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Blog Posts

Agibot Launches Innovative Humanoid Robot Rental Service Featuring Competitive Rates

At the Mobile World Congress 2026, the humanoid robot firm Agibot unveiled a rental initiative that enables anyone to lease a robot. This program will be available in 17 markets, including the U.S. and numerous European nations. Thus far, prices have been disclosed in euros since the announcement was made in Barcelona, and the company is bolstering its presence in Europe. However, Agibot informs BGR that the official rental platform for the U.S. market will launch later this March, as the robots aim to make inroads into America.

With prices starting at 899 euros for a day, which is just over $1,000, Agibot has devised a smart business strategy to facilitate the mainstream adoption of robots. Given that its humanoid robot models are priced over $20,000, investing without an understanding of what to expect may not be prudent for any type of customer.

The company specifies several reasons why an individual or business might choose to rent a robot. Possible uses may encompass social interaction, with the robot acting as a school ambassador, community promoter, or trade show guide; participating in video content creation, like appearing as an extra in a short film or joining a live stream; performing as a dancer, or even serving as a security patrol.

How Agibot’s rental program functions

Agibot states that every rental must pass through a form, and the timeline from requirement submission to on-site installation can be as brief as two working days. Rather than merely indicating which model they might need, the company claims it will supply robots tailored to the usage scenario, such as an exhibition, live stream, or security requirement. This way, customers can simply communicate their needs instead of sifting through the portfolio.

Rentals can be arranged for a single day, but long-term leasing is also an option. In addition to the robots, Agibot mentions it offers on-site technical support staff to prevent any potential malfunctions.

Customers will have the opportunity to utilize the company’s new X2 Series, which emphasizes entertainment, research, and education. These products were showcased at CES 2026 and complement the lineup alongside the G2 Series, focused on factory robots, and the D1 quadruped bots, which can function as pets, carrying devices, or even as patrolling security guards.

The Diminution of Intelligent Home Hubs: Comprehending Their Outdated Nature

a next-generation smart home protocol, and Thread enable numerous devices to communicate directly with one another without the necessity of a smart hub acting as an intermediary.

For the majority of consumers, there’s truly no requirement for a smart home hub anymore, as numerous alternatives exist to manage other connected devices, whether through voice commands or via your smartphone. This allows for the creation of a completely functional smart home without the need for a dedicated hub, and understanding how each of these options operates can assist you in making the appropriate decision when configuring your smart home.

A smart home hub introduces more complications than it resolves

Apple Unveils Pre-Order for Latest iPhone 17e

Apple has commenced pre-orders for the latest addition to the iPhone 17 series. The iPhone 17e is now ready for purchase following its announcement on Monday. Apple will officially launch the newest iPhone on Wednesday, March 11.

### iPhone 17e Features: 2x Storage, Enhanced Performance, Magic of MagSafe

In comparison to the iPhone 16e, the upgraded iPhone 17e offers enhanced performance with Apple’s A19 chip and C1X modem, cutting-edge portrait photography with Focus and Depth Control, 3x improved scratch resistance with Ceramic Shield 2 front glass, and MagSafe support featuring 2x quicker wireless charging.

The iPhone 17e is priced starting at $599 for 256GB storage, which is double the base storage of the iPhone 16e. For those requiring additional local storage, the 512GB variant is available for $799, reflecting a $100 reduction for the same storage on the iPhone 16e.

The iPhone 17e comes in three colors: black, white, and a new soft pink.

### Safeguard Your New iPhone 17e

Apple offers three case choices for the iPhone 17e: iPhone 17e Silicone Case with MagSafe ($49), iPhone 17e Clear Case with MagSafe ($49), and Beats iPhone 17e Case with MagSafe ($45). The iPhone 17e Silicone Case with MagSafe includes lanyard cutouts for Apple’s Crossbody Strap accessory or other lanyards.

Now featuring MagSafe compatibility, the iPhone 17e also works with Apple’s FineWoven Wallet, and you can unlock rapid charging with Apple’s 20W USB-C power adapter to achieve 50% battery in just 30 minutes.

The latest iPhone 17e supersedes the iPhone 16e that Apple launched a year prior. Apple continues to provide the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.

MacBook Neo Up for Pre-Order Beginning at $599

# Apple Introduces Affordable MacBook Neo

Apple has officially launched its new, affordable MacBook Neo, which is now up for pre-order starting at $599. This fresh addition to the Mac lineup is designed to provide exceptional performance at a more budget-friendly price.

## Pre-Order Information

The MacBook Neo can be pre-ordered straight from the Apple Store, with the first deliveries anticipated by Wednesday, March 11. Education customers can take advantage of a special discounted rate of $499.

### Models and Pricing

The base model of the MacBook Neo includes 256GB of storage and does not feature Touch ID. For those in need of additional storage, a $699 variant is available, which offers 512GB of storage and incorporates Touch ID functionality.

## Color Variations

The MacBook Neo is available in four appealing hues: silver, blush, citrus, and indigo, allowing users to select a model that suits their personal preferences.

## Characteristics and Performance

Apple’s hardware chief, John Ternus, shared his enthusiasm for the release, stating, “We’re incredibly excited to introduce MacBook Neo, which delivers the magic of the Mac at a breakthrough price.” The MacBook Neo boasts a sturdy aluminum build, a stunning Liquid Retina display, and is driven by Apple silicon, guaranteeing outstanding performance.

Key features include:
– All-day battery life
– High-quality camera, microphones, and speakers
– Magic Keyboard and Multi-Touch trackpad
– Intuitive macOS functionalities

## Final Thoughts

The MacBook Neo exemplifies Apple’s dedication to making its technology more accessible while preserving the quality and performance users anticipate. With its attractive pricing and remarkable features, it is set to appeal to a diverse audience, from students to professionals.

Are you thinking about buying a MacBook Neo? Share your opinions in the comments.

Apple Unveils Three Fresh MacBook Versions This Week

Today signifies a consecutive three days of Apple product unveilings, with the introduction of the MacBook Neo as the third new Mac. Below are the specifics regarding the three newly announced MacBooks.

## #1: MacBook Neo

**Price: $599 for base model**

The [MacBook Neo](https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/04/macbook-neo-is-now-official/) is a fresh addition to the Mac lineup, and it represents the most budget-friendly MacBook to date. While the pricing of the new variant is a major selling point, the vibrant color choices also stand out. The MacBook Neo is available in silver, blush, citrus, and indigo. It features an A18 Pro chip, which initially launched with the iPhone. The Neo is designed for users transitioning from PC or Chromebook to Mac, but it also serves as an excellent choice for those whose computing needs are confined to basic functions such as web surfing, emailing, and messaging. [Pre-orders are now available](https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/04/macbook-neo-now-available-for-pre-order-starts-at-599/) for the MacBook Neo, set to ship next Wednesday, March 11.

## #2: M5 MacBook Air

**Price: $1,099 for base model**

This week, Apple [revealed an updated MacBook Air](https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/03/apple-announces-m5-macbook-air-with-2x-storage-n1-wireless-chip-1099-starting-price/) featuring a more robust M5 chip. The M5 offers considerable improvements over last year’s M4, particularly in terms of GPU performance, thanks to the incorporation of Neural Accelerators. The new MacBook Air now starts with 512GB of storage—twice that of the prior generation—and Apple claims that SSD speeds can reach up to 2x faster than the M4 model. The N1 wireless chip has also made its way to the MacBook Air, supporting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. As Apple’s best-selling laptop, the M5 variant enhances its appeal even further. You can [pre-order the M5 MacBook Air here on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3OLIuSg).

## #3: MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max

**Price: $2,199 for base model**

Last autumn, the 14-inch MacBook Pro received an M5 chip upgrade, but the more advanced chips and the 16-inch version were held back to the M4 series. The anticipation for high-end M5 upgrades has finally come to an end. This week’s [launch of the new MacBook Pro](https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/03/apple-launches-new-macbook-pro-with-m5-pro-and-m5-max-chips/) introduces M5 Pro and M5 Max chips for both the 14-inch and 16-inch models. The M5 Pro and M5 Max drive Apple’s most formidable MacBooks to date and introduce “super cores,” which Apple asserts are the fastest CPU cores worldwide. The base storage on the MacBook Pro has reached new heights: 1TB for M5 Pro models and 2TB for M5 Max. Battery life on M5 Max models shows slight enhancements over the M4 series, while M5 Pro models maintain the same battery performance as M4. The revamped MacBook Pro is also equipped with an N1 wireless chip for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. You can [pre-order the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max here on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4rLgcFX).

Which new MacBook launched this week catches your interest the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best Mac accessories

Summary of Apple’s Product Videos Launched This Week

**Apple’s Newest Product Announcements: A Recap of Latest Releases**

This week, Apple took an unconventional route to present its newest products, opting for promotional videos and ads instead of a live event. This article encapsulates the main announcements and highlights from the published content.

### iPhone 17e

The promotional video for the iPhone 17e is notable for its witty narration. The narrator articulates the device’s features in a fast-paced manner, paired with quick edits that maintain viewer interest. This playful strategy mirrors Apple’s effort to connect with a wide audience while demonstrating the iPhone’s functionalities.

### M4 iPad Air

The M4 iPad Air video is particularly eye-catching, featuring imaginative camera angles that create the impression of weightless visuals. This advertisement underscores the iPad’s cutting-edge features and design, aiming to attract potential consumers with its artistic flair.

### M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro

The promotional material for the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro incorporates an energetic soundtrack, showcasing elements of improv jazz and Afrobeat. This musical selection boosts the lively nature of the video, effectively highlighting the performance enhancements and new features of the MacBook Pro series.

### M5 MacBook Air

Like the MacBook Pro advertisements, the M5 MacBook Air video features vibrant music to emphasize its upgrades. The spirited tone seeks to connect with users in search of a powerful yet portable computing option.

### MacBook Neo

The MacBook Neo video is the longest among the new offerings, providing a thorough examination of the device’s features and capabilities. This extended format enables Apple to explore the product’s specifications and benefits in greater detail, appealing to a more technologically inclined audience.

### Additional Coverage

For those wishing for a more exhaustive analysis of Apple’s announcements, 9to5Mac’s Fernando Silva has created a series of detailed videos available on the 9to5Mac YouTube channel. These videos lend additional insights into the new products, making them a useful resource for prospective buyers and technology enthusiasts.

### Conclusion

Apple’s latest product announcements, presented through captivating promotional videos, emphasize the company’s dedication to innovation and creativity. Each video not only highlights the new devices but also embodies Apple’s distinctive marketing approach, merging humor, creativity, and music to engage the audience’s attention.

MacBook Neo Becomes the Second Mac Model to Attain $499 Education Pricing

### Apple Now Offers a $499 Mac Laptop for Education Clients

Apple has unveiled the MacBook Neo, its most budget-friendly laptop to date, with a starting price of $599. Nevertheless, for education clients, the price reduces to an impressive $499, presenting a compelling choice for both students and educators.

The MacBook Neo features a 13-inch display with 256GB of storage, 8GB of RAM, and is driven by the Apple A18 Pro chip, which debuted with the iPhone 16 Pro. This laptop is equipped with two USB-C ports—one intended for charging—and offers remarkable battery longevity of up to 16 hours.

For education clients in need of extra storage, a 512GB version can be acquired for an additional $100, raising the overall cost to $599. This enhanced model also includes Touch ID for superior security.

In comparison, the next most affordable laptop in Apple’s range is the M5 MacBook Air, priced at $999 for education shoppers and $1,099 at regular retail.

### MacBook Neo is Apple’s Second $499 Mac Targeted at Students

The MacBook Neo is distinguished as an outstanding value for education clients since it encompasses all essentials for a comprehensive computing experience: the laptop, a trackpad, a keyboard, and a display.

Furthermore, Apple has another Mac for $499 tailored for education shoppers: the M4 Mac mini. This desktop variant boasts a faster chip, 16GB of RAM, and additional connectivity options such as three Thunderbolt ports, two USB-C ports, HDMI, and Ethernet. However, it necessitates that users provide their own mouse, keyboard, and display, which might be a disadvantage for some.

Both the MacBook Neo and the M4 Mac mini are priced at $599 outside the education store, though the Mac mini frequently sees price reductions. It is expected that the MacBook Neo may also experience occasional discounts.

For students contemplating their choices, the decision between the MacBook Neo and the M4 Mac mini at the $499 price point poses an intriguing challenge. Each offers distinct benefits, addressing various needs and preferences within the educational environment.

Hands-On with the iPhone 17e: Exactly What You Expect

Apple announced the $599 iPhone 17e earlier this week, and we just got a chance to play with one for a few minutes at the company’s “experience” for media in New York City. The 17e is more or less exactly what you’d expect – a cheaper, simpler riff on the iPhone 17 that replaces the […]

How to Preorder the New iPhone 17E Before Its March 11 Release

Apple’s week of product announcements kicked off with the iPhone 17E, a phone designed for those who don’t want to spend north of $700 on their next upgrade. The iPhone 16E follow-up won’t officially launch until March 11th; however, preorders are now open at Best Buy and Apple’s online storefront, as well as carriers like […]