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Roku streaming devices have many advantages. They are quite budget-friendly, feature a straightforward and user-friendly interface, and grant access to all major streaming platforms, making them an excellent option to enhance your older non-smart TV with smart TV functionalities or to upgrade your TV’s current operating system. That said, Roku devices are not without flaws. Similar to other smart TV systems, Roku streamers can encounter issues, many of which are easily identifiable and resolvable. One common issue is the incorrect TV display resolution set by your Roku streaming device. This can lead to suboptimal content resolution and overall lackluster visual performance.

If your Roku is operating with the wrong resolution, you might also notice pixelated visuals or, in rare instances, oddly cropped content. This usually occurs when your Roku cannot properly identify the display capabilities of your smart TV, resulting in it providing content at a resolution lower than what your TV can support. Another contributing factor could be the selection of an incorrect HDMI port or an incompatible HDMI cable when connecting your Roku streamer. Not all HDMI ports on televisions are equal, and if your Roku is connected to an older HDMI port, it may fail to recognize your TV’s actual display capabilities. Likewise, an outdated HDMI cable can lead to display problems. Fortunately, there are fairly simple solutions for these issues.

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save yourself from endless scrolling and concentrate on your work or studies with certain applications. Productivity, mental health, and focus applications assist in eliminating distractions, providing structure, fostering accountability, or tackling the emotional triggers that cause procrastination initially. Utilize these resources to collaborate with your brain, rather than working against it.

We examined the top applications crafted not only to time your focus but also to make it enjoyable. Some are presented as games, where each small achievement propels you towards increased focus. Others pair you with a partner under whose vigilant observation you’ll be compelled to concentrate on your assignments. Lastly, some are developed with insights from actual psychologists, and you might gain access to their premium services for free through certain health plans. Keep in mind that procrastination doesn’t equal laziness. It represents a challenge in self-regulation, which psychologists define as a voluntary deferral of significant tasks linked to heightened stress.

genetic alterations in nearby canines became a focal point for opponents of nuclear energy, who are concerned that similar incidents might take place in other locations. Nuclear energy possesses vast potential as a carbon-neutral energy solution at a moment when the earth urgently requires it, yet that potential cannot be realized without the confidence of the public. With this in mind, the engineers of nuclear facilities are developing increasingly sophisticated strategies to prevent nuclear meltdowns before any harm can occur.

The initial nuclear power stations were constructed starting in the 1950s, and from the outset, minimizing the risk of a meltdown was of utmost importance. This threat emerges when a nuclear reactor exceeds safe temperature limits, thus to avert meltdowns, reactors must be equipped with robust cooling mechanisms. Traditionally, these mechanisms have depended on circulating water around the reactor core to manage the heat generated by the radioactive fuel contained within, and for the most part, these systems have functioned effectively. Nevertheless, the disastrous incidents at Chernobyl and the 2011 meltdown of Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (which declared in 2020 that it would be releasing its radioactive water back into the ocean) both transpired due to failures in their respective cooling systems. The insights gained from these tragedies are now informing a new methodology for nuclear power.

the distinction between an OLED and QLED display can begin to blur. If you’re looking to purchase a quality TV for under $500, you’ll need to be discerning in your choices.

Renowned brands such as Hisense, TCL, and even Samsung are among the most dependable smart TV manufacturers available, but a lower cost often means compromising on picture quality or additional advanced features. For instance, you’ll find that none of the TVs we picked for this selection have a native 120-hertz refresh rate, which would enhance image smoothness.

Nevertheless, the five TVs we highlighted compensate for reduced motion clarity with other impressive picture technologies. Each unit is priced under $500, with the 32-inch Samsung 4K QLED retailing at exactly $500.

Starting at $1,300 and shipping this spring, the Sphera is the latest aftermarket CarPlay unit from Pioneer that drivers should take note of. Introduced at CES 2026, the Sphera stands as the first aftermarket spatial audio head unit worldwide capable of supporting Dolby Atmos in CarPlay. This is excellent news for those wanting to enhance their car’s head unit with a solution that accommodates Dolby Atmos content. Additionally, the Sphera can serve as an option for vehicles with infotainment systems that lack CarPlay support.

Pioneer mentioned in its announcement that the Sphera is designed to be compatible with “millions of existing vehicles,” without specifying any particular models. The company also indicates that installation can be achieved with “minimal modification,” as the head unit is expected to fit a “wide variety of vehicles.”

The head unit will interface with the vehicle’s speakers and utilize Pioneer’s exclusive Pure Autotuning technology to tailor the sound experience to the car’s interior. Pure is intended to consider the cabin’s unique features, including size, shape, and materials. Pure Autotuning will “accurately adjust time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to enhance performance and place the listener at the acoustical center.” This will guarantee the spatial audio and Dolby Atmos experience that users desire from their vehicle’s sound system.

The Pioneer Sphera features

The Sphera, depicted in the images above, is a 10.1-inch HD capacitive display that delivers “clear visibility and responsive controls.” The system is compatible with Pioneer’s Quick Swipe user interface for “rapid, intuitive adjustments while driving.” It offers a split-screen mode, wherein part of the display is allocated to specific features and controls, allowing drivers to access them effortlessly. Sphera supports wireless connection to iPhones (CarPlay) and Android devices (Android Auto), alongside Bluetooth.

The Sphera also includes an integrated Pioneer Luminous Bar that adds a “subtle visual signature to the dash.” This lighting system has two modes, including an Enhanced Visual Mode for navigation assistance and a Music Synchronization Mode that aligns lighting with audio. To achieve that “rich, immersive listening experience” in Dolby Atmos, Sphera will employ the car’s front and rear speakers. Users should not need to acquire additional hardware to ensure their CarPlay experience includes Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

While Sphera’s standout feature may be its support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos in CarPlay, the Pioneer receiver is also compatible with Android Auto. Although Spatial Audio (capitalized) is an Apple innovation for 3D sound, Dolby Atmos might also become accessible to Android Auto users in the future, as it’s a 3D sound technology distinct from Apple’s Spatial Audio. However, neither the press release nor Pioneer’s Sphera product page mentions Dolby Atmos support for Android. The product page states “more platforms are coming soon,” without specifically naming Android Auto. Additionally, Dolby Atmos may not be available for all audio content streaming in the vehicle. Pioneer notes in a footnote that streaming Dolby Atmos content might necessitate a subscription.

innovative gadgets utilize your PC’s USB ports to introduce additional functionalities, while other practical USB devices can enhance your workspace. One such practical USB device is the Anker MagGo Magnetic Wireless Charging 5,000mAh Power Bank, which can be extremely useful if you possess a smartphone or mobile accessory that is compatible with Qi wireless charging. It is also equipped with built-in magnets, simplifying the attachment to a phone that supports MagSafe or Qi2 charging.

Although the wireless charging capability is indeed convenient, it also allows you to power up your device with a conventional USB cable, adding to its versatility. Costco is offering a two-pack of the Anker MagGo power bank for just $40 — a great deal — as Anker usually retails similar 5,000mAh wireless charging power banks for approximately $48 each. You can either keep both units for personal use or give the second power bank to a friend or family member to enhance their convenience. Now, let’s explore the different features of this power bank and what you can anticipate from it.

**Amazon Unveils Alexa Plus for the Internet**

Following the debut of Alexa Plus (Alexa+) last February, Amazon is now prepared to extend the AI assistant’s reach to the web for Early Access users. By introducing Alexa Plus online, Amazon aims to make the Alexa AI assistant accessible to everyone, even for those without any Amazon devices featuring Alexa like Echo speakers and Fire TV gadgets nearby. For Amazon customers already engaging with Alexa Plus through their devices, the launch of Alexa Plus on the web will enhance the ease of interaction with the AI assistant.

Another significant motivation for offering Alexa Plus through Alexa.com is Amazon’s strategy to effectively compete with chatbots that have surpassed Alexa in popularity, such as ChatGPT and Gemini. When ChatGPT gained immense traction in late 2022, it revolutionized the tech landscape. In response, a multitude of tech companies began creating their own chatbot alternatives or developing AI-centric products. At that time, Alexa was already functioning as a voice assistant on Amazon devices, but it was not on par with ChatGPT.

While Alexa could stream music and place orders for users, ChatGPT answered general inquiries in conversational language. Now, three years later, chatbots like ChatGPT have acquired new functionalities, evolving into even more effective AI tools than the version that went viral in 2022. Nevertheless, it is not until early 2026 that Amazon begins to earnestly compete with other chatbots. That being said, Alexa Plus won’t be a direct equivalent to ChatGPT.

**Capabilities of Alexa Plus**

Amazon announced in a press release that Alexa Plus has developed “swiftly” since its introduction in February. The AI assistant interacts with thousands of services and devices, reaching tens of millions of users. Amazon stated that Alexa Plus has transformed how people utilize voice assistants, recording “twice the conversations, three times the purchases, five times the recipe requests” since its release last year.

For its web version, Amazon promotes a comprehensive Alexa Plus experience. The AI can respond to questions, “delve into intricate subjects,” generate content, plan travel, assist with schoolwork, manage documents, and collaborate with various apps and devices. The assistant allows control of smart home functionalities through the web, aids in creating to-do lists, updates calendars, and facilitates restaurant reservations. Alexa Plus also boasts meal planning and recipe discovery, with extensive integration with Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods. Thus, Alexa Plus can assist in grocery shopping tailored to your needs, provided the items are purchased from Amazon.

Alexa Plus can also link with other Amazon devices, including Fire TV. Users can inquire about specific shows and receive personalized suggestions, which Alexa will recall on their Fire TV. Alexa leverages Echo Show displays to offer culinary guidance. Additionally, Alexa Plus is compatible with a wide array of smart home devices, enabling users to manage their smart homes through the browser. This could involve unlocking doors, monitoring security cameras, or adjusting a thermostat. The smart home products that Alexa can manage will be listed in a sidebar on Alexa.com for easy access.

**Accessing Alexa Plus**

Alexa Plus might not boast the more advanced AI capabilities offered by other chatbots. There is no support for advanced reasoning and voice interaction, and it remains uncertain whether it can produce images as seamlessly as products like ChatGPT and Gemini. Furthermore, it is unclear if Alexa Plus can provide programming assistance and in-depth research reports, features you might expect from other chatbots. However, Alexa Plus is still in its formative stages: Companies such as OpenAI and Google have refined their chatbots over multiple years to become the robust tools they are today.

In other words, Alexa Plus is accessible through an Early Access program, indicating that Amazon is still in the initial phases of development. Interested users can sign up for Early Access to experiment with Alexa Plus on the web. An active Amazon Prime subscription is not required to utilize Alexa Plus online. However, Alexa Plus will be complimentary for Prime members once the Early Access testing phase concludes. Non-Prime users will incur a charge of $19.99 per month for Alexa Plus. The AI assistant is also available on mobile through the Alexa application.

charging your mobile overnight could be harmful. Others, too, drift off while watching YouTube or browsing TikTok. Nonetheless, the optimal spot for your phone at night may not be in the bedroom at all. Instead, it’s advisable to leave your phone outside of it.

Over time, many have debated where one should store their phones during the night. Much of this centers on how “harmful” the radiation and light emitted by phones can be to your sleep cycles. The other, more pressing issue, is the potential fire risk posed by keeping your phone too near your bed.

While contemporary smartphones have advanced significantly in managing heat dispersion — some models like the OnePlus 13 feature highly effective vapor chambers for cooling — dozing off with your phone beneath the covers or your pillow can greatly restrict airflow. If you’re charging your device, this heat output escalates and has previously caused phones to ignite. For this reason, it is strongly advised to charge your phone in a space with good ventilation, like a flat countertop or table, away from anything that might obstruct cool air from reaching it.

From time to time, a product captures the public’s imagination through social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram, thanks to enthusiastic reviews. Take, for instance, a trendy stain remover that gained traction for cleaning in 2022 or a blanket designed for adults that doesn’t bleed color. Their success can be unpredictable—sometimes they excel, other times it’s tough to decipher if the buzz is from a peculiar marketing strategy — yet a recently trending product heavily promoted on TikTok might actually deliver. Dubbed Loop Earplugs, they serve a straightforward purpose, but they excel at it. Loop Earplugs diminish noise to alleviate distractions.

They are not earbuds. They don’t connect to a phone or generate sound. They don’t even block out noise entirely — you can still perceive your environment while using them. They are crafted for situations where sounds are overwhelming, distracting, and potentially harmful to your hearing — such as music festivals or concerts. They also display an unusual yet charming appearance and come in a variety of styles. For example, there’s a McLaren Formula 1 Team X edition featuring a sleek two-tone burnt orange and black design, or a Coachella-inspired version that combines orange and blue in an imaginative blend. They aren’t limited to concerts, races, or extremely loud gatherings, which enhances their appeal. You can wear them in various settings, such as an open office; when managing energetic children; or while staying engaged in discussions in busy places.

Are they truly deserving of the excitement? Well, that’s a matter of opinion, but they are effective and users appreciate them. Presently, they boast hundreds of reviews on Amazon across diverse styles, all with ratings of four stars or higher. The Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs have amassed over 20,000 reviews.

Why is there such a buzz around earplugs?

To comprehend the TikTok phenomenon, a glance at the reviews will suffice. With over 20,000 assessments, an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, and 62% of these reviews being five stars (for the Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs), it’s clear there’s significant interest. They contain no electronics at all; essentially, they are just a silicone plug with an ear tip. How are they being utilized by so many?

Reviewers express that they wear them to sleep “every night,” and enjoy them so much they’ve purchased several pairs for home and travel. Others report that they are “super comfy,” and maintain their position throughout the night — notably, the Loop Quiet 2 is specifically designed for sleep. How about the McLaren or Coachella versions for live shows? Sure, you may opt for AirPods at a concert, but Loop Earplugs may offer a superior alternative.

Users are fond of the alternative variations as well. Reviewers claim they provide “excellent ear protection,” are perfect for concerts with intense, booming speakers, and are even “good on a motorcycle.” Allegedly, they reduce much of the noise encountered while riding a motorcycle while ensuring you remain fully aware of your surroundings. This is a mark of their effectiveness. Someone with hyperacusis and Misophonia, which makes them very sensitive to sound, stated they use the McLaren-style Loop Earplugs to help them “navigate so much with total calmness.” They seem to live up to the reputation.

Additionally, you might be pleased to learn that Loop Earplugs are among the TSA-approved travel accessories you can take on your next flight. Excuse me while I go order a few pairs.