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User Views on the Dependability of Inexpensive Headphones

top-rated headphones available for under $100 still encompass a large variety that are priced below $20 or even $10. However, at such a low cost, can you really expect to receive headphones that are trustworthy?

Interestingly, inexpensive headphones manage to stand their ground. While this can differ based on the brand you select, the audio performance can actually be quite decent, though it might not match up to the higher-end models. You may also wonder if budget headphones will last longer than their more costly counterparts, but as it turns out, there isn’t a straightforward way to measure that since it greatly depends on how you handle your headphones.

It is commonly stated that you receive what you pay for in terms of quality. Nevertheless, many reviews on budget headphones are rather favorable, highlighting an excellent price-to-quality ratio and unexpected durability. Regarding low-cost headphones, users readily share both the advantages and disadvantages of their purchases.

The advantages of purchasing affordable headphones

Two Nations Prohibit Grok App because of AI-Created CSAM; Anticipating Apple’s Reply

**AI-Produced CSAM by Grok: An Escalating Issue**

The rise of AI technologies has led to remarkable progress, yet it has also prompted significant ethical and legal dilemmas, especially concerning the creation of non-consensual deepfake visuals. The Grok application, which employs AI to generate images, has recently faced criticism following reports of its role in producing non-consensual near-nude deepfakes of women and children. This alarming pattern has incited action from various governments and legislators.

**The Ban on Grok in Southeast Asia**

In light of the distressing misuse of the Grok app, Malaysia and Indonesia have acted resolutely by prohibiting the application within their territories. Authorities in these nations pointed to the inadequacy of existing measures to stop the creation and spread of fake pornographic material, particularly involving at-risk groups such as women and minors. The Indonesian government commenced the ban on a Saturday, with Malaysia following suit the next day.

**U.S. Senators Call for Action from Tech Companies**

In the U.S., three senators—Ron Wyden, Ed Markey, and Ben Ray Luján—have called on Apple to temporarily pull both the Grok and X apps from the App Store. They voiced serious concern over the “disturbing content generation” linked to these applications, which encompasses the creation of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). The senators criticized the inaction from former CEO Elon Musk and underscored the quick removal of other harmful applications at the behest of the White House while nothing has been done regarding Grok.

**Ofcom’s Investigation in the UK**

In the UK, Ofcom, the regulatory body for media, has initiated a formal inquiry into the operations of the Grok app on the X platform. Reports suggest that the Grok AI chatbot has been directed to produce and distribute undressed images of individuals, which could be deemed intimate image exploitation or pornography, alongside sexualized images of children that could qualify as CSAM. Ofcom’s investigation seeks to establish whether X has adhered to its legal responsibilities under the Online Safety Act.

**Silence from Apple and Google**

As of the most current information, neither Apple nor Google has publicly addressed the senators’ plea or the issues raised by regulators in Southeast Asia and the UK. The Grok and X apps continue to be accessible for download in the U.S. App Store, provoking questions about the accountability of tech firms in overseeing and regulating the content produced by their platforms.

**Conclusion**

The circumstances surrounding the Grok app underscore the pressing necessity for strong regulations and moral standards in the creation and implementation of AI technologies. As governments and entities contend with the implications of AI-generated material, prioritizing the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly children, is crucial. The ongoing investigations and demand for action indicate an increasing recognition of the potential risks posed by such technologies and the urgent need for accountability among tech companies.

Convert Your Vintage Smartphone into a Complimentary DIY Webcam Using This Must-Have App

Iriun. This application is available for free download and usage, and it supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The highlight is that Iriun functions well on older devices (Android 6.0 and iOS 13.0), making it an excellent option to give new life to your old Android or iPhone. We will guide you on how to begin using Iriun on your computer alongside an old phone.

How to configure your old phone as a webcam

America’s Apocalypse Aircraft Depends on 1980s Technology for Tactical Benefits

When the U.S. military initiated an unarmed nuclear missile launch in November 2025, it prompted questions about the President of the United States’ location during a nuclear conflict. The response lies in a repurposed Boeing 747 referred to as the National Airborne Operations Center, a mobile command and control hub fitted with sophisticated communication technology and a structure fortified against nuclear shockwaves. Much like the nation’s nuclear defense framework, America’s command and control functions rely on technology significantly older than one might expect. Initially provided to the U.S. Air Force in January 1980, the E-4B, dubbed Nightwatch and popularly labeled the ‘Nuke-Proof’ Doomsday plane, is capable of resisting electromagnetic pulses while maintaining advanced satellite and electronics capabilities.

Even though it will be 45 years old in 2025, the Air Force isn’t scheduled to replace its four Nightwatch aircraft until 2036, implying that the U.S.’s ‘Doomsday’ planes will approach their 60th anniversary when they are finally decommissioned. The rationale behind this is humorously straightforward: the E-4B requires larger four-engine aircraft due to its communication network’s size. Regrettably, manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus have mostly ceased production of such large planes, prompting the Air Force to acquire its ‘doomsday planes’ on the secondary market. Presently, the nation operates four E-4Bs, ensuring that one is always prepared for rapid deployment. However, the dependence on larger, older aircraft has consistently led to numerous maintenance and operational challenges, prompting the United States to commence its successor program in 2024.

A maturing technological wonder

Several attributes allow the aircraft to perform these high-level tasks. This four-engine, long-range, high-altitude plane can accommodate up to 111 individuals and operates like a flying Pentagon, featuring a main deck segmented into six areas, including command, conference, communications, briefing, operations, office, and rest zones. The airplane has an extraordinarily intricate communications system that utilizes all major types of electromagnetic communication. Allegedly, the aircraft contains multiple communication programs, such as the advanced Milstar satellite system, a jam-resistant, multi-satellite network that enables the plane to transmit launch commands to the U.S.’s arsenal of missile silos, submarines, and bombers with specially designed electronics and transmitters. The Nightwatch even has a low-frequency antenna capable of trailing approximately 5 miles behind the aircraft. Another significant advantage is its capacity for prolonged flight. The aircraft can fly for twelve hours before requiring refueling in the air, ensuring that U.S. leaders can remain securely airborne during a nuclear crisis.

However, these features come at a substantial cost, as the Air Force must utilize secondhand jets to support a larger communications architecture. This necessity arises from the requirement for larger, four-engine planes to underpin the expansive communications network. Fueled by four GE CF6-50E2 turbofan engines, the four Nightwatch jets represent some of the oldest 747-200s currently operating. No American commercial airlines currently deploy this model. Although the U.S. has previously operated secondhand jets — for instance, Boeing 707s were repurposed for the E-8 Joint Stars fleet in the 1990s — the longevity of the E-4B has resulted in numerous challenges over the years, leading to increased expenses and prolonged maintenance and reliability concerns.

Aging yet (un)dependable

Given that the U.S. must rely on an older, larger model, the upkeep of the E-4B has consistently posed challenges, particularly as wear and tear become more apparent. The Nightwatch has started to exhibit significant reliability complications, maintaining a mission availability rate close to 55%. Even though the aircraft undergo regular inspections, repairs can prove exceedingly challenging, as the model’s lack of general popularity complicates its maintenance logistics. In the 50 years since its introduction, many of the aircraft’s specialized components have either become outdated or ceased development, as suppliers have started to withdraw various parts. According to Air Force General Charles Q Brown during a Senate Appropriations Committee session in May 2024, these expenses have driven the Air Force to explore alternatives, remarking, “At some point, it gets more costly to maintain than to transition into a new capability.”

In April 2024, the Air Force revealed plans to find a replacement for the E-4B, entering a $13 billion agreement with the Sierra Nevada Corporation to develop its Survivable Airborne Operations Center. According to Reuters, Sierra Nevada Corporation has already procured five 747-8s from Korean Air at a cost of $674 million. Reportedly, Sierra Nevada Corporation anticipates delivering the fleet by 2036, meaning the Nightwatch will reach 56 years of age before its retirement. While several technological innovations

Peyton List’s Supernatural TV Show on Paramount+ is a Must-Watch

High school can be tough enough, let alone having to attend classes you dislike in the afterlife. However, if you’ve been searching for an excellent new series to binge, and you’re in the mood for a combination of teen drama and supernatural elements, you should definitely watch “School Spirits” on Paramount+.

Fans of Netflix’s “Cobra Kai” will recognize the star talent, Peyton List, who plays Maddie Nears, a teenager who finds herself waking up as a ghost. Interestingly, she has no memory of her actual demise, unlike her fellow students at Split River High School who have already moved on. Taking initiative, Maddie starts to investigate her enigmatic death with the help of some other ghosts — along with a few living friends who are still around.

Created by Megan Trinrud and Nate Trinrud, “Spirits” made its debut on Paramount+ on March 9, 2023, and was given the green light for a second season, which became available on January 30, 2025. A third season is scheduled to launch on January 28, 2026. Additional cast members also include Kristian Ventura, Milo Manheim, and Spencer McPherson, among others.

The series showcases Peyton’s acting skills, as she navigates her supernatural circumstances. Blending drama and thriller aspects with a sprinkle of humor, “School Spirits” is a show that seamlessly combines various genres, managing to make each one fit well — for the most part.

Ghosts, drama, and high school antics

On Rotten Tomatoes, “School Spirits” received a 91% score on the Tomatometer, along with a 92% audience rating. Metacritic gave the series a score of 69 out of 100 based on eight critic reviews.

In a favorable review for Variety, critic Daniel D’Addario stated, “Without shying away from the tragedy of Maddie’s narrative, ‘School Spirits’ remarkably manages to be quite lively and enjoyable—clear evidence that there are fresh tales to tell about the institution that no one would ever want to be trapped in for their entire afterlife.”

Some reviews were a bit more critical. Writing for The Hollywood Reporter, Daniel Fienberg described the show as “mediocre.” He also asserted that “Spirits” does not bring anything new to the genre.

For those seeking additional episodic treasures, be sure to check out our list of the five top-rated TV shows you need to watch immediately. After all, we are in a new golden era of television, so it is wise to make the most of all the streaming subscriptions you are paying for.

Apple TV’s Comedy Parodying Golden Globes Receives Award for Best Comedy

The Apple TV comedy series “The Studio” has recently received considerable praise, culminating in its honor at the Golden Globes with the prize for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Star Seth Rogen also earned the accolade for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series. Since its launch in spring 2025, “The Studio” has scored significant victories at numerous awards shows, cementing its status in the television realm.

Alongside “The Studio,” Apple TV celebrated another win at the Golden Globes with “Pluribus,” where star Rhea Seehorn took home Best Actress in a Drama. This recognition stands out notably since Seehorn’s roles in “Better Call Saul” had earlier been ignored by award institutions.

Apple TV’s triumphs at the Golden Globes included three victories out of a total of 14 nominations. While “The Studio” and “Pluribus” transformed their nominations into wins, Apple’s sci-fi drama “Severance” did not perform as effectively, losing to HBO’s “The Pitt” in the drama categories.

In his acceptance speech, Seth Rogen revealed that production for the second season of “The Studio” would begin soon, signaling a strong interest in cameo appearances following the show’s positive reception. One of the memorable episodes from the first season showcased a fictional Golden Globes awards ceremony, featuring a comedic storyline where studio head Matt Remick tries to ensure actress Zoe Kravitz acknowledges him in her speech, alongside guest appearances from prominent figures like Adam Scott and Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos.

At the same time, writing for the second season of “Pluribus” is also underway, though filming dates are yet to be determined. Apple has branded “Pluribus” as its “most viewed show in Apple TV history,” but fans should not anticipate new episodes until at least 2027.

In summary, the Golden Globes have underscored Apple TV’s expanding presence in the television sector, with both “The Studio” and “Pluribus” at the forefront in terms of critical and audience acclaim.

iPhone Market Share Exceeds Samsung’s, Fueled by Influences Beyond iPhone 17 Launch

### Apple Overtakes Samsung in Smartphone Market Share by 2025

Following a competitive two-year span where Apple and Samsung were almost even in smartphone market share, recent statistics suggest that Apple has gained the upper hand. A market intelligence report reveals that by the conclusion of 2025, Apple attained a 20% share of the global smartphone market, outpacing Samsung, which retained an 18% share.

#### Year-on-Year Growth

Apple’s rise in smartphone shipments was particularly remarkable, exhibiting a year-on-year increase of 10%, double that of Samsung. This surge was attributed to Apple’s growing footprint in emerging and mid-tier markets, coupled with a more robust product lineup. Senior Analyst Varun Mishra noted that the demand for Apple devices was fueled by the successful rollout of the iPhone 17 series, alongside the sustained popularity of the iPhone 16, especially in markets such as Japan, India, and Southeast Asia.

#### Impact of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 16

The iPhone 17 series was instrumental in Apple’s market triumph, gaining substantial momentum in the fourth quarter post-launch. At the same time, the iPhone 16 continued to perform well, contributing to Apple’s overall achievements. The synergy between these two product offerings, along with a shift in consumer patterns as numerous users aimed to upgrade post-COVID-19 pandemic, fostered a favorable climate for Apple.

#### Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

Despite Apple’s flourishing growth, the smartphone market is anticipated to encounter hurdles in the upcoming year due to an increase in memory costs, which could result in an overall market contraction. Nonetheless, both Apple and Samsung are strategically positioned to tackle these challenges. Samsung’s capability to manufacture its own memory components and Apple’s strong market influence to secure competitive pricing and supply ahead of time are considerable strengths.

To summarize, Apple’s targeted product launches and market expansion strategies have enabled it to regain its status at the leading edge of the smartphone sector, while Samsung remains a tough competitor. As the market progresses, both firms will need to adjust to shifting consumer preferences and economic realities to uphold their respective standings.

Apple Challenges Indian Government’s Demand for iOS Source Code Due to Fears of Overreach

Apple is presently encountering considerable obstacles due to a set of 83 suggested security requirements from the Indian authorities. Among these suggestions is a contentious request for smartphone makers to grant access to their source code, particularly for iOS. This stipulation has generated apprehension regarding corporate confidentiality and security threats, as revealing source code could potentially uncover vulnerabilities to malicious entities.

As reported by Reuters, the Indian government defends this requirement by claiming it needs to examine the source code of smartphones to spot and address possible security weaknesses. This initiative has encountered resistance from major tech firms, including Apple, Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi, represented by the industry association MAIT. They contend that such disclosure is impractical due to the ramifications for corporate secrecy and adherence to international privacy regulations.

Aside from the source code stipulation, the Indian government has suggested additional measures, such as requiring manufacturers to notify the government prior to launching significant updates or security fixes. This could impede the prompt deployment of essential updates, ultimately endangering user security.

The scenario has been further complicated by conflicting messages from the Indian government. While certain government documents allegedly endorse the source code disclosure, the IT department has publicly denied that it is actively pursuing source code from smartphone manufacturers, without providing additional details.

Apple has a precedent of resisting similar requests from other governments, including an unwillingness to share source code with the Chinese government and to create backdoors for law enforcement agencies such as the FBI. Given this history, analysts believe that Apple is unlikely to acquiesce to the Indian government’s demands.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian government has signaled that it remains in the consultation stage with tech companies, allowing for possible adjustments to the proposed requirements. Nonetheless, the outcome remains unpredictable as both parties navigate the intricate intersection of security, privacy, and corporate interests.

Porsche-Design Launches $400,000 Television: Investigating Target Audience

The firm C Seed, in partnership with Porsche Design — indeed, the very same Porsche known for crafting vehicles like the latest Taycan — has developed a lavish television priced at an astonishing $400,000. Considering the Taycan’s starting price of $103,900, this television exceeds the cost of a luxury vehicle. It’s safe to say that the average consumer is unlikely to be in the market for this TV, and probably not even the typical Porsche owner.

The C Seed N1 is distinctive as it has been engineered to unfold. A clip circulating on Reddit displays the television rising from the ground and elegantly unfolding from a case. The technology is genuinely impressive, and it’s entertaining to observe the process. However, most individuals prefer their televisions set up permanently in a designated area for watching shows and gaming. The standard consumer isn’t on the lookout for a TV that caters to both indoor and outdoor use and can unfold when necessary.

C Seed has been operational since 2013, focusing on high-end television technology. It has even received the Best of the Best award in product design from Red Dot, an organization that specifically honors excellence in business design, for a prior version of the N1. This Porsche-designed television certainly distinguishes itself as a remarkable product, though it’s not likely to be commonly utilized by the average individual.

Target Audience for This TV

Porsche Design is renowned for crafting exquisite products, such as the Honor Magic 6 phone. Upon viewing the product page for the $400,000 television, that same aesthetic of elegance and luxury is prominently featured. The lead image showcases a woman donning an enormous gown, standing by her pool while observing the TV unfold. Clearly, this is a scenario we all encounter daily.

The product page features phrases like “unfolding open-air sculpture,” “a choreographed transformation,” and “architectural freedom in the open air.” It asserts that this television is ideal for terraces, beside pools, and at exclusive resorts. Notably, it does not mention living rooms as a target space. Additionally, it boasts a high-quality picture regardless of whether it’s day or night, which is crucial for a screen designed for outdoor use.

From all this, it’s evident that the typical consumer is not the focus for C Seed or Porsche Design. It likely appeals more to affluent clients who enjoy hosting outdoor gatherings and desire a television that can be concealed and showcased as per the event’s requirements. When the TV is revealed for guests to enjoy, C Seed claims it is “engineered to inspire, offering a moment of anticipation that enhances the entire outdoor experience.”

Is This Porsche TV Worth the Price?

While it is amusing to see it fold and unfold, this price is simply beyond what an average person would be willing to spend just for a television. Ultimately, you watch programming on it in the same manner as you would on budget TVs, which can still deliver high customer satisfaction. Although its outdoor capabilities are appealing, the average individual would easily settle for a screen and projector for an enjoyable backyard movie evening.

The cost is indeed substantial. For that amount, you receive a television that measures up to 165 inches diagonally and can weigh nearly 2,000 pounds. It’s not something you’ll be able to rearrange by yourself. The television specifications promise exceptional sound, excellent imagery, and resistance to weather. Certainly, if you are in search of TVs that excel in those aspects, you would be leaning toward pricier options.

Is this C SEED Porsche television worth $400,000? Not for the majority. Those who consider the expense justifiable will likely be individuals for whom $400,000 is pocket change. It serves as a fascinating conversation starter over drinks by the pool during sunset.

Case Leak Possibly Validates Design of Galaxy S26 Ultra

A recent case listing from Thinborne seems to have confirmed the design of the forthcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, just prior to its official introduction. The leaked design hints at an elegant appearance with rounded edges, consistent with earlier rumors regarding the device. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is projected to be revealed on February 25, 2026, during Samsung’s launch event for the Galaxy S26 series.

The leaked design reveals that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will showcase a slightly modified camera arrangement, featuring three lenses situated in a pill-shaped, slightly elevated island on the left side, alongside two additional sensors to the right. This design has been verified by various leaks, implying that it is likely close to the final aesthetic of the device.

In addition to the design modifications, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to support Qi2 magnetic wireless charging and will be equipped with a larger battery and enhanced charging capabilities. The device is also rumored to come in a striking orange color option, potentially rivaling the iPhone 17 Pro’s orange finish.

Although case manufacturers frequently base their designs on early CAD representations, the uniformity across multiple leaks suggests that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will closely mirror the leaked design. As the launch date draws nearer, more information is anticipated to surface, offering a clearer insight into what to anticipate from Samsung’s latest flagship.