Libby – a member of
Apple Found in a Stronger Stance Against Rivals as Notebook Shipments Expected to Decrease by 2026, As per Report
### Obstacles Encountered by Notebook Manufacturers in 2026: A TrendForce Analysis
A recent analysis from TrendForce underscores notable obstacles that notebook producers are projected to face in 2026, largely influenced by increasing memory costs. Nevertheless, Apple is expected to be less impacted than its rivals.
#### Apple Less Vulnerable to Broader Memory Supply Issues
TrendForce has updated its outlook for the worldwide notebook sector, forecasting a total of 173 million unit shipments in 2026. This signifies a 5.4% reduction from 2025. The analysis points to sluggish economic recovery and restrained consumer spending as contributing variables to this decline.
As per TrendForce, the surging prices of memory parts are constricting profit margins for notebook brands, restricting their pricing options. Consequently, manufacturers are taking a more cautious stance on inventory management and product promotions.
Should memory supply challenges persist, the drop in shipments could potentially reach 10.1%. Nonetheless, Apple is predicted to handle these obstacles more adeptly than other brands. The company’s integrated supply chain and robust pricing power afford it greater adaptability in modifying its product range. Furthermore, Apple’s stable procurement levels and reliable demand forecasting allow it to secure prioritized collaboration with memory suppliers.
#### Apple’s Strategic Edge
TrendForce posits that, despite the daunting market conditions, Apple is poised to gain from continuous supply chain efficiencies and scale benefits. The expected launch of an affordable MacBook in the spring of 2026 is likely to boost Apple’s market presence and sustain impressive shipment performance. Attractive pricing for this new offering could lure more customers, further reinforcing Apple’s standing in the market.
#### Shifts in Display Technology
The analysis also highlights a projected dip in LCD panel shipments, anticipated to decline by 7.9% year-on-year in 2026. Conversely, OLED shipments are expected to keep growing, albeit at a more gradual pace. This transition in display technology mirrors evolving consumer preferences and improvements in manufacturing techniques.
In conclusion, while the notebook industry braces for substantial challenges in 2026, Apple’s strategic strengths may enable it to endure the turbulence more effectively than its competitors. The company’s capability to adjust to rising memory costs and launch competitively priced products will be essential for sustaining its market position.
How to Keep Your Car Keys on an Android Smartwatch
digital keys for cars available on phones and smartwatches. The configuration procedure is akin for both ecosystems. In each scenario, drivers must verify that they possess the correct vehicle and operate compatible OS versions that facilitate digital key functionality. Subsequently, they can connect the vehicle with the phone and the smartwatch. The car keys will be saved within the designated wallet application.
Depending on the car’s make and model, you may need to tap your Android device against the door handle to secure and gain access to your vehicle. Additionally, you might need to bring the device close to the car key reader to ignite the engine. The optimal choice is known as “passive entry,” which allows you to manage the car (lock/unlock and start) without needing to keep the device adjacent to the handle or key reader.
How to keep car keys on an Android smartwatch
Smartwatches typically function in conjunction with smartphones rather than operating independently, irrespective of the platform. This implies that the Android phone serves as the primary device to pair with your vehicle before transferring the digital car key to your smartwatch. We have previously outlined how to keep your car keys on your Android phone. You are required to utilize the official application from your car manufacturer, employ an email link from the manufacturer, or use the car’s head unit to connect the Android phone with the vehicle. This procedure transforms your mobile device into a digital car key that serves as a substitute for the traditional key fob.
Five Abandoned Android Applications That Users Long for the Most
has eliminated numerous treasured applications, but due to a perpetually evolving technological environment filled with acquisitions and continually changing API modifications, there remains an abundance of obsolete third-party Android apps that users continue to long for.
So get ready for a nostalgic journey; it’s time to look back at some of the Android apps that are sorely missed. From beloved RSS readers to valued app launchers, many agree that Android suffers a decline, owing to the complete vanishing of numerous exemplary apps and their abrupt (and frequently unjustified) endings.
Google Reader
If you were to inquire with any random Android user about which app they yearn for the most, you’re likely to receive one of two responses. It will either be Google Reader or Inbox (more on Inbox below), and Google Reader has been absent since 2013, so it undoubtedly leads in the category of most missed simply by virtue of how long it has been gone.
For those who are not acquainted with Google Reader, it was a widely used RSS feed aggregator managed by Google. It debuted in 2005, and the Android app appeared in the Play Store in 2010 (then known as the Android Market). However, similar to many Google offerings that fail to achieve instant success, it faded away due to insufficient updates until it was shut down 5 years later, quite abruptly, which only served to further infuriate loyal users (a typical Google strategy, something the company is quite infamous for with its notorious Graveyard). Consequently, Google Reader secured its place in our nostalgic memories as an overlooked service that truly deserved more.
Although there are still numerous RSS feed aggregators available in the Android realm, like Feedly and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details
Effect of HDMI Splitters on Television Image Quality
the distance of an HDMI cable, along with the varieties of displays to which your splitter is connected, can occasionally result in handshake problems or other audio-video issues.
In general terms, HDMI technology performs optimally when cable lengths remain at or below 25 feet. While there’s no strict guideline that prohibits longer cables from functioning, the AV signal transmitted by an HDMI cable is significantly more susceptible to degradation and interference over extended distances. Fortunately, active HDMI splitters are relatively easy to locate and offer signal amplification. This aids in preserving signal strength and quality while utilizing longer HDMI cables.
It’s also important to consider which HDMI port you’re using for the output cables from the splitter. If you are trying to split the AV signal from a gaming console such as the PlayStation 5, connecting an HDMI cable to one of the TV’s non-HDMI 2.1 ports may deactivate features such as Variable Refresh Rate and Automatic Low Latency Mode, potentially leading to sluggish gameplay.
Additional details regarding HDMI splitters
Holiday Tech Assistance: Keep Support and Inquire 9to5Mac Services
### Tech Support Stories and iOS 26 Insights: A Retrospective on 2025
As the holiday period comes to a close, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller return with captivating tales from the tech support domain, recounting their experiences and hurdles encountered in the field. This edition of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast delves into the realities of tech support, showcasing the frequently amusing and frustrating scenarios that occur when technology fails to perform as expected.
#### iOS 26 Hold Assist: A Mixed Experience
In this show, the hosts also explore the newly introduced iOS 26 Hold Assist feature. Although it was hoped to enhance user experiences, listener feedback indicates that it may not meet expectations in real-world use. This part of the discussion underscores the discrepancy between theoretical technological advancements and their actual use, igniting a dialogue about user experience and practicality.
#### Ask9to5Mac Segment
To conclude the episode, Benjamin and Chance interact with their audience through the Ask9to5Mac segment. They respond to questions posed by listeners, offering insights and guidance on various tech-related subjects. This participatory segment of the podcast nurtures a sense of community and motivates listeners to engage actively.
#### 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus
For those seeking additional exclusive content, the hosts promote the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription. This premium option features ad-free episodes, extra pre- and post-show content, and special bonus episodes. Subscribers can directly support Benjamin and Chance while enjoying enriched content for just $5 a month or $50 a year.
#### Hosts
– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**
#### Feedback and Interaction
Listeners are invited to send their inquiries and feedback through a variety of platforms, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads, or by emailing [email protected]. This interaction enables the hosts to adjust content to better align with their audience’s interests and concerns.
### Conclusion
The 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast remains a significant resource for tech aficionados, mixing humor, insights, and community interaction. As Benjamin and Chance review the past year and anticipate what lies ahead, their discussions stay relevant and enjoyable for anyone intrigued by the constantly changing landscape of technology.
Three Budget-Friendly Substitutes for USB Drives
the largest USB drive currently available for purchase is 4TB, yet its cost does not provide great value. Additionally, their transfer rates and durability fall significantly short compared to modern options. Moreover, the conventional USB-A connector is being substituted with the contemporary USB-C connector in many devices. Furthermore, individuals no longer require a physical product to exchange files. With fast internet and cloud storage services, the processes of accessing, syncing, and sharing files have become simpler than ever. This digital ease of use is challenging to surpass. Gradually, USB drives are being supplanted by more affordable alternatives.
Portable SSDs
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Upcoming HDMI 2.2 Launch: No Urgent Upgrade Required
HDMI Forum has formally introduced the latest iteration of the HDMI specification, Ultra96 or HDMI 2.2. This version features enhanced resolutions and refresh rates, supporting 12K at 120 FPS and 16K at 60 FPS. However, hold back your enthusiasm, as this technology isn’t set to be implemented in the televisions you currently own, so no upgrades are necessary at this moment. When a new standard is established, it often takes years for manufacturers to integrate it into new devices. For example, HDMI 2.1 was unveiled in November 2017, but it didn’t appear in a consumer product until September 2020, initially debuting in an NVIDIA graphics card rather than a display or television. HDMI 2.2 may experience a similar, if not longer, delay before it becomes available in retail products.
Additionally, there were dubious choices regarding the implementation of the HDMI 2.1 standard, especially concerning how some manufacturers have created “fake” versions. It’s quite possible that your HDMI 2.1 ports are not genuine, as certain features of the new standard are optional. Indeed, this situation is as perplexing as it sounds. Some HDMI 2.1 ports may lack the features and specifications they are supposed to have.
The new HDMI 2.2 version brings forth additional ports, along with a new Ultra96 cable that collectively enables a higher bandwidth of up to 96 Gbps, which is double that of the previous version. Nevertheless, akin to how HDMI 2.1 phased out earlier versions, HDMI 2.2 will follow suit. All ports will be designated as 2.2, and since the new functions are “optional,” it is likely we will encounter numerous “fake” HDMI 2.2 ports.
Why am I not required to upgrade anything?
There’s no specific timeline for the effective rollout of HDMI 2.2, which means the standard is indeed released, but it won’t
Five Preferred Characteristics for Chinese Smartphones in 2026
In 2026, the smartphone sector is anticipated to experience notable progress, especially in camera innovation, battery advancements, and international market expansion. Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Vivo, OPPO, and Xiaomi, are leading the charge with devices that not only perform exceptionally but also excel in capturing breathtaking photos and providing extended battery longevity.
**Improved Camera Technologies**
The advancement of smartphone camera systems remains a key priority for producers. Gadgets like the Vivo X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Pro have raised the bar with their exceptional imaging abilities. Looking ahead, larger sensors and enhanced tuning algorithms that boost image quality are expected. The trend of incorporating high-resolution lenses, such as 200MP telephoto options, is anticipated to persist, delivering users unmatched photographic opportunities.
**Innovations in Battery Technology**
Battery performance continues to be a vital element of smartphone functionality. The rollout of silicon-carbon batteries has transformed the landscape, enabling greater capacities without sacrificing design aesthetics. Phones that utilize these batteries can now sustain up to two days of use on a single charge. The augmented silicon content in anodes increases energy density, leading to batteries that surpass 8,000mAh in capacity. This innovation guarantees that devices remain lightweight while providing strong performance across diverse environmental conditions.
**Expansion in Global Markets**
Chinese brands are preparing to broaden their reach beyond Asia, focusing on Western markets through proactive marketing strategies. OPPO and Vivo have already begun to penetrate the European market, and this pattern is predicted to accelerate. By launching flagship models worldwide, these brands aspire to compete with established entities and secure a greater portion of the global market.
**Improvements in Display Technology**
Display technology is also undergoing significant enhancements. Partnerships with display manufacturers like BOE have produced panels that can dim to as low as 1 nit, improving usability in dim lighting. While current models boast 1.5K resolution displays, a transition to 2K panels with similar low-light performance is expected, granting users an elevated visual experience.
**Obstacles and Future Perspectives**
Despite these advancements, obstacles such as increasing DRAM costs could affect the availability of high-RAM variants. While 12GB of RAM is likely to become the norm, the need for additional memory may rise with the growing use of AI-driven applications. Nevertheless, the emphasis on innovation and user-focused features guarantees that Chinese manufacturers will remain integral in influencing the future trajectory of the smartphone sector.
In conclusion, 2026 is set to be a year filled with thrilling advancements in smartphone technology, characterized by enhanced camera systems, sophisticated battery solutions, and a bolstered global footprint. As brands strive to redefine the limits of what is achievable, consumers can anticipate devices that deliver outstanding performance and value.
Tesla May Possibly Combine Widely Used iPhone Functionality with Apple CarPlay
**Tesla Could Introduce Another iPhone Feature That Users Will Adore With Apple CarPlay**
Tesla is said to be developing more iPhone functionalities for its cars, which could improve the experience for iPhone users. A report from Not a Tesla App suggests that the most recent iteration of the Tesla app, v.4.52.0, points to a new feature named Harmony Wallet Key Cards. This capability is anticipated to permit users of Huawei’s HarmonyOS to use their smartphones as a Tesla car key through NFC, Bluetooth, or UWB technologies, even if the Tesla app is not active in the background. This indicates that Tesla may soon provide comparable support for iPhone and Android users.
The Harmony Wallet Key Card feature would allow users to unlock their Tesla vehicles with a quick tap, even when their smartphone’s battery is depleted. This integration at the system level could greatly improve user convenience and security.
**Tesla and Rivian Keep Advancing Apple Features**
In other news, Rivian is also focusing on incorporating iPhone Car Key functionality into its automobiles. While Rivian’s CEO has mentioned that the company will not back Apple CarPlay, a report from Bloomberg reveals that Tesla is investigating a distinct method to integrate CarPlay. Tesla’s proposed solution encompasses a screen-on-a-screen windowed approach, enabling users to experience a customizable version of CarPlay alongside Tesla’s own interface.
This integration could feature well-liked Apple services such as iMessage, FaceTime audio, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps, Apple Books, and widget support. Although the timeline for these features remains unclear, it seems that drivers may soon enjoy improved Apple integration in their electric vehicles.
Despite some manufacturers opting for exclusive software, the popularity of CarPlay in the United States underscores the desire for seamless integration between vehicles and iPhones. BGR will keep providing updates as these features are validated and made available.
