Author: sparta

Complimentary Giveaway: $175 Burton Goods Gift Cards Up for Grabs

### 9to5Toys x Burton Goods Giveaway – $175 in FREE Gear

Burton Goods, renowned for its premium American handcrafted leather accessories, is presenting a thrilling opportunity for enthusiasts of fine leather products. This week, in partnership with 9to5Toys, they are offering three gift cards valued at $175, enabling fortunate winners to select from an array of their beautiful items.

#### About Burton Goods

Burton Goods focuses on creating stunning leather accessories, such as iPad cases, MacBook sleeves, and Apple Watch bands. Their items are crafted with a classic aesthetic, merging practicality with style. The brand has recently launched new versions for the M5 iPad Pro, ensuring that gadget lovers can safeguard their devices with sophistication.

Among their products, the leather Apple Watch bands are particularly noteworthy. Offered in traditional designs alongside vintage military and aviation-inspired styles, these bands are praised for their quality and visual charm, making them an ideal complement to any Apple Watch.

#### How to Enter the Giveaway

Joining the 9to5Toys x Burton Goods giveaway is simple. Interested parties must provide their name and email address, with one entry permitted per email account. The giveaway is accessible solely to U.S. residents and will run for one week, from October 24 to October 31, 2025. Winners will receive notification the following week.

To enter, click the link included in the giveaway form. Moreover, participants are encouraged to follow 9to5Toys on their social media platforms for updates and additional chances.

#### Conclusion

This giveaway offers an excellent opportunity for leather accessory lovers to obtain high-quality items from Burton Goods at no cost. With various options available, including iPad cases, MacBook sleeves, and fashionable Apple Watch bands, winners will have the chance to elevate their collection with exceptional craftsmanship. Don’t let this limited-time opportunity slip away!

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Present Promotions: M3 MacBook Air Price Cut by $659, Apple Qi2 25W MagSafe Charger Offered, M3 iPad Air Priced Down by $370, and Additional Offers

### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Key Discounts on Apple Products

In the latest installment of 9to5Toys Lunch Break, we showcase remarkable savings on an array of Apple products, including the M4 MacBook Air, M3 MacBook Air, M5 iPad Pro, and accessories like the Qi2 MagSafe Charger. Here’s a thorough overview of the top deals currently available.

#### Mid-Generation MacBook Air Savings

**Midnight 16GB M3 MacBook Air – $659 Off**
If you’re aiming to cut costs on a reliable laptop, the 16GB/512GB 15-inch M3 MacBook Air in Midnight is priced at **$775.99 shipped** in open-box condition from Best Buy. Initially introduced at $1,699, this model now enjoys a substantial markdown. Best Buy’s open-box program guarantees these units are Geek Squad verified, restored to factory settings, and come with a 1-year warranty.

– **Condition Options:**
– **Excellent Condition:** $839.99
– **Fair Condition:** $775.99

This offer presents a strong alternative to the newer M4 versions, which carry higher price tags, making the M3 an excellent choice for those on a budget.

#### M3 iPad Air Price Reduction

**1TB M3 iPad Air – Lowest Price Ever**
Amazon is presently providing the **11-inch M3 iPad Air with 1TB storage** for **$878.77 shipped**, representing a reduction of over **$370 from** the standard price of $1,249. This is the lowest price ever noted for this model, making it a splendid opportunity for anyone requiring a high-capacity tablet.

#### Qi2 MagSafe Charger Price Cut

**Qi2 25W 1-Meter MagSafe Charger – $30**
Apple’s newly released **Qi2-certified 25W MagSafe Charger** is currently selling for just **$30.02** on Amazon, down from its standard price of $39. This compact charger is perfect for those who prefer a shorter cable for a tidier charging experience.

#### Additional Mac Mini Discount

**24GB/1TB M4 Mac Mini – $150 Off**
B&H is providing a **$150 discount** on the **24GB/1TB M4 Mac Mini**, lowering the price to **$1,049 shipped**. This model isn’t available on Amazon, making this deal especially significant for those in search of a powerful desktop solution.

### Conclusion

With these impressive discounts on Apple products, this is an ideal moment to think about upgrading your technology. Whether you’re looking for a new laptop, tablet, or accessories, these deals offer considerable savings that are worth taking advantage of.

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“BURGA Surfaces as a Fashionable Substitute to CASETiFY for Pixel 10 Accessories”

Both smartphone accessory labels adopt the Gen Z maximalist vibe.

Vibrant patterns and vivid hues are traits typically linked with CASETiFY, yet a Lithuanian label known as BURGA has subtly adopted a comparable style. If you’re passionate about the Gen Z maximalist movement that fuses Y2K aesthetics with contemporary design in your phone cases, power banks, grips, and other gadgets, you now have an alternative to CASETiFY.

Examining the types of cases offered by both brands left me pondering whether BURGA is the new CASETiFY. However, after testing several of BURGA’s products and contrasting the offerings from both brands, I can assert that they aren’t mere replicas.

Maximalism is trending, while minimalism is fading away.

Each brand brings distinct products to the table, even if the aesthetics are alike, rendering them rivals. And one thing I am certain of about competition is that the ones who gain from it are us, the consumers.

So if you appreciate the aesthetic of CASETiFY’s collection and seek corresponding cases, phone grips, watch bands, and power banks, but can’t locate a pattern you fancy, you can always give BURGA a shot instead. Both brands exhibit considerable creativity and playfulness, along with comparable pricing and quality.

While CASETiFY mainly focuses on Apple, Google, and Samsung devices, BURGA also incorporates OnePlus, Motorola, Huawei, and Xiaomi alongside Apple, Google, and Samsung phones.

I had hands-on experience with a couple of BURGA’s Google Pixel 10 accessories, including the Google Pixel 10 Pro Case, Magnetic Ring Holder, Magnetic Power Bank, and StickPad.

The phone case, power bank, and magnetic ring holder all sport the same designs, allowing for full coordination. BURGA even offers matching tumblers, AirPod cases, and items like yoga mats, which is impressive. Clearly, they prioritize matching, and I am fully supportive of it.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro Case boasts dual-layered protection, elevated bezels, and a shiny finish. What’s particularly interesting is the option to use both layers or just attach the first layer for a slimmer, lighter fit. Naturally, shock absorption is enhanced with both layers in use. My only wish is that these cases were compatible with MagSafe or Qi2.

The Magnetic Ring Holder and 5,000mAh Magnetic Power Bank adhere magnetically to the Pixel 10 thanks to Pixelsnap on the latest Google phones. However, with the case applied, you’ll need to purchase a separate adapter ring and affix it to the back for compatibility.

I opted to use the spinning ring and power bank with my Pixelsnap-compatible Mous Super Thin Case instead, as I wanted to keep the striking Lemon Tart pattern that BURGA provided clean. The ring holder is quite impressive; it spins a complete 360 degrees and features a flat section for use as a stand in landscape mode. Unlike the base of the ring holder, the ring itself isn’t made of metal, raising some questions about durability. However, this makes it quite lightweight.

The Magnetic Power Bank functions seamlessly, connecting magnetically and wirelessly charging the Pixel 10. It has LED indicators to show the battery level. You can select from 5,000mAh, 10,000mAh, and 15,000mAh options, as well as various color patterns and customizations when purchasing the power bank. Prices begin at $99, whereas CASETiFY’s 5,000mAh power banks start at $70.

Some accessories become sticky…in a good way.

The BURGA StickPad captured my attention the most. CASETiFY offers several similar products with sticky suction cups on the back, such as the Snappy Snap & Grip Stick Grip Stand or the Stick-It Case, but they’re all MagSafe accessories or integrated into phone cases.

However, the story is different with the StickPad. This device works with any phone as long as there’s a smooth surface to create suction. Any BURGA case fits perfectly with the StickPad. There are suction cups on both the front and back of the pad, instead of a magnetic ring on one side.

And if you noticed the dust on the BURGA StickPad in the photos, here’s an interesting tidbit: it’s washable!

So if you find that your StickPad has become dusty and the suction isn’t performing optimally, you can simply rinse it with water.

The StickPad is such a playful concept, and at $19.95, it’s also very economical. You won’t have to lug around a tripod or search for a suitable place to set your phone for shooting photos or videos in public. Simply stick the suction cups onto something smooth, like a pole, a door, a whiteboard, or even a smooth wall.

Since the StickPad utilizes suction cups on both sides, any of your friends can borrow it.

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EarFun Clip Evaluation: A Remarkable Entry into Open-Ear Earbuds

**Android Central Verdict: EarFun Clip Open-Ear Earbuds**

The EarFun Clip open-ear earbuds represent a distinctive entry in the wireless audio accessory sector, crafted with an emphasis on spatial awareness and comfort. In contrast to conventional earbuds that separate you from your surroundings, these are ideal for individuals wishing to remain conscious of their environment, making them perfect for outdoor activities or for those who dislike having things in their ears. With a score of 4 out of 5 stars, they appeal to specific users who prioritize comfort and awareness over deep sound immersion.

**Pros:**
– Incredibly comfortable, unobtrusive wearing experience.
– Ears stay cool as you can feel the breeze.
– Incorporates hi-res audio, LDAC, Bluetooth 6, and Google Fast Pair.
– Provides an impressive 40 hours of playback.
– Quick charging features.
– IP55 rating for water and dust resistance.
– Physical buttons allow for straightforward control.

**Cons:**
– Noticeable sound leakage.
– Not tailored for audiophile preferences.
– Microphone performance is somewhat muffled.
– Absence of Auracast support.

**Conclusion:**
The EarFun Clip open-ear earbuds are an excellent option for individuals seeking comfort and situational awareness. Although they may not meet the needs of audiophiles due to sound leakage and a somewhat muffled microphone, they shine in delivering a comfy and unobtrusive listening experience. With functionalities like Bluetooth 6 and an extended battery life, they make a reliable choice for those who emphasize these features.

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How to Efficiently Utilize Your iPad as a Substitute for a Laptop: 10 Key Suggestions

**10 Strategies For Utilizing Your iPad As A Laptop Substitute**

When Apple launched the original iPad in 2010, it was perceived as a gadget positioned between a smartphone and a laptop, perfect for media viewing and basic tasks. With time, due to enhancements in hardware and software, the iPad has developed into a robust device that can effectively replace a laptop for many users. Here’s how to maximize your iPad as a laptop substitute:

1. **Pair it with a Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard Folio**: A physical keyboard is crucial for productive tasks. Apple’s Magic Keyboard delivers a high-end experience with a trackpad and backlit keys, while the Smart Keyboard Folio offers greater portability.

2. **Utilize a Bluetooth mouse or trackpad**: For tasks requiring precision, such as photo editing or managing spreadsheets, a Bluetooth mouse or trackpad can significantly boost your productivity.

3. **Master windowed apps, Split View, and Stage Manager**: iPadOS provides multitasking features such as windowed apps and Split View, enabling you to operate multiple apps at once and efficiently organize your workspace.

4. **Store files using iCloud Drive and external storage**: iCloud Drive ensures your files are accessible on all devices, while external storage solutions like SSDs offer extra space for sizable files.

5. **Download desktop-level applications**: The iPad now accommodates powerful software like Microsoft 365, Adobe Photoshop, and Final Cut Pro, providing functionalities comparable to their desktop counterparts.

6. **Consider a power bank for prolonged battery life**: A power bank can sustain your iPad during lengthy work sessions, helping you remain productive while on the move.

7. **Use the Apple Pencil for taking notes and editing**: The Apple Pencil serves as a multifunctional tool for note-taking, sketching, and editing, making it an invaluable accessory for creative endeavors.

8. **Leverage Universal Control and Sidecar**: If you possess a Mac, features such as Universal Control and Sidecar enable smooth integration between devices, enhancing your overall workflow.

9. **Optimize battery and performance settings**: Minor tweaks like activating Low Power Mode and lowering screen brightness can improve battery longevity and enhance performance.

10. **Hook up to an external display for a desktop-like experience**: Connecting to an external monitor can convert your iPad into a desktop setup, offering more screen space for multitasking.

By applying these strategies, you can convert your iPad into a flexible and powerful laptop substitute, equipped to manage a diverse array of tasks from productivity to creative projects.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Anticipated to Feature Anti-Crease Hinge Technology Comparable to iPhone Fold

Apple may need to postpone the release of the foldable iPhone. The Korean news outlet DealSite reports that Samsung aims to be ready for both scenarios by introducing the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which will come with a new hinge designed to help avert creasing. Samsung plans to utilize laser drilling technology to manufacture micro-structures in the metal plate that encases the hinge, moving away from traditional chemical etching methods.

This isn’t the first instance we’ve encountered this production technique regarding foldable devices that demonstrate less creasing after extensive folding and unfolding. Earlier this year, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that the iPhone Fold would incorporate a more costly hinge. The metal plate located between the hinge and the OLED display would be equipped with micro-structures developed through laser drilling, enhancing the screen’s resilience against stress and minimizing crease visibility. Kuo remarked at the time that Samsung Display employs chemical etching, while Apple required more stringent specifications for the foldable iPhone. The analyst also noted that laser drilling is more costly.

Additional enhancements for the Galaxy Z Fold 8

Apple Responds to Unaddressed Lawsuit Concerning Apple Pay from Fintiv

Apple has submitted a reply to Fintiv’s trade secret lawsuit concerning Apple Pay, which was initiated in August. This reply is not a response to any court-imposed deadline but is instead a move by Apple to accelerate the process. Fintiv has not yet formally served the complaint to Apple, which Apple contends is a strategy to prolong the case and evade a court trial.

In its reply, Apple reiterates that it had previously attempted to transfer Fintiv’s patent case to California, while Fintiv maintained that the appropriate jurisdiction was the Western District of Texas and Judge Alan Albright. Apple contends that Fintiv should not be permitted to select a different district for its trade secret lawsuit after failing to gain any advantage from Apple Pay in Texas.

Apple outlines several grounds for dismissing Fintiv’s lawsuit:

1. Fintiv’s assertions under federal and Georgia trade secrets legislation, as well as federal racketeering laws, are barred since Fintiv has been aware of the circumstances since 2014 but postponed litigation until August 2025 after losing its patent case.
2. The claim of racketeering in Georgia is unfounded as it is solely based on trade secret claims under state law.
3. Fintiv’s effort to frame its trade secret lawsuit as a racketeering case does not satisfy the required elements of an enterprise or a series of unlawful acts.

Apple also underscores Fintiv’s record of failed attempts to monetize Apple Pay, referencing court decisions that have found Apple Pay does not infringe on Fintiv’s patent. Apple asserts that it developed Apple Pay independently utilizing its own technologies, and that Fintiv’s latest trade secret claims merely reiterate earlier patent assertions. The technology Fintiv alleges as confidential is publicly available in its prior patent, disqualifying it from being deemed a trade secret.

Moreover, Apple notes that two former CorFire employees referenced in Fintiv’s complaint became part of Apple in 2015, well after the 2014 launch of Apple Pay, which undermines any claims regarding their impact on the product’s evolution. Apple labels Fintiv’s racketeering accusations as an overreaching assertion based on the same flimsy basis as its trade secret allegations, arguing that the supposedly criminal enterprise is simply Apple’s routine business conduct.

The case is currently at a standstill until Fintiv serves the complaint to Apple. Should this not happen soon, Apple’s reply may cause the situation to progress faster than Fintiv’s actions.

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Apple Attains $4 Trillion Market Value After Successful Launch of iPhone 17 Prior to Earnings Announcement

Apple Inc. reached a notable milestone on Tuesday, attaining a market valuation of $4 trillion for the first time. This accomplishment signifies an important chapter in the company’s history, although it is not the inaugural entity to achieve this valuation. Apple was the first to reach $1 trillion in 2018, followed by $2 trillion in 2020, and $3 trillion in 2022. Currently, it ranks third to hit the $4 trillion mark, trailing Nvidia and Microsoft.

Nvidia achieved the $4 trillion valuation in July, largely fueled by the increasing demand for its GPU hardware during the AI surge. Microsoft also surpassed the $4 trillion threshold in July and has since confirmed its position by attaining this valuation once more today.

Apple’s recent milestone can be linked to the successful launch of its iPhone 17, which has attracted considerable consumer interest. The company is anticipated to announce its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, which will offer insights into the performance of the iPhone 17 during its initial launch week. Although Apple does not reveal specific unit sales, the quarterly revenue figures will act as a valuable gauge of how the new iPhone models are faring compared to previous versions.

Despite momentarily reaching the $4 trillion valuation, Apple’s stock price subsequently fell back to the upper end of the $3 trillion range. This fluctuation underscores the volatility often exhibited in stock markets, especially surrounding significant product launches.

The importance of these trillion-dollar milestones transcends simple figures. They act as signals to investors that Apple continues to be a growth-focused company, dispelling any doubts regarding its future potential. Moreover, they provide context for Apple’s competitive stance in the tech sector. While Nvidia and Microsoft have taken advantage of the AI revolution, Apple’s varied hardware and services portfolio showcases its resilience and sustainability beyond AI trends.

Furthermore, this achievement represents Apple’s lasting status as a prominent player among its peers. Even if it is not the first to reach the $4 trillion milestone, its steady performance highlights its strength within the market. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, Apple’s capacity to innovate and uphold its market position will be keenly observed by investors and industry analysts alike.

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Apple Maps Improves EV Navigation in CarPlay for Toyota Automobiles

### Toyota Introduces Apple Maps EV Navigation for 2023 and Newer Models

In 2022, Apple Maps launched EV navigation, enabling electric vehicle (EV) users to navigate while considering charging requirements. This functionality has progressively rolled out to various models, with the most recent inclusion being Toyota’s battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from 2023 onward.

#### The Significance of EV Navigation

Traveling in an electric vehicle necessitates awareness of charging locations throughout the journey. Apple Maps’ EV navigation feature caters to this by monitoring the vehicle’s charge and evaluating aspects such as elevation variations. When users enter their destination, the app locates appropriate charging stations en route and, for certain providers, offers live availability of charging locations. If the vehicle’s charge drops to a critical level, Apple Maps will recommend a path to the nearest compatible charging station.

#### Compatibility with Vehicle Systems

For Apple Maps to successfully deliver EV navigation, it needs specific integration with the vehicle’s battery status. Vehicle manufacturers must partner with Apple to activate this functionality, resulting in a gradual implementation across various brands.

#### Recent Advancements with Toyota

Recently, Apple disclosed that its EV navigation feature has been incorporated into Toyota’s 2023 and newer BEVs, including the upcoming 2026 bZ model. This expansion signifies a notable advancement, as previously only three other vehicles supported Apple Maps EV navigation. Although Toyota’s existing lineup of BEVs is limited, the implementation of this feature enriches the driving experience for EV users.

#### Summary

The introduction of Apple Maps EV navigation in Toyota vehicles marks a beneficial advancement for electric vehicle drivers, simplifying trip planning without the worry of depleting battery power. As additional manufacturers embrace this innovation, EV users can anticipate enhanced navigation experiences tailored to their requirements.

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Samsung Galaxy S20 FE Gets Last October 2025 Security Update, Indicating Conclusion of Support and Advising Upgrade

It may be time to consider replacing your Galaxy S20 FE as security assistance comes to an end.

(Image credit: Hayato Huseman / Android Central)

Essential Information

  • The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE has recently obtained the October 2025 security update, which may be its final one.
  • This month marks the fifth anniversary of the Galaxy S20 FE, and Samsung has delivered on its five-year security patch commitment.
  • Although Samsung still indicates that the Galaxy S20 FE will receive quarterly patches, support is likely to be phased out soon.

Disclaimer

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