Stephen Graham Leads Powerful British Prison Series That Exceeds Netflix’s Youthfulness in Grit

Anyone who has seen the work of Stephen Graham, co-creator and star of Netflix’s “Adolescence,” recognizes that the English actor thrives in roles that are inherently dark and weighty. His portrayal of Eddie Miller in the 2025 Netflix miniseries — which has garnered immense online acclaim — exemplifies this, but it’s far from the most intense or chilling character he has embodied over his more than thirty years in the acting field. If you experienced the 2007 film “This is England,” Graham’s neo-Nazi Combo is unforgettable, as is Joseph, a shattered individual who confronts the perpetrator of his childhood sexual abuse in 2019’s “The Virtues.” The same goes for Eric McNally, a prison officer portrayed by Graham in the BBC’s 2021 anthology prison drama, “Time.”

In the three-episode inaugural season, McNally serves as the supervising officer to Mark Cobden (another lead played by a restrained Sean Bean), a middle-aged educator sentenced for homicide while under the influence. As a correctional officer, McNally is strict, diligent, and immensely tough, yet he bears the heavy weight of having his son David (Paddy Rowan) incarcerated in a separate facility. Complications arise for McNally when an inmate reveals he knows David’s location, warning that if McNally doesn’t assist certain individuals, his son could be in peril.

Both characters navigate insurmountable challenges, with Cobden grappling with a world tainted by violence that he cannot endure, and McNally confronting the level of corruption he has meticulously avoided throughout his career. Gradually, the characters start to unravel within a flawed penal system seemingly structured to destroy lives instead of rehabilitating disturbed offenders.

Time’s first season is starkly realistic and heart-wrenching

“Time” is not meant for the sensitive viewer. Creator Jimmy McGovern makes that clear from the outset of the first episode, immersing us in a prison atmosphere that’s as brutal, unpredictable, and aimless as one imagines. Sudden eruptions of violence and hostilities are consistently palpable, and if you’re not vigilant, they can engulf you like a tempest. McGovern also illustrates, with meticulous details, that the British penal system contrasts sharply with the American version typically showcased in films and television. The rules here may appear somewhat gentler, but the psychological repercussions of such a facility are equally intense.

We largely perceive that through Cobden’s perspective, who navigates this environment like prey in a lion’s lair, filled with fear and despair, uncertain of where the next attack might originate. McNally recognizes that he is distinct from the rest — a man genuinely tormented by his actions and seeking atonement while hoping for redemption at the journey’s conclusion — and endeavors to assist and safeguard Cobden as best he can without compromising his own morals. However, the guard is undeniably overshadowed by a looming cloud, as he is compelled to aid one of the prison’s most influential inmates to protect his son from death.

Both Bean and Graham provide exceptional, albeit challenging, performances that “Time” skillfully leverages to set itself apart within the genre. Although they undeniably take center stage, it would be remiss to overlook the supporting cast, who excel in their smaller roles — notably James Nelson-Joyce as Cobden’s tormentor, Johnno, Jack McMullen as Cobden’s cellmate, Daniel, and Kevin Harvey as a compassionate and loving father, Paul.

Time shifts its focus in the second and third seasons

With its anthology framework, “Time” season 2 unfolds in a women’s prison and centers on three new primary characters: Orla (“Doctor Who’s” Jodie Whittaker), a desperate single mother; Kelsey (“The Last of Us” star Bella Ramsey), a young pregnant heroin user; and Abi (Tamara Lawrance from HBO’s “Get Millie Black”), a Black woman condemned to life for an unspeakable murder. While these women lead vastly different lives, their fates inevitably converge when they find themselves in Carlingford Prison for various offenses.

Season 2 may not have captured the same level of attention as its predecessor, yet both critics and audiences lauded it, especially for its gritty ambiance and the lead performances. As noted by TV Insider’s Matt Roush in his review, “The second season excels in its moments when its female inmates open up, expressing emotions after harrowing and gruesome encounters that render ‘Orange Is the New Black’ a mere jaunt to Disneyland.”

Both seasons of “Time” are accessible on Apple TV+ in the United States; however, be aware that the streaming service has raised its subscription rate to $12.99 monthly. Meanwhile

Apple Music’s Recent Update Ignites User Discussion Regarding New Capabilities

significant enhancements to Apple Music, as the company is trialing a fresh user interface for albums and playlists, an updated Profile page, AI playlists (currently only available to users in the U.S.), and more. Nevertheless, similar to most substantial design alterations, it has polarized users online. Even though Apple employs beta cycles to gather feedback from developers, and soon from public beta testers, some individuals have already taken to Reddit and other forums to voice their discontent regarding this unreleased software.

While I belong to the segment of users pleased with the new direction Apple Music is pursuing, others pointed out that Apple hasn’t lived up to its previous high standards for accessibility features. For instance, the Liquid Glass design has led to divided opinions among users due to its poor UI readability. Consequently, some users feel that Apple Music’s display of song titles against a fully colored backdrop in an album list is awful, as readability may not always be optimal.

Conversely, many Reddit users appreciated this new Apple Music design and swiftly contrasted it with Spotify, which lacks animated covers and possesses an overall outdated UI. While all these perspectives are valid, Apple Music likely aims to keep distinguishing itself from its primary rival, despite the apparent UI issues still needing resolution.

Apple Music still requires enhancements in social features and a more effective algorithm

Creative Amazon Device Converts Common Items into Musical Instruments

If you’re searching for distinctive and cost-effective Amazon gadgets, the Synth-a-Sette is a must-check. This creative musical instrument, reminiscent of ’80s technology, is an analog synthesizer cleverly designed to look like an audio cassette. It’s made for music lovers and students to craft tunes on the move, featuring a 13-key monophonic touchpad and an integrated speaker. With its all-analog architecture, there’s no requirement for microprocessors or coding; just pop in two AAA batteries and start playing. An audio jack permits silent practice.

The highlight of the Synth-a-Sette is its capability to convert ordinary objects into a musical keyboard. By attaching alligator clips to the holes on the underside of each key, you can use any conductive item to activate sounds. This unveils limitless opportunities for performers and educators, enabling interactive experiences with things like silverware, fruits, and even individuals. The Synth-a-Sette is ideal for music aficionados and provides a playful, educational tool for delving into sound and creativity. For additional audio-themed gifts, consider checking out other budget-friendly audiophile gadgets to elevate your music experience.

Distinctions Between Android Auto and Android Automotive OS Clarified

Apple CarPlay has emerged as one of the leading smartphone mirroring platforms for contemporary vehicles. Most cars come with built-in support for Android Auto right from production, allowing you to access your smartphone’s applications and functionalities through your vehicle’s infotainment system. Simply pairing or connecting your phone to your vehicle makes Android Auto visible on your car’s display. Its numerous advantages often make it a primary factor for vehicle purchasers.

Nevertheless, it isn’t the sole method by which Google’s Android is incorporated into vehicles. The company also provides a system known as Android Automotive OS, which is sometimes mistaken for Android Auto, though it is an entirely distinct product. While Android Automotive OS isn’t as prevalent as Android Auto, it is gradually gaining popularity among car manufacturers, many of whom have begun to adopt it in certain models. Let’s explore precisely what Android Auto and Android Automotive provide and how they differ from one another.

What is Android Auto?

Clint Eastwood’s Unexpected Role in a Timeless 1950s Science Fiction Movie

are among those you must see even if you aren’t fond of the genre), such as “A Fistful of Dollars” or “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,” were quite distant from making their appearance on the silver screen.

However, nearly a decade prior to that, Eastwood was already taking steps as an actor. He began his acting journey in 1955, landing tiny and uncredited parts, the first being in the sequel to “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” titled “Revenge of the Creature.”

He must have left an impression on its director, Jack Arnold, as Arnold cast him again within the same year, in his sci-fi creature-feature, “Tarantula.” At the age of 25, Eastwood portrayed a jet squadron leader — completely unrecognizable because of the pilot helmet and mask he was required to wear — spearheading the aerial assault against the kaiju monster causing chaos in Arizona.

Tarantula is a largely esteemed monster film

Reasons to Turn Off Microsoft’s New Intrusive Feature Right Away

**You Need to Disable This Unwelcome New Microsoft Feature Immediately – Here’s Why**

A recently identified feature in Microsoft Copilot allows the AI chatbot to collect data regarding your usage of various Microsoft applications. Windows Latest was the first to announce the finding of the toggle, which is enabled by default. According to the settings page, it enables “Copilot to utilize information from Bing, MSN, Edge, and other Microsoft products you’ve interacted with” when activated.

This effectively means that your cookies and browsing data from Microsoft Edge, as well as your search history in Bing, can be utilized to shape Copilot’s responses. This is merely another instance of Microsoft integrating its AI capabilities into its other programs. It was somewhat anticipated as the company sought to remain competitive with others like Perplexity and Google, particularly since Microsoft began promoting Edge as an AI browser due to its Copilot integration.

While this toggle may appear beneficial, there is no clear indication of precisely what data Copilot may be extracting from your other Microsoft services. Thus, it might be prudent to disable this feature to prevent any inadvertent sharing of personal information and private data with the AI chatbot.

**Enhancing Copilot’s memory**

This capability seems to be part of Microsoft’s efforts to enhance Copilot’s memory, making the AI chatbot more efficient for users. That’s a logical aim, but the fact that this feature has been activated by default without any notification from Microsoft is concerning. Moreover, the absence of a detailed outline of what type of data is being accessed or which Microsoft products it is sourced from is also a bit alarming.

Many Windows users do not utilize Copilot regularly, and some have even searched for methods to completely remove it – users were delighted last year when a Windows 11 bug uninstalled Copilot for some. Nevertheless, Microsoft persists in promoting its AI features, enabling many by default. When Microsoft imposes these features on users — especially those that involve accessing potentially sensitive information — it only intensifies the growing negative perception surrounding AI.

There is also the worry that this feature might one day extract data from your Windows installation. This could include anything from information on personal files to specifics about your system’s hardware — all of which could potentially be exploited by malicious actors. We already understand that some AI can install malware on Windows PCs, and it’s also concerning that even if you don’t use Copilot, your data might still be collected by it.

**How to prevent Copilot from monitoring you**

To disable the new memory usage functionality, you will need to visit the Copilot website in your browser. From there, sign into your Microsoft account by clicking the profile icon at the screen’s bottom left. Once logged in, navigate to the Memory section in the Settings menu.

The toggle you need to locate is called **Microsoft usage data**. Ensure the toggle is switched off, preventing Copilot from collecting data. You can also erase any data that Copilot has previously collected about you by selecting **Delete all memory** at the bottom of this Settings page. Remember that if you do use Copilot, deleting that memory could hinder the chatbot’s effectiveness in performing tasks related to your data.

Crucial $14 Travel Tool on Amazon for Extended Flights

There are plenty of travel gadgets you should consider, but this particular one could be the best of all. The reason is that few things are more frustrating than being trapped on a lengthy flight with nothing entertaining to engage with. While many planes provide some form of in-flight entertainment, they might not always feature your preferred content. Preparing in advance is wise, and many of the leading streaming services allow you to save movies or even episode downloads to watch offline. Indeed, offline downloads represent one of Netflix’s best-kept secrets that many users overlook.

This feature is perfect for instances when you lack internet access, such as on a flight, and it allows you to enjoy the shows and movies that matter to you without depending on the plane’s entertainment system. However, there’s a significant drawback to this method: you’ll have to hold your phone throughout, which can become quite exhausting.

Of course, you could rest it on the tray table, but that won’t be feasible during takeoff or landing. With reports of increasing turbulence during flights, it’s wise to find a way to secure your phone without having the tray open. Additionally, looking at your phone while it’s flat on the table isn’t particularly comfortable. Fortunately, there’s an inexpensive gadget that can enhance your experience while watching movies, shows, and videos during long flights.

Instantly affix your phone in nearly any location

The reason this budget-friendly gadget has received such extensive acclaim on Amazon (boasting 22,260 reviews globally, with 74% rated 5 stars) is its ease of use and low price. Priced at just $14, the Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount provides a hassle-free viewing solution, easily attaching to the top of the tray on the rear of the airplane seats. The manufacturer also asserts that it can be utilized in various other situations, such as on a table for video calls with family or for recording videos. Nonetheless, numerous reviews highlight its effectiveness for lengthy travel.

“This mount is a must-have for travelers — straightforward, budget-friendly, and remarkably handy,” commented one user in <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Fcustomer-reviews%2FR2JET3IE4LNZ93%2Fref%3Dcm_cr_dp_d_rvw_ttl%3Fie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dstaticmedia-bgr-custom-20&btn_pub_ref=2108500-in_text-2" target

Crucial iPad Add-ons to Tackle Frequent Problems

no one requires an iPad any longer as foldables gain traction, yet a huge market remains, as Apple recorded sales of 19 million iPads in Q4 of 2025, an increase from 14 million in the same period of 2024.

Nevertheless, iPads have their drawbacks. Some issues arise from operating system limitations that Apple has been gradually addressing with each update. For instance, as highlighted in our iPadOS 26 review, the iPad is increasingly approaching the capability to replace your laptop, thanks to the newly integrated productivity and multitasking features. Additional limitations of the iPad can be remedied with appropriate accessories that can enhance your iPad experience tremendously. Below are some iPad accessories we selected after thoughtfully reviewing feedback from iPad users on social media, expert insights, and evaluations on Amazon.

Anker USB-C hub

All iPads possess considerable capabilities, and there are numerous ways to utilize your iPad’s USB-C port, allowing connections to peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and storage devices, including USB flash drives or external hard drives. However, since there is a single USB-C port on an iPad, connecting multiple devices simultaneously can present a challenge. This is where a USB-C hub becomes essential. The <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAnker-Multi-Port-Splitter-Delivery-Included%2F

How a Fresh Smartphone Scam Aims at Your Android or iPhone

new fraud detection capabilities to aid in identifying scam efforts employing specifically trained AI. One of the most recent scams circulating, however, is significantly more related to your mobile device than anything else and has been targeting users who have recently upgraded or acquired new gadgets.

These scams aren’t particularly novel, as they’ve been prevalent in the past as well. Google alerted Gmail users about a comparable type of scam a few months prior. Nevertheless, it brings up some major concerns regarding how scammers are obtaining their data. This is because the scammers are aware of which carrier you are with, in addition to details about the kind of phone that you have purchased. Occasionally, they might even provide gift cards to entice you, attempting to make the offer more appealing.

If you receive such a call, it is vital that you do not disclose any of your personal details. Instead, disconnect the call and reach out to your carrier directly to confirm that no issues exist. Furthermore, numerous companies will also clarify that they will never contact you regarding your account.

How the fraud operates

Uncover 5 Little-Known iPad Tips You Need to Be Aware Of

Apple has unveiled iPadOS 26, which offers improved multitasking capabilities compared to the Stage Manager concept introduced in past years. Additionally, iPadOS 26 brings a range of design updates, such as Liquid Glass, which may not appeal to all users. If you have been postponing the installation of iPadOS 26 due to concerns about the translucent effects, you’ll need to go ahead and install this software update to benefit from enhanced multitasking features. While numerous functionalities detailed below are compatible with older iPadOS versions, they are likely to elevate your productivity significantly when used alongside the new windowed applications experience in iPadOS 26.

If your iPad (or iPadOS version) is outdated, you might have to upgrade to a newer model or update the software to fully utilize some of the concealed iPad features listed below. An Apple Pencil may be necessary for some of these features.

Swiftly alternate between applications

The capability to transform apps into windows in iPadOS 26, similar to a Mac or Windows PC, can be useful for specific tasks that need a comprehensive overview of your workspace or quick exchanges between applications. However, certain applications require a full-screen view, and you might still wish to seamlessly switch between multiple full-screen applications. As with the iPhone, you can swipe up from the bottom to the center of the screen and lift your finger to view all currently open apps. Tap the app you wish to access (or any visible group), and it will occupy the screen. Like the iPhone, there’s an even quicker gesture available. You can also swipe left and right at the bottom of the screen to navigate between the recently used apps. In other words, the apps you used last are just a left swipe away, and you can keep swiping until you locate the desired one.

Unlike the iPhone, the iPad also allows you to switch between applications by simply tapping the screen with multiple fingers, making it even swifter than searching for the gestures at the bottom of the display. Tap the screen with four or five fingers and slide right or left. The app-switching method resembles that of the previous version where you swipe left and right at the bottom of the screen, but it’s more intuitive, as it can be done from anywhere on the screen. To activate this feature, navigate to Settings > Multitasking & Gestures > Four or Five Finger App Switching.

Customize the virtual keyboard to suit your needs