Author: sparta

Amazon’s Echo Dot Smart Speaker Currently Available at 36% Discount as Cyber Monday Promotions Wrap Up

The Echo Dot represents Amazon’s more compact variation of the Echo smart speaker, featuring a sleek design while still offering impressive capabilities. With the holiday season on the horizon, astute shoppers can take advantage of substantial savings on smart speakers, including Amazon’s Echo Dot, which is currently priced at 36% off in the Cyber Monday promotion.

Although it’s smaller than the standard Echo speaker, the Echo Dot produces remarkable volume and provides effortless access to Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant. This functionality allows users to conveniently stream music from their favorite platforms and control a variety of smart home devices, such as lights and air conditioning units.

A standout design element of the Echo Dot is its LED light ring situated at the bottom, a departure from earlier versions where the light was located at the top. Furthermore, the device features a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to connect to external speakers, televisions, or other gadgets. The current promotion covers all three color options: Charcoal, Deep Sea Blue, and Glacier White.

The Echo Dot is a fantastic option for individuals looking for a small smart speaker to control smart home devices, access Alexa, or enjoy music, all at an economical price of $31.99, reduced from its original $49.99. Nonetheless, those who seek superior sound quality or a smart speaker equipped with a display may want to explore alternative choices, like the Echo Studio or Sonos One.

While the audio quality of the Echo Dot may not compete with larger models, its single forward-facing 1.73-inch speaker is adequate for the majority of users. For enhanced sound experience, users can pair it with a second Echo Dot for stereo audio or modify the EQ settings through the Alexa app.

In summary, the Echo Dot provides an affordable means of incorporating smart technology into the home, particularly with its reduced price during the Cyber Monday deal.

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Secure Techniques for Disposing of Outdated Hard Drives

do not feel remorse about discarding the device. It may serve as a secondary storage option, facilitate file transfers between computers, or act as a portable boot device. However, if it fails to function in these capacities, or you prefer to minimize clutter, it’s time to dispose of it properly. 

Refrain from simply throwing it in the garbage or leaving it at a nearby recycling center without ensuring your personal data remains secure. To dispose of a hard drive correctly, you must eradicate any software, files, and information. Subsequently, physically destroy it to guarantee that no one can retrieve your information. 

Even seemingly harmless items, like backups of old images that you’ve transferred to cloud storage or outdated copies of past projects, can reveal a lot about you through just a bit of information. After that, it’s time to bring it in for secure recycling.

Erase and obliterate data

Internal Struggle at Samsung Could Influence Galaxy S26 Pricing

unveil the Galaxy S26 series in late February. Speculations indicate that Galaxy AI will be a central theme of the event, as is typical for any flagship smartphone, especially from Samsung. Samsung introduced its Galaxy AI platform before Apple launched Apple Intelligence. Ironically, while Samsung aims to captivate consumers with innovative AI features, such as a Bixby-Perplexity assistant to rival Gemini, artificial intelligence could also adversely affect Samsung. Following earlier reports that increases in memory and storage prices will influence smartphone costs next year, including high-end models like the Galaxy S26 series, a new report from Korea highlights an unforeseen twist for Samsung, which may affect the pricing of the Galaxy S26.

As reported by SEDaily, Samsung’s semiconductor division (Samsung DS) and the Mobile Experience division (Samsung MX) are in disagreement over a vital smartphone component — the low-power DRAM (LPDDR) used in devices such as the Galaxy S26 models and other Galaxy-branded products. Samsung MX has been attempting to secure a long-term agreement with Samsung DS, but the latter is inclined to focus on what appears to be assured profits from the AI sector rather than guaranteeing its counterpart access to reasonably priced RAM.

Reportedly, Samsung DS is concentrating on restructuring its production processes to maximize high-margin products, including high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and the mobile memory chips that Samsung MX requires. AI companies are also seeking the same variety of mobile memory from suppliers. The semiconductor division aims to capitalize on the memory “super cycle” generated by the AI industry.

What will be the price of the Galaxy S26?

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Speculated Design Revamp: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Might Present Broader Format

A broader, more rectangular foldable is on the horizon.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

  • A fresh GSMA listing indicates that the gadget previously considered to be the “Flip 8 FE” is likely the much-speculated “Wide” Galaxy Z Fold 8.
  • Model number SM-F971 corresponds with a second Fold version set to launch alongside the regular Fold 8 (SM-F976).
  • The “Wide” Fold 8 is reported to feature two 18:9 screens that unfold into a square 18:18 display, resulting in a shorter, broader device when folded.

Disclaimer

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Do Magnets Present a Genuine Risk to Electronic Devices?

If you were raised around some of the older models of televisions and computers, you likely received at least one serious warning against placing a magnet near them. These cautions still carry on into contemporary times, with the idea of bringing a magnet close to any electronic device largely deemed unwise due to potential electronic damage. In reality, while magnets can pose a slight risk to certain devices, the vast majority of apprehension is a misunderstanding rooted in obsolete technology.

The main concern linked to magnets and electronics is the belief that putting a magnet next to a device could disrupt its components or wipe crucial data. This was certainly the case when gadgets like TVs and hard drives utilized magnetized parts, but such components are seldom used, if at all, in present-day technologies. The technology in today’s devices is considerably more resilient to the weak magnetic fields produced by a standard consumer-grade magnet, making it far less of a worry. Nevertheless, it is important to note that an exceptionally strong magnet could still harm modern electronics, but the likelihood of the average person owning or even running across such a magnet is minimal.

Magnets were previously a greater worry for CRT TVs and hard drives

Garmin Watch Merges Timeless and Contemporary Designs, Achieves Initial Cyber Monday Price Cut

It’s certainly an ideal moment for the initial discount to be introduced.

(Image credit: Garmin)

I’ve attempted to do without a smartwatch, yet I consistently find my way back. This time, it was Garmin that captured my attention with its latest Instinct Crossover AMOLED. Now’s your opportunity to grab one as this Cyber Monday offer signifies the first instance this new smartwatch has been marked down, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FGarmin-Instinct%25C2%25AE-Crossover-Smartwatch-Sunburst%2Fdp%2FB0FRGMG5FL%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-gb-1317818497849365334-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Instinct%C2%AE-Crossover-Smartwatch-Sunburst/dp/B0FRGMG5FL/" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" rel="sponsored noopener" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-google-interstitial="false" data-placeholder-url="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=

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Samsung’s Code Indicates Major Wireless Charging Enhancement for Galaxy S26

References to “Super fast wireless charging” have been discovered in the source code of One UI 8.5, indicating a notable enhancement for Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy S26 series. This new capability may enable the S26 Ultra to support 25W wireless charging, while the S26 and S26 Plus are expected to reach approximately 20W. This improvement could cut charging durations by up to 40%, though Samsung has yet to officially verify the precise speeds. The One UI 8.5 source code had previously referred only to “Wireless charging” and “Fast wireless charging,” which corresponded to 5-10W and 15W, respectively. The addition of “Super fast wireless charging” hints at a significant enhancement on the way. Samsung has been gearing up for Qi2 compatibility on the S26 series, with new Qi2 wireless chargers already released in the U.S. Although these speeds may not rival the 50W wireless charging observed in other flagship models like the OnePlus 15, they mark a considerable upgrade for Samsung’s range. Furthermore, leaked wallpapers indicate that the Galaxy S26 series might be available in six colors: Mint, Coral, Black, Violet, Silver, and Grey.

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Cyber Monday Offers: Apple Watch Series 11 priced at $329, iPad Mini 7 available for $349, M5 MacBook Pro discounted by $300, and more

**Cyber Monday 2025: Unbeatable Offers on Apple Products and More**

Cyber Monday has come to represent substantial savings and exclusive bargains, particularly for technology lovers. This year, the occasion features some of the most remarkable discounts on Apple products, alongside noteworthy offers from various other brands. Here’s an in-depth glance at the exceptional deals available this Cyber Monday.

### Apple Watch Series 11: Lowest Price Ever

The Apple Watch Series 11 has reached a historic low, with prices beginning at **$329** for the 42mm version and **$359** for the 46mm version. Retailers like Best Buy and Amazon are matching these prices, presenting an outstanding chance for those aiming to elevate their wearable tech. This **$70** reduction from the standard price is the most substantial we’ve seen since its launch, creating a perfect opportunity to secure Apple’s newest smartwatch.

### iPad Mini 7: Unmatched Offers

The iPad Mini 7 is also experiencing considerable price reductions, now priced at **$349**, a **$150** cut from its original cost. This deal is anticipated to be matched by Amazon soon, making it an excellent moment to acquire this compact tablet. The iPad Mini 7 merges portability with power, presenting an ideal option for users in need of a device that can comfortably fit in one hand.

### M5 MacBook Pro: Significant Discounts

For those searching for a new laptop, the M5 MacBook Pro is now **$300 cheaper**, with the most economical 24GB variant available for **$1,499**. This offer can be found through numerous retailers, including B&H, which features this pricing as part of its Cyber Monday specials. The M5 MacBook Pro fuses performance with efficiency, making it a preferred selection for professionals and students alike.

### Highlighted Offers from Other Brands

In addition to Apple products, various other brands are providing considerable discounts this Cyber Monday:

– **Roborock**: Enjoy savings of up to **$1,300** on top-tier robotic vacuums, with markdowns reaching as high as **50%**.
– **Aqara**: Smart home gadgets are offered at up to **48% off**, making it an ideal period to boost your home automation.
– **TORRAS**: iPhone cases and accessories are marked down by up to **60%**, with complimentary gifts available on qualifying purchases.
– **Narwal**: Robot cleaning systems are achieving discounts of up to **$500**, offering a fantastic chance to invest in home cleaning innovations.

### Accessory and Charging Promotions

Cyber Monday also features a range of accessory bargains, including:

– **MagSafe Power Banks**: Slim models are up for grabs at just **$36**.
– **Sony XM6 Headphones**: Sticking to an all-time low, these noise-canceling headphones are essential for sound aficionados.
– **Anker Chargers**: A compact 100W USB-C GaN charger is currently available for **$30**, rendering it a sensible option for on-the-go charging.

### Final Thoughts

Cyber Monday 2025 is filled with remarkable offers, particularly on Apple products. Whether you’re aiming to upgrade your technology or discover the ideal gift, this shopping occasion presents some of the year’s best prices. Be sure to act swiftly, as these deals are time-sensitive and inventory may deplete rapidly. Happy shopping!

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Four Essential Apps for Photographers

essential photography applications to fulfill your varying requirements as a photographer. You require one application for capturing images with greater liberty over the shooting experience, another for enhancing your images to achieve perfection, and a third for effortlessly storing and sharing your creations.

Photoshop Express

Though contemporary smartphones feature robust camera capabilities, you may not always capture an image that is ready for sharing.

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Consumer Reports: The 9 Most Unreliable Electric Vehicles

EVs that distinguish themselves by reliability. While certain models boast commendable ranges, rapid charging capabilities, and advanced interiors, others continue to face fundamental challenges such as software reliability, construction quality, or components prone to failure.

The combination of these problems leads to unreliable EVs that end up costing more than necessary. This is where this list becomes relevant. We aimed to create something clear and direct that identifies which EVs are perceived as the least reliable by experts like Consumer Reports. All-electric vehicles are already recognized to face more challenges compared to hybrids and gasoline vehicles — at least according to the reliability ratings from Consumer Reports — but some truly stand out in their lack of reliability.

Consumer Reports’ reliability evaluations stem from survey feedback from roughly 300,000 vehicle owners. These surveys assessed 20 potential issues, which included the engine, electric motor, and infotainment systems. While model years from 2000 to 2024 received formal reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, newer models were assigned only “predicted” reliability scores, reflecting the performance of their predecessors and the enhancements provided by the newer versions. Without further delay, let us examine the nine electric vehicles that are deemed the least reliable by Consumer Reports.

2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron