upgrading to a more recent, superior version of Roku Streaming Stick for your main entertainment television. However, if you have any older Sticks sitting idle, do not let them collect dust in a junk drawer — and certainly do not dispose of them in the trash. There are various methods to repurpose that vintage Stick, or if it’s nearing the end of its life, make sure it is disposed of correctly in an environmentally friendly manner.
This essential feature enables Android users to share secure video with dispatchers effortlessly with a single tap.
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**Apple Holiday Offers: Major Savings on Popular Items**
As the festive season draws near, Apple fans are in for a delight with various markdowns on popular items. From the newest models of the Apple Watch to AirPods and Studio Displays, there are considerable savings available. Here’s a detailed look at the prominent deals currently on offer.
### Discounts on Apple Watch Series 11
The Apple Watch Series 11 has undergone a price reduction of $100, making it a compelling choice for those seeking to upgrade their smartwatch. The base models, including GPS and GPS + Cellular options, are now being offered at the lowest prices seen so far, starting at $299. This discount surpasses previous Black Friday offers and presents a unique chance for shoppers to acquire the latest model at a lower cost.
Alongside the Series 11, Amazon is presenting an impressive discount on the 46mm Jet Black Apple Watch Series 10, with a price cut of $200, now priced at $329. Originally priced at $529, this model serves as a fantastic alternative for those who may not require the newest features of the Series 11.
### Deals on AirPods Max and AirPods Pro 3
For music lovers, Apple’s newest USB-C AirPods Max are available at a nearly $120 discount, now retailing for $429.99 at Best Buy. This deal equals the best price recorded during Black Friday events. The AirPods Max, famed for their exceptional sound quality and construction, are a worthy purchase for anyone in the market for high-end headphones.
Furthermore, the AirPods Pro 3 are also part of the holiday promotions, with prices reverting to their historical lows. These earbuds, equipped with active noise cancellation, can be obtained for $99, making them an outstanding gift choice.
### Uncommon Discounts on Apple Studio Display
Apple’s Studio Display has received an unusual markdown of over $230, now listed at $1,368. This top-tier monitor features a 27-inch 5K Retina display, a 12MP Ultra Wide camera, and a six-speaker audio system. The current price marks the best deal available in several months, appealing to creatives and professionals seeking high-caliber display options.
### Price Cuts on Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 models are also experiencing impressive discounts, with prices falling by $250. The Natural Titanium finish variants are now priced at $549, down from the original $799. This presents an excellent opportunity for those in the market for a sturdy smartwatch with advanced capabilities.
### Ongoing Holiday Promotions
The holiday promotions extend beyond timepieces and audio devices. M5 MacBook Pro configurations have returned to Black Friday pricing, offering $250 in savings. The Mac mini is also discounted to $479, presenting remarkable value for a current-generation device. Moreover, various iPad models, including the M3 iPad Air and iPad mini 7, are available at reduced prices, ensuring there’s something for everyone this festive season.
### Conclusion
With these remarkable price cuts on a variety of Apple products, now is the ideal time to purchase gifts or indulge yourself. Whether you’re looking for a new smartwatch, premium headphones, or a high-quality display, the current holiday offers present excellent chances to save. Be sure to make the most of these deals before they come to an end!
Read MoreApple TV has experienced an extraordinary year, attaining unparalleled acclaim as three of its programs secured spots on the American Film Institute’s (AFI) esteemed compilation of the top 10 television shows of the year. This represents a noteworthy achievement for the streaming platform, which in prior years had only managed to claim one or two positions.
The AFI’s yearly list showcases the finest in television and film, and this year, Apple TV’s selections feature “Pluribus,” “Severance,” and “The Studio.” This accomplishment emphasizes Apple TV’s expanding influence and success within the competitive streaming arena.
The complete list of AFI’s ‘Television Programs of the Year’ encompasses:
1. Adolescence
2. Andor
3. Death by Lightning
4. The Diplomat
5. The Lowdown
6. The Pitt
7. Pluribus
8. Severance
9. The Studio
10. Task
“Pluribus” and “Severance” have not just become favorites among audiences but have also garnered numerous award nominations, reinforcing their distinction as exceptional productions. “The Studio” has already achieved significant accolades, reflecting its critical success and potential for future honors.
In contrast, Apple TV’s track record in earlier years indicates a gradual rise in recognition. In 2024, only “Shrinking” appeared on the AFI list, whereas in 2023, “The Morning Show” was acknowledged. Previous years included “Pachinko” and “Severance” in 2022 and “Ted Lasso” in 2021.
With three shows highlighted this year, the AFI’s recognition stands as a testament to Apple TV’s fruitful year, characterized by both critical acclaim and widespread popularity. The streaming service is priced at $12.99 monthly and provides a range of successful shows and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “Pluribus.” Furthermore, it is accessible via the Apple One bundle, offering users a comprehensive entertainment package.
Read MoreGoogle’s Notification Organizer employs on-device AI to tidy up your Pixel
Google’s latest Notification Organizer is being rolled out to Pixels, with the goal of reducing alert clutter once and for all. It categorizes low-priority notifications into four groups — Promotions, News, Social, and Suggested — with Promotions and News activated by default. This feature is part of the Android 16 QPR2 and December Feature Drop, but it’s only available for Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 devices, leaving the Pixel 9a excluded.
Your notification shade is probably congested at the moment. Amid product coupons and news notifications that aren’t truly urgent, locating a message from your partner can feel like an archaeological excavation. However, if you own a recent Google Pixel, that trouble is about to vanish.
According to 9to5Google, Google is rolling out the Notification Organizer, a feature within the Android 16 QPR2 update and the December Feature Drop. Unlike a standard Do Not Disturb mode that silences all alerts, this tool functions more like an AI-enhanced filter for your notification shade.
While filtering options have been available previously, this iteration is unique as it utilizes on-device AI to analyze the content of each notification, not merely the app responsible for it. Therefore, if a significant app sends a generic promotional code, the system can classify it as rubbish while still permitting urgent messages to come through.
You receive four main categories where these low-priority notifications are stored: Promotions and News are activated by default, while Social and Suggested options need to be enabled manually. Instead of clogging up your main feed, these notifications are organized in the Silent section of your shade, identified by an AI sparkle icon.
Flagship feature for now
Although this feature is part of the December 2025 rollout, it remains exclusive to the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 lineups, with the budget Pixel 9a being left out.
Before looking for the feature, ensure you are in a supported location. The rollout is taking place in the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Japan, and it functions only if your system language is set to English.
If you possess a supported device, the option may not appear immediately, even post software update. Restarting your phone may prompt the feature to show.
Once it becomes available, navigate to Settings, then Notifications, and then Notification Organizer to customize your settings. You can activate additional categories or enable ‘Always expand bundles’ if you prefer to see more at a glance.
Read More**Workout Buddy in WatchOS 26: A Strong Beginning with Opportunities for Enhancement**
Following the launch of watchOS 26, Apple’s Workout Buddy feature has emerged as a noteworthy enhancement to the Apple Watch framework. This AI-powered tool utilizes data from the Health app to inspire users during exercises like outdoor running and strength workouts. The functionality recognizes workout accomplishments, prompts users with reminders of previous successes, and alerts them when they exceed their goals. Nevertheless, there are aspects where Workout Buddy could improve.
**The Draw of Workout Buddy**
Workout Buddy’s knack for delivering motivational feedback during physical activities is among its key highlights. The AI-generated voice provides encouragement, enhancing the engagement level of workouts. However, the necessity to have an iPhone 15 Pro or newer for this feature to operate can be inconvenient, particularly for those seeking a more streamlined approach.
**Streamlining the Experience**
To mitigate this hassle, some individuals have opted to pair a cellular-enabled Apple Watch Ultra 2 with AirPods Pro 3. This arrangement facilitates a more autonomous workout experience, removing the need to carry an iPhone. The dependable link between the watch and the earbuds, paired with the heart rate sensor in the AirPods Pro 3, guarantees an uninterrupted workout while capturing essential data.
**Possible Enhancements for Workout Buddy**
Although Apple highlights AI functionalities, Workout Buddy could see improvements that lessen the dependence on an iPhone. A scaled-down version of the feature for 4G or 5G-equipped Apple Watches could provide users with valuable insights without necessitating a continuous connection. As Apple further investigates AI incorporation, the opportunity for the Apple Watch to evolve into a self-sufficient device has yet to be fully realized.
In summary, while Workout Buddy represents a compelling addition to watchOS 26, there remains potential for enhancement. By improving the capabilities of the Apple Watch and lessening dependence on the iPhone, Apple could strengthen its standing as a frontrunner in the wearable technology sector.
Read Moreone of the top battery brands. It appears they are consistently on promotion, attracting millions of consumers, as evidenced by a single product amassing close to 900,000 reviews. Despite their widespread appeal and market presence, the packaging remains unclear about the company behind them. The origin of the batteries fluctuates, based on the type and manufacturing lot. They originate from various places, including China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In certain instances, the packaging states the origin as “Indonesia, utilizing Japanese technology.”
A deeper investigation into the available details indicates that a Japanese industrial powerhouse, FDK Corporation (Fuji Denki Kagaku), is partially involved with Amazon’s Basics batteries (through OneZero). This corporation was founded as Tokyo Denki Kagaku Kogyo in 1950 and currently operates as a subsidiary of Fujitsu. This implies that Amazon handles the branding and sales access, but a portion of the actual batteries is produced by FDK and Fujitsu in various factories. The next time you purchase a discounted pack of Amazon Basics batteries, you’re not merely acquiring an Amazon item. In reality, it’s a product backed by a sophisticated global supply chain and Japanese expertise.
<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2042420/who-makes-where-manufactured-amazon-basics-batteries/" data-post-title="Amazon Basics Batteries: Here's Who Makes Them And Where They're Manufactured" data-slide-num="1
Read More# Top External Mac Monitors
If you’ve recently acquired a new Mac, such as the latest models, you may be in search of top-notch display options. Below are my suggestions, encompassing a variety of product types, price ranges, and more.
**Last Updated December 10, 2025**: Pricing and availability updated, added Samsung M9 Smart Monitor.
## Apple Studio Display (Save over $230)
You can’t compile a list of the finest displays available without highlighting Apple’s Studio Display. Although it comes with a higher price tag, it boasts an exquisite Apple design featuring a 27-inch 5K display. Additionally, it comes equipped with one Thunderbolt 3 port for connecting your Mac, plus three extra 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) accommodating 1 billion colors
– **Refresh rate**: 60Hz
– **Webcam**: 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage functionality
– **True Tone Technology**: Adapts the color temperature of the display to fit ambient lighting
– **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 peripherals, storage, and networking
The Studio Display is offered in various configurations at different price points. If you want an iMac-like experience with your Mac, the Apple Studio Display is your best bet.
## Samsung M9 Smart Monitor
The 32-inch Samsung M9 Smart Monitor is a strong contender for Mac users due to its 4K OLED screen.
– **Panel**: 32-inch 4K (3840 x 2160) Quantum Dot OLED with anti-glare coating
– **Refresh rate**: 165Hz
– **Ports**: DisplayPort, HDMI, USB-C, 2x USB-A
– **Built-in camera**: Yes, 4K
– **HDR support**: Yes (HDR10/HDR10+)
While it doesn’t deliver the sharpness of 5K or 6K resolution found in some alternatives, it offers the advantages of OLED technology, including richer blacks and enhanced color accuracy and contrast.
## LG UltraFine 6K
The LG UltraFine 6K has been eagerly awaited as a budget-friendly 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**: Integrated USB-C Hub & KVM, 1x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI, 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) with USB PD 96 W, 3x USB-C
## Asus ProArt 5K Display
The Asus ProArt (PA27JCV) Display 5K offers the same 5K resolution (5120×2880) in a comparable 27-inch size to the Studio Display, but at half the cost.
– **Display**: 27-inch 5K resolution (5120×2880 pixels) at 218 PPI with a matte finish
– **Brightness**: Standard brightness of 400 nits and peak brightness of 500 nits
– **Webcam**: None
– **Ports**: USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and a standard DisplayPort 1.4
## Asus ProArt 6K Display
For a larger and higher-resolution option, the new Asus ProArt Display 6K (PA32QCV) features a 32-inch display with a native resolution of 6016 x 3384.
– **Display**: 31.5-inch 6K (6016 x 3384) IPS display
– **PPI**: 218
– **Refresh rate**: 60Hz
– **Connectivity**: Dual Thunderbolt 4
– **HDR support**: HDR10 and VESA DisplayHDR™ 600
– **Color Gamut**: 98% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB
## Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K
Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 5K is another appealing choice to pair with your new Mac, currently offered at $999.99.
– **Display**: 27
Read More**AirPods Pro 3: An In-Depth Review After Three Months of Usage**
Three months have passed since Apple launched the AirPods Pro 3, and despite a challenging initial period with the device, numerous users are discovering it to be a remarkable upgrade.
### Early Fit Issues Have Diminished
The AirPods Pro 3 have delivered a distinct upgrade journey for certain users. Initial feedback was predominantly positive, indicating that Apple had effectively improved upon the features of the AirPods Pro 2. Nonetheless, individual experiences varied greatly.
At first, some users found the “upgraded fit” of the AirPods Pro 3 to be uncomfortable, with accounts of minor discomfort during use. Over time, however, numerous users have indicated that the fit problems have significantly improved, leading to a more pleasurable experience. After several weeks of usage, the discomfort has decreased, enabling users to fully appreciate the upgrade.
### Key Features Are Superior to Previous Versions
The fit of AirPods is essential for user satisfaction, and although some continue to find the AirPods Pro 3 less fitting than their earlier models, many have adapted to the new shape.
Battery life was another early concern. The AirPods Pro 3 provide 8 hours of battery per charge compared to 6 hours on the AirPods Pro 2, but the overall battery life with the charging case has dropped from 30 hours to 24 hours. Despite this trade-off, users have adjusted by charging the case more often, resulting in a more manageable battery experience overall.
With fit and battery life becoming non-issues, users can focus on the outstanding features of the AirPods Pro 3. The enhanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has been a notable improvement, effectively minimizing more background noise, which is especially advantageous for individuals who rely on ANC throughout their working day.
Audio quality has also experienced significant enhancements. Users have reported a more vibrant sound experience, attributed to a snugger fit and the next-gen Adaptive EQ, which improves bass response and vocal clarity across a variety of audio formats.
Additional enhancements such as heart rate tracking, USB-C compatibility, and enhanced water resistance are features that users find advantageous.
### Conclusion: AirPods Pro 3 After Three Months
In summary, after a mixed beginning, the AirPods Pro 3 have matured into the upgrade many users were hoping for. Building on the robust foundation of the AirPods Pro 2, the new model improves essential features like ANC and audio quality.
While there is optimism for future versions to further enhance the fit experience, the current model enables users to enjoy its numerous excellent features without compromise. The AirPods Pro 3 have demonstrated to be a valuable investment for those in search of an upgraded audio experience.
What has your experience with AirPods Pro 3 been like? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Read MoreLeaked information uncovers Samsung’s latest and forthcoming magnetic ecosystem.
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