Author: sparta

Black Friday Deals on AirPods: Price Cuts on AirPods Pro 3, $69 AirPods 4, and More Promotions

### Unmatched Black Friday Offers on AirPods

This Black Friday, AirPods are standing out as among the top offers around. It’s uncommon to find substantial discounts on Apple’s newest items, making this year especially significant for buyers. Discounts are being monitored on the recently launched AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), AirPods Max, and more.

#### AirPods Pro 3: A Revolutionary Option

The AirPods Pro 3 are celebrated as the “best in-ear active noise cancellation” earbuds globally. They provide an extraordinary audio experience, featuring twice the ANC performance of their earlier models and including built-in heart-rate sensors. Currently, you can acquire them for an amazing price of $170 in Like New condition via Amazon’s official Resale store. This offer comes with Amazon’s 30-day return policy, assuring confidence regarding the product’s condition and performance.

#### AirPods 4: Unrivaled Offer

The AirPods 4 are also experiencing considerable discounts, with prices falling to as low as $69. This is an exceptional deal, as current-generation Apple devices seldom receive such drastic price cuts. Additionally, Amazon is including AirPods 4 with two years of AppleCare+ for only $88, a major reduction from the typical price of $158. For those who prefer noise cancellation, the AirPods 4 with ANC can be purchased for $100, presenting fantastic value compared to the standard model.

#### AirPods Max: High-End Audio for Less

For those in search of over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max are also discounted, with price cuts approaching $150 off the usual price. Currently available for $429, this offer marks one of the best seen in the last year, making it a prime opportunity for prospective buyers.

#### Other Offers on Beats Products

Besides AirPods, many deals are available on Beats products, which come in a variety of styles and fits to suit different tastes. Discounts have also been applied to the Powerbeats Pro 2, which feature a built-in heart rate sensor for fitness tracking.

### Conclusion

This Black Friday presents a rare chance for shoppers to buy AirPods and Beats products at unprecedented prices. Whether you’re looking for the latest advancements with the AirPods Pro 3 or in need of an affordable choice with the AirPods 4, there are offers available that accommodate a diverse range of preferences and requirements.

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Apple TV Provides Black Friday Savings: Subscribe for $5.99/month (Half Price)

### Apple TV Black Friday Offer: Avail It for Only $5.99/Month

Apple TV is presenting a captivating Black Friday offer, enabling both new and returning subscribers to enjoy the streaming service for only $5.99 per month for a period of up to six months. This deal is valid until Monday, December 1, and signifies a reduction of over 50% from the standard subscription fee of $12.99 per month.

#### Subscription Information

To seize this temporary offer, interested individuals may subscribe directly via the Apple TV website. The subscription can be canceled at any point; however, if not terminated, it will renew automatically at the regular rate following the six-month promotional duration. Importantly, this offer is not available to users already qualified for three free months of Apple TV or those whose subscriptions are charged through third-party services.

#### New Arrivals on Apple TV

For those who might not be up to date with Apple TV’s content, there is plenty of new material to check out. The platform is currently showcasing **Pluribus**, a sci-fi thriller by the creator of *Breaking Bad*, which has turned into the service’s most significant drama release to date.

Moreover, audiences can indulge in the mystery thriller **Down Cemetery Road**, starring Emma Thompson, alongside fresh seasons of well-liked shows such as **Slow Horses** and **The Morning Show**. Apple TV has also been incorporating several high-profile films, with **F1 The Movie** set to debut on December 12.

#### Final Thoughts

With the festive season nearing, this is a perfect opportunity to think about subscribing to Apple TV, particularly at the current promotional price. The platform features a wide array of beloved shows and films, including popular titles like *Ted Lasso* and *Severance*. For those interested, the subscription can also be combined with Apple One for extra savings.

For additional details and to subscribe, visit the

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Apple Evaluates Intel for the Advancement of Future M-Series Processors, As Per Report

Apple presently collaborates solely with TSMC for the fabrication of its M-series processors, which drive various devices such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Nevertheless, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that this might soon change, with Intel likely being added as a new supplier.

### Intel Could Begin Manufacturing Apple’s M-Series Chips in 2027

According to Kuo, Apple is exploring the idea of diversifying its supply chain by incorporating Intel as a partner starting in 2027. This transition could represent a major shift in Apple’s chip production strategy, which has predominantly depended on TSMC.

Kuo’s analysis indicates that Intel is anticipated to start supplying Apple’s entry-level M processor by 2027. Apple has previously entered into a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Intel and has acquired the advanced-node 18AP process design kit (PDK). Significant simulation and research initiatives are reportedly proceeding as expected, with Apple awaiting Intel’s rollout of PDK 1.0/1.1, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The timeframe for Intel to commence shipping the low-end M processor, likely the M5, is estimated for the second or third quarter of 2027, depending on the development progress following the arrival of the new PDK.

Kuo clarifies that the “low-end M processor” refers to the standard M-class chip, without including the more advanced M5 Pro, M5 Max, or M5 Ultra variations. TSMC is projected to continue manufacturing these premium chips, in addition to the high-volume iPhone-class chips like the A19 and A19 Pro.

Kuo considers this prospective partnership with Intel advantageous for Apple for two main reasons:

1. **Support for ‘Made in USA’ Policy**: Collaborating with Intel could reflect Apple’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing efforts, especially given the policies of the Trump administration.

2. **Supply Chain Diversification**: While TSMC will remain an essential partner for advanced nodes, having Intel as a secondary source could improve Apple’s supply chain management and mitigate risks related to over-dependence on a single supplier.

The possibility of Apple working with Intel to produce M-series chips prompts inquiries about the future of Apple’s silicon strategy and its ramifications for the technology sector.

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Top 5 Motives to Purchase Flip Phones such as Motorola Razr and Galaxy Z Flip this Black Friday

The Motorola Razr and Galaxy Z Flip are exciting devices, and many are currently discounted for Black Friday!

Incredibly, flip phones have made a comeback. Over the past few years, models like the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr have become more prevalent amidst a sea of flat devices. However, despite their millions of annual sales, a considerable number of individuals remain skeptical about foldable phones or question the necessity of flip phones.

I have utilized Motorola Razr (and a few Galaxy Z Flip) devices in recent years, and while I’m frequently approached by people who find them cool, I’ve also encountered some reluctance. Much of this hesitance revolves around durability, while others are simply let down that it’s not an iPhone.

So, why should you think about choosing a flip phone as your next smartphone? Beyond the fact that they typically cost less than larger foldable models, here are my primary reasons to purchase a flip phone during Black Friday.

Black Friday flip phone offers

Motorola Razr Ultra 2025: was $1,299.99 now $884.99 at Amazon
The Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 is one of the top flip phones on the market and also one of the priciest. Luckily, you can currently save over $400, which is truly a bargain for such an impressive device.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7: was $1,099.99 now $899.99 at Amazon
Samsung’s finest flip phone to date isn’t exactly inexpensive at more than $1000, but this $200 Black Friday discount makes it more budget-friendly than most standard flagship smartphones.

Motorola Razr 2024: was $699.99 now $384.99 at Amazon
Flip phones are more affordable than ever, and with this Black Friday offer on the Motorola Razr 2024, you can snag a great device for just under $400. It’s an extraordinary discount of over $300, so make sure to grab it before it’s gone!

Portability

One feature of flip phones that immediately drew me in was their portability. Larger foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold maintain a standard smartphone dimension and unfold into something resembling a small tablet. In contrast, a flip phone begins at a conventional smartphone size and contracts to about half that when closed.

Android Central’s Jerry Hildenbrand appreciates this characteristic of his Razr 2024, and Nick Sutrich’s spouse also enjoys how the Razr Plus 2024 fits easily into any purse or pocket. Motorola and Samsung have also embraced this with accessories like ring stand cases for the Galaxy Z Flip or crossbody cases/straps for the Motorola Razr.

The only drawback is that folding it in half effectively doubles the phone’s thickness, meaning it may stick out more from your pocket. Fortunately, devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 7 are tackling this with noticeably slimmer designs.

Cover display

For me, the cover display is arguably my favorite feature of using a flip phone such as the fantastic Razr Ultra 2025. For many devices, this serves as a superb means to check notifications, reply to messages, and quickly view updates without needing to open your phone and be distracted by the full screen.

These displays become even more useful with larger cover screens on newer models. On the Motorola Razr series, you can use your apps on the cover screen without opening the device. Simply select the apps you want to access on the cover screen, arrange them as you wish, and you’re set.

The setup process is a bit more involved on the Galaxy Z Flip 7, but you can still use your apps on the cover screen.

While scaling isn’t always ideal, I believe this provides an excellent way to use apps more discreetly than if they occupied your entire main screen, which is beneficial for privacy in public settings.

Camera capabilities

This connects with why I appreciate the cover screen, but there’s much more you can accomplish with a flip phone camera compared to a traditional smartphone. Taking high-quality selfies with the primary camera is effortless because you can utilize the cover screen as a viewfinder. Additionally, if you’re photographing someone else, you can display a preview on the cover screen so they can see themselves before you take the shot. Many enjoy this feature (I know I do).

The design of the flip phone allows you to forgo the tripod for group shots. Just place the phone down and adjust the hinge with the camera and cover screen viewfinder activated. This simplifies the process of capturing hands-free photos and videos, making it perfect for TikTok creations too!

Finally, both Motorola and Samsung flip phones feature an Auto Camcorder function that converts your phone into a mini camcorder. Fold the device at a 90-degree angle, and the camera interface changes, allowing you to hold it like a camcorder and record smoother video.

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Forthcoming Apple Launches and Anticipations for December

Apple is nearing the conclusion of its most triumphant year yet, and December will usher in a plethora of new software and service-related releases for users. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what Apple has in store for December, as well as what to anticipate.

## iOS 26.2, an iPhone update brimming with new features

iOS 26.2 is set to debut in December, featuring a notably rich set of enhancements for iPhone users.

New functionalities for system applications include:

– Upgraded privacy settings
– Enhanced management of notifications
– Fresh customization choices for the home screen

Additionally, several updates related to Liquid Glass are on the way:

– Strengthened durability enhancements for compatible devices
– Upgraded indicators for water resistance

Several updates focus on systemwide features and CarPlay:

– Revamped interface for CarPlay
– Improved app integration for both navigation and music

Lastly, Apple is introducing three modifications specifically for users outside the US:

– Localized features for apps
– Region-specific suggestions for content
– Improved language capabilities

## iPadOS 26.2 reintroduces drag and drop multitasking

When iPadOS 26 was released in September, Apple’s new window management system provided numerous powerful options but did away with some functionalities that were present in iPadOS 18.

With the recent launch of iPadOS 26.1, one significant feature has made a comeback: Slide Over. In iPadOS 26.2, another multitasking feature will return: drag and drop support for managing Split View and Slide Over.

Similar to iPadOS 18, you can now take apps out of your dock or Spotlight searches and reposition them on-screen to drop them into fullscreen, Split View, or Slide Over configurations.

The app icon will change shape to visually indicate what will occur when you drop the app in a particular location. It operates very much like the feature available last year, but retains the extra capabilities of the new window management system.

## macOS Tahoe 26.2 introduces Edge Light feature

macOS 26.2 includes several features reminiscent of those found in iOS and iPadOS, but adds a distinctive new Edge Light feature for video calls.

Edge Light is Apple’s software solution designed to enhance your facial lighting during video calls. It delivers a similar effect to physical ring lights but without the added expense and setup.

Accessible on all Macs equipped with Apple silicon, this feature utilizes the Mac’s Neural Engine to “detect your face, size, and frame position to deliver optimal lighting.” The Image Signal Processor adjusts the lighting to seamlessly blend with your surroundings.

## The initial iOS 26.3 betas

Over the past few years, Apple has traditionally launched the first beta version of its x.3 iOS updates around mid-December prior to the holiday break.

This year might deviate from that pattern, as Apple could decide to reserve iOS 26.3 beta 1 for January.

However, if the company adheres to its recent trend, we can expect the first betas for iOS 26.3 and its complementary updates to arrive in the upcoming weeks, shortly after the general release of iOS 26.2.

## F1 The Movie debuts on Apple TV, alongside additional new releases

Apple TV is set to feature one of its most significant premieres of the year this December.

F1 The Movie will be available on Apple TV on Friday, December 12.

Whether you caught it in cinemas or not, you’ll be able to enjoy Apple’s high-budget summer blockbuster at home as part of your Apple TV subscription.

Other notable highlights on Apple TV’s December roster include additional episodes of Pluribus and Down Cemetery Road, along with a new holiday special and a docuseries featuring six cute and endangered young animals.

## Apple Arcade adds five new games, including major titles

Apple Arcade is set to unveil an exciting collection of games on Thursday, December 4, joining over 200 existing titles.

Five new games will be released on the same day:

– Game 1
– Game 2
– Game 3
– Game 4
– Game 5

Apple Arcade is offered as a standalone service for $6.99 per month or included in the Apple One bundle.

## Apple Music Replay annual summary

Last year, the Apple Music Replay annual summary was released on December 3, so we are likely just days away from the version for 2025.

Apple Music Replay in iOS 26 has become a fully integrated in-app experience, eliminating the need to access web views or visit a separate site.

While having access to Apple Music Replay throughout the year, featuring monthly statistics, is enjoyable, it’s always exciting to see what special offerings Apple’s team prepares for the yearly recap at the end of the year.

## What’s unlikely to arrive: new hardware

Apple seldom unveils new hardware products in December, making it improbable that we will see any new hardware before 2026.

The company has long been speculated to announce several new products soon

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ESR 3-in-1 Charging Stand Provides 25W MagSafe Charging at a Budget-Friendly Price

### The Ascendancy of Qi2.2 and the ESR 3-in-1 Charger: A Transformative Solution for Apple Owners

In the previous year, Apple took a bold step by opening its MagSafe standard to the Wireless Power Consortium, permitting third-party firms to officially leverage MagSafe technology, which facilitates charging rates of up to 15W. This year, the standard has seen further enhancement with the launch of Qi2.2, allowing third-party creators to provide 25W MagSafe charging options. This progression has resulted in a proliferation of innovative chargers on the market, including the ESR 3-in-1 charger, which distinguishes itself with its cost-effectiveness and functionality.

#### The ESR 3-in-1 Charger

The ESR 3-in-1 charger is crafted to power an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously, making it a perfect choice for users owning multiple Apple gadgets. Unlike several other 3-in-1 chargers that adopt a side-by-side configuration, the ESR variant integrates a low-profile design where the Apple Watch charger is situated behind the MagSafe ring. This layout not only conserves space but also improves the visual charm of your desk or nightstand.

A highlight of the ESR 3-in-1 charger is its adaptability. The Apple Watch charger is removable, enabling users to connect it to a MacBook or other devices for quick charging, enhancing its practicality.

#### Included Accessories

The ESR 3-in-1 charger includes a 50W charging brick and a USB-C cable within the package, which is a considerable benefit since many chargers omit these vital accessories. This comprehensive approach guarantees that users possess everything necessary to commence charging their devices immediately.

#### Advanced Cooling Technology

A particularly striking aspect of the ESR 3-in-1 charger is its integrated cooling mechanism, known as CryoBoost. Wireless charging can frequently result in overheating, especially when functioning at maximum rates of 25W. The CryoBoost technology features a fan that aids in sustaining ideal temperatures, ensuring effective charging without overheating concerns.

#### Conclusion

For individuals seeking a dependable and proficient MagSafe charger, the ESR 3-in-1 charger represents a superb choice. It provides swift 25W charging capabilities, a space-efficient design, and essential accessories, all at a compelling price of $89.99, particularly during Black Friday promotions. However, it’s crucial to understand that to fully exploit Qi2.2, users will need an iPhone 16 or iPhone 17 model.

In conclusion, the ESR 3-in-1 charger not only fulfills the charging demands of Apple users but does so with elegance and efficiency, making it a valuable addition to any tech arrangement.

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Top 5 Essential iPhone Applications for Audiophiles

if they still sound lacking on your iPhone, the problem may lie with the apps you’re using to stream music. For numerous iPhone users, subscriptions to Apple Music or Spotify do not ensure high detail or expansive dynamic range. The reason for inadequate output often stems from the app, codec, or settings on your device. Mediocre quality output results from how audio is compressed and transmitted within an app. Spotify’s default configurations favor storage efficiency and buffer speed over sound fidelity, streaming tracks utilizing “lossy” codecs like AAC or Ogg Vorbis.

Apple Music provides lossless ALAC streaming, but it is not activated by default. Bluetooth on the iPhone employs AAC, another “lossy” codec. This is why your headphones fail to produce the sound you anticipate from them. The “lossy” formats function adequately for casual listening; however, for those attuned to every chord, bass line, guitar riff, or instrument separation, lossless formats like ALAC and FLAC deliver true-to-life output.

The appropriate app and settings can significantly impact the experience. For iPhone users who prioritize unyielding audio quality, control, and availability of high-res or lossless libraries, these five crucial apps on the App Store provide the optimum experience. From support for various formats to curated playlists and music discovery features, these apps address what audiophiles genuinely value.

Apple Music

“Sturdy Headphones Offered for $13 on Black Friday Following Three Years of Everyday Use”

Get 48% off these wired Sony headphones, or 43% off my top choice with a microphone for calls or gaming.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Audio enthusiasts have a wealth of Black Friday headphone offers calling to them, featuring significant discounts on high-end Sony or Bose ANC headphones — yet they will still set you back at least $200. For regular folks like you and me, a straightforward pair of budget-friendly, dependable headphones is far more suitable.

My sincere advice? The Sony ZX Wired On-Ear Headphones, available for only $12.99 (48% off) at Best Buy, or the enhanced <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00OUX6U6G%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-gb-3576887498776961502-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OUX6U6G" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" rel="sponsored noopener" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-google-interstitial

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“Best Alternatives to the Quest 3 Elite Strap with Battery: Superior Offers Accessible”

We’ve evaluated third-party solutions from Kiwi Design and BoboVR that enhance your Quest 3 or 3S comfort and durability at a significantly lower cost.

The standard Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S straps press into your ears, soak up sweat, and do not adequately counterbalance the front-heavy build or keep them secure during workout games. An upgrade is essential, one that also extends the two-hour battery life, to ensure the top VR experience.

However, Meta’s official Elite Strap with Battery comes with a hefty price tag! Even with its 20%-off Black Friday promotion ending Saturday night, it still costs $103 on Amazon, which is excessive given that a complete Quest 3S is just $249! Fortunately, among the finest Meta Quest 3 & 3S accessories, there are numerous excellent third-party alternatives on sale for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Our initial suggestion is KIWI Design, known for outstanding Elite-style straps. The H4 Boost Halo Strap is available for $63.99 (20% off), providing an additional three hours of gameplay while also featuring an adjustable, padded forehead cushion that allows you to discover the ideal viewing angle with reduced pressure on your face. Alternatively, for those who prefer a more classic “Elite” design similar to Meta’s strap, the KIWI Design K4 Boost is priced at $55.98 (20% off) with the same battery enhancement.

Our typical top recommendation, the BoboVR M3 Pro Halo Strap, remains at full price this year, regrettably. However, if you’re open to considering an Elite-style strap instead, the BoboVR E3 Pro presents an interesting option! It’s available for $59.99 on Amazon (25% off), boosts the Quest 3S battery life by 150%, and includes a 3.5mm audio jack port (which the Quest 3S does not have), allowing the USB-C port to be used for the battery pack.

My colleague Nick, a dedicated Meta Quest enthusiast, also suggested the Yoges battery pack as an alternative Black Friday deal, should these options not meet your needs.

This Black Friday-to-Cyber Monday period has been fantastic for those interested in VR gaming, with Quest 3 buyers receiving a $75 gift card at Best Buy, while the PSVR 2 Call of the Mountain Bundle is reduced to $299 ($100 off) on Amazon. For the seasoned VR users who already possess their headsets, it’s an excellent opportunity to seek out accessories that enhance your experience for less.

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Significant Problem Detected with the iPhone Fold: A Widespread Issue

The iPhone Air represented perhaps the most significant advancement in iPhone design since the iPhone X. The iPhone Fold, set to launch next year, promises to be an even more substantial transformation.

Indications suggest that the iPhone Fold will be the best foldable smartphone ever released, but there is a significant issue – and it’s nearly the most apparent one.

### Apple has been waiting eight years, but that’s acceptable

Apple is known for not striving to be the first entrant into the market with new technology, preferring instead to be the best. The company observes and waits as competitors release their products, learns from their errors, and then aims to introduce the best possible version of the technology.

Nonetheless, the time Apple has spent observing the world of foldable smartphones has been remarkably lengthy. Samsung introduced its first folding phone seven years ago, meaning Apple will be joining the fray around eight years later.

The prudence of waiting became quickly evident when the initial Galaxy Fold was a total failure. The company began by sending out review units, which tech reviewers immediately identified significant flaws in. Samsung reacted by postponing the launch and retrieving review devices. It eventually canceled customer orders for the phone and issued refunds.

Two design flaws lingered even in later generations. First, a prominently visible and unattractive crease in the center of the opened screen. Second, the display was notably susceptible to damage from dust and debris getting stuck during folding.

It was only this year that Apple reportedly felt satisfied with the display quality of iPhone fold prototypes after assigning its engineers the task of eliminating the crease.

### The price is the clear issue

The clear concern regarding the iPhone Fold is its expected price. It appears to be around double the cost of an iPhone Pro model, with projections going as high as $2,500. The latest estimates are well towards the upper limit.

This is costly even by the standards of Android foldable phones, which are also rated at high prices. Considering that customers seemed hesitant to pay a premium for the sleek design of the iPhone Air, it raises valid questions about how many would be inclined to spend over $2,000 for the iPhone Fold.

Indeed, this seems to place it in the same realm as the Vision Pro; likely appealing only to the most passionate early adopters. However, that’s not what I perceive as the main concern here.

### The larger challenge

While the price itself is a significant issue, the company usually excels at attracting affluent consumers. For me, the primary challenge lies in the interplay between price and durability.

I’m willing to invest a lot in a well-equipped MacBook Pro because I anticipate using it for about five years. However, while some individuals keep their iPhones for five years or longer, it’s less common. Certainly, among 9to5Mac readers, it’s typically more usual to upgrade our iPhones every one to two years.

That fact alone isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker. Premium Apple products generally retain their value well, so if you were to sell a MacBook after two years, the resale value would cover a significant portion of a new purchase. However, I seriously doubt that will be true for the iPhone Fold.

In fact, the manufacturing costs of folding phones are expected to decline swiftly over the next few years, leading to a drop in retail prices, while the resale value of a 2026 model will likely diminish rapidly. Anyone purchasing a first-generation model will face the dilemma of keeping it for several years to get their value or taking a substantial financial loss to upgrade to a newer model a couple of years later.

It’s this dilemma that I believe presents the greatest difficulty in encouraging consumers to invest in the first-generation iPhone Fold.

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