Author: sparta

Mid-Range Fitbit Retains 40% Black Friday Discount: Timeframe Unknown

The Fitbit Versa 4 may not be the latest fitness tracker available, yet it remains a reliable choice.

Although the Black Friday and Cyber Monday smartwatch promotions have concluded, you can still discover some valuable holiday savings if you search in the right places. For example, we found a [40% discount on the Fitbit Versa 4 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Fitbit-Smartwatch-Readiness-Exercise-Tracking/dp/B0B4MWCFV4), reducing its price to just $120.

The Versa 4 is considered our top recommendation for mid-tier Fitbit models, despite Google’s recent focus on integrating advanced functionalities into the Pixel series. Nevertheless, the Versa 4 still delivers users GPS capabilities, 24/7 heart rate tracking, and multiple exercise modes to select from. Its slightly smaller size compared to most smartwatches makes it an ideal choice for sleep tracking, particularly in comparison to the bulkier alternatives out there.

Additionally, the Versa 4 provides access to applications such as Fitbit Pay, Amazon Alexa, Google Wallet, and Maps, along with daily stress management tools and readiness features. It features a long-lasting battery, 50-meter water resistance, and additional health metrics, including menstrual health tracking, guided breathing exercises, mindfulness programs, and more. At the time of this writing, this offer is available for the Black, Pink Sand, and Waterfall Blue variants of the smartwatch.

The Fitbit Versa 4 is the [top mid-range Fitbit](https://www.androidcentral.com/best-fitbit#section-best-midrange), and the current price of $120 makes it even more attractive compared to some rival products. This offer provides a 40% discount off the standard retail price of the watch, presenting buyers with an excellent entry option for a medium-sized fitness tracker that boasts numerous features.

✅Recommended if: you’re in search of a [fitness watch](https://www.androidcentral.com/best-smartwatches-fitness) that is not overly bulky on your wrist, yet still has a sufficiently large screen for functionality; you appreciate long battery life in a fitness tracker; you prefer having a physical button for smartwatch controls.

❌Skip this deal if: you require a device that allows you to use downloadable applications and music offline; you’re considering an upgrade to Google’s Pixel Watch series; you prefer not having to register for a subscription to utilize the complete spectrum of your Fitbit’s functionalities.

The

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The Benefits of Opting for an Affordable Robot Vacuum Instead of a Roomba

the Roomba remains a fantastic vacuum, but you might question whether the brand’s value is justified, particularly in comparison to more affordable alternatives. Typically, the most budget-friendly Roombas available are in the 100- and 200-series, which tend to be priced around $250 when discounted. However, these entry-level models are devoid of some features like remote control and advanced LiDAR-based zoning capabilities. For genuine budget-consciousness while retaining essential features, consider robotic vacuums from brands like Eufy, Roborock, or Tapo.

Eufy: An excellent robot vacuum

The Impact of Every Planet in the Solar System on the Human Body

Earth possesses an optimal balance of a breathable atmosphere and a protective magnetic field, shielding us from the harmful radiation of the Sun and its radioactive winds, making our survival on this planet feasible. It’s quite uncommon for a planet to have such favorable conditions for habitation, even though we are aware that most forms of life on Earth could cease to exist in a billion years. The remaining seven planets in our Solar System aren’t as fortunate. Although they may not all support life, each one is unique with remarkable characteristics. Given their differences, you might be curious about what would transpire if a human were to set foot on these other worlds.

We will examine the effects on your body if you were to stand on the surface of any other planet in our Solar System. In some cases, you may never even touch the ground due to the hazardous atmosphere, while in others, the gaseous or liquid surface might be incapable of supporting you. Many of these environments are uninhabitable, and specialized gear (much of which has yet to be developed) would be essential for movement and survival. We will detail what occurs to your body on various planets and the challenges you would face on each one.

Mercury

The Sun’s nearest planet is Mercury, and as anticipated, it would be extremely scorching to visit. Should you land on the planet safely during daylight, the intense surface heat would cause your skin to melt away. Earth’s safety is attributed to the envelope of gases known as the atmosphere, held in place by the planet’s gravity. Mercury lacks a true atmosphere; instead, it has a delicate exosphere. Due to its thinness, the extreme heat and radiation from the Sun can freely reach the planet, resulting in soaring temperatures. During the day, expect temperatures to reach about 800 degrees Fahrenheit, and at night, drop to -290 degrees Fahrenheit. If the extreme heat doesn’t claim you, the cold surely will. At Mercury’s surface, the gravitational pull resembles that of Mars, meaning you’d weigh only a third of your Earth weight.

Additionally, Mercury’s magnetic field is considerably weaker than that of Earth, merely 1% as strong. Consequently, there are frozen water pools at both the north and south poles of Mercury, which remain shrouded in darkness. Should you land in those areas, you would be shielded from the extreme heat. However, you would be confronted with the perpetual frigid temperatures.

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Apple Watch Series 11 Hits All-Time Low Price in Black Friday 2.0 Sale, Beginning at $129

### The Apple Watch: A Holiday Essential

From fitness monitoring to keeping you connected on the go, the Apple Watch has become a vital gadget for many. With the holiday season on the horizon, it’s an ideal moment to think about gifting or upgrading to an Apple Watch, especially with considerable discounts across the entire range.

#### Current Offers on Apple Watch Models

Whether you’re diving into the Apple Watch world for the first time or aiming to upgrade your current device, there are offers for everyone. The newly launched Apple Watch Series 11, which made its debut in September, is set to be the top-selling model of this generation. At present, it is available at the lowest prices recorded so far across nearly all models, with only a few high-end Titanium versions remaining at elevated prices. With holiday shipping deadlines nearing, it’s unlikely there will be further significant price cuts.

#### Discovering the Apple Watch SE 3

For those in search of a more economical choice, the Apple Watch SE 3 has attracted interest with its updated features, including an always-on display, gesture recognition, and the powerful S10 chip. While some may prefer the upscale experience of the Apple Watch Ultra, the SE 3 delivers outstanding functionality for a much lower price—approximately $600 less during the holiday discounts.

#### The Premium Selection: Apple Watch Ultra

The Apple Watch Ultra is recognized as a premium selection, frequently labeled as the most advanced wrist computer available. With a price tag of $799, it represents a notable expenditure. However, discerning buyers might consider last year’s Apple Watch Ultra 2 for a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on quality.

#### The Apple Watch SE 2: An Affordable Option

For those in search of a basic device, the Apple Watch SE 2 is now available for only $129 during holiday sales. Although it may lack the latest features present in the Series 11 or SE 3, it offers fundamental functionality for casual users or children. It’s important to note that the GPS + Cellular variants have prices comparable to the base model, although color choices are limited.

### Conclusion

With a variety of models and substantial discounts available, the Apple Watch is an attractive option this holiday season. Whether you choose the latest Series 11, the feature-packed SE 3, the premium Ultra, or the affordable SE 2, there is an Apple Watch suitable for every requirement and budget.

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Xiaomi 17 Ultra Release Expected to Come with Premium Price Tag

**Xiaomi 17 Ultra Expected to Launch in Late December Amidst Quiet from Xiaomi**

The technology community is rife with speculation regarding the much-anticipated unveiling of Xiaomi’s 17 Ultra, with suggestions indicating a launch in China on December 26. In spite of the anticipation, Xiaomi has not released any information about the specifics.

**Key Information:**

– A post on Weibo indicates a potential December 26 release for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in China.
– The smartphone might come in two configurations: 12/256GB and 16/1TB.
– There are reports of features such as satellite communication for messaging and calls, along with a 200MP camera.

**Speculations and Features:**

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is likely to mirror the trends of its predecessors, offering two RAM/storage configurations estimated to be priced at around 6,499 yuan (~$919) and 7,799 yuan (~$1,103). A short pre-order phase is expected to run from December 15 through December 25, alluding to a possible announcement around December 14 in the U.S.

It is rumored that the device will feature satellite connectivity, particularly for the Chinese edition, leveraging Tiantong-1 and Beidou technology. This function may not extend to other regions.

Photography aficionados are especially excited about the camera capabilities of the 17 Ultra. Reports indicate a Leica-labeled arrangement featuring a 200MP lens alongside three 50MP lenses, which are expected to offer notable enhancements in image quality.

While early predictions pointed to a 2026 release, the schedule appears to have changed, though Xiaomi has yet to verify any particulars. As the expected date draws nearer, the tech industry eagerly anticipates formal announcements from Xiaomi.

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How to Obtain a Complimentary $300 Verizon Gift Card for the Holiday Season

Verizon’s festive sale just became significantly more captivating. Verizon’s holiday sale is active now, and once again, the Android phone offers are impressive. Promotions from carriers that provide a complimentary phone with a new line are quite standard, but Verizon is raising the stakes by offering a FREE $300 gift card when you purchase a device and add an eligible line to your service account.

The highlight of this deal is its stackability, meaning you could receive a free device AND the free gift card if you take advantage of the holiday promotion today. I assure you, I’m serious. This offer applies to all of Verizon’s myPlan Unlimited plans, including the budget-friendly Unlimited Welcome tier.

Verizon distinguishes itself with innovative holiday promotions. Just in time for the holidays, Verizon is presenting a deal that grants you a FREE $300 gift card when you purchase a phone with a new line on ANY myPlan Unlimited plan. Many of the finest Android phones are part of this promotion, and you can merge offers to enhance your savings.

Google Pixel 10 128GB: $799.99 FREE with a new line on any myPlan Unlimited plan, plus a $300 gift card at Verizon. When you add a line with Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, Plus, or Ultimate plan, you’ll accumulate $800 in promotional credits over 36 months. This is adequate to make the Google Pixel 10 (or another 2025 device) entirely free! Combine that with the above-mentioned $300 gift card offer, and your holiday shopping now feels much simpler.

Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, and Unlimited Ultimate plans will all entitle you to the $300 gift card promotion, and since offers can be combined, you could end up with a free phone AND additional Verizon cash; all you need to do is cover the wireless service.

The $300 gift card can only be used on Verizon.com, but the official store indeed features a broad selection of products to explore, including smartwatches, tablets, chargers, and protective phone cases. You can even apply the Verizon gift card to reduce your wireless balance!

Deals from wireless carriers usually come with considerable fine print, making it refreshing to witness something this transparent from a Big Three provider. However, many of the top Verizon deals of the season are set to conclude on December 18th, so if this holiday promotion has sparked your enthusiasm, don’t delay in acting.

Holiday shopping 2025 – quick links:
– Best Buy: up to 50% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
– Amazon: major discounts on headphones, smart home tech
– Walmart: 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

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Samsung’s Five Most Popular Smartphones in Q3 2025 Were All Non-Flagship Models

Apple and Samsung have once more demonstrated their prominence in the smartphone arena, each securing five of the top ten positions on Counterpoint Research’s list of best-selling smartphones for Q3 2025. Apple has reinforced its standing in the premium sector, with all of its leading models priced over $600. The iPhone 16 series, especially the base version, spearheaded the effort, holding onto its top position for the third straight quarter with a 4% volume share. The iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, and iPhone 16e closely trailed, underscoring Apple’s stronghold in the premium market.

Conversely, Samsung has thrived in the budget and midrange categories, with its Galaxy A series occupying the fifth through ninth positions. The Galaxy A16 5G proved to be the top-seller among Samsung’s offerings, succeeded by the Galaxy A06, Galaxy A36, Galaxy A56, and Galaxy A16 4G. Importantly, Samsung had no premium devices on the chart, indicating a departure from the prior year when the Galaxy S24 was a notable presence.

The lack of Samsung’s premium devices, like the Galaxy S25, from the best-sellers list signifies a potential early seasonal downturn as buyers look forward to the forthcoming Galaxy S26 series. Counterpoint Research credits Samsung’s performance in the midrange sector to the incorporation of AI features, boosting the value and competitiveness of these devices.

Furthermore, the report highlights the escalating consumer inclination for 5G technology, with all top five positions filled by 5G-enabled smartphones. This pattern emphasizes the rising significance of 5G capabilities in consumer buying decisions across multiple regions.

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Riyadh Air: Investigating the Consequences of Being the Globe’s Initial AI-Native Airline

airlines turning to AI algorithms for dynamic pricing that could result in increased fares for certain passengers. However, Riyadh Air aims to surpass what some of its competitors might offer by incorporating AI functionalities into every aspect of the customer and employee experience. The advantage of Riyadh Air over its competitors lies in the fact that the airline has only just begun its journey.

It’s currently operating a select number of initial flights, with intentions to commence commercial operations in early 2026. This gives Riyadh Air the opportunity to execute its AI-native approach from the beginning, instead of adapting extensive airline operations into an AI-native framework. “We faced a clear decision — become the last airline relying on outdated technology or the first built on the platforms that will shape the next decade of aviation,” stated Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air. “With IBM, we’ve removed fifty years of legacy in one move. Riyadh Air is designed not just for today; it’s designed for the future and paves the way for many airlines to emulate in the coming years.”

What precisely is an AI-native airline?

Crucial USB Devices Strongly Suggested by iPhone Users

gadgets that can be connected to your device. However, despite the numerous options accessible, determining what is genuinely beneficial and what is deceptive can be challenging.

Thankfully, you can’t go wrong with suggestions from fellow iPhone users who courageously tried various USB devices. We’ve assembled a compilation of the best iPhone USB gadgets based on product ratings on Amazon that other users vouch for.

The compilation features practical gadgets that enhance your iPhone experience, including a flash drive — unlike the typical iPhone accessories such as power banks, charging cables, and adapters commonly found in most online lists. For further information concerning our selection process for these products, the complete methodology can be found at the conclusion of the article.

Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller

Your iPhone is packed with impressive capabilities and excels in mobile gaming. Yet, relying on touch screen controls isn’t always ideal for certain genres of games like action-oriented RPGs. Backbone’s One Mobile gaming controller resolves this by presenting a familiar layout for playing those game types. The device features a design inspired by traditional controllers with a D-pad, joysticks, and buttons, ensuring you’ll feel comfortable using it.

This controller is compatible with USB-C iPhones, beginning with the iPhone 15 series. It is also adjustable, accommodating any model from the iPhone 15 to the iPhone 17. You can utilize the controller to enjoy mobile games on your iPhone (from the App Store or Apple Arcade). Additionally, it allows gaming from external platforms like Steam and Xbox Cloud Gaming. The Backbone companion app enables you to aggregate your games from various sources into a unified interface, <a href="https://www.bgr.com/tech/this-controller-could-turn-your-iphone-into-a-real-gaming-console

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Amazon’s Best-Selling Apple Watch Priced at a $200 Savings Ahead of the Holidays

The Apple Watch requires no explanation as the prominent smart wearable from one of today’s leading technology firms. Beyond the elegant and fashionable case and band styles that shape the exterior, the software is user-friendly and consistently receives updates that introduce new functionalities, the most recent being in watchOS 26.2. These updates feature fresh watch faces, new user interface modifications, and overall performance enhancements to ensure the device operates more efficiently. It also aids in prolonging the lifespan of older models for those who purchased them a while back.

Considering all of this, potential buyers might be thrilled to learn that the popular Apple Watch SE 3, equipped with GPS and in the 40mm size, is now $200 ahead of the holiday season, reduced from its regular price of $249. On Amazon alone, the Apple Watch SE 3 has amassed over 500 ratings worldwide, boasting a 4.8 out of 5 aggregate score, with 87% of all reviews rated five stars. Digging deeper, users have remarked that it “performs excellently,” is the “ideal upgrade” from a previous version, or is simply the “best everyday watch” overall.

The design, user experience, and features all meet user satisfaction; however, as often seen with smart devices under frequent use, the battery life has mixed reviews based on usage patterns. Apple indicates that you can expect around 18 hours of battery life. Some users report longer durations, while others experience less. Nevertheless, with Apple’s health monitoring functionalities, seamless integration with iPhones and Macs, and added safety features like crash or fall detection, the Apple Watch stands out in the wearable technology market. This offer reduces the regular price by $50, giving you one of the most budget-friendly options in the Apple Watch range.

Why consider this Apple Watch deal?

The Apple Watch SE 3 update is a feature of Apple’s latest 2025 lineup, which also includes the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11. Notably, the SE 3 aims to be the most cost-effective option, showcasing the S10 chip, an always-on display — a first for the budget model — and new gesture controls. Its popularity arises from the fact that it maintains usability and premium features without compromising quality to achieve a lower price point — you still receive many of the same functionalities and technologies found in pricier Apple Watch versions, validating the watchOS software.

That’s precisely what makes the current Amazon deal so appealing. The Apple Watch SE 3 is already attractively priced, but this offer discounts it by $50, making it even more affordable ahead of the holidays. Certainly, it would serve as an ideal smartwatch for anyone looking to indulge, but it also makes for a remarkable gift, especially for someone dear to you.

It may be obvious to mention that the Apple Watch excels at far more than just showing time, but there are numerous lesser-known features that make it an excellent gift for the active and busy individuals you know. For instance, you can control your Apple TV with your Apple Watch, craft personalized workouts, function as a quick-access walkie-talkie with fellow Apple Watch users, and identify sleep issues such as sleep apnea. Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This deal is likely to gain popularity, especially given those Amazon user reviews. Users truly appreciate the Apple Watch SE 3.

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