the finest headphones, Bluetooth connectivity is by far the most prevalent method of connecting, though certain specialized models use alternative methods. The concise response is that Bluetooth tends to be more universally compatible with devices, while wireless can provide a more fluid transmission.
# 2025 Technology Gift Guide for Apple Aficionados
As the festive season draws near, it’s time to begin selecting presents for the Apple fans in your circle. This guide highlights tech products that have shown to be especially beneficial over the year, making them superb gift choices.
## Nomad Tracking Card
Getting a reliable tracker is crucial for anyone who tends to misplace items. The **Nomad Tracking Card** is a stylish option that works seamlessly with Apple’s Find My network. Unlike many other trackers, it features MagSafe recharge capabilities and has a battery life of around five months per charge. Currently priced at $29.99, it is available at a 25% discount for Prime members this Cyber Monday.
## BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller
For gaming enthusiasts, the **BACKBONE One Mobile Gaming Controller** is an essential gadget. Compatible with iPhone 15 and newer models, as well as Android devices featuring USB-C, this controller significantly elevates the gaming experience. With a retail price of $99.99, it is presently discounted by 20% for Cyber Monday.
## Mophie Powerstation Wireless Slim
The **Mophie Powerstation Wireless Slim** is a 10,000 mAh power bank that offers 15W MagSafe wireless charging and 30W USB-C PD fast charging. It’s ideal for ensuring your iPhone remains powered throughout the day. The regular price is $79.95, with options for a stand or a more streamlined version available at varying prices.
## Aurzen BOOM Air Projector
Convert any location into a movie theater experience with the **Aurzen BOOM Air projector**. Available for $299, it can be purchased for $179.99 during Cyber Monday. This portable projector includes built-in Google TV software, adjustable stands, and can even be powered using a USB-C power bank, making it adaptable for different viewing settings.
## OWC Ultra Fast External SSD
Enhance your storage with the **OWC Ultra Fast External SSD**. This device provides cutting-edge Thunderbolt speeds and operates silently, making it perfect for managing substantial files. The 2TB variant generally sells for $349.99 but is currently reduced to $279.99. It’s a trustworthy option for those in need of external storage.
## Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station
The **Belkin MagSafe 3-in-1 wireless charging station** is ideal for charging an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once. The newest version, which allows for quicker charging, is priced at $119.99 but is offered for $77.75 this Cyber Monday.
## OtterBox 2-in-1 Crossbody Strap
The **OtterBox 2-in-1 Crossbody Strap** is a useful accessory for individuals wanting to keep their iPhone safe and handy. With a retail price of $54.99, it is currently discounted to $26.39. It is compatible with Apple’s iPhone 17 cases, making it a fashionable and functional present.
## Mixx Analog System 5 Hi-Fi Vinyl Record Player
For those who appreciate vinyl, the **Mixx Analog System 5** is an elegant record player that includes wireless speakers. Priced at $299.99, it features both optical and Bluetooth connectivity, making it a fantastic enhancement for any music aficionado’s collection.
## Level Lock Pro
The **Level Lock Pro** is an intelligent lock that merges security with convenience. It enables users to unlock their doors using their iPhone or Apple Watch and integrates effortlessly with Apple’s Home app. This cutting-edge lock retails for $329.99 and is a valuable investment for improving home security.
## Conclusion
These tech gifts not only serve practical purposes but also enrich the experience within the Apple ecosystem. Whether for gaming, charging, or home automation, each product provides distinct features that meet the desires of Apple users. Keep these suggestions in mind as you get ready for the holiday season.
Read More### Apple TV in the Workplace: A Missed Opportunity
#### Introduction
Apple TV is frequently underestimated in business environments, yet it provides substantial benefits for IT departments in various uses, such as meeting rooms, retail presentations, training areas, and electronic signage. Despite its capabilities, its widespread adoption in extensive deployments is obstructed by its dependency on several cables, especially the requirement for an external power source.
#### Why Apple TV is Effective in the Workplace
Configuring and deploying Apple TV is relatively straightforward with device management solutions. Its compatibility with AirPlay reduces cable clutter, and zero-touch deployment allows IT teams to ship devices without the need for manual setup. Digital signage applications from companies like Kitcast and Carousel enhance its utility, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other digital signage solutions.
#### Drawbacks of Apple TV
The main limitation of Apple TV in business settings is its need for at least two cables: one for power and another for data. This intricacy can result in unattractive installations, especially in locations where a neat appearance is important. For example, installing a TV in a retail environment often requires a cumbersome outlet or concealed power strip, complicating the setup process.
#### Advocating for Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Adopting Power over Ethernet (PoE) could greatly simplify Apple TV installations. A single cable supplying both power and data would facilitate easier setups across various environments, from corporate reception areas to restaurant menus and training displays. PoE would also improve reliability and decrease the number of potential failure points during installation.
#### Rethinking the Design
There is also potential for Apple to revolutionize the Apple TV’s form factor. A compact variant that connects directly to an HDMI port, akin to a Roku Stick, would be perfect for spaces with limited mounting options. Integrating this design with PoE capabilities would further enhance deployment versatility. Furthermore, enabling the device to be powered through the USB port on a TV could eliminate the necessity for an additional power cable.
#### Conclusion
With the incorporation of PoE and a more versatile design, Apple TV could emerge as a strong contender against Chromeboxes, Intel NUC devices, and other economical signage alternatives common in business and retail spaces. Apple TV already shines with its stable operating system, managed updates, native AirPlay functionality, and strong IT controls. Improving its design and power solutions would strengthen its standing as a premier choice for enterprise signage and shared displays.
enhanced its product with new color options, and even launched a second generation of the HomePod featuring more robust sound and advanced audio technologies. Nevertheless, none of these introductions have managed to turn Apple’s HomePod into a hit.
For some time, speculation regarding the HomePod mini 2 has circulated online, yet its release remains unverified. In 2025, reports indicated that this device was on the verge of being launched, but as this year comes to a close, Apple appears to have postponed its introduction to 2026.
Nonetheless, leaked code indicates that this device not only exists, but it is indeed forthcoming. As reported by Macworld, Apple’s internal coding suggests the company is preparing to unveil an enhanced speaker equipped with the same S10 chip that powers the most recent Apple Watch models.
Users of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold can now observe recent images on one half of the screen while utilizing the Camera app.
Notice
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iOS 26.2 has just launched, and a source is already disclosing some of the initial features we might expect Apple to unveil with iOS 27 and iOS 28. These software revisions are anticipated to arrive in the fall of 2026 and 2027, but an early build of iOS 26 contains data regarding what Apple intends to introduce with these updates.
According to Filipe Espósito from Macworld, iOS 27 is set to enhance collections in the Photos app. Given that Apple continually updates the Photos app, the exact nature of these modifications remains uncertain. It’s unknown whether Apple will implement local LLMs to enhance memories or assist users in locating specific moments more effortlessly.
The reporter further indicates that Apple seeks to improve the AirPods’ pairing system, although the functionality of this system is still ambiguous, as the existing method is already user-friendly. Nevertheless, the company may enhance its speed and dependability. Lastly, the reporter notes that iOS 28 is expected to introduce entirely new metrics for sleep tracking with the Apple Watch, including time spent in bed. Additionally, macOS 28 might finally incorporate the Health app on the Mac, as Apple continues to strengthen the integration across its platforms.
Gemini AI assistant extends its functionality to a range of internet-connected devices beyond just smartphones. In May, the initial list featured vehicles equipped with Android Auto, Wear OS smartwatches, Google TV devices, and Android XR headsets. Google implemented Gemini AI support for these categories in phases over the subsequent months. In August, Google revealed that Gemini AI would be accessible on Google Home devices starting in October. The company adhered to this schedule, making the Gemini for Home assistant available for smart home devices by mid-October.
Nonetheless, the company provided only an Early Access experience to users. As previously reported, users needed to enroll in the Google Home Early Access program to initiate voice interactions with Gemini on their smart home devices. The gradual rollout was not unexpected among internet users familiar with the launch of new AI products and features. Companies typically pilot AI products with a smaller audience before broader availability. This approach allows an AI company to resolve issues and deliver a more seamless experience once the product is fully developed.
On December 9, Google announced it was prepared to expedite invites for Gemini AI for Google Home more rapidly than earlier. The company noted that many individuals were interested in joining the early access program, and Google is broadening access. Any Google Home user looking to access Gemini for Home can receive an invite within 24 hours. Support for third-party speakers will also be included.
Reyanaska/Shutterstock
The Gemini for Home functionality continues to be in Early Access, even with the expanded rollout, but Google can accommodate more users than previously. Recently, Google distributed invites for the Gemini for Home voice assistant beta program to millions of users across the U.S. Those users have shown high engagement, and the early access program
Read Morediscovering concealed features of Apple TV to streaming popular channels at no cost, there’s a multitude of things you can accomplish with the tech giant’s digital media streamer. Yet, if an older version is lying around, there’s a way to make use of the device beyond letting it gather dust.
For instance, consider using your gadget to turn your television into an enormous display or repurpose it as a music device. Each of the suggestions provided here is quite simple to implement, so revitalizing your old device can be rather effortless.
Similar to finding new functions for outdated CD and DVD players, creating a different purpose for your previous Apple TV will extend its lifespan, and it’s an excellent means to prevent your old device from ending up in an environmentally damaging landfill. Instead of allowing your old Apple TV to remain in an unlabeled box for an indefinite period, explore the ideas below to get it up and running once more.
Your initial Pixel Watch is unable to check the weather at the moment, but stay calm.
What you should understand
– The Google Weather app is stuck on endless loading screens and download failures instead of providing real forecasts.
– The glitch impacts more than simply the app, as weather tiles like Forecast, Sun, and UV Index are also unable to load or gather location information.
– Google has acknowledged the problem, confirming it as a known issue specifically affecting first-gen Pixel Watch hardware.
If you recently looked at your watch for the weather, you likely encountered no information. Owners of the original Pixel Watch and older Samsung Galaxy Watch models are finding that the Google Weather app has ceased functioning.
In a recent Reddit thread, a user posted a transcript from a customer support conversation affirming that Google is aware of the disruption. As initially reported by 9to5Google, instead of displaying the temperature or UV index, the app shows a “Loading…” screen, followed by a “Can’t download weather data” error.
Hitting “Retry” just sends you into an endless cycle. The issue isn’t confined to the app alone. The Forecast, Sun, and UV Index tiles remain blank, showing a “Couldn’t retrieve your location” notification.
Poor update likely to be the cause
Android Central can verify that this bug also impacts other smartwatches utilizing Wear OS 3.5, not solely the original Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch. The problem most likely stems from Google’s transition to newer software. In September, Google ceased providing the Weather app for devices operating on Wear OS 6.
The strategy was to encourage users toward manufacturer-specific apps, such as the new Pixel Weather on the Pixel Watch 2, 3, and 4. However, Google clearly stated that the older app would keep functioning for anyone who had it previously installed.
That assurance has encountered issues. The dominant theory — at least on Reddit — is that Google released an update meant for Wear OS 6 that unintentionally disrupted compatibility with previous firmware versions. As the original Pixel Watch still operates on older software, the app and the watch are not working in tandem.
Google’s support representative indicated that the team is aware of the issue and is developing a firmware update to resolve it. Nevertheless, there is no specific timeline for when the solution will be implemented. This is exasperating for users, particularly since these devices are struggling with a fundamental task.
Read MoreMSC Cruises has introduced a new rule prohibiting the use of smart glasses in all communal areas on its vessels, citing concerns over privacy. Gadgets like Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which are capable of subtly capturing photos, videos, or audio, are currently banned. If guests are caught wearing these gadgets in public zones, crew members have the authority to seize them. This ruling is part of MSC Cruises’ revised luggage and prohibited items policy, designed to ensure that guests can unwind without the worry of being filmed without their approval.
The cruise line highlights that while smartphones clearly indicate when photos are being taken, smart glasses look like ordinary eyewear, leading to ambiguity regarding recording actions. Even though some smart glasses feature LED indicators for recording, these can easily be missed in well-lit or busy settings.
MSC Cruises has not completely restricted smart glasses from being brought onboard, but their use is not permitted in public spaces such as dining areas, pool decks, theaters, or lounges. Passengers are only allowed to utilize them in the comfort of their cabins. The policy implies that MSC favors guests to leave smart glasses at home to prevent any possible complications during their cruise.
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