Author: Richard

iPhone Air Presents Remarkable Holiday Discounts

The iPhone 17 lineup has proven to be an enormous triumph for Apple, with a new report indicating that the iPhone 17 variants are set not only to generate record revenue for Apple this quarter but also to enhance global sales for 2025 relative to earlier projections. BGR has been monitoring Apple stock levels since the launch, and three out of the four models have consistently sold out, with particular demand for the base iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The iPhone Air is the sole 2025 model that hasn’t garnered the same enthusiasm. This device has been available online since its release across the different markets we are observing. Only China faced a temporary stock issue concerning the iPhone Air.

Even though the Air lacks the allure of the other three variants, aficionados of the sleek smartphone who opted out of purchasing an iPhone Air may be pleased to know that they could discover an unanticipated deal this holiday season, provided they are open to acquiring either a slightly pre-owned device or a new phone from the second-hand market. This appears to be the finding of a recent SellCell report. The experts in smartphone trade-ins, tasked with monitoring used device prices, consulted more than 40 U.S. buyback firms, revealing that the iPhone Air experienced the steepest resale decline of any iPhone since 2022. The device lost as much as 47.7% of its value in a span of 10 weeks. This statistic pertains to the 1TB iPhone Air, which retails for $1,399 when purchased from Apple. The iPhone Air’s average depreciation stands at 44.3%, indicating that significant savings are possible for those willing to purchase a pre-owned iPhone Air.

The iPhone 17 retains its value better than the iPhone 16

Evaluation of the Sotsu FlipAction: My Favorite Secondary Display for iPad Pro and Mac

# Sotsu FlipAction Monitor Review: A Revolutionary Choice for Portable Displays

With the arrival of genuine windowing multitasking and extended display capabilities in iPadOS 26, the prospect of combining my iPad Pro with a portable monitor became significantly more appealing. Over the years, I have employed a variety of portable displays, mainly alongside my MacBook Air, spanning from budget plastic versions to higher-end choices that prioritize the quality of the screen. While some have been satisfactory, the Sotsu FlipAction series is on another level. It resembles a 16-inch iPad affixed to a modular, magnetic Studio Display stand. Having utilized this monitor for over a year, I wish to convey my comprehensive insights on its value for the price. Let’s analyze it.

## Design and Build Quality

In a landscape where portable monitors generally fall into two categories—cheap plastic bodies with weak folio stands or bare metal slabs with a single hinge—the Sotsu monitor distinguishes itself with its distinctive design. The FlipAction incorporates a two-part system: a 16-inch display paired with a magnetic folding stand, both crafted from anodized aluminum. This grants it a premium essence reminiscent of Apple products. When not in use, the stand magnetically attaches to the back of the display, ensuring it’s compact and easy to slide into any backpack or laptop sleeve.

## Ergonomics and Viewing Angles

Setting up the monitor is easy. The stand boasts a dual-hinge design, allowing for various adjustments. It comprises a base hinge to bring the panel forward, a top hinge where the display connects, and offers a complete 360º rotation that locks at every 90º degree. This adaptability enables you to position it horizontally next to a MacBook, vertically as a sidebar display, or elevated above your iPad Pro for improved ergonomics.

## Display Performance

The Sotsu FlipAction series features three distinct 16-inch monitors: the Flip Action Pro Gen 1, the Flip Action Pro Gen 2, and the Flip Action Elite. All three share identical design and build materials but vary in display specifications. The FlipAction Pro Gen 1 showcases a Quad HD (2560×1600) display, 60Hz refresh rate, 350 nits brightness, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. Despite its specified brightness, it frequently appears brighter than my 5K BenQ monitor rated at 400 nits. The color accuracy is vibrant without being overly saturated, and the viewing angles are commendable.

### Gen 2 & Elite Options

– **FlipAction Gen 2**: Boosts the refresh rate to 120Hz with enhanced contrast (1500:1).
– **FlipAction Elite**: Delivers full 4K resolution and 450 nits brightness, perfect for high-res video or photo editing.

## Practical Use Cases

I primarily utilize the Sotsu monitor alongside my iPad to amplify productivity. The new multitasking windowing feature in iPadOS 26 permits me to engage with apps like Lumafusion on the iPad while keeping productivity applications active on the external monitor. It folds conveniently into a sleek package, fitting snugly into a 16-inch laptop sleeve.

Furthermore, I employ it as a secondary vertical display with my M4 Mac mini. When oriented vertically, it aligns seamlessly with my 5K BenQ monitor, offering added screen space for extra applications and windows.

## Pricing & Availability

The Sotsu FlipAction Pro Gen 1 is available starting at $499, while the Gen 2 is priced at $599, and the Elite model retails for $789. All variants can be purchased directly from Sotsu’s website.

## Final Thoughts

The Sotsu FlipAction series is not inexpensive, but it offers superior build quality, remarkable display performance, and a hinge system that improves usability in practical workflows. After a year’s use, the monitor continues to maintain its pristine appearance and performance. If you’re exploring options for a portable display, I strongly suggest considering the Sotsu FlipAction. For those looking for more budget-friendly alternatives, Sotsu also provides other choices that deliver excellent value for the investment.

Read More
Ten Charming Devices Up for Grabs on Amazon

welcome to the realm of technology where circuits intertwine with charm. here, you’ll discover some of the most delightful gadgets available, the petite attention-grabbers that entice people to come over and ask, “wait, what is that?” you admire them for their cuteness, but you hold onto them due to their surprisingly intelligent design.

from portable projectors that deliver genuine brightness in a compact form to lamps that mimic breakfast items and even a Bluetooth banana that serves as a conversation starter, these selections blend the boundaries between technology and small companions.

they are the type of gadgets that remain discreet until someone spots them, at which point they swiftly become the centerpiece of attention. as this collection demonstrates, technology doesn’t have to be frigid and simplistic. amazon is brimming with entertaining and charming gadgets, so if you have a penchant for gear that’s enjoyable, practical, and utterly delightful, this lineup is sure to captivate your heart.

**magical fridge magnet**

it’s time to say goodbye to your ordinary paper-holding magnets. the Music Fridge Magnet 4.0 is a game-changer. it resembles a typical photo frame on your fridge, but it’s remarkably unconventional. with just one tap, it immediately plays your favorite song, transforming your kitchen into an unexpected romantic dance floor.

this compact device is loaded with features: it produces clear audio, stores photos, and provides instant, wobble-free one-tap playback. want to switch things up? easily change the picture, upload a new track, or record a fresh message in mere seconds. it serves as a thoughtful sentimental gift that operates as a streamlined, modern internet of things device.

the instant this magnet springs to life, it fills the space with intrigue. people will be curious about what it is and why your appliances express more emotion than theirs. it also aligns with the growing notion that background music can aid concentration for individuals with ADHD, making this magnet both fun and subtly useful. you can grab this impressively crafted tech piece on amazon for a mere $10.99. it’s small, charming, and instantly turns your fridge into the most captivating spot in your home.

**portable mini fan**

imagine this: it’s august, you’re in a lengthy line for a festival, the sun is blazing, and your phone just dropped to 5%. that dreary scenario is precisely what the JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan was designed to tackle. this gadget is not merely a fan; it’s a compact three-in-one survival kit that combines a high-powered fan, a flashlight, and a backup power bank.

you’ll enjoy 12 to 19 hours of continuous cooling from one USB charge, ensuring you won’t have to fear a midday power decline. additionally, the ingenious backup power bank feature enables you to rescue your dying phone in an emergency, and the convenient flashlight feature provides added safety when you need visibility after nightfall.

the design itself is impressively smart. the blades retract for effortless, snag-free storage in your pocket or bag. when you need it, the unit seamlessly unfolds in three stages: you can comfortably grip it in your hand (180°), or convert it into a stable desktop fan (270°) to keep your workspace airy. if you’re in search of a gift or simply wish to enhance your summer essentials, this is your answer. you can find this versatile device on amazon for just $17.84. it’s evidence that the most essential tools often fit in the palm of your hand.

**banana-shaped Bluetooth handset**

this banana-shaped Bluetooth handset performs an incredible feat. it’s charming enough to seize immediate attention, and so lifelike that guests might accidentally mistake it for a snack before realizing it’s your functional phone. featuring long battery life, voice assistant compatibility, and a built-in Bluetooth speaker, it becomes the most delightful conversation starter you’ll ever possess.

despite its playful appearance, the Banana Phone operates like a genuine handset. it connects quickly with both iPhone and Android devices, remains stable once linked, and provides clear audio whether you’re taking calls or enjoying music from the fruit. the battery lasts up to 20 hours of talk time and 120 hours on standby, ensuring the novelty doesn’t diminish during the day.

the built-in speaker adds an extra dose of enjoyment. you can stream tunes, listen to podcasts, or make quick hands-free calls without reaching for your actual phone. furthermore, it supports Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa, transforming everyday tasks into amusing moments. asking about the weather or sending a text is infinitely more fun when done through a banana.

at $39.99, it’s an investment that brings a splash of character to your workspace, living room, or travel bag. it’s dependable, it’s whimsical, and it consistently elicits a response. in an era where some new iPhone features may turn out to be complete flops, this gadget is a refreshing departure because it never disappoints — just don’t eat it.

**rechargeable hand warmer**

when your hands are cold, you don’t just feel

Read More
The 8K 360 Antigravity A1 Drone, a Feature of IFA, Now Released

Highlights from IFA 2025 earlier this year included Antigravity’s A1 — the pioneering 8K 360-degree drone. Antigravity is a relatively new company nurtured by Insta360 and other third-party firms, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to create an accessible consumer drone with enhanced piloting features and numerous intriguing options.

In contrast to conventional quadcopters such as the DJI Neo, the Antigravity A1 operates as a 360-degree drone, utilizing a headset-first setup. Pilots must wear Vision Goggles to initiate the drone’s flight, providing an engaging experience while flying. The Grip controller’s FreeMotion mode converts hand gestures into accurate flight paths, allowing users to navigate by directing the controller.

Through these advancements, Antigravity successfully streamlined a process that once required the use of two joysticks. Now, every A1 operator relies on a single controller for a fully immersive experience, as the Vision Goggles are equipped with dual 1-inch micro-OLED displays that reflect the pilot’s head movements instantaneously, while others can observe the drone’s trajectory.

8K capture now made mainstream

<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2043215/antigravity-a1-drone-8k-360-video-now-available/" data-post-title="An IFA Standout, The 8K 360 Antigr

Read More
Sam Altman Suggests OpenAI’s Growth into Space Exploration Beyond Mars

The Wall Street Journal – a development that could escalate the competition between Altman and Elon Musk. Nevertheless, Altman’s intentions do not necessarily align with Musk’s vision for his prominent rocket enterprise. While Musk has been creating reusable SpaceX rockets aimed at facilitating human journeys to Mars, Altman is said to have an interest in a distinct form of space exploration and settlement. A rocket venture managed by or associated with OpenAI would enable it to establish AI data centers in space, utilizing solar energy to power these facilities. Establishing AI data centers in space might ultimately become more cost-effective over time, as well as lessen the environmental impact on Earth.

As reported by WSJ, Altman struck up discussions regarding a space initiative with a startup known as Stoke Space, which is developing Nova — a reusable rocket. Stoke was established by former staff of Blue Origin, Jeff Bezos’ rocket venture — one of the primary rivals to Musk’s SpaceX. Y Combinator, a startup accelerator, has funded Stoke. The talks between Altman and Stoke commenced in the summer and resumed in the fall, yet did not culminate in a formal agreement. Altman aimed for OpenAI to either acquire a rocket firm or collaborate with one. One of the suggested arrangements involved the AI organization making a series of investments in Stoke, which would have provided OpenAI with a controlling interest. Ultimately, OpenAI was poised to invest billions in the startup.

It’s all about ChatGPT

Meta Acquires Two Principal Designers from Apple, Indicating Significant Progress in VR, Smart Glasses, and AI

Alan Dye and Billy Sorrentino have been essential figures in influencing Apple’s design realm over the last ten years. Their recent transition to Meta’s Reality Labs division signifies a major transformation in the design landscape of the tech industry. Both designers are poised to shape the forthcoming generation of wearable technology, such as VR and smart glasses, at Meta.

Alan Dye, who has directed Apple’s user interface team since 2015, will now lead design efforts for hardware, software, and AI integration at Meta. His vast experience at Apple encompasses managing the Vision OS user interface design and playing a key role in significant redesigns of Apple’s operating systems. Dye’s responsibilities at Meta will include modernizing consumer devices with artificial intelligence capabilities, starting December 31.

Billy Sorrentino, recognized for his contributions to Apple’s Vision OS design, Liquid Glass, and the iPhone camera, will be part of Meta’s leading design team. Sorrentino’s award-winning design proficiency will be instrumental in shaping Meta’s Horizon OS, which drives the Meta Quest headsets and upcoming VR devices.

Meta has encountered difficulties in crafting interfaces for its VR headsets and smart glasses, frequently undertaking UI revisions. With the combined expertise of Dye and Sorrentino in Vision OS, Meta intends to develop more cohesive and efficient user interfaces, potentially affecting future products like Meta’s minimalist headset anticipated in 2026.

This strategic hiring initiative by Meta highlights its dedication to progress in the fields of AI, wearables, and spatial computing, capitalizing on the skills of two of Apple’s most prominent designers.

Read More
Opera Launches Solution to Streamline AI Application Management

Opera has rolled out a fresh update for its Android application, presenting a consolidated search bar that improves AI accessibility. This enhancement enables users to effortlessly alternate between various search engines and AI models straight from the browser’s address bar. A significant feature is the “Ask AI” button, allowing users to engage with AI for different tasks such as translation or summarization by uploading files like images or PDFs. Users can also attach entire tabs to the Ask AI function, making it easier to pose immediate follow-up questions regarding the webpage content. Opera guarantees privacy by limiting AI access to only the context of the shared tab, without retrieving browsing history or other activities. This update is currently available on the Play Store, providing a streamlined experience for users who often utilize multiple AI applications.

Read More
Data Encryption in Proton Sheets: Guaranteeing Your Information Remains Protected

**What Occurs In Proton Sheets Remains In Proton Sheets: All Your Information Is Encrypted**

The Swiss software firm Proton has introduced a new end-to-end encrypted solution named Proton Sheets, expanding its emerging productivity suite. This spreadsheet application acts as an alternative to the popular Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets, with a central emphasis on privacy and security. Proton Sheets guarantees that data within its documents is solely accessible to the account owner, preserving confidentiality even from Proton itself.

In today’s world, privacy is crucial, particularly with the swift progress in AI technology. As AI models demand extensive data sets for training, tools like Proton Sheets become vital in protecting sensitive information from third-party access, including AI models.

**What can Proton Sheets provide?**

Anant Vijay Singh, Head of Product at Proton Drive, highlighted Proton Sheets’ significance in reclaiming data sovereignty. Unlike Big Tech spreadsheet applications that might take advantage of user information, Proton Sheets presents a privacy-centric alternative, ensuring users’ data remains protected and free from surveillance.

Proton Sheets not only emphasizes security but also delivers an interface that is user-friendly and familiar to many. It facilitates collaboration, enabling teams to work concurrently on documents, with control over viewing and editing rights. Users can import CSV and XLS files, apply common Excel formulas, and generate charts, all while experiencing smooth functionality across different devices.

Proton Sheets is connected to Proton Drive, which also includes the secure Proton Docs word processor. Users can begin with a free account, with premium plans available for additional storage and features, starting at $3.99/month.

Read More
Thorough Leak Discloses Information About Samsung’s Anticipated One UI 8.5 Update

From the freshly designed Quick Settings panel to enhanced Galaxy AI capabilities, One UI 8.5 appears to be Samsung’s boldest update to date.

What you should know
– One UI 8.5 introduces significant UI modifications drawn from Apple’s Liquid Glass aesthetic and an overhauled Quick Settings panel.
– The upgrade incorporates new Galaxy AI features, including enhanced Photo Assist and a more intuitive Bixby that comprehends intricate commands.
– One UI 8.5 features enhancements such as quicker Quick Share functionality and automatically adjusting lock screen layouts for photographs.
– The initial beta will be released this month in specific regions, with a subsequent beta extending to India and Poland.

Samsung has been conducting internal tests on the One UI 8.5 software update for its Galaxy smartphones and tablets for some time, and while prior leaks have hinted at what’s coming, a recent leak has disclosed every feature included in the update.

Noted leaker @taruvats33 on X released the complete changelog for the One UI 8.5 update prior to the beta introduction for the Galaxy S25 series. While it’s already known that One UI 8.5 will incorporate new UI modifications inspired by Apple’s Liquid Glass UI in iOS 26, along with a highly adaptable Quick Settings panel, the feature list reveals much beyond mere UI adjustments.

For instance, as part of the new Galaxy AI functionalities, users will be able to create AI images using various Photo Assist tools without the need to save each version. In addition, an upgraded Bixby is set to arrive on Galaxy devices with One UI 8.5, likely driven by Perplexity.

Among other new highlights in One UI 8.5 are expedited sharing capabilities with loved ones through advanced Quick Share, automatic adjustments to lock screen layouts so that the clock and widgets do not obscure key areas of your images, and much more.

The first One UI 8.5 beta is anticipated to be launched this month, with the initial stage confined to regions such as the US, UK, Korea, and Germany. An additional beta is expected to be released prior to the Galaxy S26 reveal and broaden its reach to India and Poland.

For now, you can review the comprehensive changelog for the One UI 8.5 update below:

Here’s the complete Samsung One UI 8.5 changelog

Galaxy AI
Continuous image generation
Continue creating without interruption. Photo Assist now enables you to produce AI images using various Photo assist features without needing to save every version. Once you’re finished, you can browse through your creations in your history and select your favorites.

Bixby
More intelligent device control
Communicate with Bixby in your own terms. Bixby is now improved at locating the settings or features you require, even if you don’t use precise commands or feature titles. Just express your needs and let Bixby handle the details.

Ask anything, anytime
Whether you seek a quick response or in-depth information, simply ask Bixby for immediate answers. No need to waste time on multiple searches or toggling between apps.

Conversation history
Reviewing previous interactions with Bixby is simpler than before. You can now access your conversation history from the side panel in the Bixby app.

Connectivity
Storage share
Access your files from anywhere. Files saved on other Samsung phones, tablets, and PCs are available in the My Files app on your device. You can also access your phone’s files on different Samsung devices, including your TV.

Quickly connect to Smart View devices
Establish connections to your preferred displays more swiftly. You can now place a shortcut on your Home screen for instant mirroring of your phone’s display to a TV or additional display device.

Enhanced Auracast features
Listening to and sharing audio is now simpler with Auracast. Options for both broadcasting and receiving are now consolidated in the Audio broadcast menu under Settings.

Voice broadcasts
Transmit your voice to those nearby with Auracast. In addition to media audio, you can now broadcast your voice using your phone’s built-in microphone.

Battery and power
Revamped battery info
Get clearer insights into your battery usage. The redesigned Battery settings screen simplifies the process of checking remaining time, charging status, and daily consumption over the past week.

Improved Power saving
Utilize Power saving to extend your battery life without needing to recharge. Select Standard for moderate savings with adjustable limits, or opt for Maximum to disable all non-essential features, maximizing battery longevity.

Accessibility
Easily control Bluetooth hearing aids
Directly access settings for your Bluetooth hearing aids from the Accessibility shortcut. A pop-up will allow you to adjust your hearing program, toggle Ambient sound on or off, and more.

Control magnification with mouse or keyboard
Maintain visibility of magnified content with these new options. You can set the magnified area to follow the cursor as you type or shift focus using the keyboard. When using a mouse, you can make the magnified area move as you guide the pointer to the edge of the screen.

Read More
Reasons the POCO F8 Ultra Will Not Debut in India

POCO, a label recognized for its cost-effective smartphones, has established a reputation for products that deliver remarkable value for their price. Nevertheless, its newest flagship model, the F8 Ultra, will not be released in India, even though the nation serves as its largest market. This choice stems from POCO’s identity as a budget-friendly brand, complicating the sale of a device priced above $700 in India. Although the F8 Ultra receives accolades for its hardware and camera performance, POCO’s emphasis continues to be on affordable devices, which enjoy greater popularity in the Indian market. This approach diverges from other brands such as Xiaomi, OPPO, and Vivo, which have adeptly promoted high-end models in India to enhance their brand images. As global smartphone prices continue to escalate, this could have been a prime opportunity for POCO to launch its premium offerings in India, potentially enhancing its reputation and market footprint.

Read More