Microsoft is finally allowing Windows 11 testers to get access to experimental features without having to download a third-party app like ViVeTool. The changes are part of making the Windows Insider Program (WIP) less confusing, with Dev and Canary testing rings simplified into a new Experimental Channel alongside a refresh of the existing Beta Channel. […]
Apple is closing its first unionized store
Apple announced it will close three retail locations, as the iPhone giant shifts away from malls.
Did Amazon Disable Your Kindle? The Pros and Cons of Switching to Kobo E-Readers.
Some BookTokers have declared they’re finally ready to leave the Amazon Kindle ecosystem. But is the Kobo grass any greener?
Android’s Alleged ‘Tap to Share’ User Interface Possibly Unveiled
Development is still ongoing.
iOS 26 Brings Fresh Options for Personalizing iPhone Background: An Overview of Functionality
# How to Apply 3D Spatial Effect to Your iPhone’s Wallpaper in iOS 26
iOS 26 has unveiled a variety of new features aimed at enhancing the personalization of your iPhone, among which are the thrilling 3D spatial wallpapers. Available since the launch of iOS 26.0, this feature enables users to infuse a dynamic 3D effect into their wallpaper, rendering it more captivating and unique. Here’s how you can leverage this feature to animate your iPhone’s wallpaper.
## What are 3D Spatial Wallpapers?
As per Apple’s official iOS 26 release notes, spatial scenes permit users to incorporate a fresh 3D effect into their photo wallpapers, fostering a sense of depth that responds to your device’s movements. This effect amplifies the aesthetic allure of your wallpaper, giving it a more interactive feel.
## Steps to Apply the 3D Spatial Effect
To implement the 3D spatial effect on your iPhone’s wallpaper, adhere to these straightforward steps:
1. **Open Settings**: Navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. **Select Wallpaper**: Tap on the ‘Wallpaper’ option.
3. **Add New Wallpaper**: Press the ‘Add New Wallpaper’ button.
4. **Choose Photos**: Tap ‘Photos’ located in the top-left corner to open your photo library.
5. **Select Your Photo**: Browse and select the photo you wish to set as your wallpaper.
6. **Activate the Spatial Effect**: Tap the geometric photo icon found near the lower-right section of the screen. This will create the spatial scene effect.
7. **Test the Effect**: Tilt your iPhone from side to side to observe the 3D effect in action.
8. **Save Your Wallpaper**: If you’re pleased with the effect, press ‘Add’ to save the wallpaper.
## Conclusion
The 3D spatial effect is a charming addition to the wallpaper customization features in iOS 26. It serves as a minor yet significant way to enhance your iPhone experience, making your device feel more tailored and vibrant. If you haven’t experimented with the 3D spatial effect for your wallpaper yet, now is the ideal moment to discover this feature and refresh your iPhone’s appearance.
AI Doc Director: Cynicism is the Only Wrong Response to AI
‘The AI Doc’ director Daniel Roher talks about Sam Altmanâs weird vibes, AI in filmmaking, and the folly of cynicism.
YouTube Premium Monthly Subscription Cost Rising by As Much As $4
Netflix has recently upped the prices of its plans, and now YouTube Premium subscribers are about to face a similar rise. YouTube is set to boost the subscription fees, with adjustments expected to take place beginning with the next billing cycle. Although Google hasn’t formally announced the price increase in a press release, emails are being distributed to subscribers, and some are already noticing the change when attempting to upgrade to a Family plan.
In general, costs for YouTube Premium will rise across the board, affecting Music Premium as well. The most significant price increase will occur for YouTube Premium Family subscriptions, which will jump from $22.99 to $26.99 a month. Individual subscribers will see their monthly fees increase from $13.99 to $15.99, and Premium Lite users will now pay $8.99 monthly, up from the initial $7.99 set when the service launched in 2025. Subscribers to YouTube Music Premium are also facing an increase, with their monthly rates climbing from $10.99 to $11.99.
In summary, the largest hike is $4 for the Family plan. YouTube last adjusted prices for the Family plan in 2022, making this increase not entirely surprising nearly four years later. The regular Premium subscriptions last saw their prices rise in 2023.
YouTube Premium Lite continues to offer the best value for most
While the YouTube Premium price increase is disheartening, particularly given the lack of significant new value recently, there are alternatives for those looking to economize. For instance, if you’re not on the Family plan, downgrading to YouTube Premium Lite could help you save some cash each month. Lite provides the fundamental ad-free experience that regular Premium includes, along with support for background play and video downloads.
You will forfeit access to YouTube Music and the Jump Ahead feature, which allows users to easily skip the least-watched parts of videos. However, if those features are not a priority for you, switching could save you approximately $7 each month. There are also some additional limitations with Premium Lite that you
“Galaxy Z Flip 8 Leak Uncovers Budget-Friendly Design Improvements”
Leaked Galaxy Z Flip 8 Visuals Uncover a Sleeker Look, Yet Limited Innovations
New visuals of the Galaxy Z Flip 8 have emerged, thanks to OnLeaks in partnership with MyMobiles. If you anticipated a significant redesign, it may be challenging to notice any modifications.
Based on the 5K CAD visuals shared by the sources, the forthcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8 may appear nearly the same as its predecessor at first sight. While this may seem unexciting, there is a subtle yet significant alteration: Samsung appears to be reducing its thickness.
The leak indicates that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 will be somewhat slimmer than the Z Flip 7. When opened, it measures 166.8 x 75.4 x 6.6 mm, and when folded, it’s 85.4 x 75.4 x 13.2 mm. In contrast, the Flip 7 was 85.5 x 75.2 x 13.7 mm when closed, so the main distinction is that the new device is roughly half a millimeter thinner when folded.
Both displays remain unchanged: a 6.9-inch foldable screen on the inside and a 4.1-inch cover display. The dual rear cameras and LED flash are also located in the same area. From an external view, it continues to resemble the Flip 7.
Reasons for Samsung’s Cautious Approach
Foldable smartphones are continuously evolving, but they have moved beyond the experimental phase. Samsung has dedicated years to enhancing their durability, refining the hinge, and optimizing the software. It now seems that the strategy is to focus on enhancing existing features rather than introducing major alterations.
A thinner phone may be more convenient to carry and provide a better feel in your hand, which is often more important in everyday use than merely having superior specifications. This could imply that Samsung is reserving more significant improvements for areas like battery performance, processing speed, or new AI capabilities.
It’s essential to remember that CAD leaks are not definitive. Minor design aspects can still be altered prior to the phone’s release. However, these preliminary images generally reflect what we can expect to see.
Moreover, CAD leaks only reveal the phone’s dimensions and silhouette. They do not provide insight into the processor or software capabilities. Therefore, surprises could still emerge, such as a more robust hinge, a quicker processor, or enhanced cameras. Nevertheless, a previous rumor hinted that Samsung’s upcoming clamshell foldable may not receive a battery upgrade in 2026.
Samsung is anticipated to unveil the Flip 8, Fold 8, and Fold 8 Wide at a Galaxy Unpacked event in London in July 2026.
Android Central’s Perspective
A sleeker, more pocket-friendly device is something I’d appreciate daily, far more than an exaggerated spec enhancement. Nevertheless, I sense that Samsung is being somewhat overly cautious. If I decide to upgrade, I seek at least one genuine “wow, that’s new” moment, not merely “hey, it’s a bit slimmer.”
Amazon Unveils Significant Discounts on Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Save Up to 50% on Sony, Beats, Sennheiser, and Others
Several of our preferred wireless headphones are experiencing significant price cuts. Prime Day may be several months away, but if you’re after an excellent bargain on wireless headphones, there’s no reason to delay. Whether you’re a globetrotter seeking an affordable pair for an upcoming journey or an audiophile in pursuit of the ultimate listening experience, you’ll be amazed at the variety of headphone offers currently available at Amazon.
Headphones from brands like Sennheiser, Sony, Beats, and Anker have been dropping to close to record lows throughout the week, making it difficult to predict whether these Amazon discounts will remain for long or disappear suddenly. It goes without saying, if you’re eager to seize the opportunity, you’ll discover some of the finest headphone deals from the sale listed below.
Enjoy discounts of up to 50% on noise-cancelling headphones at Amazon
Sennheiser Momentum 4: $449.95 $226.37 at Amazon
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 might be a few years old, but these headphones still receive excellent reviews for their impressive sound quality, adaptable noise cancellation, and up to 60 hours of battery life on a single charge. Purchase these headphones from Amazon today and take advantage of a remarkable 50% discount.
Sony WH-1000XM5: $399.99 $248 at Amazon
While they have technically been replaced by a newer variant (the extraordinary but pricey WH-1000XM6), the Sony WH-1000XM5 held the title of our most-recommended headphones for years for good reason. The XM5 features a stylish design with exceptional sound quality and customizable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and now you can get these headphones from Amazon with a 38% price reduction.
Soundcore by Anker Q20i Headphones: $69.99 $39.99 at Amazon
Premium performance in noise-cancelling headphones no longer requires a hefty price tag. Available for just $39.99 on Amazon, the Soundcore Q20i offer up to 40 hours of battery life, a well-balanced sound profile, and numerous customizable EQ settings and presets.
Beats Solo 4 Headphones: $199.95 $129.95 at Amazon
The Beats Solo 4 feature high-end attributes such as spatial audio support and head tracking, plus you can enjoy up to 50 hours of battery life and the outstanding sound quality that has made the Beats name legendary. Purchase the headphones during Amazon’s ongoing sale and enjoy a direct 35% off your order.
Skullcandy Crusher ANC Headphones: $239.99 $149.99 at Amazon
Though Skullcandy may not be viewed as a trailblazer in the audio equipment market, they certainly excel in providing fantastic value for your money. Currently 38% off during Amazon’s promotion, the Skullcandy Crusher headphones offer adjustable active noise cancellation with dual bass drivers and up to 60 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Headphone deals: Walmart | Best Buy | Amazon | Dell
Savings on 15-inch M5 MacBook Air Models, Series 11, Nomad Leather iPhone 17 Cases, and Additional Items
### Today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break: Apple Offers and Accessories
In this edition of the 9to5Toys Lunch Break, we showcase notable savings on Apple items, featuring the freshly launched 15-inch M5 MacBook Air, Apple Watch Series 11, and an array of accessories.
#### 15-inch M5 MacBook Air at Unprecedented Discounts
The 15-inch M5 MacBook Air has experienced a price reduction, now seeing a $150 discount available in all colors. This applies to both the 16GB/512GB and 16GB/1TB models. The 15.3-inch Liquid Retina Display versions are being offered at a direct discount, making them appealing options for those in search of a robust yet reasonably priced laptop. These deals are anticipated to stay competitive, with possible additional cuts during seasonal promotions later this year.
#### Price Cut on Apple Watch Series 11
The 46mm Space Gray Apple Watch Series 11 is presently listed for nearly $100 less, now at $329.99. This variant includes a Space Gray Aluminum Case paired with a Black Sport Band and marks one of the lowest prices recorded since its September launch. While other color selections are similarly discounted, this particular model provides the most significant savings.
#### Nomad’s Latest Camino Leather iPhone Cases
Nomad has rolled out its new Camino leather variant for iPhone 17 Pro/Max cases, now available at a 20% markdown. Each order includes a complimentary screen protector, adding value to these chic cases. The Camino leather offers a more budget-friendly choice compared to the premium Horween leather options, broadening its appeal to a larger audience.
#### Accessory Bargains
Alongside the featured items, the new Apple USB-C Magic Keyboard is also discounted to $79.99, reduced from its usual $99. This entry-level variant boasts the latest USB-C charging port and makes for a reliable upgrade for anyone looking to enhance their keyboard collection.
Moreover, Amazon is providing infrequent price reductions on the Apple Watch Ultra 3, with savings of $99 on selected models. These deals represent some of the best pricing since the product’s launch, offering an excellent opportunity for interested buyers.
### Conclusion
With considerable discounts on Apple’s newest products and accessories, now is a prime time to think about upgrading or acquiring new devices. Whether it’s the powerful M5 MacBook Air, the fashionable Apple Watch Series 11, or essential accessories, these offers present a fantastic chance for both tech aficionados and casual users.
