128GB)**: $479 $299 at Best Buy. Sometimes, it’s just refreshing to have a Chromebook that’s dependable, supports the latest features, and has a classic appearance. Enter Acer’s Chromebook Plus 516, which showcases the same timeless design we’ve seen repeatedly. It boasts the largest screen in this group with its 16-inch display, making it excellent for working with side-by-side app windows or relaxing while watching a movie.

    – **ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus (8GB/128GB)**: $429 $249 at Best Buy. Completing the lineup is yet another “under-the-radar” choice, as the ASUS CX14 Chromebook Plus sees a $180 reduction, dropping the price to just $249. This is probably going to be a hot seller at this price, as it provides a capable Chromebook that simply fulfills its role, while remaining lightweight and compact. Honestly, I might just pick one up as an early Christmas gift because who can say it’ll be this affordable on Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

    It’s well-known that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are among the best times of the year to get new technology, and this period often sees Chromebooks reaching their most competitive prices. However, if you happen to miss these deals, don’t worry. I believe Best Buy and other retailers will be running numerous promotions throughout the month and into December.

    Another nice aspect of these retailers competing for our holiday spending is that if a specific sale ends at one store, you’re likely to find it at another. Of course, this isn’t always guaranteed, but it’s something worth considering as you start to check items off your gift shopping list.

    **Black Friday 2025 – quick links**

    – **Best Buy:** up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
    – **Amazon:** early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
    – **Walmart:** early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
    – **Samsung:** new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
    – **Verizon:** free phones with new line, trade-in
    – **T-Mobile:** free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
    – **Mint Mobile:** 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
    – **AT&T:** get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line

    Read More

    What makes this appealing?

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/this-unique-usb-stick-will-never-leave-your-computers-usb-port/why-would-you-want-something-like-this-1762242503.webp

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Vince Gilligan Highlights the Role of Humanity in the Development of Pluribus
    Vince Gilligan Highlights the Role of Humanity in the Development of Pluribus

    ### The Role of AI in Entertainment: Vince Gilligan’s Perspective

    The entertainment sector is currently wrestling with the consequences of artificial intelligence (AI) as it becomes more embedded in different facets of production. Vince Gilligan, the renowned showrunner behind legendary series like *Breaking Bad* and *Better Call Saul*, has articulated a clear position regarding the use of AI in his new project, the Apple TV series *Pluribus*. He underscores that AI plays no part in the creative workflow of his show, underscored by a disclaimer in the credits stating: “This show was made by humans.”

    #### Concerns Regarding AI in Creative Sectors

    Gilligan’s observations mirror a wider concern within the industry about the potential effects of AI on creativity and job security. The emergence of generative AI has ignited discussions about job loss and the ethical ramifications of utilizing AI-generated material. Numerous creators fear that dependence on AI may compromise the artistry and human touch that are crucial to storytelling.

    In a conversation with *Deadline*, Gilligan voiced his doubts about AI’s capability to enhance the creative domain. He remarked, “As this technology advances, I don’t see how it will make the world a better place.” His viewpoint implies that while technology can furnish new tools, it should not supersede the human component that is essential to creating engaging narratives.

    #### A Nuanced Perspective on AI’s Possibilities

    Even with his apprehensions, Gilligan concedes that there could be a role for AI in the creative process, provided it isn’t treated as a replacement for human ingenuity. He holds that the genuine worth of storytelling stems from the distinct insights and experiences that only people can offer. This balanced perspective shows that while he is receptive to the opportunities that AI might present, he remains wary about its application in creative projects.

    Gilligan’s approach to *Pluribus* acts as a definitive statement against the intrusion of AI in storytelling. By guaranteeing that his show is wholly produced by humans, he emphasizes the significance of human creativity in a time when technology is swiftly advancing.

    #### Conclusion

    As the entertainment industry keeps navigating the intricacies of AI, Vince Gilligan’s position serves as a reminder of the necessity to uphold human creativity in storytelling. While AI may introduce new potentials, the core of exceptional storytelling is still grounded in human experience and creativity. As audiences connect with offerings like *Pluribus*, they can value the commitment and artistry that originate from human creators, untainted by AI influence.

    For individuals eager to delve into *Pluribus*, it is accessible for streaming on Apple TV, which also showcases a range of other distinguished shows and films.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Initial Glimpse of Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Design Uncovered via Leaked CAD Renders
    Initial Glimpse of Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Design Uncovered via Leaked CAD Renders

    Not a significant improvement, if you ask us.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus leaks indicate design likenesses with Galaxy S25 Plus. Expected features include a 6.7-inch AMOLED display and a largely unchanged camera setup. Anticipated release may present vibrant color variants and robust battery life.

    Leaks regarding Samsung’s forthcoming flagship line are improving continuously. We caught some whispers about a potential earlier release, albeit at higher price points. Nonetheless, this gives us a solid glimpse at the Korean manufacturer’s rumored Galaxy S26 Plus. Indeed, it seems the Plus variant is making a return, as Samsung might not introduce the S26 Edge this time.

    Earlier today, Android Headlines shared images of the supposed Galaxy S26 Plus, showcasing it from multiple perspectives. The device resembles the Galaxy S25 Plus significantly, without any discernible design alterations.

    Per these CAD visuals, the Galaxy S26 Plus might have a 6.7-inch AMOLED 2X flat display featuring slim, consistent bezels and a centered camera cutout. However, as suggested by previous leaks, Samsung may focus on making the devices more ergonomic, implying that the device could possess more rounded corners compared to the Galaxy S25 Plus. All physical buttons, including the power/lock and volume controls, appear to be situated on the right side.

    The site mentions that the phone’s dimensions might vary slightly, approximately measuring 158.4 x 75.7 x 7.35mm. The visuals also display the phone’s rear panel, which accommodates three camera lenses, with the flash positioned adjacent to them.

    Speculations propose that the Galaxy S26 Plus might include a 50MP primary, 12MP ultrawide, and 12MP telephoto camera. Nonetheless, prominent leaker IceUniverse took to X to suggest that the telephoto lens might be considerably smaller this time, and the primary camera is expected to remain the same, with the ultrawide potentially being similar or identical.

    It’s crucial to highlight that the colors shown for the phone are for illustrative purposes solely, and there’s no confirmation regarding the actual colors in which the Galaxy S26 might launch. However, rumors have suggested that Samsung could adopt the bright orange color scheme from the iPhone 17 range.

    Other anticipated specifications for the device include a nearly 5,000mAh battery with 45W wired charging capability. Under the hood, the Galaxy S26 is rumored to feature either an Exynos 2600 or a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, depending on the market in which the device is purchased, combined with 12GB of RAM.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Intends to Introduce a Credit Card in the US to Rival Apple
    Samsung Intends to Introduce a Credit Card in the US to Rival Apple

    Samsung is allegedly considering the launch of its own credit card in the U.S., possibly collaborating with Barclays to compete with Apple’s financial services. The anticipated “Samsung Card” could provide benefits such as cashback on Samsung products and appliances, digital prepaid accounts, and high-yield savings options. Discussions with Barclays are reported to be at an advanced stage, with Visa likely to support the card, although no formal agreements have been reached yet. An announcement could be anticipated by the close of 2025.

    Samsung has been improving its digital payment offerings, particularly through Samsung Wallet, which now features options like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and cryptocurrency management through Coinbase integration. These advancements reflect Samsung’s dedication to broadening its presence in the financial services arena, utilizing its existing technology ecosystem to deliver comprehensive payment solutions.

    Read More