It’s about more than merely appearing attractive!
In his weekly column, Android Central Senior Content Producer Nick Sutrich explores everything related to VR, including the latest hardware, new games, forthcoming technologies, and much more.
When I received the Ray-Ban Stories in 2021, I envisioned a realm
Read More### TimeCapsule for AirTag Now Offered in More Compact Size
A standout recent release in the accessory market is Elevation Lab’s TimeCapsule for AirTag, which greatly prolongs the battery life of Apple’s AirTag. Initially, the TimeCapsule boasted an impressive battery duration of 10 years, but the company has recently launched a more compact version that provides 5 years of battery life while offering a smaller profile.
#### The Dilemma of AirTag Battery Duration
While Apple’s AirTag is groundbreaking, it does have a limitation: its battery lifespan. With a typical usage period of around a year, managing several AirTags can turn into a hassle, especially when low battery alerts start accumulating. This concern for users fueled the creation of the TimeCapsule accessory, which received positive feedback for its prolonged battery life.
#### Sleek Design with Prolonged Battery Life
The updated TimeCapsule version tackles the size concern of its predecessor. Although the original TimeCapsule was effective, its size made it less ideal for scenarios where space is restricted. The recently introduced 5-year battery case is crafted to be sleeker, with dimensions of 2.6 inches by 1.6 inches by 0.8 inches, in contrast to the 10-year model’s measurements of 4.45 inches by 1.57 inches by 0.75 inches.
This new accessory functions with two AAA batteries, with Elevation Lab suggesting the use of Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries for the best results. Users just need to insert their AirTag into the case, add the batteries, and experience extended battery life without frequent changes.
#### Extra Features
The small TimeCapsule case is not only functional but also comes with a waterproof design, ensuring it can endure various environmental conditions. Notably, the case does not reveal that it contains an AirTag, offering a discreet option for tracking belongings.
#### Availability
The new TimeCapsule AirTag 5-year battery case can be purchased in both single and multipack selections, catering to diverse user preferences.
#### Conclusion
The launch of the compact TimeCapsule for AirTag marks a significant improvement in accessory design for Apple’s tracking device. By addressing concerns related to battery life and size, Elevation Lab has offered users a practical solution that boosts the capability of AirTags. Whether a seasoned user of the TimeCapsule or exploring it for the first time, this new model provides an attractive choice for anyone aiming to streamline their tracking experience.
Read More# Sotsu FlipAction Monitor Review: A Revolutionary Choice for Portable Displays
With the arrival of genuine windowing multitasking and extended display capabilities in iPadOS 26, the prospect of combining my iPad Pro with a portable monitor became significantly more appealing. Over the years, I have employed a variety of portable displays, mainly alongside my MacBook Air, spanning from budget plastic versions to higher-end choices that prioritize the quality of the screen. While some have been satisfactory, the Sotsu FlipAction series is on another level. It resembles a 16-inch iPad affixed to a modular, magnetic Studio Display stand. Having utilized this monitor for over a year, I wish to convey my comprehensive insights on its value for the price. Let’s analyze it.
## Design and Build Quality
In a landscape where portable monitors generally fall into two categories—cheap plastic bodies with weak folio stands or bare metal slabs with a single hinge—the Sotsu monitor distinguishes itself with its distinctive design. The FlipAction incorporates a two-part system: a 16-inch display paired with a magnetic folding stand, both crafted from anodized aluminum. This grants it a premium essence reminiscent of Apple products. When not in use, the stand magnetically attaches to the back of the display, ensuring it’s compact and easy to slide into any backpack or laptop sleeve.
## Ergonomics and Viewing Angles
Setting up the monitor is easy. The stand boasts a dual-hinge design, allowing for various adjustments. It comprises a base hinge to bring the panel forward, a top hinge where the display connects, and offers a complete 360º rotation that locks at every 90º degree. This adaptability enables you to position it horizontally next to a MacBook, vertically as a sidebar display, or elevated above your iPad Pro for improved ergonomics.
## Display Performance
The Sotsu FlipAction series features three distinct 16-inch monitors: the Flip Action Pro Gen 1, the Flip Action Pro Gen 2, and the Flip Action Elite. All three share identical design and build materials but vary in display specifications. The FlipAction Pro Gen 1 showcases a Quad HD (2560×1600) display, 60Hz refresh rate, 350 nits brightness, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. Despite its specified brightness, it frequently appears brighter than my 5K BenQ monitor rated at 400 nits. The color accuracy is vibrant without being overly saturated, and the viewing angles are commendable.
### Gen 2 & Elite Options
– **FlipAction Gen 2**: Boosts the refresh rate to 120Hz with enhanced contrast (1500:1).
– **FlipAction Elite**: Delivers full 4K resolution and 450 nits brightness, perfect for high-res video or photo editing.
## Practical Use Cases
I primarily utilize the Sotsu monitor alongside my iPad to amplify productivity. The new multitasking windowing feature in iPadOS 26 permits me to engage with apps like Lumafusion on the iPad while keeping productivity applications active on the external monitor. It folds conveniently into a sleek package, fitting snugly into a 16-inch laptop sleeve.
Furthermore, I employ it as a secondary vertical display with my M4 Mac mini. When oriented vertically, it aligns seamlessly with my 5K BenQ monitor, offering added screen space for extra applications and windows.
## Pricing & Availability
The Sotsu FlipAction Pro Gen 1 is available starting at $499, while the Gen 2 is priced at $599, and the Elite model retails for $789. All variants can be purchased directly from Sotsu’s website.
## Final Thoughts
The Sotsu FlipAction series is not inexpensive, but it offers superior build quality, remarkable display performance, and a hinge system that improves usability in practical workflows. After a year’s use, the monitor continues to maintain its pristine appearance and performance. If you’re exploring options for a portable display, I strongly suggest considering the Sotsu FlipAction. For those looking for more budget-friendly alternatives, Sotsu also provides other choices that deliver excellent value for the investment.
Read Morewelcome to the realm of technology where circuits intertwine with charm. here, you’ll discover some of the most delightful gadgets available, the petite attention-grabbers that entice people to come over and ask, “wait, what is that?” you admire them for their cuteness, but you hold onto them due to their surprisingly intelligent design.
from portable projectors that deliver genuine brightness in a compact form to lamps that mimic breakfast items and even a Bluetooth banana that serves as a conversation starter, these selections blend the boundaries between technology and small companions.
they are the type of gadgets that remain discreet until someone spots them, at which point they swiftly become the centerpiece of attention. as this collection demonstrates, technology doesn’t have to be frigid and simplistic. amazon is brimming with entertaining and charming gadgets, so if you have a penchant for gear that’s enjoyable, practical, and utterly delightful, this lineup is sure to captivate your heart.
**magical fridge magnet**
it’s time to say goodbye to your ordinary paper-holding magnets. the Music Fridge Magnet 4.0 is a game-changer. it resembles a typical photo frame on your fridge, but it’s remarkably unconventional. with just one tap, it immediately plays your favorite song, transforming your kitchen into an unexpected romantic dance floor.
this compact device is loaded with features: it produces clear audio, stores photos, and provides instant, wobble-free one-tap playback. want to switch things up? easily change the picture, upload a new track, or record a fresh message in mere seconds. it serves as a thoughtful sentimental gift that operates as a streamlined, modern internet of things device.
the instant this magnet springs to life, it fills the space with intrigue. people will be curious about what it is and why your appliances express more emotion than theirs. it also aligns with the growing notion that background music can aid concentration for individuals with ADHD, making this magnet both fun and subtly useful. you can grab this impressively crafted tech piece on amazon for a mere $10.99. it’s small, charming, and instantly turns your fridge into the most captivating spot in your home.
**portable mini fan**
imagine this: it’s august, you’re in a lengthy line for a festival, the sun is blazing, and your phone just dropped to 5%. that dreary scenario is precisely what the JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan was designed to tackle. this gadget is not merely a fan; it’s a compact three-in-one survival kit that combines a high-powered fan, a flashlight, and a backup power bank.
you’ll enjoy 12 to 19 hours of continuous cooling from one USB charge, ensuring you won’t have to fear a midday power decline. additionally, the ingenious backup power bank feature enables you to rescue your dying phone in an emergency, and the convenient flashlight feature provides added safety when you need visibility after nightfall.
the design itself is impressively smart. the blades retract for effortless, snag-free storage in your pocket or bag. when you need it, the unit seamlessly unfolds in three stages: you can comfortably grip it in your hand (180°), or convert it into a stable desktop fan (270°) to keep your workspace airy. if you’re in search of a gift or simply wish to enhance your summer essentials, this is your answer. you can find this versatile device on amazon for just $17.84. it’s evidence that the most essential tools often fit in the palm of your hand.
**banana-shaped Bluetooth handset**
this banana-shaped Bluetooth handset performs an incredible feat. it’s charming enough to seize immediate attention, and so lifelike that guests might accidentally mistake it for a snack before realizing it’s your functional phone. featuring long battery life, voice assistant compatibility, and a built-in Bluetooth speaker, it becomes the most delightful conversation starter you’ll ever possess.
despite its playful appearance, the Banana Phone operates like a genuine handset. it connects quickly with both iPhone and Android devices, remains stable once linked, and provides clear audio whether you’re taking calls or enjoying music from the fruit. the battery lasts up to 20 hours of talk time and 120 hours on standby, ensuring the novelty doesn’t diminish during the day.
the built-in speaker adds an extra dose of enjoyment. you can stream tunes, listen to podcasts, or make quick hands-free calls without reaching for your actual phone. furthermore, it supports Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa, transforming everyday tasks into amusing moments. asking about the weather or sending a text is infinitely more fun when done through a banana.
at $39.99, it’s an investment that brings a splash of character to your workspace, living room, or travel bag. it’s dependable, it’s whimsical, and it consistently elicits a response. in an era where some new iPhone features may turn out to be complete flops, this gadget is a refreshing departure because it never disappoints — just don’t eat it.
**rechargeable hand warmer**
when your hands are cold, you don’t just feel
Read MoreMX Master 3 was great as it was. The solution appears to involve introducing significant new elements such as haptic feedback and an Actions Ring, in addition to polishing the current design. Do these enhancements collectively contribute to a substantial upgrade?
Highlights from IFA 2025 earlier this year included Antigravity’s A1 — the pioneering 8K 360-degree drone. Antigravity is a relatively new company nurtured by Insta360 and other third-party firms, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to create an accessible consumer drone with enhanced piloting features and numerous intriguing options.
In contrast to conventional quadcopters such as the DJI Neo, the Antigravity A1 operates as a 360-degree drone, utilizing a headset-first setup. Pilots must wear Vision Goggles to initiate the drone’s flight, providing an engaging experience while flying. The Grip controller’s FreeMotion mode converts hand gestures into accurate flight paths, allowing users to navigate by directing the controller.
José Adorno/BGRThrough these advancements, Antigravity successfully streamlined a process that once required the use of two joysticks. Now, every A1 operator relies on a single controller for a fully immersive experience, as the Vision Goggles are equipped with dual 1-inch micro-OLED displays that reflect the pilot’s head movements instantaneously, while others can observe the drone’s trajectory.
<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2043215/antigravity-a1-drone-8k-360-video-now-available/" data-post-title="An IFA Standout, The 8K 360 Antigr
Read More### Apple Unveils Recipients of the 2025 App Store Awards
Apple has officially unveiled the recipients of the 2025 App Store Awards, honoring 17 applications and games for their “technical brilliance and enduring cultural significance.” This year’s accolades underscore the remarkable innovation, user engagement, and design exhibited by the chosen recipients, selected by App Store Editors.
Apple CEO Tim Cook conveyed his appreciation for the ingenuity of developers, stating, “Each year, we’re motivated by the ways developers translate their best concepts into pioneering experiences that enhance people’s lives. This year’s recipients embody the creativity and quality that characterize the App Store, showcasing the substantial influence that top-tier applications and games have on individuals globally.”
#### Recipients in the Apps Division
The recipients in the “Apps” division for each of Apple’s product lines are as follows:
– **iPhone App of the Year**: [Tiimo](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tiimo-ai-planner-to-do/id1480220328) by tiimo.
– **iPad App of the Year**: [Detail](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/detail-ai-video-editor/id1673518618) by Detail Technologies B.V.
– **Mac App of the Year**: [Essayist](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/essayist-academic-writing-app/id1537845384) by Essayist Software Inc.
– **Apple Vision Pro App of the Year**: [Explore POV](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/explore-pov/id6479555991) by James Hustler.
– **Apple Watch App of the Year**: [Strava](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/strava-run-bike-walk/id426826309) by Strava, Inc.
– **Apple TV App of the Year**: [HBO Max](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hbo-max-stream-movies-tv/id1666653815) by WarnerMedia Global Digital Services, LLC.
#### Prize-Winning Games
Along with the applications, Apple also acknowledged six Cultural Impact recipients, chosen for their capacity to instigate significant change:
– **[Art of Fauna](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/art-of-fauna-cozy-puzzles/id1630468596)** by Klemens Strasser: This app converts wildlife illustrations into soothing puzzles, establishing a new benchmark for user-friendly game design.
– **[Chants of Sennaar](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/chants-of-sennaar/id6566195667)** by Playdigious: Honors the significance of language through an engaging journey.
– **[despelote](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/despelote/id6747992743)** by Panic, Inc.: A heartfelt narrative that offers a view into a nation uniting through their passion for soccer.
– **[Be My Eyes](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/be-my-eyes/id905177575)** by Be My Eyes: Merges AI and worldwide volunteers to support individuals who are blind or have limited vision.
– **[Focus Friend](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/focus-friend-by-hank-green/id6742278016)** by Hank Green from B-Tech Consulting Group LLC: A gamified strategy to aid users in overcoming digital distractions.
– **
**Tehran: Apple TV’s Exciting Espionage Series Makes a Comeback for Season 3**
Tehran, a highly praised thriller series by Apple TV, is gearing up for its third season, which will premiere on January 9, 2026. This update follows a lengthy wait attributed to various setbacks, including the repercussions of the Israel-Hamas conflict on its release timeline. Since its inception, the series has attracted a loyal audience and received critical recognition, heightening the excitement surrounding the new season.
**Overview of Tehran**
Tehran is an espionage thriller that chronicles the journey of Mossad agent Tamar Rabinyan, portrayed by Niv Sultan. The plot centers on her perilous undercover operation in Tehran, jeopardizing not only her life but also the safety of those near her. The show skillfully intertwines themes of loyalty, treachery, and the intricacies of global espionage, making it a compelling watch for genre enthusiasts.
**Season 3 Details**
Season three of Tehran is set to offer additional suspense and complexity, introducing fresh twists in Tamar’s storyline. Hugh Laurie, celebrated for his performances in House and The Night Manager, joins the cast this season, enhancing the star caliber and richness of the series. The season will debut with an episode on January 9, followed by weekly installments, concluding on February 27, 2026.
**Production and Future Seasons**
Despite the postponements, Tehran’s production has progressed, with Apple TV announcing that a fourth season is already being developed. This assurance regarding the series points to its robust performance and popularity with audiences. The initial two seasons of Tehran are currently available for streaming on Apple TV, providing new viewers with the chance to catch up ahead of the eagerly awaited third season.
**Conclusion**
Tehran distinguishes itself as a remarkable addition to the sphere of international thrillers, merging gripping storytelling with profound character exploration. As fans look forward to the return of Tamar Rabinyan and her dangerous exploits, the series continues to reinforce its status as a must-see on Apple TV. With the guarantee of additional seasons ahead, Tehran is set to keep viewers engaged for years to come.
Read MoreComet 3I/ATLAS is the third known interstellar object to pass through our solar system, a cosmic rock first discovered by the NASA-funded Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) telescope in Chile on July 1, 2025. At this point, 12 NASA cameras have captured imagery of 3I/ATLAS as it’s traversed our solar system, but a brand-new batch of NASA photos — taken between late September and mid-October — expand on that catalog with some of the clearest and most detailed looks at the comet so far.
The images were taken by NASA’s sun-observing PUNCH satellites, the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution mission, and the Perseverance Rover on Mars. The photos mostly show 3I/ATLAS as an illuminated dot, but some also showcase the comet’s tail as a faint, elongated smudge. Non-U.S. cosmic cameras have taken photos of the comet, too, including the European Space Agency and Russia’s Federal Space Agency’s shared probe, the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter.
At this time, 3I/ATLAS isn’t visible to ground-based telescopes because of its proximity to the sun, but it’s expected to fly by Earth on December 19, at which point it should be viewable by the James Webb Space Telescope and ground tech like the W.M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii. Scientists and space enthusiasts are elated by comet 3I/ATLAS’s pilgrimage through the inner solar system. The only other confirmed objects to have visited from different areas of the galaxy were 1I/’Oumuamua in 2017 and comet 2I/Borisov in 2019 — the former of which helped NASA discover seven more dark comets.
Our solar system seldom gets interstellar visitors
3I/ATLAS’s emergence has stoked the extraterrestrial bonfire, with some folks thinking the comet could be a form of alien technology. But Nicky Fox, the associate administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, speaking to NBC, confirms that all observations thus far point toward nothing more than a rock in space. “We certainly haven’t seen any techno signatures or anything from it that would lead us to believe it was anything other than a comet.” Still, that doesn’t mean we can’t learn more about distant star systems from 3I/ATLAS, especially as it gets closer to Earth. “It could be from something that existed before our own solar system. That is so cool,” remarked Fox.
In the weeks ahead, scientists should be able to gather data on 3I/ATLAS’s chemical makeup, appearance, speed, and a potential place of origin. And if you’re wondering if comet 3I/ATLAS could be a threat to our planet, rest assured, the cosmic comet is expected to stay 170 million miles away as it flies by us.
Researchers have already speculated that comet 3I/ATLAS’s acceleration might not be caused by gravity, and we already know that 3I/ATLAS is rich in carbon dioxide. Here’s hoping we get to learn even more about this space-bound boulder when it rears its head again in mid-December.
Read More**Alan Dye Leaves Apple: A New Era at Meta**
In a surprising development, Alan Dye, who has served as Apple’s vice president of Human Interface Design since 2015, has declared his exit from the organization to head a new design studio at Meta. This information was initially disclosed by Bloomberg, with Apple affirming the shift via a statement from CEO Tim Cook. Steve Lemay, a seasoned designer boasting 26 years at Apple, will take over Dye’s responsibilities.
### Leadership Transition
Alan Dye’s time at Apple was defined by substantial input into the company’s design doctrine and user interface. His exit has elicited a variety of reactions within Apple, as highlighted by John Gruber in a recent entry on Daring Fireball. Gruber’s contacts suggest that while Dye had his proponents, many within the organization are optimistic about Lemay stepping up. Lemay is celebrated for his scrupulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, attributes that have garnered acclaim from his peers.
### Favorable Reception for Steve Lemay
Though relatively low in public visibility, Lemay is esteemed among his colleagues. Gruber’s observations show that while not every initiative Lemay has been involved in has garnered widespread acclaim, the prevailing feeling is one of enthusiasm regarding his elevation. Sources inside Apple have voiced their endorsement, indicating that Lemay is well-liked and respected, positioning him as a fitting leader for the design team.
### Internal Reactions
The internal response to Dye’s departure has been largely positive. Numerous employees had begun to lose faith that Dye would depart, and his sudden exit has been characterized as a source of relief. The prevailing opinion among staff is that Lemay’s leadership could initiate a new phase of design at Apple, potentially addressing various critiques that surfaced during Dye’s tenure.
### Developments at Meta
Dye’s transition to Meta is part of a broader shift; design deputy Billy Sorrentino is also leaving Apple to accompany him, along with additional members of Dye’s team. Mark Zuckerberg has publicly welcomed Dye to Meta, highlighting the new design studio’s objective to blend design, fashion, and technology to redefine Meta’s products and experiences.
### Conclusion
Alan Dye’s exit signifies a major change in Apple’s design leadership, with Steve Lemay stepping in at a crucial time. As the company navigates this shift, the design community and Apple supporters will closely observe how Lemay’s vision shapes the future of Apple’s user interfaces.
Read More
