“New Capabilities in Apple Music Unveiled with iOS 26”

# Apple Music’s Thrilling New Features in iOS 26

Apple Music has made impressive improvements to its platform with the launch of iOS 26, presenting a range of exciting features that users have quickly embraced. Here are three notable additions that enhance the music-listening experience.

## 1. Fullscreen Animated Lock Screen Artwork

Apple Music has always been celebrated for its striking album art, and with iOS 26, this artistic flair has been brought to the Lock Screen. Users can now appreciate fullscreen animated artwork while enjoying their music, even when the Music app is not visible. This feature is especially remarkable on iPhones equipped with an always-on display, enabling users to view a captivating edge-to-edge display of album art that animates when the screen is activated. Although not all albums or playlists include this animation, many do, and the fullscreen view enriches the overall aesthetic of the listening experience.

## 2. Playlist Folders

In the past, the ability to create and manage playlist folders was confined to the Mac, making it inconvenient for users who rely mainly on iPhones and iPads. With iOS 26, Apple Music has fully integrated folder support for playlists across all devices. This empowers users to create new folders, rearrange playlists, and handle existing folders directly from their mobile devices. This upgrade makes music organization more straightforward and user-friendly, enabling users to fully utilize playlist organization without the need to switch to a Mac.

## 3. Pinned Music in Library

One of the most sought-after features in Apple Music is the capability to pin music within the Library. With the arrival of iOS 26, users can now pin up to six albums, playlists, artists, or songs at the top of their Library for convenient access. This feature enhances the user experience, facilitating quick navigation to often-played content. While some users may desire an increase in the pin limit, the existing functionality greatly enhances the usability of the Library tab, transforming it into a more personalized and efficient space for music exploration.

Apple Music continues to be a strong contender in the streaming service arena, available for $10.99 per month for individuals or as part of the Apple One package. With these new features in iOS 26, users can savor a more dynamic and organized music experience. What are your favorite features in Apple Music’s newest update?

Four Essential Applications Shown to Aid in Combating Procrastination

save yourself from endless scrolling and concentrate on your work or studies with certain applications. Productivity, mental health, and focus applications assist in eliminating distractions, providing structure, fostering accountability, or tackling the emotional triggers that cause procrastination initially. Utilize these resources to collaborate with your brain, rather than working against it.

We examined the top applications crafted not only to time your focus but also to make it enjoyable. Some are presented as games, where each small achievement propels you towards increased focus. Others pair you with a partner under whose vigilant observation you’ll be compelled to concentrate on your assignments. Lastly, some are developed with insights from actual psychologists, and you might gain access to their premium services for free through certain health plans. Keep in mind that procrastination doesn’t equal laziness. It represents a challenge in self-regulation, which psychologists define as a voluntary deferral of significant tasks linked to heightened stress.

Freedom

Freedom is among the most well-known productivity applications available. It’s a solution intended to aid in combating procrastination by disabling your digital distractions. It can be utilized on your smartphone, tablet, or computer to block distracting websites, social media platforms, or even games. All content categorized as attention-draining will remain inaccessible once this application is installed.

Upon installation of the application, you’ll have the option to choose which content to block. You can pick specific applications like TikTok or Instagram, or select a category such as

Averting and Stopping a Nuclear Meltdown: Potential Methods and Approaches

genetic alterations in nearby canines became a focal point for opponents of nuclear energy, who are concerned that similar incidents might take place in other locations. Nuclear energy possesses vast potential as a carbon-neutral energy solution at a moment when the earth urgently requires it, yet that potential cannot be realized without the confidence of the public. With this in mind, the engineers of nuclear facilities are developing increasingly sophisticated strategies to prevent nuclear meltdowns before any harm can occur.

The initial nuclear power stations were constructed starting in the 1950s, and from the outset, minimizing the risk of a meltdown was of utmost importance. This threat emerges when a nuclear reactor exceeds safe temperature limits, thus to avert meltdowns, reactors must be equipped with robust cooling mechanisms. Traditionally, these mechanisms have depended on circulating water around the reactor core to manage the heat generated by the radioactive fuel contained within, and for the most part, these systems have functioned effectively. Nevertheless, the disastrous incidents at Chernobyl and the 2011 meltdown of Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (which declared in 2020 that it would be releasing its radioactive water back into the ocean) both transpired due to failures in their respective cooling systems. The insights gained from these tragedies are now informing a new methodology for nuclear power.

What truly occurs during a nuclear meltdown?

YouTube Music Tests AI-Created Backgrounds for Lyric Cards

YouTube Music has rolled out a fresh feature that enables users to share song lyrics accompanied by custom AI-generated backgrounds. Previously, users were restricted to solid-color backgrounds for lyric card sharing. This new option, accessible to both free and Premium users on iOS and Android, allows for the creation of more visually striking lyric cards through generative AI. Users can either save these lyric cards to their devices or share them with other applications.

While viewing lyrics in the YouTube Music app, a new “Share” button featuring a Gemini sparkle icon signifies the AI-enhanced functionalities. Users are cautioned that AI-generated images are derived from text prompts and may not always align with YouTube’s guidelines, necessitating agreement to these terms prior to usage. The AI background button is positioned alongside the existing solid colors, and users have the ability to regenerate new backgrounds if they wish.

These AI-generated backgrounds introduce diversity to lyric cards, although they may not consistently correspond with the song’s theme or lyrics. Lyric cards display the song’s album cover, track title, artist name, and a YouTube Music logo, along with the choice of a solid-color or AI-generated background. This feature is available in the YouTube Music app on both iOS and Android.

The Reason I’m Going to Miss New ASUS Smartphones in 2026

ASUS has historically been a prominent player in the smartphone industry, recognized for expanding the limits of what a smartphone can achieve without resorting to gimmicks. Nonetheless, the firm recently revealed its intention to refrain from launching new smartphones in 2026, indicating a notable shift in its approach. This decision comes after the introduction of the ASUS ROG Phone model in late 2024 and the ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra in early 2025. While ASUS has not completely withdrawn from the smartphone sector, it has made it clear that there are no immediate plans for new models.

The information surfaced from a DigiTimes report, which indicated that ASUS would stop releasing new Android devices after December 31, 2025. Nevertheless, ASUS has reassured customers that its smartphone operations will persist, with continued maintenance, software updates, and warranty services for existing products. However, the company has affirmed that it currently has no intentions to launch new smartphone models in 2026.

This pause could imply that ASUS will go over two years without updating its flagship ROG Phone and Zenfone series. The company’s decision to take a break from releasing new smartphones prompts inquiries about its long-term strategy and dedication to the mobile market. While ASUS asserts that it is not finished with smartphones, the absence of new models might suggest a slow winding down of its smartphone activities.

ASUS has gained recognition for its inventive approach, providing unique features such as multiple USB-C ports on its ROG Phone models and compact premium devices in its Zenfone series. However, the company’s emphasis on high-end flagship sales without delivering a premium experience to justify the price has posed a challenge. With limited software support and availability, ASUS smartphones have found it difficult to compete outside of specialized markets.

The potential disappearance of ASUS smartphones, whether temporary or permanent, is disheartening for the brand’s enthusiasts. ASUS has been among the few companies eager to experiment with fresh concepts, and its absence could create a void in the market for innovative smartphone designs. As the company maneuvers through this transition, it remains uncertain whether ASUS will return to the smartphone industry with renewed enthusiasm or gradually scale back its mobile operations.

Eve Unveils Minimalist Matter Smart Thermostat at CES 2026

### Eve Thermostat: A New Chapter in Intelligent Home Climate Management

During CES 2026, Eve unveiled the Eve Thermostat, an advanced smart thermostat crafted to improve home climate management with an emphasis on user-friendliness and effectiveness. This device supports Matter, enabling smooth integration with numerous smart home platforms, such as Apple HomeKit and the Eve app, utilizing Thread connectivity for dependable operation.

#### Aesthetic and Functionality

Eve highlights a sleek, minimal design in the Eve Thermostat. It offers a large, straightforward display paired with user-friendly touch controls, allowing users to make direct temperature changes with ease. The interface can be personalized via the Eve app, enabling users to access temperature presets, switch heating and cooling modes, and manage fan functions effortlessly. A trim plate included with the thermostat facilitates a tidy installation, accommodating uneven wall surfaces.

#### User Privacy and Software Upgrades

A standout attribute of the Eve Thermostat is its dedication to user privacy. The device functions solely on your local network, negating the need for user accounts, subscriptions, or dependency on cloud services. This strategy not only bolsters privacy but also ensures users maintain complete control over their data. Additionally, Eve has committed to delivering regular software updates for the thermostat, thanks to its alignment with the Matter standard, which aspires to enhance compatibility among smart home devices.

#### Competitive Landscape

The launch of the Eve Thermostat signifies Eve’s entry into the smart thermostat arena, a sector currently led by established brands like Ecobee. While the minimalist design is attractive, uncertainty exists regarding the level of functionality available directly on the device compared to the Eve or Apple Home apps. Users may question how much they can achieve without depending on their smartphones.

#### Release and Pricing Information

The Eve Thermostat is scheduled for release in Q1 2026, with a retail price of $129.95 USD. It will be available through various outlets, including Eve’s official website, Apple, and Amazon.

#### Final Thoughts

The Eve Thermostat offers an intriguing solution for those seeking to elevate their smart home experience with a focus on privacy and simplicity. As the launch date nears, prospective users can anticipate a comprehensive review that will explore its features and performance in greater detail.

Anticipated Release of Premium AirPods Pro: Expected Pricing Information

### High-end AirPods Pro 3 Model Anticipated to Retail Around $299

Apple is preparing to broaden its AirPods range with a new, premium edition of the AirPods Pro 3 this year. This expected model is rumored to include major enhancements, such as infrared (IR) cameras aimed at supporting new Apple Intelligence features.

A standout element anticipated with this new iteration is the incorporation of a more sophisticated version of Siri, potentially enabling users to interact with the device hands-free by inquiring about their environment. This function could improve the overall user experience, making it more intuitive and fluid.

Leaker Instant Digital has previously disclosed that Apple intends to introduce two distinct models of the AirPods Pro 3—one featuring cameras and one lacking them. This distinction is anticipated to address varying consumer demands and preferences.

According to Instant Digital, the cost for the AirPods Pro 3 with cameras is expected to be “over 2000 yuan,” which presently equates to roughly $286 in U.S. dollars. Given that the price is likely to surpass this figure, an estimated cost of around $299 appears plausible, reflecting a $50 hike from the standard AirPods Pro 3 model.

Apple currently presents two variants of its AirPods 4 at different price levels: the basic model without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) priced at $129, and the enhanced ANC version at $179. It seems that Apple may adopt a similar pricing approach for the AirPods Pro 3, maintaining a $50 difference between the two variants.

As consumers look forward to the formal announcement, the question lingers: would you consider paying $299 for new AirPods Pro equipped with cameras and advanced AI features?

Top 5 Dependable TVs Priced Below $500

the distinction between an OLED and QLED display can begin to blur. If you’re looking to purchase a quality TV for under $500, you’ll need to be discerning in your choices.

Renowned brands such as Hisense, TCL, and even Samsung are among the most dependable smart TV manufacturers available, but a lower cost often means compromising on picture quality or additional advanced features. For instance, you’ll find that none of the TVs we picked for this selection have a native 120-hertz refresh rate, which would enhance image smoothness.

Nevertheless, the five TVs we highlighted compensate for reduced motion clarity with other impressive picture technologies. Each unit is priced under $500, with the 32-inch Samsung 4K QLED retailing at exactly $500.

TCL 55-inch Class S5 Series

The TCL 55-inch Class S5 Series is a conventional 4K LED-LCD television that retails for $330 at its regular price but frequently goes on sale. On Amazon, the TV achieved a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from over 3,300 reviews, with the majority of users commending the S5’s robust picture quality, easy setup, and overall value.

Brands like TCL and His

Pioneer Unveils the Initial Aftermarket CarPlay Device with Dolby Atmos Compatibility

Starting at $1,300 and shipping this spring, the Sphera is the latest aftermarket CarPlay unit from Pioneer that drivers should take note of. Introduced at CES 2026, the Sphera stands as the first aftermarket spatial audio head unit worldwide capable of supporting Dolby Atmos in CarPlay. This is excellent news for those wanting to enhance their car’s head unit with a solution that accommodates Dolby Atmos content. Additionally, the Sphera can serve as an option for vehicles with infotainment systems that lack CarPlay support.

Pioneer mentioned in its announcement that the Sphera is designed to be compatible with “millions of existing vehicles,” without specifying any particular models. The company also indicates that installation can be achieved with “minimal modification,” as the head unit is expected to fit a “wide variety of vehicles.”

The head unit will interface with the vehicle’s speakers and utilize Pioneer’s exclusive Pure Autotuning technology to tailor the sound experience to the car’s interior. Pure is intended to consider the cabin’s unique features, including size, shape, and materials. Pure Autotuning will “accurately adjust time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to enhance performance and place the listener at the acoustical center.” This will guarantee the spatial audio and Dolby Atmos experience that users desire from their vehicle’s sound system.

The Pioneer Sphera features

The Sphera, depicted in the images above, is a 10.1-inch HD capacitive display that delivers “clear visibility and responsive controls.” The system is compatible with Pioneer’s Quick Swipe user interface for “rapid, intuitive adjustments while driving.” It offers a split-screen mode, wherein part of the display is allocated to specific features and controls, allowing drivers to access them effortlessly. Sphera supports wireless connection to iPhones (CarPlay) and Android devices (Android Auto), alongside Bluetooth.

The Sphera also includes an integrated Pioneer Luminous Bar that adds a “subtle visual signature to the dash.” This lighting system has two modes, including an Enhanced Visual Mode for navigation assistance and a Music Synchronization Mode that aligns lighting with audio. To achieve that “rich, immersive listening experience” in Dolby Atmos, Sphera will employ the car’s front and rear speakers. Users should not need to acquire additional hardware to ensure their CarPlay experience includes Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

While Sphera’s standout feature may be its support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos in CarPlay, the Pioneer receiver is also compatible with Android Auto. Although Spatial Audio (capitalized) is an Apple innovation for 3D sound, Dolby Atmos might also become accessible to Android Auto users in the future, as it’s a 3D sound technology distinct from Apple’s Spatial Audio. However, neither the press release nor Pioneer’s Sphera product page mentions Dolby Atmos support for Android. The product page states “more platforms are coming soon,” without specifically naming Android Auto. Additionally, Dolby Atmos may not be available for all audio content streaming in the vehicle. Pioneer notes in a footnote that streaming Dolby Atmos content might necessitate a subscription.