Author: sparta

HomeKit Weekly: Best 2025 HomeKit Present Suggestions for Christmas

# HomeKit Gift Guide for 2025: Ideal Gifts for Apple Smart Home Enthusiasts

This year, Thanksgiving is quite late, so holiday shopping is already in full gear. HomeKit devices are fantastic gifts for any Apple aficionado. They tend to be affordable and bring genuine value to any smart home configuration. This revised HomeKit gift guide for 2025 aims to assist you in discovering the ideal addition for your beloved Apple smart home enthusiast.

## Leading HomeKit and Home Key Door Locks

HomeKit door locks prove to be exceedingly beneficial, providing capabilities like remote locking and unlocking, along with automatic unlocking when you’re nearby. The **Level Lock+** stands out as a top choice, equipped with Home Key compatibility and a design that integrates effortlessly into any decor while still permitting the use of a standard key. For individuals who favor NFC keys, this alternative is perfect for less tech-savvy family members.

If you’re in the market for a lock with a keypad and fingerprint access, take a look at the **ThorBolt X1**, a robust option launched earlier this year. An additional superb pick is the **Level Lock+ (Matter) Smart Lock**. Numerous other excellent options are available at different price ranges, and you can find a detailed list of the finest Home Key and HomeKit door locks.

## Premier HomeKit Cameras

HomeKit cameras make for wonderful gifts, and there’s always a reason to add another to your assortment. While many cameras are compatible with HomeKit, not all support HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV), which provides encrypted recordings in iCloud, intelligent notifications, and a focus on privacy. Despite some limitations, like the absence of 4K support, HKSV remains a valuable service.

For outdoor applications, the **Eve Outdoor Camera** is an outstanding choice, offering continuous power and Wi-Fi connectivity for video streaming. HomeKit cameras can also function as motion detectors, automating actions like activating outdoor lights upon detecting movement. Discover additional impressive HomeKit camera options to bolster your smart home security.

## HomeKit Gift Guide: Leading HomeKit Light Bulbs

Smart bulbs serve as an accessible entry into the HomeKit ecosystem, showcasing a range of affordable options. Featuring capabilities like dimming, adjustable color temperature, and full-color options, smart bulbs can greatly enhance daily comfort. There are various selections available, whether you prefer full HomeKit compatibility, Thread support, or Matter integration.

Incorporating your main lighting with HomeKit can significantly enhance your everyday life, making smart bulbs a valuable investment.

## Top HomeKit Smart Plugs

HomeKit smart plugs represent a fantastic way to automate routine devices like lamps, coffee machines, fans, and air purifiers. Simply insert the adapter into the wall and connect your device to it, enabling control via the Home app or Siri. Scheduling functions are particularly beneficial for travel, giving your home an occupied appearance. Check out some of the finest options for smart plugs available.

## Gifts for the Person Who Has Everything

Selecting a gift for someone who owns every HomeKit device can be difficult. The **HOOBS Box** could be the ideal answer. This hub allows even more devices to connect, making it perfect for integrating equipment that doesn’t natively support HomeKit, such as the new Nest doorbell.

The latest iteration of the HOOBS Box includes a custom board with onboard eMMC storage, USB-C power, and a Gigabit Ethernet port for speedy connectivity. Setup is simple: plug it in, connect it to your network, and begin adding integrations via its built-in web server. It’s a thoughtful present for someone who enjoys expanding their HomeKit configuration.

## Conclusion

This is an excellent time to purchase HomeKit devices. With growing Matter support, new accessories that are simpler to set up, and seamless integration within the Home app, these gadgets offer practical, enjoyable, and long-lasting solutions for both experienced smart home enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you’re shopping for someone who already possesses several smart home devices or someone who is just starting, HomeKit accessories make fantastic gifts this holiday season.

Read More
Anticipated Release of Three New MacBook Models Early Next Year: Information Unveiled

The beginning of a new year is rapidly approaching, bringing along several anticipated new MacBooks set to debut in early 2026. Here’s what to expect.

## #1: M5 MacBook Air

Apple’s leading Mac is set for an update in early 2026. The upcoming MacBook Air will be equipped with an M5 chip, though further details remain scarce.

The M5 MacBook Air is anticipated to maintain the same design as the M4 version, retaining the 13-inch and 15-inch sizes. We might see a new color replacing sky blue, along with several minor enhancements.

This year, the M4 model was unveiled in early March, and we predict a similar February-March launch window for the new iteration.

## #2: MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max

The M5 MacBook Pro was recently released, but only the 14-inch variant is available, lacking Pro or Max chip options.

At the start of next year, Apple is likely to introduce upgraded 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring the more powerful M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Similar to the existing M5 model, the chip will serve as the primary upgrade, with improved SSD performance and increased memory bandwidth also anticipated.

If you’re considering buying a new MacBook Pro, keep in mind that Apple has a completely redesigned model in development with the M6, expected as early as late 2026.

## #3: All-new 12.9-inch MacBook

Earlier this year, the M4 MacBook Air saw its starting price reduced to $999, becoming one of Apple’s best value offerings for consumers.

However, come early 2026, Apple is set to launch an even more affordable Mac model, likely simply called ‘MacBook.’

This ‘MacBook’ is rumored to include:

– 12.9-inch display
– A18 Pro chip
– Potential colors: silver, blue, pink, and yellow
– Price estimated around $599 or $699

Despite the Mac platform being well established, Apple recognizes that a significant number of iPhone users still choose a PC or Chromebook over a Mac. This low-cost MacBook may change that trend.

Which of these upcoming MacBook offerings are you most enthusiastic about? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best MacBook deals and accessories

FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.

Read More
Apple and (RED) Unveil Exclusive $3 Million Apple Pay Collaboration for a Limited Duration

**Apple and (RED): A 19-Year Alliance in the Battle Against AIDS**

Since its launch in 2006, the alliance between Apple and (RED) has been an influential catalyst in the battle against AIDS. This collaboration has not only enhanced awareness but has also amassed millions of dollars to support essential health programs aimed at eradicating the AIDS epidemic.

### The Development of the Alliance

Initially, the collaboration showcased special-edition (PRODUCT)RED products, such as iPhones, iPods, and accessories, all crafted in the distinctive (RED) hue. A fraction of each sale from these items was allocated to the Global Fund, an organization focused on tackling AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

In recent times, Apple has redirected its efforts towards ongoing fundraising campaigns centered on Apple Pay, especially as World AIDS Day approaches on December 1st. This year, from now until December 7, Apple has launched a campaign where it will contribute $5 for every eligible purchase made through Apple Pay at any Apple Store, Apple Store Online, or the Apple Store app.

### Effect of the Campaign

This initiative has a limit of $3 million, with all funds benefiting the Global Fund. The donations collected will aid crucial health programs providing prevention, testing, and counseling services for those affected by HIV/AIDS. Since the start of their partnership, Apple has donated over $270 million to (RED), greatly influencing the lives of those affected by the disease.

### How You Can Contribute

Joining this campaign is straightforward. By making a purchase via Apple Pay at any of Apple’s retail or online outlets, consumers can aid the fight against AIDS at no extra cost. This represents a special chance to support an important cause while enjoying Apple’s products and services.

### Conclusion

Apple’s enduring partnership with (RED) showcases how corporate responsibility can foster significant social transformation. As the campaign persists through December 7, consumers are urged to participate in this initiative, helping to gather funds that will ultimately save lives and aid in the global struggle against AIDS. For further details on Apple’s continuing efforts with (RED), visit their official website.

Read More
Google Cuts Features in Gemini’s Free Tier Because of High Demand for Gemini 3

The leaked benchmark results for Gemini 3 Pro provide insight into what we can anticipate from Google’s most advanced AI model to date. Once it became available, users rushed to explore the full range of capabilities that Gemini 3 Pro presented — including generative UI. Naturally, users had to navigate a few hurdles to activate Gemini 3 AI, but even so, the effort was well justified in unlocking the model’s fullest potential. However, it appears that users have been leveraging Gemini 3 excessively, prompting Google to restrict the free tier of the AI chatbot to mitigate bandwidth consumption.

Google has typically been somewhat accommodating with its constraints across its various AI offerings. For instance, AI Mode in Chrome appears to not necessitate any particular AI subscription for utilization, and even the company’s premier image generation model — Nano Banana — was free for Gemini users, albeit with certain limitations. Now, those constraints are set to become more stringent, as recent modifications to the Gemini app access support page (via 9to5Google) imply that the company has significantly reduced the access to more advanced AI features for users on the free tier.

Deeper thinking is becoming somewhat more restricted

Why tempered glass stands out as the best choice

Any form of screen protection is preferable to having none at all. Even an inexpensive plastic film can be a lifesaver for your phone’s screen — particularly when it comes to shielding against surface scratches, dirt, and dust. However, since many plastic screen protectors are crafted from materials like thermoplastic polyurethane and thermoplastic elastomer, they tend to be too lightweight and flexible to offer the protection that a tempered glass shield provides. During their production, tempered glass protectors undergo a demanding heating and cooling procedure that renders them five times stronger than standard plastic protectors. They excel at safeguarding against scratches and cracks, and owing to their superior transparency, they deliver a clearer viewing experience compared to plastic covers.

Thanks to their enhanced rigidity, tempered glass protectors are typically simpler to apply, often leading to fewer air bubbles than seen with plastic varieties. It’s worth noting that very few screen protectors can eliminate all fingerprints. Luckily, if your Android or iOS device gathers smudges, <a href="https://www.bgr.com/2010696/how-to-get-fingerprints-off-android-phone-screen/" target

Read More
Google Limits Usage of Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro Because of Strong Demand

Struggling to keep pace with the skyrocketing demand.

(Image credit: Google / YouTube)

Essential information

  • Access limits for Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro have been diminished without any formal communication from Google.
  • The rising interest in Gemini 3 Pro leads Google to limit free access and encourage paid upgrades.
  • Users on the free tier are now experiencing inconsistent access, affecting those who depend on these tools for their daily tasks.

Notice

Read More

Quick Share Integration Leads to Wi-Fi Interference on Pixel 10: Users Seek Short-Term Solutions

The bridge appears somewhat unstable.

What you should know:
– Google’s Quick Share update affects Wi-Fi connection for Pixel 10 users.
– Temporary solutions involve uninstalling the Quick Share extension or utilizing Bluetooth.
– Google has not officially responded to the ongoing Wi-Fi problems.

The recent Quick Share update from Google, designed to simplify file sharing between Pixel 10 devices and Apple users, has unintentionally caused Wi-Fi connectivity problems, leaving numerous users dissatisfied as their connections drop simply by interacting with the app (as noted by Piunika Web).

Some users have taken to Google’s forum to disclose that accessing the Quick Share menu immediately disrupts the phone’s Wi-Fi connection. One user mentioned that upon opening the sharing menu to transmit a file, the Wi-Fi disconnected. When they attempted to reconnect while the menu remained open, the network list displayed their network, but it refused to connect.

Based on several reports thus far, this situation appears to originate from the latest Quick Share extension update (1.0.815689706). Another user on Reddit reported that their Pixel 10 Pro XL started to malfunction right after the Quick Share extension update. After performing a brief troubleshooting of the extension, they confirmed that the Wi-Fi issue was solely due to this update.

What might be behind this problem, according to Gemini, is that the typical Wi-Fi hardware (such as that found in the Pixel) is generally designed for Wi-Fi Direct (a standard protocol). However, with this recent update, Google may be compelling this hardware to mimic AWDL (a proprietary Apple protocol), which could lead to network instability and disconnections.

Although Google has not yet officially acknowledged the issue, several temporary workarounds are circulating that might assist in resolving this problem. Pixel 10 users have two available options: You can either opt to remove this extension until a fix is provided, by navigating to Settings > Apps > See all apps, finding the “Quick Share extension,” and selecting “Uninstall updates.”

Alternatively, if you urgently need to transfer a file to an Apple device, you can temporarily avoid the driver conflict by manually switching your Wi-Fi off before accessing the Quick Share menu; this compels the transfer to occur via Bluetooth or mobile data, although you may need to reboot your phone afterward to reconnect to your Wi-Fi.

Android Central has contacted Google regarding the issue, and we will update this article once additional information is available.

Read More
Amazon Renewed Premium Presents Discounts of Up to $880 on iPhones for Black Friday Weekend

**Landing Black Friday Steals on Apple Goods: A Handbook for Amazon’s Renewed Premium Offers**

Black Friday is a top moment for shoppers to score substantial savings on a range of items, especially in the technology arena. Among the most desired goods are Apple offerings, including AirPods, MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones. While deals on accessories and laptops tend to be straightforward, buying an unlocked iPhone can present a more intricate challenge. This article will assist you in identifying the best methods to discover excellent bargains on iPhones, especially via Amazon’s Renewed Premium offers.

### Grasping Amazon’s Renewed Premium Offers

Amazon’s Renewed Premium initiative provides refurbished items that have been evaluated and deemed to function like new. These offers come with a solid one-year warranty, making them a compelling choice for consumers seeking quality at a lower price. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to navigate these options meticulously to avoid possible downsides.

### Important Factors When Purchasing Renewed iPhones

1. **Amazon Renewed Premium**: Verify that the iPhone you are considering is labeled as “Amazon Renewed Premium.” This tag signifies that the product fulfills elevated quality criteria compared to typical renewed products.

2. **Direct Shipping from Amazon**: Be wary of listings that are not sent and sold straight from Amazon. Although numerous third-party vendors might provide renewed products, quality and dependability can vary widely. Buying directly from Amazon guarantees a simpler return process and enhanced customer service.

### Current Black Friday Discounts on iPhones

As Black Friday nears, Amazon is presenting significant price cuts on an array of iPhone models. For example, discounts are available on the iPhone 15 Pro/Max and iPhone 16 models, with savings reaching as much as $800 off their original retail prices. These models, although not the newest iPhone 17, still deliver strong performance and features that render them worthwhile investments.

### Refund and Return Policy

A highlight of Amazon’s Renewed Premium program is its returning policy. Customers may send back items in their original state for a full refund or replacement within 365 days of receipt. This prolonged return period offers reassurance, particularly when buying refurbished electronics.

### Top Tips for Shopping on Amazon

– **Confirm Listings**: Always ensure that the product is tagged as “Renewed Premium” and is shipped directly from Amazon.
– **Steer Clear of Third-Party Sellers**: Focus on listings sold and shipped by Amazon to reduce the likelihood of receiving a substandard product.
– **Read Customer Feedback**: Spend time checking customer reviews and ratings for the specific model you are interested in to assess overall satisfaction.

### Closing Thoughts

Black Friday presents a fantastic chance to acquire Apple merchandise at reduced prices, particularly through Amazon’s Renewed Premium offers. By adhering to the tips outlined in this article, you can skillfully navigate the buying process and secure a quality iPhone or other Apple gadgets without the anxiety of dealing with unreliable sellers. Happy shopping!

Read More
Utilize Your Smart TV Without a Remote: Complimentary Alternative Option Accessible

iOS Find My Remote function, but this isn’t always the scenario. It can also be annoying when you acquire a new TV, yet your previous remote is incompatible with it. If you’re fed up with managing your remote, there’s an alternative device you can employ to operate your smart TV, one that you nearly always have on hand: your smartphone.

Almost every smart TV system has a supplementary smartphone app that allows you to utilize your phone in place of a remote, including Fire TV, Google TV, Roku, and Apple TV. When utilized this way, your smartphone mirrors the same buttons you would generally find on your remote, connecting with your TV or streaming device through your home Wi-Fi. It’s a fantastic choice if you’ve mislaid the remote once more, or if your remote is damaged and you either cannot afford or do not wish to purchase a replacement.

Streaming device applications allow you to use your phone as a remote

For the majority of smart TV platforms, you can install the corresponding app on your smartphone (Android or iPhone) and locate the specific virtual remote feature within. This includes <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.roku.com%2Fmobile-app%3Fsrsltid%3DAfmBOoqx9xMLW0YkR0czhDG0hTlMbwMF6p0Gyoutcrguqz4xbl3blUcL&btn_pub_ref=2034657-in_text-2" target="_blank" rel="s

Read More
Grasping the Importance of a Black USB Port

when a USB port appears blue, it signifies that the port is compliant with the USB 3.0 standard, also referred to as SuperSpeed USB. An orange USB port similarly denotes USB 3.0 but indicates that the port is continuously powered with passive power delivery. There are also teal-colored USB ports available. However, what does it signify if a USB port is black? Is it merely a cosmetic choice to coordinate with the casing, or does it hold a specific meaning?

A black USB port typically suggests that the connector is compatible with the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed standard, which, surprisingly, is now considered older despite the “Hi-Speed” designation. It allows for a maximum data transmission rate of 480 Mbps — significantly slower than USB 3.0, which can reach up to 5 Gbps. You can connect any USB Type-A cable to these ports, but if you’re connecting a newer device, like a recent smartphone, the data transfer and charging speeds will be reduced. USB 2.0 was first introduced in 2000, and although these ports remain in use today, they are considerably slower than USB Type-C and USB 3.0 and higher.

USB ports are designed with different colors