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Samsung Expands One UI 8 Watch Beta Program to Encompass Galaxy Watch 5 Series

The Galaxy Watch 5 Finally Engages with One UI 8 Watch Beta, Yet Samsung’s Rollout Remains Slow

Owners of the Galaxy Watch 5 can be thrilled as Samsung has officially launched the One UI 8 Watch beta, based on Wear OS 6, for both the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro. First introduced in South Korea, this beta is set to launch in the U.S. shortly. This update brings enhanced gesture controls, a new Now Bar for real-time updates, and the option to combine two tiles into a single one.

The rollout commenced with an announcement on Samsung Korea’s community forum, and additional markets are expected to follow suit. Eligible users may register for early access to experiment with new features prior to the stable release. The update guarantees notable enhancements, such as gesture controls for tasks like answering calls or dismissing alarms, along with a consistently present Now Bar for live updates on the watch interface.

Additionally, users can merge two tiles for more convenient information retrieval. These functionalities have been vetted on the Galaxy Watch 6 and Watch 6 Classic, currently on the fifth beta iteration of One UI 8 Watch.

Nonetheless, the stable variant of One UI 8 Watch is presently restricted to the Galaxy Watch 7 series and the latest Watch Ultra. Previous models, including the Watch 5 and Watch 6, continue in beta. Samsung aims to roll out the stable update for older models by year’s end, though advancements have been gradual. The broadened beta program implies that the final version is nearing.

At this moment, the beta is exclusively accessible in South Korea, with U.S. availability expected shortly. Galaxy Watch 5 users can register through the Samsung Members app if they satisfy the geographical and device criteria. As is the case with any beta software, users should anticipate possible bugs in return for early access to new functionalities.

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HomePod Mini Taken Out of Retail Locations Suggesting Possible Upgrade

MacRumors reports that B&H, an Apple product retailer, is marking all models of the HomePod mini as discontinued. Other retailers such as Target, Walmart, Staples, and Verizon are also indicating that certain options are out of stock.

While the Apple store maintains availability of all five color variants, speculation about a second generation of the HomePod mini is not recent. Earlier reports indicate that Apple has a number of products planned for 2025, which may include a new version of the HomePod mini, the fourth generation of the Apple TV 4K, and the second iteration of the AirTag tracker.

Launched in 2020, the HomePod mini saw the introduction of new colors by late 2021 and again in July 2024. Now, five years later, this $99 device is beginning to feel outdated, lacking upgraded AI features and offering subpar audio quality for a speaker positioned in this price tier.

Potential launch of Apple’s HomePod mini 2 is near

Earlier this month, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg indicated in his Power On newsletter that Apple retail locations were set for an overnight refresh on November 11. This refresh may be tied to the upcoming holiday season, or to soon-to-be-announced Apple TV and HomePod mini launches. Despite Gurman’s cautious stance on whether Apple will indeed release new home products this November, he mentions that they “shouldn’t be long off.” Prior rumors have pointed out that Apple may be postponing these announcements due to the delays with the newly revamped Siri.

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Apple Unveils Exclusive Designer Strap Accessory: iPhone Pocket

### Apple Introduces Exclusive iPhone Pocket Accessory

Apple has just released an exclusive accessory for the iPhone, referred to as the **iPhone Pocket**. This cutting-edge product takes cues from the iconic iPod sock, adapting it for contemporary use with a chic flair. The iPhone Pocket is made from a singular piece of 3D-knitted material, resulting in a distinctive and wearable pocket for your device.

#### Design Partnership

The iPhone Pocket is born from a partnership with the renowned designer **Issey Miyake**, celebrated for his groundbreaking approach to fashion and textiles. This collaboration has infused the accessory with a combination of practicality and visual appeal, distinguishing it from ordinary phone cases.

#### Pricing and Launch

The iPhone Pocket will be available for purchase beginning this Friday. There are two options for the accessory: the short strap Pocket, available for **$149.95**, and the long strap variant, which will sell for **$229.95**. This pricing categorizes the iPhone Pocket as a luxurious accessory, highlighting its distinctive design and the collaboration with Miyake.

#### Summary

With the introduction of the iPhone Pocket, Apple persists in pushing boundaries in the accessory market, providing consumers with a fashionable and practical way to carry their devices. As a limited edition product, it is expected to appeal to both collectors and fashion aficionados.

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Reports Suggest Ongoing Postponement of iPhone Air 2 by Apple

Recent reports indicate that Apple may have postponed the release of the much-anticipated iPhone Air 2, informing its engineers and select suppliers that the “next iPhone Air” has been taken off any forthcoming schedules without a revised launch date. These claims derive from The Information, which references “three individuals engaged in the project” as the source. While the latest version of Apple’s iPhone lineup has garnered some accolades — particularly regarding the repairability of the iPhone Air — there are those who have suggested alternatives to choosing the iPhone Air.

Although some see the iPhone Air as a reduction in capabilities, it still provided a choice for those desiring a sleeker iPhone devoid of the extra features present in the larger iPhone 17 Pro. Nevertheless, the opportunity for Apple’s more streamlined design to truly excel in its subsequent version may have been curtailed prematurely, assuming these recent reports hold true.

The decline of thinner iPhones?

Creative Launches a Modular Sound Card Crafted as the Premier Audio Center for Linking All Your Equipment

Creative’s Sound Blaster line of audio cards was a major player in the market during the ’90s and ’00s, and I first encountered the brand in 2008 when I built a gaming setup in college and integrated a dedicated audio card. Now, Creative is set to revamp the Sound Blaster series significantly: introducing the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine, a modular audio card tailored for contemporary use.

To begin with, this is far beyond a conventional sound card; Creative refers to it as an audio hub for linking all your devices. The aesthetics and modular design resemble creations from teenage engineering, capturing my immediate interest in the product.

Over the years, Creative has sold more than 400 million units of Sound Blaster cards, but for this launch, they are opting for crowdfunding. The Re:Imagine is currently available on Kickstarter, with Creative stating that this approach will help them engage with their user community to gauge their desires from an audio card. To acquire the sound card, one must invest $349, and at the time of this writing, the project has received $202,000 in pledges.

The Re:Imagine hub boasts a built-in 32-bit/384kHz DAC, and the amplifier effortlessly drives headsets ranging from 32Ω to 300Ω. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, PS5, Switch, and all Android devices, and notably, it can operate in standalone mode — powered by Linux, it features 8GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, and an SD card slot.

The main attraction (for me, at least) is its modularity, featuring distinct components: a rotary knob, mixer-style slider, buttons, and a 3-inch display panel. The Horizon Cluster package from Creative includes a base unit along with one of each module, with the modules magnetically attaching to the base unit. Furthermore, the base unit houses all connectors, such as 3.5mm output, line in/out, optical, USB-C audio input, and connections to USB-C hosts.

The buttons are programmable, allowing for action customization or macro assignments when used with Windows. Creative is also providing a collection of entertaining tools accessible through the 3-inch panel, including an AI-driven music generator (naturally), nostalgic music visualizers, and even a DOS emulator.

Everything appears quite promising, and I am eager to try out the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine to evaluate its performance in practical application. Creative has announced that deliveries will commence by mid-2026, and with expected retail pricing at $500, you’ll want to participate if the modular audio card appeals to you.

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Siri Now Able to Perform Samsung SmartThings Routines

**Samsung’s Announcement: Connecting Galaxy and Apple Devices**

Samsung has unveiled a major update designed to improve interoperability between Galaxy and Apple devices, tackling the issues encountered by households using different operating systems. This effort is part of a larger industry trend aimed at fostering a more unified Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, where devices from various manufacturers can operate in harmony.

### The Progress of IoT Compatibility

The drive for interoperability has accelerated with the introduction of new protocols and standards, including Thread and Matter. These innovations, along with supportive regulations, have facilitated the creation of effective smart home systems for consumers. Samsung’s recent update is a pivotal move in this effort, aiming to streamline connectivity for users who possess both Galaxy and Apple devices.

### Notable Features of the Update

Among the standout features is the integration of Siri Shortcuts with SmartThings Routines. This linkage enables users to initiate SmartThings automations via Siri voice commands, enhancing convenience for iOS users managing their smart home gadgets.

#### Routines Available for Users

Samsung has detailed several useful routines that can be configured for both iOS and Android users:

– **Morning Routine**: Automatically adjusts lighting, activates the coffee maker, and opens window coverings when the first person rises.
– **Leaving Home Routine**: Secures doors, switches off lights, and engages the security system when the last individual departs the residence.
– **Bedtime Mode**: A simple command, “Goodnight,” can deactivate all devices or establish a soothing environment by dimming lights and closing window coverings, while also modifying thermostats for sleep.

### Compatibility with Apple Watch

The update further extends its capabilities to the Apple Watch, permitting users to access groups of devices created in the SmartThings app directly from their wrist. This function allows Apple Watch users to oversee their full list of devices, issue commands, and carry out routines while on the move, enriching the overall user experience.

### Improved Support for Live Activities

Moreover, Samsung has augmented its iOS Live Activities support, allowing users to view up to five of their recently utilized devices at a glance. This encompasses key devices like air purifiers, air conditioners, and robot vacuums, facilitating easier management of their smart home settings.

### Conclusion

Samsung’s latest update signifies a major step forward in connecting Galaxy and Apple devices, encouraging a more unified smart home experience. With features crafted to enhance usability and convenience, users can now experience a more interconnected lifestyle, irrespective of the devices they opt to utilize. For additional details on Samsung SmartThings, please visit their official website.

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RayNeo Launches the Most Luminous XR Glasses Featuring a Major Enhancement

With double the luminosity compared to its predecessor, the Air 3s Pro represent the pinnacle of XR eyewear currently on the market.

There’s no doubt that XR glasses are rapidly gaining traction, and it’s clear to see why. Devices like the RayNeo Air 3s make it incredibly convenient to carry a massive display anywhere, and the incorporation of Micro-OLED technology ensures excellent visuals while on the move. I evaluated the Air 3s when they launched earlier this year, and having tried all prior RayNeo versions, I found the Air 3s to be more comfortable and to offer superior image quality.

With the Air 3s Pro, RayNeo isn’t introducing many modifications — which is a positive aspect. The eyewear maintains the same design and craftsmanship, ensuring they remain comfortable to wear, with equivalent adjustability options. Weighing in at 76g, they’re quite light, and you won’t experience any discomfort, even after several hours of use. The Air 3s Pro are currently available for $299 on Amazon, just $30 above the standard model.

If you’re considering XR glasses and wish to see how they perform, I highly endorse opting for the Air 3s Pro over the regular version. The reason for this is clear: brightness. The standard Air 3s delivers a respectable 650 nits, and while RayNeo employs a similar imaging engine in the Air 3s Pro, they have managed to enhance brightness to an impressive 1200 nits, which makes a significant impact.

In fact, the Air 3s Pro are the most luminous XR eyewear available at this time, and there’s a noticeable difference compared to other brands, including devices like the Rokid Max 2. RayNeo mentions it’s utilizing a newly developed HueView 2.0 Micro-OLED engine this time, enabling much improved brightness.

Fortunately, all the other features remain unchanged; you still receive 3,840Hz PWM dimming, and the glasses are not in the least bit tiring. The default refresh rate is 60Hz, but you can switch to 120Hz, and there are six distinct color modes available, providing considerable customizability for adjusting the color balance to your preferences.

To compare with the Air 3s, I utilized the Steam Deck while wearing the glasses for an hour, then switched to the Air 3s Pro. The difference using the Air 3s Pro is immediate, and it’s clear that these glasses offer considerably greater brightness. While I typically increase the brightness to 80% on the Air 3s, I found it sufficient to keep it at 50% with the Air 3s Pro.

A more significant advantage is that the increased brightness minimizes light bleed, making the Air 3s Pro a far superior option for outdoor use. Although there isn’t a photochromatic outer lens, so some light bleed occurs in bright ambient conditions, it’s not nearly as problematic as with the Air 3s or older models.

This alteration alone is compelling enough for me to choose the Air 3s Pro over any other glasses during gaming sessions. Additionally, connecting to devices is just as simple via USB-C, and I encountered no difficulties pairing the XR glasses with my Find X9 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro. Due to the distribution of weight, there’s notably no strain when wearing these glasses, and the 76g weight feels evenly balanced.

Other specifications are identical to the standard model; you benefit from detailed onboard audio courtesy of a dedicated quartet of audio drivers. There’s also virtualized spatial audio this time, enhancing the perception of dimensional audio. The glasses project a 201-inch image from a distance of six meters, producing excellent contrast levels alongside vibrant colors.

RayNeo has revamped the packaging, and instead of the typical hard shell case, you now receive a fabric one. While it still offers reasonable protection for the XR glasses, I would have preferred a hard shell case, as the one that accompanied the Air 3s has superior durability — especially if you plan on tossing these glasses into a bag. Besides the case, you receive a USB-C angled cable, which I utilized to connect the glasses to various smartphones and handheld devices.

As seen in past models, the glasses are constructed from plastic, and there are no issues with the build quality. I’ve used these glasses for over three months now, and they remain in excellent condition.

With the Air 3s Pro, RayNeo is providing nothing less than the finest XR glasses currently available. The glasses are easy to wear, boast impressive color vibrancy and unparalleled brightness levels, deliver good onboard sound, and offer hassle-free connectivity. If you’re looking to expand the screen of your handheld console or need a way to enjoy entertainment

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B&H Marks HomePod Mini as ‘Discontinued,’ Suggesting Potential Update

### HomePod Mini Revamp: Key Details to Consider

If you’re thinking about buying a HomePod mini, it might be beneficial to hold off for a bit longer, as signs of an upcoming refresh are increasingly evident.

#### Unavailable at B&H, Restricted Stock Elsewhere

In recent weeks, speculation has surged regarding a potential refresh of the HomePod mini, although the original model is still out there. A notable change has taken place: B&H, a key retail partner for Apple’s audio and video products, has officially marked the HomePod mini as discontinued.

Furthermore, various color options of the HomePod mini are presently sold out at major retailers like Target and Walmart. Even Apple Stores are facing restricted stock, with certain colors available only at flagship locations. The original HomePod mini debuted in 2020, with additional color releases in 2021, but no significant hardware revisions have occurred since its launch.

#### Speculation About an Upgrade

There have been ongoing rumors about possible upgrades to the HomePod mini. Significantly, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg indicated that the next version of the smart speaker is anticipated to incorporate a new chip that enhances Siri and Apple Intelligence functionalities. There are also mentions of advancements in wireless technology, sound quality, and possibly new color variations, including red.

Gurman further noted that Apple is gearing up for a refresh of Apple Stores, potentially set for November 12, which could align with the holiday shopping period.

#### Final Thoughts

Considering the dwindling stock and B&H’s recent discontinuation announcement, it might be wise to refrain from purchasing a HomePod mini at this moment. The expected enhancements could offer considerable benefits that justify the wait.

Do you think an update for the HomePod mini is forthcoming? Share your opinions in the comments.

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Best Monitors Suitable for Your New Mac

# Top External Displays for Mac

If you’ve recently bought a new Mac, such as the new M5 MacBook Pro, you may also be considering some of the top display choices available. Below are suggestions that span different product categories, pricing tiers, and more.

**Last Updated November 10, 2025**: Revised pricing and availability information, along with added insights on the ASUS ProArt Display 6K and the LG UltraFine 6K.

## Apple Studio Display

A list of the finest displays wouldn’t be complete without including Apple’s Studio Display. Although it comes at a higher price point, it showcases an exquisite Apple design with a 27-inch 5K display. It includes one Thunderbolt 3 port for Mac connections and three additional USB-C ports.

– **Display**: 27-inch 5K Retina display (5120×2880 resolution) at 218 pixels per inch
– **Brightness**: 600 nits
– **Color Support**: Wide color (P3) with capability for 1 billion colors
– **Webcam**: 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage feature
– **True Tone Technology**: Modifies the display’s color temperature based on surrounding light
– **Ports**: One Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port for host connection (delivering up to 96W host charging) and three USB-C ports (up to 10Gb/s) for connecting devices, storage, and networking

The Studio Display is offered in various configurations at a range of prices. If you desire an iMac-like experience with your Mac, the Apple Studio Display stands out as the premier choice.

## LG UltraFine 6K (New)

The LG UltraFine 6K has been eagerly awaited since LG showcased it at CES in January. This display offers an economical alternative to Apple’s Studio Display and Pro Display XDR.

– **Display**: 31.5″ 16:9 IPS Black Panel
– **Resolution**: UHD 6K 6144 x 3456 at 60 Hz
– **Brightness**: 450 Nits, 600 Nits in HDR
– **Contrast Ratio**: 2000:1
– **Color Coverage**: 98% DCI-P3 & 99.5 Adobe RGB
– **Ports**: Built-in USB-C Hub & KVM, 1x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI, 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) with USB PD 140 W, 3x USB-C

## Asus ProArt 5K Display (New)

The Asus ProArt (PA27JCV) Display 5K offers the same 5K resolution (5120×2880) in a comparable 27-inch design to the Studio Display, but at a fraction of the cost.

– **Display**: 27-inch 5K resolution (5120×2880 pixels) at 218 PPI with a matte finish to minimize reflections
– **Brightness**: Standard brightness of 400 nits and peak brightness of 500 nits
– **Ports**: USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and a regular DisplayPort 1.4

## Asus ProArt 6K Display

For those seeking a larger and higher-resolution option, Asus provides the solution. The new Asus ProArt Display 6K (PA32QCV) features a 32-inch screen with a native resolution of 6016 x 3384.

– **Display**: 31.5-inch 6K (6016 x 3384) IPS display
– **PPI**: 218 PPI
– **Viewing Angle**: 178° wide viewing angle
– **Refresh Rate**: 60Hz
– **Connectivity**: Dual Thunderbolt 4
– **HDR**: HDR10 and VESA DisplayHDR™ 600
– **Color Gamut**: 98% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB
– **Ergonomics**: Tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments

## Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K

Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 5K presents another attractive choice to accompany your new Mac, and it’s also significantly less expensive than Apple’s Studio Display.

– **Display**: 27-inch 5K resolution (5120×2880 pixels) at 218 PPI with a matte finish
– **Brightness**: 600 nits
– **Webcam**: Removable 4K camera
– **Ports**: One Thunderbolt 4 port, one Mini DisplayPort, and three USB-C ports

## BenQ 27″ 5K PD2730S Thunderbolt Monitor

The BenQ PD2730S 27″ 5K

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How AI Improvements Are Advancing NASA’s James Webb Telescope

James Webb Space Telescope in 2021, experts celebrated the mission as the foremost achievement of its kind in more than thirty years. Nevertheless, scientists soon identified a significant issue with the globe’s most exquisitely calibrated camera: its images were out of focus. To rectify this dilemma, a duo of Australian scientists created an artificial intelligence program named AMIGO (Aperture Masking Interferometry Generative Observations) to tackle resolution challenges in Webb’s most advanced telescope cameras.

This development illustrates how the vast distances of satellites such as the James Webb Space Telescope can hinder maintenance and repairs. Positioned a million miles away from Earth, the telescope is not as easily serviceable as its predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope. For context, when NASA launched Hubble in 1990, lens alignment problems prompted a specialized mission from the Space Shuttle Endeavour to install new optics. In contrast, with JWST, manual adjustments are not feasible. AMIGO serves as an innovative solution for researchers to modify how JWST interprets and processes data, instead of traveling across the solar system to adjust the lenses directly. It accomplishes this by restoring the camera’s aperture masking interferometer (AMI), a slender metal piece punctuated with holes that enables researchers to assess whether the camera is experiencing optical misalignments based on the light it filters.

JWST is capable of capturing images of the universe’s earliest galaxies, fundamentally altering how scientists perceive the cosmos. In less than five years, the telescope has documented galaxies formed over 13.5 billion years ago, revealed what some theorize to be stars fueled by dark matter, uncovered supermassive black holes, and even transformed how scholars view the formative phases of the universe. With the modifications provided by AMIGO, the James Webb Space Telescope could potentially illuminate humanity’s most ancient inquiries.

Repairing the world’s priciest telescope

To comprehend how AMIGO addressed the globe’s most costly photographic problem, one must first grasp the operating principles of the James Webb Space Telescope. Essentially, Webb employs a sequence of mirrors to reflect infrared light into the telescope’s imaging instruments. The dimensions of these mirrors, the largest of which weighs over 1

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