Blog Posts

Blog Posts

Apple Refurb Store Provides Discounted iPad Pro Featuring Previous Generation Specs

Apple has recently added refurbished M4 iPad Pro models to its refurbished store, giving customers the chance to acquire high-performance tablets at reduced prices. This new offering is a notable development, as the last refurbished option was the M2 model from 2022, and there was no M3 iPad Pro released by Apple.

The refurbished M4 iPad Pro starts at $759 for the 11-inch variant and $1019 for the 13-inch variant. These prices signify a considerable discount compared to the latest M5 models, which are priced at $999 for the entry-level 11-inch M5 iPad Pro and $1299 for the entry-level 13-inch M5 iPad Pro.

Both refurbished versions come with multiple storage configurations, finishes in space black and silver, and a selection between standard and nano-texture glass. Furthermore, customers have the option of cellular connectivity, enhancing the flexibility of these devices.

The refurbished M4 iPad Pro is in competition with the newly released M4 iPad Air, which begins at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model. This pricing approach positions the refurbished iPad Pro as a premium choice for those desiring advanced features and performance without incurring the full cost of the latest models.

In addition to the iPad Pro, Apple has also started offering discounted M5 MacBook Pro and A16 iPad models in its refurbished store, further broadening the selection of budget-friendly options for customers in search of high-quality Apple products.

Future AirPods Pro: Three Anticipated Enhancements for This Year

### New AirPods Pro Already? Here’s Why

Apple has garnered attention with the recent debut of AirPods Pro 3, yet whispers indicate that another variant might be forthcoming. Typically, Apple refrains from unveiling new AirPods Pro models in back-to-back years, rendering this prospective announcement particularly captivating. The forthcoming iteration is anticipated to closely mirror its predecessor, likely keeping the ‘AirPods Pro 3’ name with an additional suffix, akin to how AirPods 4 is offered in both standard and upgraded editions.

### Rumored Features of the New AirPods Pro

1. **Built-in IR Cameras**
Among the most noteworthy rumored features of the new AirPods Pro is the addition of infrared (IR) cameras. These cameras are designed to facilitate advanced visual intelligence capabilities, enabling the new Siri in iOS 27 to supply contextual insights about the user’s environment. Although users won’t be able to capture photos or videos, the incorporation of these cameras could significantly boost the AirPods’ functionality.

2. **Hand Gestures in Place of Pressure-Sensitive Stems**
An additional expected modification is the transition from pressure-sensitive stems to hand gesture controls. Reports indicate that Apple may eliminate the pressure sensitivity in favor of gesture recognition, which could streamline user interactions. Nonetheless, some users might wish to maintain the current pressure-sensitive feature alongside the new gesture controls, given the increasing array of features linked to the stems.

3. **New H3 Chip or Another Chip Update**
The existing AirPods Pro 3 employs the H2 chip, which has been utilized for three years. Speculation suggests that the next model may incorporate an H3 chip or another chip update, aimed at minimizing lag time and enhancing audio fidelity. This enhancement could deliver the essential processing capabilities to support the new camera features and improve overall performance.

### Launch Timing and Conclusion

The expected AI advancements for the new AirPods Pro are likely to depend on the new Siri, indicating that a launch may not happen until after the rollout of iOS 27. Traditionally, Apple reveals new AirPods during its September iPhone event, making a fall launch the most probable scenario for the new version.

As anticipation grows surrounding these rumored features, users are left to ponder whether they will upgrade to the new AirPods Pro or continue using their existing models.

Space Data Centres: SpaceX and Blue Origin Race to Orbit as Scientists Question the Physics

The pitch is seductive in its simplicity: AI needs more power than terrestrial grids can supply, so move the data centres into orbit, where the sun never sets and the electricity is free. SpaceX, Blue Origin, and a growing constellation of startups are now racing to make that vision real. The problem, according to the […]

This story continues at The Next Web

Microsoft Unveils Three Proprietary AI Models to Compete with OpenAI

Six months after renegotiating the contract that once barred it from independently pursuing frontier AI, Microsoft has released three in-house models that directly challenge the partner it spent $13 billion cultivating. MAI-Transcribe-1, MAI-Voice-1, and MAI-Image-2 are now available in Microsoft Foundry, and they do not carry OpenAI’s name anywhere on the label. The models are […]

This story continues at The Next Web

Two Overlooked Sci-Fi Movies from 2000 Featuring Mars That Are Worth a Second Look

The last few decades have been quite favorable for aficionados of science fiction films that tackle space exploration with at least a touch of realism. We’ve seen IMAX spectacles like (“Interstellar”), space action thrillers (“Gravity”), survival narratives (“The Martian”), and currently, two distinct films about revitalizing a fading sun (“Sunshine” and “Project Hail Mary”).

Nevertheless, these aren’t the sole cinematic contributions from Hollywood in this niche during the 21st century. Two movies centered around crewed expeditions to one of our closest celestial neighbors often slip under the radar, yet merit a fresh watch: “Mission to Mars” and “Red Planet,” both released in 2000.

Indeed, this was an era when Hollywood had a tendency to unveil competing films with similar themes within a short timeframe of each other. Other notable pairings include “Deep Impact” versus “Armageddon,” “Antz” alongside “A Bug’s Life,” and, of course, “Dante’s Peak” clashing with “Volcano.” However, while “Red Planet” and “Mission to Mars” both tackle the same overarching topic, they diverge markedly in their narratives and tonal approaches.

Mission to Mars and Red Planet transported viewers to a neighboring planet in 2000

Apple Unveils New iOS 26.5 Beta 1 Version for iPhone Users

### iOS 26.5 Beta 1 Update: Essential Information

Apple has just unveiled an updated beta version for iOS 26.5, only days following the debut of the initial beta for developers. This fresh beta 1 version, marked as **23F5043k**, rectifies potential bugs and security issues that may have been present in the prior version, **23F5043g**.

#### Important Aspects of the Update

– **Release Schedule**: The inaugural beta of iOS 26.5 was released earlier this week, and the updated build has been rolled out shortly afterward.
– **Installation Procedure**: Users participating in the Apple Developer Program can acquire the new beta by accessing the Settings app on their iPhone, followed by selecting General and then Software Update.
– **Update Objectives**: The prompt release of a new beta version indicates that Apple is diligent in tackling issues that could impact user experience or security, instead of waiting for the next planned beta rollout.

#### New Features in iOS 26.5

The initial iOS 26.5 beta unveiled various new features that enhance the capabilities of Apple devices:

– **Recommended Locations in Apple Maps**: This feature seeks to enhance user navigation and the discovery of popular spots.
– **RCS End-to-End Encrypted Messaging**: This upgrade in the Messages app provides users with a more secure messaging option.

#### User Feedback and Community Involvement

As users begin to engage with the updated beta, Apple invites input regarding any new features or problems encountered. The community is encouraged to share their experiences and findings connected to the revised beta.

In summary, the launch of the new iOS 26.5 beta 1 build demonstrates Apple’s dedication to improving its software and ensuring an optimal user experience. Both developers and users are urged to remain informed about the latest updates and enhancements.

Tesla Reclaims Quarterly EV Lead from BYD, But Numbers Reveal Complexity

Tesla delivered 358,023 battery electric vehicles in the first quarter of 2026, edging past BYD’s 310,389 pure electric sales to reclaim the global quarterly BEV lead it surrendered across all of 2025. The margin, roughly 48,000 units, was enough for the headline. What it was not enough to do was silence the questions multiplying around […]

This story continues at The Next Web

Alleged Early Chip Performance Tests Showcase Galaxy S26 FE

What could the latter part of this year bring for the S26 FE?

Essential information

  • The Galaxy S26 FE is rumored to have surfaced in a Geekbench record featuring Samsung’s Exynos 2500 SoC.
  • The gadget reportedly scored 2,426 in its single-core performance and 8,004 in the multi-core test.
  • Other rumored details suggest it might retain the same 6.7-inch display and 4,900mAh battery as the S25 FE model.

With the S26 flagship line now unveiled, speculation is shifting towards Samsung’s upcoming FE device.

Generally positioned a notch below the base S-series model, a post from SamMobile, upon discovering a Geekbench listing, discusses its capabilities. Initially, the publication draws attention to several speculations, indicating the Galaxy S26 FE may come with a 6.7-inch OLED display boasting a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. According to the Geekbench listing, the smartphone could be driven by Samsung’s Exynos 2500 chipset instead of the newest 2600. This is quite standard, as the S25 FE also utilizes a prior generation Exynos chip (2400).

One UI 9 (Android 17) and 8GB of RAM.

Article continues below

Five Easy DIY Solutions for Typical Android Phone Problems

Smartphones serve as highly beneficial gadgets. Whether you wish to reach out to someone globally or locate the nearest eatery, a phone is all that’s needed today. Yet, similar to any essential tech device, a phone is quite complex, and much is involved in displaying what’s on your screen. If your phone encounters problems, it’s only natural to seek assistance from someone trained in smartphone technology rather than attempting a fix yourself without the relevant expertise.

Nonetheless, before consulting a professional for repairs or adjustments, you might want to experiment with specific solutions on your own. Fixing your phone may appear daunting, but there are numerous DIY Android phone repairs that are simpler than you might expect.

These solutions address both software and hardware concerns. Whether it’s a battery that’s losing power or a sluggish phone interface, there’s a possibility that you can manage the problem at home. Learning basic tech repair and troubleshooting skills is incredibly advantageous and can save you both time and expense.

1. Swapping out your phone’s battery