what lies ahead instead of what individuals are currently utilizing, I was excited about certain advancements in everyday technology, featuring updates that will genuinely benefit consumers in the near future. Here’s what piqued my interest at CES 2026.
**Pluribus: A New Achievement for Apple TV+**
In December, Apple revealed that its original series *Pluribus* had emerged as the most viewed TV show in the history of the Apple TV streaming platform. While specific viewership numbers were not revealed, the show’s acclaim was further supported by its inclusion in Nielsen’s US streaming report for the week starting December 8, where it secured the ninth position among the top 10 streaming originals.
Despite its recent achievements, *Pluribus* did not appear on the Nielsen chart during November, making its debut in the December report. The top 10 originals list for the week of December 8-14 featured popular titles like *Stranger Things* and *Percy Jackson & the Olympians*, with *Pluribus* accruing a total of 360 million minutes viewed.
In contrast, Apple TV+ was absent from the overall streaming chart, which encompasses both acquired and original content. The lowest entry in that chart was *IT: Welcome to Derry*, with 660 million minutes viewed. For reference, *Stranger Things* led the list with more than 3 billion minutes viewed during the same timeframe.
Several elements contribute to *Pluribus*’s ranking. Firstly, the streaming industry is known for being secretive regarding viewership metrics, making it challenging to verify the accuracy of claims made by streaming platforms. Apple has not disclosed the viewer count for *Pluribus* or the total number of paying subscribers for its platform.
Secondly, Nielsen’s chart focuses on US streaming data, whereas Apple likely bases its viewership assertions on global figures, considering that Apple TV+ is accessible in over 100 countries. Moreover, Apple TV+ remains a relatively minor player in the streaming landscape, with its most popular shows frequently eclipsed by Netflix’s offerings.
Interestingly, *Pluribus* is a new series with merely seven episodes available as of the week of December 8, which restricts its potential viewing minutes when compared to established titles like *Severance* or *Ted Lasso*, which boast larger back catalogs. For example, *Severance* had nine episodes available at the time it gained traction, allowing for greater cumulative viewing time.
Despite these obstacles, *Pluribus* has proven to be a success for Apple, with a second season already greenlit and expected to start production next year, aiming for a release in 2027. As Apple continues to grow its streaming service, the success of *Pluribus* may herald a bright future for original content on Apple TV+.
Apple typically incorporates new emojis into the iPhone with iOS updates during the spring season. Recently, the Unicode Consortium released the complete list of draft emojis that may make their debut next year, as highlighted by Emojipedia.
Among the suggested additions are:
– A grinning face with squinting eyes
– A left-facing thumb gesture
– A right-facing thumb gesture
– A monarch butterfly
– A gherkin
– A lighthouse
– A meteor
– An eraser
– A handled net
These emojis are currently in draft stage, and once they receive approval, companies such as Apple and Google will develop their own variations based on the Unicode Consortium’s descriptions and prototypes.
As the emoji catalog grows, the enthusiasm among iPhone users seems to diminish. Apple has unveiled a new Genmoji feature in iOS 18 that enables users to design custom emojis from text descriptions or by merging existing emojis.
Apple has yet to implement the Unicode 17 characters, which were disclosed in July 2025. These emojis are anticipated to be added in a forthcoming update to iOS 26, probably in March or April. Following this schedule, the new Unicode 18 emojis will likely be integrated into iOS 27.4 in March or April of 2027.
The most recent batch of new emojis added to the iPhone came with iOS 18.4 in March 2025, following the Unicode 16 release.
What are your thoughts on the new emojis? Are there any emojis you’re still anticipating the Unicode Consortium to endorse?
Anker 737 Power Bank could be the ideal choice for you. Among its various features, it is a TSA-approved device, ensuring it’s safe for air travel. However, that’s merely one of the numerous aspects that position this power bank as the ultimate selection.
One major attribute of this power bank that distinguishes it as one of the most practical USB devices you can possess is its impressive capacity of 24,000 mAh. This amount is sufficient to recharge your iPhone 16 Pro four times. Even
This is a minor adjustment, yet it advances YouTube’s mission to assist users in finding the most relevant content.
**Apple TV’s 2026 Lineup Begins with Tehran Season Three**
The Apple TV streaming platform is unveiling its 2026 programming schedule with the eagerly awaited return of the global thriller series *Tehran*. The much-anticipated third season debuts today, showcasing the first episode, with fresh installments scheduled to come out weekly every Friday until February 27.
In this season, renowned actor Hugh Laurie joins the ensemble as a South African nuclear inspector, introducing a new dimension of suspense to the narrative. *Tehran* has garnered considerable acclaim as one of Apple’s most prominent foreign language offerings, and it has already been confirmed for a fourth season, despite fans having awaited new material for over three years since the conclusion of season two.
Notably, filming for season three wrapped up more than four years ago, with an original release targeted for 2023. Nonetheless, Apple opted to postpone the premiere due to the delicate subject matter of the series amid prevailing real-world situations in Israel and Palestine. With the Gaza conflict remaining pertinent, Apple has ultimately decided to proceed with the season’s release on its platform, although it has previously aired in its entirety on the Israeli channel KAN 11, which is a co-production collaborator with Apple.
Returning to the cast is star Niv Sultan, reprising her role as Tamar, the Mossad hacker agent. After her rebellious actions in the dramatic season two finale, Tamar must navigate the challenges of re-establishing her connections within the Mossad in the new season.
Viewers can catch up on the first two seasons of *Tehran* on Apple TV, with the third season airing weekly. For those without an Apple TV subscription, a complimentary seven-day trial is offered.
### Future Apple TV Releases
The debut of *Tehran* season three signifies the start of Apple’s original content slate for 2026. In the upcoming months, Apple intends to unveil new seasons of several beloved shows.
Next week, Idris Elba will star in the second season of the popular thriller *Hijack*, followed by the second season of *Drops of God* the following week. Furthermore, the highly regarded comedy series *Shrinking* will return for its third season at the end of January.
February will bring back *The Last Thing He Told Me* and the Godzilla universe series *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters*. A new theatrical A24 romantic comedy, *Eternity*, will also debut on February 13, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
March will see the launch of a new original TV show, *Imperfect Women*, set to premiere on March 18, featuring Elisabeth Moss and Kerry Washington.
Apple is anticipated to reveal more original premieres in the upcoming weeks, with executives suggesting that new releases will be accessible almost every week throughout 2026. For a detailed overview of everything coming to Apple TV, visit their official website.
In the annual proxy filing released today, Apple revealed detailed information concerning executive compensation for the year 2025, emphasizing the income of CEO Tim Cook and other senior executives, including Kevan Parekh, Kate Adams, Sabih Khan, Luca Maestri, and Deirdre O’Brien.
Tim Cook’s overall compensation for 2025 totaled $74,294,811, showing a minor decline compared to the last year. The specifics of Cook’s earnings are listed below:
– Salary: $3,000,000
– Stock awards: $57,535,293
– Non-equity incentive plan compensation: $12,000,000, determined by Apple’s performance against specified financial targets.
– All other compensation: $1,759,518, encompassing a range of benefits, such as retirement plans, vacation days, and costs related to private jet travel.
The “all other compensation” section specifically entails:
1. Apple’s contributions to Cook’s 401(k) plan: $21,000
2. Premiums for term life insurance: $2,964
3. Cash-out of vacation days: $57,692
4. Expenditures for security: $887,870, which includes personal security services.
5. Costs for personal air travel: $789,991, pertaining to Cook’s private aircraft use.
For reasons of security and efficiency, the Board requires Cook to use private aircraft for all business and personal travels.
Cook has indicated his plan to allocate his wealth to charitable efforts during his lifetime, adhering to a structured philanthropic strategy.
The compensation figures for the remaining members of Apple’s executive team in 2025 are as follows:
**CFO Kevan Parekh**
– Salary: $891,519
– Stock awards: $18,433,135
– Non-equity incentive plan compensation: $3,120,317
– All other compensation: $22,338
– **Total: $22,467,309**
**General Counsel Kate Adams**
– Salary: $1,000,000
– Stock awards: $22,009,766
– Non-equity incentive plan compensation: $4,000,000
– All other compensation: $22,482
– **Total: $27,032,248**
**COO Sabih Khan**
– Salary: $1,000,000
– Stock awards: $22,009,766
– Non-equity incentive plan compensation: $4,000,000
– All other compensation: $21,905
– **Total: $27,031,671**
**Former CFO Luca Maestri**
– Salary: $819,231
– Stock awards: $13,003,031
– Non-equity incentive plan compensation: $1,638,462
– All other compensation: $22,204
– **Total: $15,482,928**
**Retail + People SVP Deirdre O’Brien**
– Salary: $1,000,000
– Stock awards: $22,009,766
– Non-equity incentive plan compensation: $4,000,000
– All other compensation: $37,867
– **Total: $27,047,633**
Apple’s complete “Notice of 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement” can be accessed, and the annual meeting for shareholders is set to occur virtually on February 24, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. PT. Shareholders registered as of January 2, 2026, will be able to attend, vote, and pose questions during the meeting.
Roku streaming devices rank among the finest available in the market. Established by Anthony Wood, the company revolutionized streaming players with the introduction of its inaugural model in 2008. Within six years, it sold over 10 million units and established itself as a prominent name in the streaming device arena. However, Roku expanded beyond just streaming devices and began licensing its operating system, Roku OS, to external manufacturers such as TCL and Hisense. Additionally, the company collaborated with various television set manufacturers to introduce Roku-branded models from companies including Hisense, TCL, Philips, and Westinghouse.
This explains the availability of partner-branded Roku TVs from other firms, like TCL’s 4-Series 55-inch Roku TV. Recently, the company commenced the sale of its own branded models, unveiling its first offerings in 2023 with the Roku Select and Roku Plus Series. In 2024, the company launched its premier high-end TVs under the Roku Pro Series label, featuring screen sizes of up to 75 inches.
You might find yourself with more inquiries regarding the company than solutions. After all, it has only been a handful of years since it began retailing its own sets, and very few enterprises in the television market actually produce their own TVs. For example, Panasonic televisions are manufactured by TCL and Vestel, while Vizio relies on third-party companies for its production. But what about Roku? Does it create its own televisions? And where are they produced?
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cost even more because of AI’s influence on industry components. If you’re seeking a good deal, you might consider visiting thrift shops or purchasing refurbished products. However, there’s another avenue to find new technology at a lower cost: liquidation stores.
Liquidation stores are retailers that sell off inventory that other businesses are eager to dispose of. This could stem from excess stock, stores shutting down, or attempts to recuperate funds on products that didn’t perform well, among other reasons. Depending on your location, you might find local liquidation shops, national franchises like Big Lots, or you can even shop online through the websites of these stores.
Liquidation stores provide certain benefits that thrift shopping or acquiring refurbished items lack. Most products available in these stores are new. When it comes to purchasing technology, opting for used items can be a gamble regarding the quality you receive. Technology doesn’t have the same longevity as a bookshelf. These products deteriorate over time. Liquidation stores enable you to discover new technology at the kind of discounted price typically associated with pre-owned tech.
Apple Inc. has revealed the schedule for its forthcoming annual shareholders meeting, which is set to take place virtually on February 24, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. PT. Shareholders on record as of January 2, 2026, will have the chance to attend the meeting, cast their votes, and raise questions.
A significant agenda item for the meeting will be the re-election of members of Apple’s board of directors. Traditionally, Apple has a policy indicating that board members are ineligible for re-election upon reaching the age of 75. However, this year, two board members, Ron Sugar (77) and Art Levinson (75), have exceeded this age threshold. In its proxy filing, Apple stated it would make an exception for both members, noting their valuable experience, expertise, and contributions to the board as justifications for their re-election.
The board underscored the significance of stability in leadership, particularly in light of ongoing conjecture surrounding CEO Tim Cook’s possible retirement. It is anticipated that Cook may shift to the chairman position once he retires, making Levinson’s ongoing chairmanship vital during this transition.
Besides the board elections, shareholders will also be invited to vote on various other proposals, including:
– Ratification of Ernst & Young LLP as Apple’s independent accounting firm.
– An advisory vote on executive compensation approval.
– Endorsement of a non-employee director stock plan.
Apple is also encouraging shareholders to vote against a proposition for a “China Entanglement Audit.” The company maintains that the requested report is unnecessary, as it already delivers comprehensive information regarding its international operations. Moreover, Apple argues that the proposal is excessively prescriptive and could impede its ability to effectively manage its business operations and strategies.
For additional information, shareholders can consult Apple’s comprehensive “Notice of 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement.”
