The steady stream of news about automakers cancelling or discontinuing electric vehicles continues apace. This week it’s Volvo’s small, quirky EX30 and Honda’s solo electric offering in the US, the Prologue. Both are the latest victims of stagnating EV sales in the US thanks to the Trump administration’s decision to eliminate tax incentives. First, the […]
the RoboCop film), the movie grossed approximately $13.7 million during its theatrical run, with a production budget of $18 million. Nevertheless, “Blow Out” was far from being a failure, as the film would eventually attract its audience long after it hit theaters. Nowadays, anyone can finally witness one of Travolta’s most outstanding performances on Amazon Prime Video.
“Blow Out” centers around a character named Jack Terri, a sound technician. One evening, he witnesses a crime while capturing sounds for his work and inadvertently records evidence of a political assassination. This revelation prompts Terri to dive deeper, as he attempts to unveil the conspiracy with the help of a woman, Sally (Nancy Allen), who was with the victim but managed to escape the ordeal. However, survival proves to be quite a challenge, as John Lithgow delivers a compelling performance as one of the primary villains in the film.
Despite the stellar performances and enthusiastic reviews from several critics, “Blow Out” struggled to make an impression at the box office, facing stiff competition from some of the most prominent films of the early ’80s.
smart plug enables you to manage the power activation of connected devices from a distance. This capability can assist you in various ways, whether for automating lighting, regulating temperature and humidity, enhancing your morning routine, or resolving daily issues.
Remember that not all appliances are suitable for use with a smart plug, especially those requiring manual power activation or settings each time the electricity is interrupted. This applies to items like microwaves, air fryers, washing machines, and similar devices. Some also demand a bit of setup to operate efficiently. The key is to pinpoint which gadgets are capable of automatically restarting or can be configured to do so once power is restored. Once you identify these, you’ll gain greater control over your home, paving the way toward simplifying everyday tasks.
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Managing lighting is among the most straightforward and effective applications of smart plugs in a home setting. It necessitates minimal effort, and when optimized, it can lead to cost savings over time. Even if saving money isn’t your primary purpose, being able to control lighting throughout your residence or in designated areas simplifies your life and enhances home security. When you leave, you can activate certain lights remotely to prevent the house from appearing vacant. Additionally, you can automate outdoor lights in the driveway or garden to illuminate at dusk and turn off at dawn.
Within the home, you can link bedside lamps or those in the living room to a smart plug, allowing you to turn them on or off remotely using the app or even voice commands. There are
**Jeff: Head of Video Content Production at 9to5Mac**
Jeff has emerged as a key player in the world of tech content production as the leader of video content at 9to5Mac. His path started in 2016 when he became part of the team, fueled by a love for technology and a dedication to educating audiences through captivating video material.
During his time at 9to5Mac, Jeff has created a wide variety of videos, such as walkthroughs, how-tos, written guides, and comprehensive reviews. His talent for simplifying complex subjects into straightforward, clear, and succinct explanations has struck a chord with viewers, making technology more understandable to a wider audience. This ability has played a crucial role in assisting many individuals as they navigate the ever-changing world of contemporary technology.
Jeff’s efforts have been recognized; his videos have achieved hundreds of millions of views, showcasing the strong interest in high-quality tech education. Each video is designed to inform and empower viewers, whether they are experienced tech aficionados or beginners seeking to grasp the latest devices and software.
For anyone eager to keep up with the latest advancements in technology, subscribing to 9to5Mac’s YouTube channel is essential. Jeff’s engaging delivery and knowledge ensure that viewers will not only gain insights but also thoroughly enjoy the journey of uncovering new tech information.
**Apple’s 50th Anniversary: Tim Cook’s Perspectives on Music Education, Technology, and Future Endeavors**
Apple CEO Tim Cook recently participated in Good Morning America to mark the company’s 50th anniversary, addressing various subjects including Apple’s societal contributions, the effects of artificial intelligence, and future investments in America.
### Save the Music and Apple’s Major Contribution
During the discussion, Cook disclosed an enhancement of Apple’s collaboration with Save the Music, with the goal of increasing the number of schools supported from 25 to nearly 50, thereby impacting approximately 25,000 students with music education next year. He underscored Apple’s vital contributions over the last five decades, which include transforming music, smartphones, and the creative arts, along with promoting health through the Apple Watch.
### Society, AI, and Privacy
Cook talked about the societal influence of Apple products, highlighting the necessity of balancing technology use with in-person interactions. He voiced concerns regarding excessive smartphone usage, encouraging individuals to be more engaged with their environments. On the topic of artificial intelligence, Cook characterized it as a neutral instrument whose outcomes depend on its application. He introduced Apple’s Private Cloud Compute as a privacy-centric strategy for AI, ensuring that user data is encrypted and protected.
### Investing in America
Cook disclosed Apple’s pledge to invest $600 billion in the U.S. over the upcoming four years. He mentioned that components for iPhones, including glass covers and semiconductors, will increasingly be manufactured domestically, showcasing the company’s commitment to American production.
### On Tariff Refunds and Politics
When asked about possible tariff refunds following a Supreme Court decision, Cook mentioned that Apple is observing the circumstances and will make choices based on judicial results. He also touched on his political engagements, clarifying that he concentrates on policy rather than partisanship, and values the current administration’s openness for conversations on significant matters.
### Retirement Rumor
In reaction to rumors about his retirement, Cook explicitly rejected any plans to step down, emphasizing his profound enthusiasm for his position at Apple. He reflected on his extensive time with the company, stating that he cannot envision life without it.
For further insights, the complete interview can be viewed on [ABC News](https://abcnews.com/video/131143836/).
**iPadOS 26.4: Thrilling New Additions for iPad Users**
iPadOS 26.4 is anticipated to debut in the upcoming weeks, introducing a variety of new features aimed at improving the iPad experience. Below are four notable features that users can anticipate:
### 1. Compact Tab Bar in Safari
Screen space is frequently limited on iPads, and iPadOS 26.4 tackles this by reintroducing the Compact Tab Bar in Safari. This feature consolidates tabs, buttons, and the address bar into a single line, providing more room to view web pages. Users can activate this feature by going to Settings ⇾ Apps ⇾ Safari and selecting ‘Compact Tab Bar’. For those who prefer the classic layout, the ‘Separate Tab Bar’ option continues to be available.
### 2. Hidden Windows Popup
With the multitasking improvements introduced in iPadOS 26, handling multiple windows can be tricky. To support users, iPadOS 26.4 brings a ‘Hidden Windows’ popup. When an app with several windows is open, a notification at the bottom of the screen will show the count of hidden windows. Tapping this popup will display all open windows, simplifying tracking and management, thus enhancing performance.
### 3. Apple Music’s Playlist Playground
The Music app in iPadOS 26.4 will introduce a new AI-based tool known as Playlist Playground. This groundbreaking feature allows users to generate playlists using straightforward text prompts. The app will offer suggested prompts, but users can also provide custom instructions. Once the playlist is created, users can further refine it or manually modify the song choices, delivering a tailored listening experience.
### 4. Freeform Expands with Creator Studio Features
Freeform, an app primarily tailored for the iPad, will receive substantial updates in iPadOS 26.4, especially for Apple Creator Studio subscribers. New functionalities include the capability to generate images using OpenAI, access to a Content Hub with premium images, AI-driven crop recommendations, and AI enhancement for low-resolution images. These updates are expected to broaden the app’s features and attract creative users.
As the release of iPadOS 26.4 draws near, these features promise to boost productivity, creativity, and the overall user experience on the iPad. Which new feature are you most enthusiastic about?
Amazon has revealed that delivery speeds are increasing, with new 1-hour and 3-hour delivery choices being introduced in thousands of cities throughout the US. Here are the specifics.
### Amazon Introduces Quicker Delivery Options for Consumers, but with Extra Charges
Amazon achieved its status as the leading retailer by offering rapid, convenient shipping to consumers. Today, the company has unveiled even quicker delivery options.
New 1-hour and 3-hour delivery choices are set to launch for more than 90,000 products on Amazon across the US.
Amazon states that 1-hour delivery is currently available in “hundreds of cities and towns across the U.S.,” while 3-hour delivery can be found in “over 2,000 cities and towns.” The intention is to widen the availability of these expedited delivery options to additional regions in the coming months.
You can check if your location qualifies for 1-hour or 3-hour delivery by visiting [amazon.com/getitfast](https://amzn.to/4cNCVN9).
If you are situated in a qualifying area, these delivery methods come with additional charges:
– $9.99 for 1-hour delivery for Prime members, and $19.99 for non-members
– $4.99 for 3-hour delivery for Prime members, and $14.99 for non-members
According to Amazon’s press announcement:
> Customers will notice products that qualify for 1-hour and 3-hour delivery throughout their standard Same-Day shopping experience via new indicators next to the product names. To enhance customer browsing of this selection, we’ve also introduced “in 1 hour” or “in 3 hours” search filters and a dedicated [storefront](http://www.amazon.com/getitfast) shopping page in regions where these options exist.
Given Amazon’s past, it is probable that the company will eventually aim to lower these charges and establish even quicker delivery as the standard. Alternatively, it could increase Prime membership fees and make 1-hour and 3-hour options more attainable through a ‘Prime Ultra’ tier.
Would you consider paying $4.99 or $9.99 for expedited Amazon delivery? Share your thoughts in the comments.
The best early AirPods deals to shop before Amazon’s Big Spring Sale 2026 officially kicks off. Save on AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3.
As of March 17, Boox released the Go 10.3 (Gen II) e-ink tablet. The new models are exceptionally thin and lightweight, with one model now featuring an added front light. The devices now come with Android 15 and start at $419.99.
Shop early Pokémon deals before Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, from TCG boxes and tins to discounted Nintendo Switch games.
