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The smart TV scene in 2025 was primarily characterized by minor enhancements, featuring new OLED, Mini-LED, and QLED models from leading smart TV manufacturers. Some of the standout and highly-rated devices from the year comprised Samsung’s S95F OLED TV, deemed the top TV of the year; a reliable high-end OLED TV – Sony Bravia 8 II; and a well-reviewed mid-range option – TCL QM6K.
Nonetheless, we witnessed a significant breakthrough with the introduction of RGB MiniLED technology. Hisense debuted its inaugural RGB MiniLED TV, the 116UX, recognized as the largest smart TV available for purchase on Amazon. Simultaneously, Samsung incorporated similar foundational technology in its MR95F model, referring to it as Micro RGB. As 2025 nears its conclusion, many may be curious about the future of smart TVs in 2026. Thankfully, manufacturers have begun unveiling their strategies for the upcoming year as they gear up to showcase their products at the CES trade show in Las Vegas next month, indicating that 2026 will be marked by RGB MiniLED and Micro RGB TVs. Here are a few of the most thrilling smart TV models anticipated for the coming year.
LG Micro RGB evo
LG is set to embrace the RGB MiniLED technology trend with its forthcoming Micro RGB evo television. Also referred to as the LG MRGB95, this smart TV will launch in 2026, available in sizes of 75 inches, 86 inches, and 100 inches, making the LG RGB MiniLED TV much more suitable for home environments compared to the enormous 116-inch and 115-inch options from Hisense and Samsung, respectively.
LG has announced that the TV will be equipped with the newly enhanced α (Alpha) 11 AI Processor Gen 3, promising improved upscaling and additional features, assisted by AI. The company has also disclosed that the TV will be capable of covering the complete BT.2020, DCI-P3, and Adobe RGB color spectra, which are quite impressive and yield enhanced color accuracy and far more realistic visuals than current smart TV offerings.
Among its other features, the TV will include over a thousand dimming zones, which is modest in comparison, as the Hisense 116UX boasts 3,584 dimming zones and the Samsung MR95F has roughly 5,000. The limited quantity of dimming zones may influence the TV’s black levels and HDR capabilities. There are no updates on pricing or additional specifications; however, we
Assessing the Worth of Elite VPNs: Crucial Details You Need to Take into Account
a high-quality VPN service may not appear to be worth the investment at first sight. However, once you understand what you’re sacrificing by opting for a free alternative, you’ll realize the value of a paid subscription to SurfShark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Proton VPN.
Free VPNs fall into two types: dependable VPNs from reputable companies that offer significantly limited features, and less constrained VPNs that operate normally but collect your data for profit. The free offerings from major providers often turn out to be somewhat basic for certain tasks, while the unrestricted options may lack sufficient privacy. Free VPNs like VPN by Google and Proton VPN’s complimentary service exemplify the first type, while Betternet and Hola VPN engage in data-harvesting practices that could render them unsafe. As with any free service, before you dive in, review the small print, examine their Privacy Policy, and look for independent reviews.
Premium VPN solutions offer more than just IP masking
Comprehending the Significance of ‘EPR’ in USB Connectors
Universal Serial Bus, or USB, is frequently accompanied by acronyms and shorthand when discussing various related technologies that aren’t particularly popular or widely recognized. For instance, it may not be common knowledge what the “C” in a USB-C port signifies. USB PD, which stands for USB Power Delivery, is slightly more familiar but still likely unknown to many individuals. Another abbreviation often linked to USB PD yet not widely recognized is EPR. It refers to Extended Power Range, a specification for power delivery. This denotes that a specific USB port can provide between 101W and 240W of power.
EPR was introduced in the USB PD 3.1 standard as a successor to the Standard Power Range (SPR), which permits power delivery of up to 100W using USB ports. It has effectively eliminated the necessity for large proprietary power adapters that we typically receive with gaming laptops and other devices requiring similar power, such as e-bikes and power tools. Here’s everything you should know about USB PD EPR (Extended Power Range).
New voltage tiers for enhanced power delivery
USB PD has been quite successful in transforming the way we charge and power devices. Nevertheless, its original 100W cap limited its use for high-powered devices. However, EPR has changed that with its 240W cap. It achieves higher power delivery by permitting higher voltage through USB PD connections while maintaining the same 5A current as SPR. EPR has introduced three additional voltage tiers: 28V, 36V, and 48V, which correspond to 140W, 180W, and 240W of power when combined with a 5A current.
However, EPR isn’t confined to these voltage levels. Just as the Programmable Power Supply (PPS) extension of USB PD allows voltage selection in increments of 20mV for optimal delivery, EPR features an Adjustable Voltage Supply (AVS) that also permits voltage selection in increments of 100m.
Jennifer Connelly’s Apple TV Series Delves into a Frightening Sci-Fi Concept Poised for Timeless Recognition
Rotten Tomatoes. The creator transformed the series from his own bestselling novel released in 2016 with the same title, showcasing a strong commitment to the original narrative. Crouch undoubtedly possesses a talent for utilizing television as a narrative form — having been a writer for “Wayward Pines” and also co-creating “Good Behavior” before “Dark Matter” — and is adept at leveraging all the tools TV provides to steer clear of genre limitations.
“Dark Matter” depicts the story of family man and scientist Jason Dessen (Joel Edgerton), his wonderful wife Daniela Dessen (Jennifer Connelly), and their teenage son Charlie (Oakes Fegley). Jason is abducted by an alternate iteration of himself from a parallel universe, referred to as Jason2. Catapulted into a reality where everything has changed, from his profession to his loved ones, Jason gradually discovers a massive metal cube and a chemical substance created by his double that, when merged, enables travel between dimensions.
Upon realizing what transpired and how, Jason teams up with Jason2’s girlfriend, Amanda (Alice Braga), as he confides in her that he is not the person she adores — at least not internally. Together, they embark on journeys across multiple parallel universes, slowly unraveling the workings of the dimension machine, with the aim of locating the original universe from which Jason was taken. Meanwhile, his counterpart strives to integrate into the life he always dreamed of but never had the opportunity to experience due to his selfish choices and fixation on science.
The gripping conundrum of the multiverse in ‘Dark Matter’
Samsung Galaxy S26 Pricing Unclear Owing to Rising Memory Expenses
Your upcoming Samsung flagship may have a higher price tag.
Key points to consider:
– Samsung has reportedly yet to finalize the pricing for the Galaxy S26, despite the launch being just a few months away.
– Increases in component costs are believed to be the primary issue, particularly concerning camera modules, OLED displays, and memory.
– To manage expenses, Samsung is opting for Exynos chips in certain Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus models, while more expensive Snapdragon chips will be used for significant markets such as the U.S.
With only a couple of months remaining before the anticipated launch in February 2026, you might assume Samsung has everything concerning the Galaxy S26 series organized. However, reports from Korea indicate that the company has not yet established the pricing.
According to a report from The Bell, Samsung is experiencing difficulties in determining the prices for its new flagship devices — the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra — due to the economics not aligning (via SamMobile).
The primary challenge is that the production of these phones has grown significantly more expensive. Various essential components are simultaneously increasing in cost, including camera modules, OLED displays, and notably mobile DRAM (memory).
Hardware expenses are escalating:
IDC has noted that the rising demand for AI data centers has made memory chips more difficult to acquire, resulting in price hikes across the board. With elevated costs, tighter profit margins, and global economic hurdles, Samsung must reassess its pricing strategy to avoid losing customers.
Samsung President Roh Tae-Moon is reportedly requesting that suppliers reduce their prices, but there are limits to what can be accomplished. The company is already marketing the Galaxy Z TriFold at a loss to showcase its technology and gain market share. Nonetheless, the Galaxy S series serves as Samsung’s primary profit generator, meaning it cannot afford to operate at a loss on millions of these handsets merely to keep prices down.
To navigate these expenses, Samsung is employing varied processors across different models. The standard Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are likely to incorporate Samsung’s own Exynos 2600 chip in certain areas. This approach helps the company avoid the additional costs associated with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips.
However, the Ultra edition and likely the standard models in major markets such as the U.S. will still utilize Qualcomm chips, which are not inexpensive. As Samsung cannot forego these higher-priced chips, it faces a challenging choice: either accept diminished profits or increase prices and face the risk of selling fewer devices.
The official announcement is anticipated in February 2026. In the meantime, if you’re eager for the S26, starting to save some extra funds now would be wise. You might find it necessary.
$8 Device Enables USB-C Cable Link to Standard USB Port
Basesailor USB to USB-C Adapter, available for a low price of just $8. It boasts a 4.6-star rating from over 115,000 reviews, and it is sold in a pack of three, providing you with multiple adapters.
Featuring a USB-A male connector on one end for connection to a standard USB Type-A port, and a USB-C female port on the opposite end for inserting a USB-C cable, the Basesailor adapter offers a convenient solution for linking your devices without needing to invest in new cables.
However, it is important to be aware that the USB ports you use will play a significant role, particularly regarding charging durations and transfer rates. USB-C ports are intrinsically distinct as they support much quicker data transfer rates and enhanced power delivery compared to older USB Type-A ports. While using an adapter such as the Basesailor will function properly, it will confine data transfers and charging speeds to the standard of the USB Type-A port in use.
What are the differences in data and power capabilities?
Benno Putro/Sh
Six Expected Apple Product Releases Planned for 2026
# Apple’s Innovations and Upcoming Products for 2026
Apple has consistently led the technology sector, and 2025 was no different. With the launch of revolutionary features like Liquid Glass, the iPhone Air, and the iPhone 17 Pro, alongside major improvements in Apple Silicon, the company has established a high benchmark for innovation. As we anticipate 2026, Apple is ready to introduce a variety of thrilling new products across several categories.
## New Studio Display
Apple’s display lineup has seen limited updates in recent years, with the Pro Display XDR released in 2019 and the Studio Display in 2022. However, excitement is mounting for a new external display, or perhaps two, expected to launch in early 2026. These displays are speculated to incorporate 27-inch miniLED panels and may feature an A19 Pro chip, representing a significant improvement over the A13 Bionic used in the current Studio Display.
## Apple Home Hub
The long-awaited Apple Home Hub is finally nearing its debut. This device, similar to a smart home assistant, is anticipated to have a 7-inch display and operate on a new operating system named homeOS. Equipped with the A18 chip, the Home Hub will enable thorough control over smart home devices and function as a powerful assistant, akin to Google Nest Hub and Amazon Echo Show. The release is dependent on the progress in Apple’s AI capabilities, particularly regarding Siri.
## MacBook Pro Redesign
In 2026, Apple plans to revamp the MacBook Pro for the first time since 2021. The new version will emphasize a sleeker design and will introduce OLED technology to the MacBook series. There are rumors about the potential addition of a touchscreen and support for 5G cellular connectivity. This model will likely be powered by the M6 family of chips, marking Apple’s initial venture into 2nm processors.
## First Foldable iPhone
Following the iPhone Air, Apple is rumored to launch its inaugural foldable iPhone, referred to as the iPhone Fold, in 2026. This device is expected to showcase a tablet-style design with a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external display. Apple intends to eliminate the crease typically seen in foldable devices, and the iPhone Fold may utilize Touch ID rather than Face ID, housed in a sturdy titanium frame.
## Cheaper MacBook
Apple is also preparing to release a new entry-level MacBook, positioned beneath the MacBook Air. This model will feature a 13-inch display and be powered by an A18 Pro chip. The MacBook is anticipated to be available in multiple colors and may commence at a price of $699, making it an appealing choice for budget-minded consumers. This will be the first MacBook to feature an A-series chipset.
## OLED iPad Mini
The iPad mini is slated for a redesign in 2026, incorporating an upgrade to OLED display technology, which was first seen in the iPad Pro. This new iteration will not only improve visual quality but will also include a more water-resistant construction and be powered by an A19 Pro chip, ensuring strong performance.
As Apple prepares for 2026, the company is set to unveil a range of innovative products that are expected to enhance user experience and redefine technology benchmarks.
How to Build a Smart Home Without Internet Connectivity
the finest smart light bulbs that can adjust brightness and hue to nearly undetectable home security devices that notify you when someone is at your front door, there’s hardly anything you can’t accomplish with the newest and most advanced technology — that is, unless your internet connection drops.
Numerous smart home devices necessitate a Wi-Fi connection to operate, and without this essential link to the internet, your tech capabilities diminish significantly. Fortunately, you can establish a strong smart home that operates independently of an internet connection altogether. If you’ve explored the realm of smart devices, you may have encountered the terms Zigbee and Z-Wave: These represent local protocols that form a closed network for your smart technology to reside within.
A primary advantage is improved security, as your devices won’t need to transmit and receive information from outside servers. If this sounds attractive, one of the initial components to think about for your internet-less smart home is a Zigbee or Z-Wave hub. You can view this as the core of your alternate smart home that enables your devices to interact with one another and perform automations.
Considerations for your internet-less smart home
Three Cost-Effective Options to Spotify Premium You Might Want to Switch To
Spotify will be raising its subscription fees shortly, so it’s time to consider a change. Don’t feel obligated to stick with the service when numerous viable alternatives to Spotify are available and recommended by other users.
While there is a variety of music streaming platforms you could transition to, not every choice is less expensive. Some may exceed Spotify Premium’s $11.99/month, making them impractical for those aiming to reduce their monthly subscription expenses. Fortunately, we’ve conducted thorough research to identify the most affordable alternatives to Spotify Premium that you can utilize.
Bandcamp
Google Unveils Significant Camera Enhancements for Pixel 8 Users
Google’s festive present to Pixel 8 users includes a crucial update for the camera’s panorama mode.
Google has discreetly rolled out a major update for Pixel 8 users, improving the panorama mode of the camera. This update, part of version 10.2 of the Pixel Camera, brings the sophisticated panorama system from the Pixel 9 to the Pixel 8 line, providing users with an elevated photography experience.
The upgraded panorama mode utilizes HDR+ technology to combine higher-quality frames, yielding images with superior lighting and detail. A notable aspect of this update is the incorporation of Night Sight, enabling users to create breathtaking panoramas even in low-light environments, such as urban nights or poorly illuminated spaces.
Launched in early December, the update is currently accessible on the Play Store. It offers a more user-friendly and guided shooting experience, featuring smoother stitches and improved outcomes. The interface, drawing from the well-liked Photo Sphere experience, employs floating dots to assist users through the capturing process, ensuring straight shots with a level indicator.
Moreover, the update provides versatile shooting directions, allowing users to capture images to the left, right, up, or down while in landscape mode. This adaptability, in conjunction with Night Sight’s features, broadens the opportunities for photographing urban skylines, starry skies, or indoor structures.
For Pixel 8 users who haven’t recently explored panorama mode, this update presents a compelling reason to delve into its upgraded features and functionalities.
