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Auction of Steve Jobs Collectibles Includes His Desk, Bow Ties, and More Items

### Steve Jobs Memorabilia Auction: An Extraordinary Chance for Collectors

A major auction showcasing memorabilia from Steve Jobs’ life has now commenced online, providing a rare insight into Apple’s formative years and the personal belongings of its co-founder. The auction, organized by RR Auction, is scheduled to end on January 30, 2024, and features an assorted collection of items that underscore the history and impact of one of technology’s most pivotal figures.

#### Featured Items

Among the prominent items up for bids is the original desk from the garage where Apple was established, a meaningful artifact of tech heritage. Bidders can also vie for the very first check signed by Jobs and his partner Steve Wozniak, along with personal relics like Jobs’ high school bow ties. The auction includes various Apple-related memorabilia, with opening bids starting at $100, appealing to a broad spectrum of collectors.

Noteworthy items consist of:

– **Apple 1 Prototype**: The earliest known version of the Apple 1, with a starting price of $50,000 and an estimated worth exceeding $500,000.
– **First Apple Check**: The inaugural check issued by Apple, beginning at $25,000, also believed to be valued at around $500,000.
– **Apple 1 Byte Shop Wooden Case**: Once owned by Jobs, this piece starts at just $500, with an approximation of $5,000.
– **Steve Jobs’ Desk**: Opening bids at $5,000, with projected worth of $25,000 or more.
– **Personal Posters**: Several posters belonging to Jobs are available starting at $200.

The auction also features lesser-known items, such as an Apple 1 heatsink and a ribbon cable, both prized due to their association with Jobs.

#### Background and Significance

Numerous items in this auction are being offered by John Chovanec, Jobs’ stepbrother, who received much of the belongings from Jobs’ childhood space. Chovanec reminisces about a touching moment when Jobs recounted the story behind the early Macintosh development in that very location, emphasizing the emotional ties these artifacts possess.

One particularly intriguing item is a $500 check made out to circuit board designer Howard Cantin, who contributed to the Apple 1 board. Cantin chose a cash payment instead of stock options, a choice that, in retrospect, could have resulted in considerable financial outcomes.

#### Conclusion

This auction offers a distinctive chance for collectors and enthusiasts of Apple and Steve Jobs to acquire a fragment of tech history. With a collection ranging from the iconic to the personal, the auction encapsulates not just Jobs’ legacy, but also the origins of a company that revolutionized the technology industry. As the auction date draws near, increased interest is anticipated, marking it as a significant occurrence in the realm of memorabilia collecting.

Amazon Unveils Alexa Plus Web Edition

**Amazon Unveils Alexa Plus for the Internet**

Following the debut of Alexa Plus (Alexa+) last February, Amazon is now prepared to extend the AI assistant’s reach to the web for Early Access users. By introducing Alexa Plus online, Amazon aims to make the Alexa AI assistant accessible to everyone, even for those without any Amazon devices featuring Alexa like Echo speakers and Fire TV gadgets nearby. For Amazon customers already engaging with Alexa Plus through their devices, the launch of Alexa Plus on the web will enhance the ease of interaction with the AI assistant.

Another significant motivation for offering Alexa Plus through Alexa.com is Amazon’s strategy to effectively compete with chatbots that have surpassed Alexa in popularity, such as ChatGPT and Gemini. When ChatGPT gained immense traction in late 2022, it revolutionized the tech landscape. In response, a multitude of tech companies began creating their own chatbot alternatives or developing AI-centric products. At that time, Alexa was already functioning as a voice assistant on Amazon devices, but it was not on par with ChatGPT.

While Alexa could stream music and place orders for users, ChatGPT answered general inquiries in conversational language. Now, three years later, chatbots like ChatGPT have acquired new functionalities, evolving into even more effective AI tools than the version that went viral in 2022. Nevertheless, it is not until early 2026 that Amazon begins to earnestly compete with other chatbots. That being said, Alexa Plus won’t be a direct equivalent to ChatGPT.

**Capabilities of Alexa Plus**

Amazon announced in a press release that Alexa Plus has developed “swiftly” since its introduction in February. The AI assistant interacts with thousands of services and devices, reaching tens of millions of users. Amazon stated that Alexa Plus has transformed how people utilize voice assistants, recording “twice the conversations, three times the purchases, five times the recipe requests” since its release last year.

For its web version, Amazon promotes a comprehensive Alexa Plus experience. The AI can respond to questions, “delve into intricate subjects,” generate content, plan travel, assist with schoolwork, manage documents, and collaborate with various apps and devices. The assistant allows control of smart home functionalities through the web, aids in creating to-do lists, updates calendars, and facilitates restaurant reservations. Alexa Plus also boasts meal planning and recipe discovery, with extensive integration with Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods. Thus, Alexa Plus can assist in grocery shopping tailored to your needs, provided the items are purchased from Amazon.

Alexa Plus can also link with other Amazon devices, including Fire TV. Users can inquire about specific shows and receive personalized suggestions, which Alexa will recall on their Fire TV. Alexa leverages Echo Show displays to offer culinary guidance. Additionally, Alexa Plus is compatible with a wide array of smart home devices, enabling users to manage their smart homes through the browser. This could involve unlocking doors, monitoring security cameras, or adjusting a thermostat. The smart home products that Alexa can manage will be listed in a sidebar on Alexa.com for easy access.

**Accessing Alexa Plus**

Alexa Plus might not boast the more advanced AI capabilities offered by other chatbots. There is no support for advanced reasoning and voice interaction, and it remains uncertain whether it can produce images as seamlessly as products like ChatGPT and Gemini. Furthermore, it is unclear if Alexa Plus can provide programming assistance and in-depth research reports, features you might expect from other chatbots. However, Alexa Plus is still in its formative stages: Companies such as OpenAI and Google have refined their chatbots over multiple years to become the robust tools they are today.

In other words, Alexa Plus is accessible through an Early Access program, indicating that Amazon is still in the initial phases of development. Interested users can sign up for Early Access to experiment with Alexa Plus on the web. An active Amazon Prime subscription is not required to utilize Alexa Plus online. However, Alexa Plus will be complimentary for Prime members once the Early Access testing phase concludes. Non-Prime users will incur a charge of $19.99 per month for Alexa Plus. The AI assistant is also available on mobile through the Alexa application.

The Best Place to Charge Your Phone: Avoid the Nightstand and Bed

charging your mobile overnight could be harmful. Others, too, drift off while watching YouTube or browsing TikTok. Nonetheless, the optimal spot for your phone at night may not be in the bedroom at all. Instead, it’s advisable to leave your phone outside of it.

Over time, many have debated where one should store their phones during the night. Much of this centers on how “harmful” the radiation and light emitted by phones can be to your sleep cycles. The other, more pressing issue, is the potential fire risk posed by keeping your phone too near your bed.

While contemporary smartphones have advanced significantly in managing heat dispersion — some models like the OnePlus 13 feature highly effective vapor chambers for cooling — dozing off with your phone beneath the covers or your pillow can greatly restrict airflow. If you’re charging your device, this heat output escalates and has previously caused phones to ignite. For this reason, it is strongly advised to charge your phone in a space with good ventilation, like a flat countertop or table, away from anything that might obstruct cool air from reaching it.

Other reasons you shouldn’t place your phone in the bedroom

Assessing the Worth of TikTok’s Trendy Loop Earplugs: Do They Live Up to the Buzz?

From time to time, a product captures the public’s imagination through social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram, thanks to enthusiastic reviews. Take, for instance, a trendy stain remover that gained traction for cleaning in 2022 or a blanket designed for adults that doesn’t bleed color. Their success can be unpredictable—sometimes they excel, other times it’s tough to decipher if the buzz is from a peculiar marketing strategy — yet a recently trending product heavily promoted on TikTok might actually deliver. Dubbed Loop Earplugs, they serve a straightforward purpose, but they excel at it. Loop Earplugs diminish noise to alleviate distractions.

They are not earbuds. They don’t connect to a phone or generate sound. They don’t even block out noise entirely — you can still perceive your environment while using them. They are crafted for situations where sounds are overwhelming, distracting, and potentially harmful to your hearing — such as music festivals or concerts. They also display an unusual yet charming appearance and come in a variety of styles. For example, there’s a McLaren Formula 1 Team X edition featuring a sleek two-tone burnt orange and black design, or a Coachella-inspired version that combines orange and blue in an imaginative blend. They aren’t limited to concerts, races, or extremely loud gatherings, which enhances their appeal. You can wear them in various settings, such as an open office; when managing energetic children; or while staying engaged in discussions in busy places.

Are they truly deserving of the excitement? Well, that’s a matter of opinion, but they are effective and users appreciate them. Presently, they boast hundreds of reviews on Amazon across diverse styles, all with ratings of four stars or higher. The Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs have amassed over 20,000 reviews.

Why is there such a buzz around earplugs?

To comprehend the TikTok phenomenon, a glance at the reviews will suffice. With over 20,000 assessments, an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, and 62% of these reviews being five stars (for the Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs), it’s clear there’s significant interest. They contain no electronics at all; essentially, they are just a silicone plug with an ear tip. How are they being utilized by so many?

Reviewers express that they wear them to sleep “every night,” and enjoy them so much they’ve purchased several pairs for home and travel. Others report that they are “super comfy,” and maintain their position throughout the night — notably, the Loop Quiet 2 is specifically designed for sleep. How about the McLaren or Coachella versions for live shows? Sure, you may opt for AirPods at a concert, but Loop Earplugs may offer a superior alternative.

Users are fond of the alternative variations as well. Reviewers claim they provide “excellent ear protection,” are perfect for concerts with intense, booming speakers, and are even “good on a motorcycle.” Allegedly, they reduce much of the noise encountered while riding a motorcycle while ensuring you remain fully aware of your surroundings. This is a mark of their effectiveness. Someone with hyperacusis and Misophonia, which makes them very sensitive to sound, stated they use the McLaren-style Loop Earplugs to help them “navigate so much with total calmness.” They seem to live up to the reputation.

Additionally, you might be pleased to learn that Loop Earplugs are among the TSA-approved travel accessories you can take on your next flight. Excuse me while I go order a few pairs.

Possible Characteristics of the iPhone Fold Screen Unveiled

Samsung has introduced a prototype of an innovative folding display that is expected to be featured in the forthcoming iPhone Fold. This advancement arises as Apple strives to develop a folding device characterized by a display that does not exhibit a visible crease, a challenge that this new technology has reportedly succeeded in overcoming.

### Apple’s Pursuit of a Creaseless Display

Apple has a long-standing practice of monitoring market trends and debuting its products only after confirming they adhere to its high standards. The much-anticipated iPhone Fold has been under development for several years, with Apple allegedly awaiting a display devoid of a visible crease. This choice has led to an extended wait, potentially stretching to six or seven years following the launch of the initial folding Android smartphone.

The primary cause of this delay is Apple’s stringent requirement for an impeccable display. The company assigned its display collaborator, Samsung, the task of creating a panel that would remain crease-free when opened. This presented a major challenge, as Samsung had not yet accomplished this feat with its own folding devices.

Reports suggest that Samsung successfully developed a creaseless display to meet Apple’s approval last year. This achievement was so intricate that Apple had to engage its own design engineers to aid in the development process.

### This is Possibly the iPhone Fold Display

At the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Samsung Display exhibited the new folding screen, asserting that it showcases no visible crease. The prototype display is quite striking, as even upon close inspection, there are no indications of a crease. In contrast, a juxtaposed image with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 emphasizes the notable differences between the two displays.

Although a video shared by SamMobile reveals a minor crease, the overall look of the new display corresponds with the anticipated aspect ratio of the iPhone Fold. The display was momentarily displayed at Samsung’s booth before being taken down, indicating it was not meant for public exposure yet.

### How Interested Are You?

With the prospect of this new display being incorporated into the iPhone Fold, consumer enthusiasm is likely to surge, even if the device carries a steep price. The excitement surrounding the iPhone Fold continues to escalate as Apple prepares to delve into the folding smartphone arena with a product that fulfills its stringent criteria.

In summary, the creation of a creaseless folding display signifies a noteworthy achievement for both Apple and Samsung, potentially establishing a new benchmark for future smartphones.

macOS Tahoe Icons Contradict Apple’s Design Principles

### The Debate Over macOS Tahoe App Icons

In late 2023, the app icons launched in macOS Tahoe encountered substantial criticism from both users and reviewers. Numerous commenters labeled the icons as “awful” and “objectively poor,” which resulted in a divided reaction in a poll by 9to5Mac, where readers reflected highly varied opinions on the new design.

#### Background and Design Guidelines

Software engineer Nikita Prokopov brought attention to a significant flaw with the Tahoe icons, noting that they conflict with the principles set forth in Apple’s own Macintosh Human Interface Guidelines from 1992. These guidelines cautioned against the clutter that arises from having individual icons for each menu item, deeming such designs “unattractive.” Instead, Apple promoted a minimalist design, proposing that a reduced number of icons would improve usability.

Prokopov demonstrated this argument by sharing an image from the guidelines, juxtaposing the “unattractive” menu filled with icons against a sleeker, more efficient design. He contends that although screen resolution and clarity have improved, the primary function of icons—assisting users in quickly finding functions—has not changed. He argues that overloading menus with icons reduces their effectiveness, making it difficult for any single icon to be prominent.

#### Discrepancies and Ambiguities

The criticism goes beyond the number of icons themselves. Prokopov also pointed out variations in icon use across different applications. For example, the same function, like “New,” is represented by five different icons in various apps, causing confusion among users. Additionally, he highlighted cases where identical icons represent completely different functions, such as the icon for creating a new note in the Notes app being the same as the “edit address” icon in the Contacts app.

#### Recommended Strategies

In his blog post, Prokopov proposes that a more effective method would resemble the initial design strategies employed by Microsoft, wherein icons were designated for the most commonly used functions. He recommends decreasing the quantity of icons, combined with the application of color coding to improve clarity and usability. His post is abundant with examples and possible enhancements, making a strong argument for a reassessment of the current icon design in macOS Tahoe.

#### Summary

The conversation surrounding the macOS Tahoe app icons underscores a crucial intersection of design ideology and user experience. As Apple progresses with its software, the input from users and experts like Prokopov will be vital in influencing future versions of macOS. For those keen on a thorough analysis and proposed enhancements, Prokopov’s blog post presents a plethora of insights worth examining.

Five Monitor Configurations That Might Be Harmful to Your Screen

affordable computer displays. However, that’s not always the experience you receive. What happens if you connect your new display and the colors appear distorted, the text looks unclear, and the motion seems sluggish? Some users believe this is simply the nature of monitors, concluding that their only option is to invest in a higher-quality one. Yet, the real issue often lies within the settings.

Contemporary operating systems and displays come equipped with numerous options, features, and configurations. Navigating these can be challenging, particularly for those unfamiliar with HDR settings, aggressive response-time adjustments, color calibration, scaling settings, or frame syncing. Each feature is intended to address a unique problem, and while it might seem wise to keep them “on” constantly, they can actually detract from your monitor’s performance. Even worse, these settings can make your monitor seem merely unsatisfactory rather than actually faulty.

The silver lining is that no setting is fixed, and you can easily enable or disable them as necessary. A few minor tweaks in the settings can elevate your subpar monitor into a sharp and responsive display that you truly appreciate.

Disable HDR

“Reasons Marvel Enthusiasts Must Not Overlook Aubrey Plaza’s Overlooked X-Men Spin-Off”

The Guardian has reported that she has “a few friends who can’t bear to watch it because they’re quite unsettled by it.” Thus, although “Legion” enjoys strong ratings, be mindful that it might deviate from what one might usually anticipate from a Marvel property. Additionally, it carries an “Mature” rating, so consider this before introducing younger Marvel enthusiasts.

Aubrey Plaza shines in Legion

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Regarding anything Marvel-related, you can never truly predict who might appear in a show or film. <a href="https://www.bgr.com/2055294/robert-downey-jr-marvel-avengers-doomsday-condition/" target="_

Samsung Reveals Foldable Display Innovation at CES 2026, Possibly Improving Galaxy Z Fold 8

Samsung Display is on the cusp of transforming the foldable smartphone landscape with its newest creation: a completely creaseless panel. This revolutionary technology was presented at CES 2026, where Samsung Display illustrated the panel’s advantages by contrasting it with a current-generation foldable device. The new panel exhibits no noticeable creases, even from various angles, without sacrificing image quality.

The rollout of this creaseless panel signifies a major leap in foldable display technology. Although Samsung has yet to officially announce that this panel will be included in the forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8, the likelihood remains substantial. Traditionally, Samsung has brought pioneering display technologies to its flagship foldable devices, like the tri-folding panels revealed at MWC, which subsequently made their way into the Galaxy Z TriFold.

The lack of a visible crease would give Samsung a competitive advantage in the foldable market, where companies are seeking subtle enhancements to make their offerings stand out. As the foremost foldable manufacturer, Samsung’s vertical integration enables it to utilize such innovations successfully.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 has already reduced crease visibility, but a fully creaseless display would represent a significant milestone, establishing a new benchmark for foldable devices. With the Galaxy Z Fold 8 anticipated to launch later this year, excitement is mounting regarding the prospective inclusion of this advanced panel. As the foldable segment evolves, Samsung’s relentless innovation keeps it at the leading edge of the industry, providing consumers with state-of-the-art technology and design.

Apple @ Work Podcast: Examining Apple’s Perspectives on Local AI and IT Readiness

### Apple @ Work: The Future of AI with Apple Silicon

In the swiftly changing realm of technology, Apple has established itself as a frontrunner, especially with the launch of Apple Silicon. This groundbreaking architecture represents not only a significant enhancement in hardware performance but is also set to be a fundamental element in the creation of local artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. A recent episode of Apple @ Work delved into the ramifications of Apple Silicon for the future of AI, emphasizing the obstacles presented by current IT tools in managing this emerging technology.

#### The Power of Apple Silicon

Apple Silicon signifies a considerable leap in computing capability, allowing devices to carry out complex tasks more efficiently and effectively. This capacity is especially vital for local AI applications, which demand considerable processing power to assess data and make instantaneous decisions. Unlike conventional cloud-based AI solutions, local AI capitalizes on the device’s hardware to execute computations, minimizing latency and improving privacy by retaining data on the device itself.

#### Challenges for IT Management

Though Apple Silicon provides extraordinary potential for local AI, it simultaneously introduces challenges for IT departments. Existing IT tools and management systems are often not designed to meet the specific requirements of these novel devices. Organizations must evolve their strategies to guarantee they can successfully deploy, oversee, and secure Apple devices that incorporate Apple Silicon.

#### Mosyle: The Solution for Apple Device Management

As enterprises maneuver through the intricacies of incorporating Apple Silicon into their operations, Mosyle stands out as a crucial ally. Mosyle is the sole Apple Unified Platform that integrates all essential solutions to effortlessly deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices. With more than 45,000 organizations depending on Mosyle, it has demonstrated itself as a reliable solution for preparing millions of Apple devices for use with minimal effort and at a competitive price.

Mosyle’s platform is tailored to meet the particular needs of businesses employing Apple technology, ensuring they can fully leverage the capabilities of Apple Silicon while maintaining comprehensive management and security measures.

#### Conclusion

The future of AI is local, and Apple Silicon is leading this shift. Nonetheless, to completely benefit from this technology, organizations need to arm themselves with the appropriate tools and approaches. With Mosyle, companies can confidently harness the potential of Apple Silicon, ensuring they are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead in the sphere of local AI.

For those keen on discovering how Mosyle can improve their Apple device management, an extended trial is available to experience firsthand the comprehensive solutions provided.

[Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today](https://mosyle.net/3RDn) and uncover why Mosyle is everything you need to work with Apple.