AllYouCanTech

Top Offers: AirPods Pro 3 at Record Low of $199, Mac mini priced at $479, 2025 iPad Air Magic Keyboard Discounted on Amazon, and Additional Savings

# Apple Watch Series 11 and Other Holiday Promotions: Essential Information

As the festive season draws near, technology lovers and Apple aficionados are actively searching for the finest bargains on Apple devices. This year, the Apple Watch Series 11, along with other sought-after gadgets such as the M4 Mac mini and AirPods Pro 3, are experiencing notable price cuts, increasing their affordability like never before.

## Apple Watch Series 11: Lowest Price Yet

The Apple Watch Series 11 has recently reached its lowest price to date, with discounts of up to $100 off the retail price. Launched only a few months back, this newest version of Apple’s smartwatch has swiftly become a top choice among buyers. The watch boasts an array of features, including fitness tracking, health monitoring, and smooth synchronization with other Apple devices. With the festive season on the horizon, the need to acquire this gadget heightens, especially as delivery times start to extend past Christmas.

## M4 Mac mini: Budget-Friendly Performance

Another notable bargain this holiday season is the M4 Mac mini, which is currently available for $479, reduced from its initial retail price of $599. This entry-level model is equipped with a 256GB SSD and 16GB of RAM, making it a strong choice for users in need of a compact and effective desktop solution. The Mac mini is perfect for both casual users and professionals, delivering an excellent mix of performance and value. With holiday shipping options in place, this is an ideal moment to consider this acquisition.

## AirPods Pro 3: Unmatched Pricing

The AirPods Pro 3 have also fallen to an unprecedented low, available for just $199. Renowned for their exceptional sound quality and active noise cancellation, these earbuds are essential for music enthusiasts and those who often take calls while on the move. The deal has seen variations in availability, yet it remains one of the most attractive offers of the year. For anyone aiming to boost their audio experience, this is an opportunity that shouldn’t be overlooked.

## iPad Air Magic Keyboard: Major Discounts

Alongside the previously mentioned devices, the 2025 iPad Air Magic Keyboard is also experiencing considerable discounts, now priced at $229.99. This cost represents a new low for the keyboard, which is compatible with both M2 and M3 iPad Air models. For those utilizing their iPads for productivity, this keyboard can convert the device into a more multifaceted tool for both work and leisure.

## Current-Gen iPad: Cost-Effective Option

For those in search of a more economical choice, the latest-generation iPad is available for $279. This model is ideal for families or individuals seeking a dependable tablet for browsing, streaming, and casual usage. As the holiday season is in full effect, this price point is particularly enticing, as it competes favorably with entry-level Android tablets while providing the comprehensive Apple experience.

## Conclusion

As the holiday shopping period unfolds, the discounts on the Apple Watch Series 11, M4 Mac mini, AirPods Pro 3, and other devices offer excellent prospects for consumers. With prices at their most competitive and holiday shipping options accessible, now is the perfect time to make a purchase. However, prospective buyers should act swiftly, as inventory levels and delivery schedules may fluctuate as Christmas nears. Whether for personal enjoyment or as gifts, these Apple products are sure to please any recipient.

Apple TV Unveils Comeback of High-Stakes Thriller Debuting Next Month

**Hijack Season 2: Anticipations for Apple TV’s Exciting Comeback**

One of Apple TV’s premier thriller shows, *Hijack*, is poised for its eagerly awaited second season next month. The recently unveiled trailer has generated plenty of excitement among fans, providing a sneak peek into the action-filled storyline that awaits.

### Thrilling Season 2 Trailer

*Hijack* initially debuted on Apple TV in 2023, enthralling viewers with its high-tension, real-time structure that reflects the pace of the tale unfolding onscreen. This approach, reminiscent of the legendary show *24*, has cultivated a loyal fan base.

Whereas the inaugural season took place on a hijacked aircraft, the forthcoming season takes a new direction, placing lead actor Idris Elba in a precarious situation on an underground train. This shift in environment promises to bring forth fresh obstacles and dynamics as the plot progresses.

Season 2 is set to commence on **Wednesday, January 14**, with the premiere episode available right away, followed by subsequent episodes each week until March 4.

### Official Season Overview

Apple has shared an official synopsis of the season, hinting at the gripping drama ahead:

> “In the exhilarating second season of *Hijack*, a Berlin underground train and its passengers are taken captive, while, above ground, officials rush to save hundreds of lives. Sam Nelson (Elba) finds himself at the center of the emergency on the train, where one misstep could lead to catastrophe.”

### Binge-Worthy Entertainment

For those who have yet to experience *Hijack*, the series is especially suited for binge-watching, making it a fantastic option for holiday entertainment. The trailer indicates that new audiences may easily dive into season 2 without feeling out of the loop, although catching up on the first season is strongly advised for a deeper appreciation of the characters and storyline.

You can view the complete first season of *Hijack* with an Apple TV subscription, priced at **$12.99 per month**. The platform also showcases other popular series and films, including *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *Pluribus*. Furthermore, Apple TV is accessible through the Apple One package.

As the countdown to season 2 commences, fans are curious about how the narrative will unfold and what new surprises await Sam Nelson and the hostages on the train. Will you be watching to see the action unfold?

DJI Neo 2: The Most Versatile Drone for Apple Users So Far

**DJI Neo 2: A Step Forward into the Future with Apple Watch Connectivity**

DJI has transformed the drone user experience with its newest firmware update for the DJI Neo 2, now permitting users to operate their drones straight from their Apple Watch. This groundbreaking capability allows users to navigate, track, capture, and control their drone with ease from their wrist, vastly improving the flying experience. Importantly, the original DJI Neo will soon gain Apple Watch compatibility as well, making this upgrade a notable benefit for all Neo series purchasers.

### Apple Watch Functions as DJI Neo 2 Drone Controller

The latest firmware, v01.00.0500, provides complete Apple Watch support, a first for mainstream DJI drones, although similar capabilities have been offered for DJI smartphone gimbals. The DJI Neo 2 is compatible with Apple Watch models Series 8, 9, 10, 11, Ultra 2, and Ultra 3, contingent upon users running watchOS 11 or newer. The sole prerequisite is the updated DJI Fly app (v1.19.4).

This feature proves especially advantageous during athletic pursuits, such as cycling or running, where reaching for a phone or standard controller can be inconvenient. Users can picture cycling down a mountain path while the Neo 2 follows their movements, responding to commands issued from their wrist, embodying the advanced lifestyle DJI seeks to promote.

### Notable Functions of the Apple Watch Connectivity

1. **Live Camera Feed with Wrist Control**: Users can view a live camera feed on their Apple Watch, although power-saving measures are in effect. Lowering the wrist pauses the live feed, while lifting it or tapping the screen resumes it immediately.

2. **Phone Screen Management**: Users can lock their iPhone, switch applications, or tuck it away while still maintaining a connection to the drone, as long as the DJI Fly app is active in the background.

3. **Voice Command**: By granting microphone permissions to the DJI Fly app and activating “Voice Control” in the settings, users can issue commands straight from their watch.

4. **App Audio Capture**: Similar to voice command, users can activate “App Recording” in settings, allowing the watch to act as a microphone for capturing audio while the drone records video.

5. **Prolonged Display Awake Time**: Users can configure their Apple Watch to remain awake for 70 seconds, ensuring that live views or status details stay visible during flights.

6. **Restrictions in Low Power Mode**: The DJI Fly app will be inoperable when the Apple Watch is set to Low Power Mode, which can be switched off in the settings.

### Further Advantages of the Firmware Update

In addition to Apple Watch compatibility, the firmware update for the DJI Neo 2 offers:

– **Auditory Notifications**: Alerts for instances when tracking loses the subject or when the battery is running low, particularly helpful when users may not be closely watching their devices.

– **Stability Enhancements**: Various performance-related fixes have been implemented to improve overall functionality.

These firmware updates have also been disseminated throughout the DJI ecosystem, including numerous remote controllers and goggles, ensuring a complete refresh for users.

### Final Thoughts

With the incorporation of Apple Watch control, the DJI Neo 2 situates itself as an optimal drone for Apple aficionados, catering to travelers, cyclists, vloggers, hikers, and anyone seeking a portable and user-friendly drone experience. This strategic initiative by DJI not only augments the functionality of the Neo 2 but also reinforces its position within the Apple ecosystem, motivating potential customers to dive into the realm of drone flying.

AirPods Pro 3 Now Offered at Unprecedented Low Price of $199, Alongside Extra Discounts on AirPods

### Holiday Offers on AirPods: Unmatched Discounts

During this holiday period, consumers are welcomed with numerous promotions on AirPods, with the standout deal being on the AirPods Pro 3. Amazon has reduced the price to an unprecedented **$199**, a drop from the usual **$249**, signifying a substantial savings of **$50** on Apple’s most recent headphones.

#### AirPods Pro 3: The Lowest Price Ever

The AirPods Pro 3 have rapidly risen to become one of the most sought-after items this holiday season. Featuring advanced capabilities and exceptional sound quality, this price reduction gives consumers an extraordinary chance to buy a current-generation Apple product.

– **Price**: [Apple AirPods Pro 3 – $199 (Reg. $249)](https://geni.us/ZNyApi)

#### AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

For those seeking noise cancelation without the in-ear design of the AirPods Pro, the AirPods 4 featuring ANC are a fantastic option. Currently, there are discounts available that include AppleCare+ protection, making it an intelligent buy.

– **AirPods 4 with ANC + AppleCare+**: [**$118 (Reg. $208)**](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGVT3T92/?tag=toysj-20&th=1)
– **AirPods 4 with ANC**: [**$149 (Reg. $179)**](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DGVT3T92?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=toysj-20)

#### AirPods 4: New Record Low

If ANC is not essential, the standard AirPods 4 provide impressive value with features such as up to 30 hours of battery life and USB-C charging.

– **Best Buy**: [Apple AirPods 4 – **$85 (Reg. $129)**](https://bestbuycreators.7tiv.net/zxQb4M)

#### AirPods Max: Premium Over-Ear Experience

For audio enthusiasts desiring a top-tier listening experience, the AirPods Max are also offered at a lowered price. This latest iteration comes with USB-C charging, making them more user-friendly than ever.

– **Apple AirPods Max**:

Comprehending App Age Verification: Data Distribution and Information Recipients

### App Age Verification: Present Situation and Future Consequences

App age verification has moved beyond theoretical discussions; it is now a reality as various regulations enforcing age verification for users are adopted in specific states. This development has significant consequences for both users and app creators.

A prominent instance is Bluesky, a platform akin to Twitter/X, which temporarily ceased operations for users in certain areas due to non-compliance with local age verification laws. Recently, the app has resumed functionality, but users must now submit personal information to a third-party service, KWS (Kids Web Services), to confirm their age. This situation may foreshadow what many other apps will adopt as age verification regulations spread.

#### VPN as a Short-Term Solution

At present, users can bypass age verification mandates by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN conceals the user’s actual IP address, making it seem as though they are accessing the internet from a different location. Although some browsers provide free VPN services, a paid VPN is typically essential for extensive coverage across all applications and devices.

This workaround is effective while age verification is restricted to a limited number of states. However, should federal regulations be introduced, users might need to use VPNs to connect via IP addresses from other countries that may have their own age verification requirements.

#### Actual Age Verification Procedure

The real-world application of age verification is evident in Bluesky’s recent modifications. When users click the “Verify now” button, they are prompted to confirm their email and are introduced to KWS, the third-party partner responsible for age verification. KWS states that it retains users’ verified status alongside a hashed email address, enabling other apps utilizing KWS technology to bypass the verification process for that email in the future.

To commence verification, Bluesky sends an email link to the user. The verification process necessitates users providing their full legal name, home address, and one of three methods for age verification: the last four digits of their Social Security number, a temporary credit card transaction, or a scan of a government-issued ID such as a driver’s license or passport.

Bluesky collaborates with various companies for different verification methods, including Veratad for Social Security number verification, Stripe for credit card transactions, and Veriff for ID verification.

#### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

Among the verification options, using a credit card through Stripe might be viewed as the least risky due to its established reputation in online transactions. Conversely, sharing sensitive data like Social Security numbers or government IDs raises privacy issues, as these details are harder to change if compromised.

The primary objective of these age verification efforts is to improve online safety for children. However, the implications for user privacy and data protection are significant. As age verification becomes more prevalent across various platforms, concerns surrounding the handling of sensitive information are likely to grow.

In summary, the current state of app age verification demonstrates that it is beyond a mere policy discussion; it is a developing reality that both users and developers must navigate. As regulations expand, the challenge of ensuring child safety online while safeguarding user privacy will remain a crucial topic of discussion.

Forthcoming Debut of Four New iPhones Next Year, Featuring a Nearby Introduction

Apple is probably finished launching new devices this year, but the company is planning many for 2026, which includes four new iPhone models—one of them is expected to be released very soon.

## iPhone 17e

The initial iPhone release from Apple for 2026 is rumored to occur quite early in the year. It’s the iPhone 17e—successor of iPhone 16e and the final member of the iPhone 17 series.

The iPhone 17e is said to include various upgrades compared to its predecessor, such as:

– A19 chip, an upgrade from the A18
– Dynamic Island instead of a notch
– Center Stage front camera
– Slimmer bezels for a contemporary look

The major drawbacks when compared to the standard iPhone 17 are that it will still feature just one rear camera, the screen will not offer ProMotion or always-on capabilities, and it will lack Camera Control.

However, with an anticipated price of $599, the iPhone 17e could be an attractive option for those looking for budget-friendly upgrades.

## iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are set to launch next fall, likely in September.

Apple’s premium new models are expected to enhance the features that have made the iPhone 17 Pro extremely popular. This includes:

While the new iPhone 18 Pro models may not see significant alterations, if this year’s success of the 17 Pro is any indication, the upcoming flagship devices might also gain a strong following.

## iPhone Fold / iPhone Ultra

After years of speculation, Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone is finally set to debut in fall 2026.

The iPhone Fold / iPhone Ultra is anticipated to launch at a price rumored to be around $2,000 or more.

It’s expected to have a design similar to the iPhone Air, featuring an exceptionally sleek titanium frame. The inner display is projected to be approximately 7.6 inches, while the outer display will measure about 5.4 inches. It will employ a book-style folding design, reportedly without any screen crease.

The iPhone Fold could potentially include the largest battery ever seen in an iPhone, although due to the new form factor, it’s uncertain if that would automatically guarantee the best battery life ever.

The foldable will also feature the A20 Pro chip from the iPhone 18 Pro. Regarding cameras, there are expected to be two rear cameras, alongside two front-facing cameras—one for each display.

Lastly, Apple is rumored to incorporate Touch ID rather than Face ID due to size limitations and the presence of two distinct displays.

## 2026 iPhones wrap-up: No iPhone 18?

A key model that Apple would typically reveal is no longer anticipated for 2026.

Generally, each year, a base model iPhone is introduced in the fall alongside Pro variants. However, rumors suggest that the base iPhone 18 is being postponed a few months into an early 2027 release timeframe.

That situation could certainly change. But according to the latest reports, Apple intends to release the premium iPhone 18 models in fall 2026. Then, in spring 2027, we can expect the more affordable base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and potentially the iPhone Air 2.

What insights do you have regarding Apple’s new iPhone lineup for 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments.

OpenAI and Disney Forge Significant Licensing Deal for Character Utilization on Sora

Disney characters are arriving on OpenAI’s Sora video generation application — this time, with authorization. OpenAI and Disney have just revealed a “historic agreement” that will feature select Sora content on Disney+.

This partnership forms part of an overarching $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI by Disney. The licensing agreement will begin with a duration of three years. Disney is positioned to enhance its equity investment in OpenAI down the line.

Besides the licensing deal and equity stake, Disney will obtain access to OpenAI APIs “to create new products, tools, and experiences, including for Disney+,” as stated by OpenAI. Additionally, Disney will implement ChatGPT for its workforce as a component of the arrangement.

OpenAI launched Sora for iPhone at the close of September. At first, there were minimal constraints regarding the intellectual property types users could produce. OpenAI gradually imposed restrictions on the use of licensed characters without consent following the initial rollout.

Now, OpenAI and Disney are promoting the new “historic agreement” as “a crucial step in establishing significant standards for responsible AI in entertainment.”

With the license, fans will have the opportunity to view curated selections of Sora-generated videos on Disney+, and OpenAI and Disney will work together to apply OpenAI’s models to drive new experiences for Disney+ subscribers, enhancing innovative and creative means to engage with Disney’s narratives and characters. Sora and ChatGPT Images are anticipated to begin generating fan-inspired videos featuring Disney’s multi-brand licensed characters in early 2026.

Among the characters fans will be able to incorporate in their creations are Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, Ariel, Belle, Beast, Cinderella, Baymax, Simba, Mufasa, along with characters from the realms of Encanto, Frozen, Inside Out, Moana, Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Up, Zootopia, and many others; in addition to iconic animated or illustrated versions of Marvel and Lucasfilm characters like Black Panther, Captain America, Deadpool, Groot, Iron Man, Loki, Thor, Thanos, Darth Vader, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Leia, the Mandalorian, Stormtroopers, Yoda, and more.

You can view the complete announcement here. Sora is available for free on the App Store.

Apple’s Case Against App Store Age Verification Exposes Its Weaknesses

**Apple’s Campaign Against the App Store Age Verification Proposal: A Privacy Dilemma**

Apple CEO Tim Cook recently made a trip to Washington, D.C., to advocate against a suggested App Store age verification measure called the App Store Accountability Act. This proposed law recommends that app stores, like Apple’s and Google’s, should bear the legal responsibility for confirming the ages of users instead of individual developers. The initiative seeks to simplify the age verification process, necessitating that users verify their age just once to the app store, which would subsequently oversee age-gating for applications accordingly.

### The App Store Age Verification Measure

The App Store Accountability Act has gained momentum as a potential answer to the tedious age verification procedure. At present, users are required to provide age verification to multiple developers each time they download an application with a minimum age limit. The suggested legislation would transfer this duty to the app stores, permitting a more centralized and efficient verification process.

### Apple’s Rejection

Apple has actively opposed the notion, with Cook’s recent lobbying endeavors emphasizing the company’s position. Hilary Ware, Apple’s chief of privacy, expressed the company’s apprehensions in a correspondence to Congress, contending that the suggested law could endanger user privacy by compelling adults to reveal personal details for app downloads.

### The Privacy Discussion

While Apple positions the proposal as a privacy risk, the actual scenario may be rather the reverse. The fundamental concern isn’t whether users are required to supply personal information to verify their age, but rather the frequency of such requirements. Mandating users to present sensitive information to numerous developers introduces a considerable privacy threat. Conversely, permitting a reliable entity like Apple to manage age verification once could improve user privacy and security.

This proposal could enhance the user experience, as individuals would only need to confirm their age a single time instead of repeatedly for each new application download. This centralized system could lessen the risks tied to disclosing personal information to several developers.

### The Future of Age Confirmation

Although it is reasonable for Apple to hesitate before accepting legal responsibility for age verification, embracing this transition could enable the company to emerge as a leader in privacy-conscious solutions. By championing a streamlined approach that emphasizes user privacy, Apple could bolster its reputation and credibility among consumers.

In summary, the App Store age verification proposal offers Apple a chance to showcase its dedication to user privacy while easing the app download process. As conversations regarding this legislation progress, the equilibrium between privacy and responsibility will be a pivotal element in determining the future of app store guidelines.

Spotify Investigates Emerging Trend of Improving User Authority Over Algorithms

**Spotify’s Innovative AI-Driven Addition: Prompted Playlists**

Spotify has recently introduced a groundbreaking feature known as Prompted Playlists, allowing users to take charge of their music listening experience. This announcement arrives just after Instagram launched the “Your Algorithm” feature, enabling users to impact the content displayed on their feeds. Both advancements indicate a rising trend among technology firms to offer users increased control over algorithmic experiences.

### Comprehending Prompted Playlists

The Prompted Playlists feature allows users to articulate their preferred music choices in everyday language. Requests can vary from general desires to very specific commands. For example, a user might request “songs from my favorite artists in the past five years” or “upbeat pop and hip-hop for a 30-minute 5K run.” This kind of customization aims to boost user satisfaction by curating playlists that mirror personal tastes and preferences.

Spotify’s algorithm takes into account the user’s complete listening history, ensuring that the playlists not only feature current favorites but also integrate previous listening behaviors. This thorough strategy ensures that Spotify maintains playlists that are fresh and pertinent, adapting to shifts in user preferences over time.

### The Relevance of Instagram’s Announcement

The timing of Spotify’s announcement is especially significant, as it occurs alongside Instagram’s rollout of the “Your Algorithm” feature. This new function allows Instagram users to examine their key interests and directly affect the content they encounter in their feeds. By choosing topics they wish to see more or less of, users can customize their experience on the platform, addressing dissatisfaction with algorithm-driven content delivery.

### Consequences for User Empowerment

The recent updates from both Spotify and Instagram illustrate a larger movement within the tech sector to respond to user frustrations regarding algorithmic content. Numerous users have voiced their displeasure over the lack of influence they have on what they encounter, leading to a call for more tailored experiences. By enabling users to guide the algorithms, these platforms are recognizing this feedback and working to improve user satisfaction.

### Final Thoughts

As Spotify introduces its Prompted Playlists feature, it represents a meaningful advancement towards enhanced user empowerment in music streaming. Alongside Instagram’s latest modifications, these innovations signify a transformation in how tech companies engage with users, emphasizing personalization and user control. As these features become more popular, it will be fascinating to observe their impact on user experiences across various platforms.

Startup Sets Sights on Reviving Twitter Following Reddit’s Rollout of Verification Checkmarks

**Resurrecting Twitter: A Startup’s Daring Challenge to X Corporation**

Opting to let go of one of the most recognizable brands globally was among the many creative choices made by Elon Musk when he acquired Twitter and rebranded it as X. Now, a startup aims to bring back the original name, claiming that X Corporation no longer requires the trademark.

The legal discussions could become quite fascinating, particularly since one of the individuals involved in the initiative is Stephen Coates – the former general counsel of Twitter.

### Startup Seeks to Relaunch Twitter

A Virginia-based startup named “Operation Bluebird” revealed this week that it has submitted a formal petition to the US Patent and Trademark Office, requesting the federal agency to annul X Corporation’s trademarks of the terms “Twitter” and “tweet,” as X has reportedly abandoned them.

The petition asserts, “The TWITTER and TWEET brands have been eliminated from X Corp.’s products, services, and marketing, effectively forsaking the iconic brand, with no plans to resume usage of the mark. The TWITTER bird was grounded.”

There is robust legal precedent for losing trademark protection once the names have been forsaken by their original proprietors. The objective is to initiate a new social network at the domain twitter.new. This domain is already operational, and the company is encouraging users to reserve their usernames now.

### Reddit Introduces Verification Checkmarks

Another decision made by Musk was to discontinue the use of blue checkmarks as a means of confirming ownership of notable Twitter accounts, instead transforming it into a subscription feature. However, the initial purpose of verification checkmarks has been adopted by other social platforms, and now Reddit is following suit.

Reddit is commencing “a limited alpha test” of this feature with a select “curated” group of accounts that includes journalists from major media organizations such as NBC News and the Boston Globe. Businesses already using an “official” badge, which Reddit began testing in 2023, will also be awarded a grey “verified” checkmark instead of the “official” label.

While this currently remains an invitation-only feature for high-visibility accounts, the company indicates that it will eventually be accessible to all. There are no added benefits and no specific criteria aside from ensuring your Reddit account is in good standing and not NSFW-related.