Author: sparta

Fiio FT7: The Premier Contender of Planar Headphones with Outstanding Sound Quality and Comfort

Fiio’s FT7 stands as the brand’s supreme over-ear headset thus far, and it ranks among the top choices under $1,000 currently available.

For the past 18 months, Fiio has consistently been releasing products, with over-ear headsets being one area where it excels. I evaluated all models in this series, beginning with the FT1, FT1 Pro, FT3, FT5, and now the FT7. As suggested by the naming, the FT7 occupies the top tier, with its design and planar drivers clearly reflecting that.

The FT7 is now accessible worldwide, priced at $699 on Amazon U.S. at the time of this writing. Naturally, this is more expensive than the FT5’s $499 retail price and twice that of the budget-oriented FT3 and FT1 variants, but as is typical with Fiio, the value offered is remarkable.

Focusing on design, the FT7 shares a similar look to its predecessors, yet it features distinct changes. The headset is built with a carbon-reinforced chassis, which noticeably impacts its weight, making the FT7 weigh in at 427g, 29g lighter than the FT5’s 456g. Despite the figures indicating its lightweight nature, it feels lighter than its dimensions would lead you to believe; this contrasts with the issue often encountered with products from Audeze.

The craftsmanship is exceptional, and the FT7 undoubtedly resembles a premium headset. It is significantly larger than the FT5, largely owing to the size of the planar drivers. Consequently, this headset isn’t intended for outdoor use — it is designed for indoor listening experiences.

The design exudes elegance, with the exterior of the earcups adorned in wood, which enhances its aesthetic appeal. The sizable grilles effectively showcase the planar drivers contained within, and in line with the chassis, the headband is crafted from carbon. The headband offers a versatile range of adjustability — though it can feel somewhat stiff at times — and the leather padding is similarly firm straight out of the box.

While I had initial concerns regarding the fit given the headset’s size, those worries were unfounded. The lightweight design ensures there is no discomfort during prolonged use, as clamping force is minimal. In fact, the FT7 fits snugly against your head, making it seem less cumbersome than the design suggests. For reference, I compared the FT7 with Audeze’s new LCD-S20, and Fiio has made strides in enhancing comfort with this headset.

Leather ear pads come standard, and Fiio also includes fabric pads within the packaging. Both types of pads feature an angled design that contributes to overall comfort, and although the fabric pads offer better airflow, I opted to use the leather ones during my evaluation.

Additionally, the included cable measures three meters in length — twice that of the FT5. I found the cable length satisfactory, but I would have preferred Fiio to provide a shorter cable as well. As it stands, only one cable is included, and instead of interchangeable connectors, you receive a standard 4.4mm connector with extenders for XLR or 6.35mm plugs as needed.

The cable itself is of high quality, and after four months of regular usage, I encountered no issues whatsoever. The outer sheath adds to its durability, and I have complete confidence in its robustness. Similarly, the hard shell case ranks among the best available, providing excellent protection for the FT7 when it’s not in use.

Featuring a 106mm planar driver, the large size of the driver accounts for the increase in dimensions over the FT5. Notably, Fiio mentions employing a multi-layer coating system that utilizes PET as the diaphragm substrate, incorporating 24k gold and silver.

Remarkably, the diaphragm is extremely thin at merely 1µm, and it is produced on a 28nm node. While that may appear outdated compared to devices like the Find X9 Pro, which operates on a 3nm node, it is groundbreaking within the audio industry.

With a 25Ω impedance and a sensitivity of 94dB/mW, a solid source is essential to unlock the full potential of this headset. I paired the FT7 with my Fiio K19 and K17 DAC, with the K19 being the perfect match for this headset. Regarding the audio performance, the FT7 delivers a distinctive Fiio tonal quality with a neutral character and a touch of brightness.

The bass is extraordinarily detailed —

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Greatest New MacBook Offers for November Beginning at $599

# The Present Landscape of MacBooks in the Apple Silicon Era

During the Apple Silicon period, MacBooks have become more budget-friendly than ever, with brand new models starting at just $599. With potential global tariffs on the horizon, these appealing prices might be short-lived. If you’re looking to buy a new MacBook, now could be an ideal moment to do so.

Apple’s recent macOS Tahoe update has also ceased support for nearly all Intel Macs, with a few exceptions. If you want to take advantage of the latest Apple software, this is an opportune moment to upgrade.

## M1 MacBook Air

Apple has released four MacBook Air models since the start of the Apple Silicon period: M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air continues to feature a recognizable wedge design from the Intel days, which many users may favor.

Even though it’s four years old, the M1 MacBook Air is still a fantastic laptop for its cost. It offers speedy performance due to the M1 chip, an impressive retina display (albeit with thicker bezels than newer models), an excellent keyboard, and up to 18 hours of battery life. It operates quietly, making it ideal for use in public spaces.

The M1 MacBook Air is the most affordable choice on this list, though finding new ones with more than 256GB of storage may prove more challenging. Still, it is the only Apple Silicon MacBook available in a classic Gold color.

You can acquire the M1 MacBook Air for as little as $599 at Walmart in all three colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.

– **13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory:** $599 at Walmart

## M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple unveiled a revamped MacBook Air featuring a slimmer design, a larger screen with narrower bezels, and the return of MagSafe. It became available in new Starlight and Midnight hues, along with Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was phased out. This new design debuted with the M2 chip and has carried on with the M3.

M2 MacBook Air models have largely sold out, and a similar trend is occurring with M3 models, though a few remain in stock, especially the 15-inch MacBook Air.

– **15-inch MacBook Air with M3 chip, 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:** $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)

This MacBook is a fantastic choice if you’re seeking additional unified memory, which is advantageous for multitasking.

## M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple introduced an updated MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip. This version resembles the previous model but includes a new Center Stage webcam and a fresh Sky Blue color that replaces Space Gray.

At the moment, you can save at least $100 on the newest MacBook Air models. Apple is said to be developing a new entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip expected to be released in the upcoming year, but at these prices, the MacBook Air remains an excellent option.

– **13-inch MacBook Air with M4 chip:**
– 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $899 at Amazon
– 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1065 at Amazon
– 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon

– **15-inch MacBook Air with M4 chip:**
– 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
– 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
– 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1429 at Amazon

Even as the latest model, there are amazing offers available for the M4 MacBook Air, thanks to its more accessible starting price.

## M4 MacBook Pro

Apple revamped the MacBook Pro in 2021, incorporating a miniLED display with ProMotion, increased ports (including HDMI and an SD card reader), larger batteries, and improved thermals. It now also includes a 1080p webcam.

While the MacBook Pro isn’t as economically priced as the MacBook Airs listed, good deals can still be found. All models listed below feature M4 and M4 Pro chips, delivering the latest performance and features.

Inventory for baseline M4 models will likely reduce in the coming months due to the impending release of the new M5 MacBook Pro.

– **14-inch models:** (Pricing varies)

– **16-inch models:**
– M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $2216 on Amazon
– M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of

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Palm Royale Season 2 Debuts on Apple TV

**Palm Royale Season 2: Anticipations from the Beloved Apple TV Series**

Over a year after its triumphant inaugural season, *Palm Royale* makes its return to Apple TV for a much-awaited second season. The series boasts a prominent cast, featuring Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, and Carol Burnett, and continues to enchant viewers with its compelling storyline set against the opulent yet perilous backdrop of Palm Beach’s elite society.

**Release Schedule**

The latest season of *Palm Royale* debuted with a new set of episodes, with fresh installments released every Wednesday. This season will also include 10 episodes, concluding on January 14, 2026.

**Plot Overview**

Taking place in 1969, *Palm Royale* chronicles the journey of a driven woman maneuvering through the intricacies of social status and power plays in Palm Beach. Following a critically acclaimed first season that secured several Emmy nominations and a win at the Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards, the series is ready to explore its main character’s journey in greater depth.

In the forthcoming season, Maxine faces social ostracism following a scandalous public meltdown. Confronted with exclusion from society, she must draw upon her cleverness and ingenuity to regain her footing among the elite. As she navigates the perilous waters of Palm Beach, she will reveal concealed truths about the community, uncovering a world founded on secrets, deception, and occasional crimes.

**Trailer and Viewing Options**

Viewers can check out the trailer for *Palm Royale* season 2 on Apple TV. The series is available for streaming on Apple TV+, which provides a subscription for $12.99 per month. Subscribers can also enjoy a range of other popular shows and films, including *Severance*, *The Studio*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*.

For those excited to re-enter the realm of *Palm Royale*, the new season promises to offer the same mix of drama, excitement, and star appeal that contributed to the first season’s success.

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Timothée Chalamet’s fantasy feature reaches $634 million milestone on Netflix two years following its launch.

Timothée Chalamet’s Fantasy Film “Wonka” Takes Off on Netflix

Timothée Chalamet is currently a leading name in the entertainment industry, with multiple projects capturing the spotlight. Among these is his enchanting feature “Wonka,” which has recently made a notable splash on Netflix. The film, which has earned over $634 million globally and features a 90% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, is now streaming on the service until November 30.

“Willy Wonka Revived on Netflix”

The movie “Wonka” tells the tale of a youthful and hopeful candy-maker who travels to Europe with aspirations of sharing his chocolate inventions with the world. However, his adventure is filled with obstacles, including run-ins with fraudsters and a chocolate “cartel.” Standout performances include Olivia Colman as a woman who ensnares Wonka in financial troubles and Hugh Grant as a scene-stealing Oompa-Loompa.

The film delivers a storybook ambiance and a heartfelt tone, delving into the backstory of the quirky character from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” through a traditional musical perspective. Chalamet’s interpretation of Wonka is both creative and believable, encapsulating the character’s warmth and enchantment without falling into stereotypes.

Guided by director Paul King, “Wonka” is among several Chalamet films accessible on Netflix, including “The King” and “Don’t Look Up.” Critics on Rotten Tomatoes refer to “Wonka” as a “feel-good treat,” providing a delightful twist on the beloved character.

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Apple Unveils Xcode 26.1.1 Showcasing Improved Coding Intelligence Enhancements

Apple has launched an update for Xcode, version 26.1.1, featuring numerous critical bug resolutions and performance improvements, especially concerning its AI-powered coding functionalities. This update tackles a range of issues that users have faced, particularly with the newly integrated coding intelligence features in Xcode.

### Key Features of Xcode 26.1.1

#### Support for Swift 6.2.1
The latest release of Xcode now offers support for Swift 6.2.1, enabling developers to take advantage of the most recent features and advancements from the Swift programming language.

#### Enhancements in Coding Intelligence
The update has corrected multiple significant issues tied to the Coding Assistant, aimed at improving the coding workflow. Key fixes include:

– **Memory Usage**: Improved memory handling for the Coding Assistant when dealing with large git repositories, boosting overall efficiency.
– **Tool Availability**: Resolved instances where coding tools may become inoperative within the source editor and malfunction in menus.
– **Text Replacement Accuracy**: Fixed the “find text in file” tool, which had inaccurately reported line numbers, resulting in unsuccessful text replacements.
– **Performance with ChatGPT**: Tackled performance challenges when users interacted with ChatGPT in Xcode, particularly during code modifications.

Moreover, the update rectifies a bug that obstructed background indexing for specific projects and addresses several other issues impacting aspects such as CallKit, Instruments, Interface Builder, Localization, Previews, Simulator, Swift Packages, Swift Testing, and Xcode Cloud.

#### New Features
Beyond bug repairs, Xcode 26.1.1 adds new functionalities for device management, enhanced security, and Instruments. A significant feature is the capability to obtain a complete sysdiagnose directly from a connected device via the command `xcrun devicectl device sysdiagnose`.

For developers seeking a thorough summary of all modifications and enhancements, the complete release notes for Xcode 26.1.1 are available

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Apple Starts Providing PlayStation VR2 Sense Controllers for Compatibility with Apple Vision Pro

### Apple Unveils Compatibility for Sony’s PSVR2 Sense Controllers with visionOS 26

Apple has officially disclosed the compatibility of Sony’s PlayStation VR2 Sense Controllers with its visionOS 26, enhancing the gaming experience on the Apple Vision Pro. Currently, these controllers can be purchased through Apple’s online store for $249.95, with in-store availability anticipated to begin on Monday, November 17.

#### Highlights of the Announcement

At the WWDC25 event, Apple outlined its commitment to supporting the PSVR2 Sense Controllers, intended to enhance gameplay and other activities that require precise input beyond hand tracking. This announcement has been eagerly awaited by users since the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro last year.

The PSVR2 Sense Controllers are now accessible for online purchase, providing a distinctive opportunity for consumers, as they are available separately from the PSVR2 headset, which is not typically available elsewhere.

#### Improved Gaming Experience

The addition of the PSVR2 Sense Controllers is projected to notably improve gameplay experiences on the Apple Vision Pro. The controllers boast advanced motion tracking with six degrees of freedom, finger touch detection, and vibration support, empowering developers to craft more engaging and immersive gaming experiences.

A notable title that will gain from this integration is the new pickleball game, **Pickle Pro**. Apple highlights that these advancements will enable developers to deliver richer gameplay experiences, maximizing the potential offered by the PSVR2 Sense Controllers.

#### Availability and Purchase Details

The PSVR2 Sense Controllers can be acquired online from Apple’s store for $249.95. The bundle comprises the controllers, a charging stand, a power cable, a power adapter, and two USB adapters. With the launch of visionOS 26, which supports these controllers, users can now fully leverage the improved gaming capabilities.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, the introduction of Sony’s PSVR2 Sense Controllers signifies a major advancement for Apple Vision Pro users, allowing for more immersive and precise gaming experiences. With the controllers presently available online and set to arrive in Apple Stores shortly, gamers can anticipate exploring new avenues of gameplay.

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Company Transforms Controversial Concept Phone into Existence

Over the years, we’ve encountered numerous fascinating concept phones, featuring some wild examples like Motorola’s rollable OLED device. However, Honor might have outdone the competition when it presented its aptly named “Robot Phone” in a recent video a few weeks ago, which some analysts have suggested included AI-generated footage within the commercial for the product.

While concept phones typically remain just that—often showcasing features such as unusual displays or gigantic batteries that aren’t yet feasible—Honor seems determined to transform its Robot Phone from a mere idea to practical use, with intentions to launch the device for consumers by 2026. Indeed, Honor CEO Li Jian has reportedly affirmed that the concept device, complete with its small gimbal camera, will become a tangible product available for purchase in 2026. In addition to the quirky gimbal-like camera highlighted in the advertisement, it will be packed with AI functionalities to bolster Honor’s global initiative to establish itself as a frontrunner in AI technology.

A phone that observes everything you observe

In recent years, it has become an increasingly prevalent theory that our smartphones are eavesdropping on all our conversations. With Honor’s Robot Phone, we won’t need to rely on any theories. According to the video shared by Honor a few weeks ago, it appears that the camera will have the ability to look wherever it desires. There will likely be some form of user control behind it, but until Honor provides further details, we can’t confirm anything.

Of course, there are numerous reasons to approach this with skepticism. Firstly, the challenge of incorporating an entire gimbal mechanism into a smartphone’s frame must be significant. However, that doesn’t imply that Honor can’t or won’t succeed. Rollable televisions also appeared impractical when first introduced, yet they are now commercially available.

Additionally, there are privacy issues that this might raise; however, based on the designs presented so far, it seems the gimbal camera can actually retract back into the device, suggesting it can be concealed in some manner. Regardless, the fact that Honor is committed to making this concept a reality is likely to pique the interest of some smartphone consumers seeking devices with these functionalities.

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The Biggest TV Size Offered for Sale in 2025

If you think you can obtain the largest TV available in 2025, you would be mistaken. This is due to the fact that the most massive LED and OLED displays are generally not showcased on the sales floor; they are designated for special orders from clients, corporate purchasers, and high-end installations. Accordingly, there exists a select few televisions that surpass the dimensions of the typical consumer model, and the most considerable unit you can acquire in 2025 is the LG DVLED 589-inch dual4K UltraHD Ultra Stretch LED wall.

As you might imagine, this exceptional product won’t be found casually browsing on LG’s homepage. This is a custom-order television that, in reality, is not a television at all — it consists of LED panels arranged together to form one enormous image. The outcome is genuinely captivating, but so is its $771,000 price tag. Samsung offers another specialty television that is larger than 100 inches, with pricing that is somewhat less daunting.

Samsung’s The Wall: A 146-Inch Micro LED wonder

The second largest display available in 2025 is a Samsung creation you probably won’t encounter in retail: Samsung The Wall All-in-One 146-inch 4K. Although its $220K cost is still quite significant, it’s far more reasonable than the LG Ultra Stretch. Similar to LG’s premium display technology, The Wall is formed by mounting three or four preset modules onto a backdrop plate, and the setup should only require two hours with two individuals.

The Wall comes equipped with a built-in control box to manage all your AV connections, plus a set of integrated speakers. You will also enjoy some of Samsung’s finest picture technology, including AI-enhanced upscaling and 20-bit color processing. Whether you aim to cover every inch of your living room wall with Samsung LEDs or are on the lookout for an extraordinary display for an art gallery or museum exhibition, Samsung’s The Wall 146-inch is one of the largest and most suitable options for the task.

Large screens without the hefty price tags

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Grasping AI Superintelligence: An In-Depth Examination

Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and Tesla’s Elon Musk are pursuing something significantly more ambitious: the creation of artificial superintelligence (ASI).

AI is advancing rapidly: Terms like AI, AGI, and ASI may sound alike, but they signify entirely different levels of competence. The AI you currently use is “narrow,” designed for particular tasks such as text or video production, and necessitates human involvement. AGI would equip machines with human-like cognitive skills, primarily being the ability to think, learn, decide, and resolve issues without tailored training for every task.

ASI takes it a step further, with the objective of exceeding human capabilities in nearly all areas. Experts suggest it would independently make choices and enhance itself without requiring human guidance. AI is already displacing thousands of jobs, and specialists warn that AGI and ASI could present an even greater danger. So, what exactly is ASI? And should we be cautious about it?

What artificial superintelligence truly entails

Google’s Latest AI Advancements Suggest That Apple’s Strategic Path is Affirmed in Certain Areas

**Google’s Private AI Compute: A Transformative Step for Consumer AI**

Today, Google revealed its own iteration of Private Cloud Compute, emulating Apple’s strategy and potentially signifying a pivotal moment in the consumer AI arena. This advancement underscores the competitive landscape among tech giants and their varying approaches within the swiftly changing AI domain.

### Late to the Scene, Yet Still Impactful

The ongoing conversation regarding Apple’s role in the AI market shows a sense of dissatisfaction related to its perceived delay in innovation. In contrast to its competitors, Apple has faced challenges in providing revolutionary technology that meets contemporary AI developments. Although it has launched numerous machine learning functions over the years, the company has struggled to match the transformative wave initiated by ChatGPT, which appeared four years after the first GPT framework.

Apple’s past commitment to machine learning has resulted in significant progress, bolstered by its internal research efforts. However, the company did not foresee the direction of AI growth that other sector participants have taken advantage of. Consequently, Apple finds itself in a vulnerable situation, unable to exploit its technical expertise to create competitive AI offerings.

Nonetheless, Apple has made remarkable progress in establishing its Private Cloud Compute framework, which prioritizes user privacy and security. This technical accomplishment sharply contrasts with the prevailing industry trend of sacrificing privacy standards in favor of adopting large language models (LLMs). While Apple has yet to fully implement this framework in a consumer-facing product, its dedication to privacy continues to be a fundamental aspect of its AI strategy.

### Google’s Embrace of Private AI Compute

Google’s recent announcement regarding its Private AI Compute solution acts as an endorsement of Apple’s endeavors to foster a more private AI environment. By embracing a comparable framework, Google not only recognizes Apple’s technical contributions but also sets a benchmark that may inspire other AI laboratories to emphasize user privacy.

The rollout of these private computing solutions by both Google and Apple indicates a possible transformation in the AI landscape, where privacy is treated as a critical consideration. This shift could lead to a more accountable approach to AI, benefiting consumers who are increasingly wary about data protection.

### Conclusion

While it would be preferable for Apple to align with the pace of AI advancements established by its rivals, the company’s impact in advocating for privacy-focused solutions is commendable. As Google and Apple spearhead the movement toward a more private AI framework, the consequences for user privacy and data security are substantial. This ongoing narrative highlights the significance of responsible AI development and the influence of leading tech companies in shaping the future of consumer technology.

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