News-Technology

1.Microsoft Streamlines and Accelerates File Explorer in New Windows 11 Update

Microsoft is finally giving the Windows 11 File Explorer some much-needed love! I mean, we use it all the time, right? Sifting through folders for that one file you downloaded ages ago, or saved six folders deep. Yeah, it's been around forever, and sometimes it *feels* like forever when you are waiting for it to actually respond. It can be kind of slow and a bit of a mess. However, Microsoft is playing around with some changes in the test versions of Windows 11, trying to bring the File Explorer experience up to date. They want it to be faster, simpler, and less likely to make you want to chuck your computer out the window. Fingers crossed these changes make it through testing. Then we should see them in all of our systems. I think they want it to be quicker to find our files and be less annoying overall.

**Faster Opening? Yes, Please!**

One thing is something called preloading. It's like File Explorer is getting a head start. Kind of warming up so it’s already running a little bit in the background. That way, when we click that folder icon, it should just pop right up. If you have a super-fast computer, you might not see a huge change. But if you’re using a tablet, a portable gaming PC, or an old laptop, then this will be great! It's only going to be seconds faster, maybe, but those seconds add up when you are opening lots of different files and folders.

Microsoft has done this before with other apps, like Microsoft Office. If you remember those were so slow to open, but they now open incredibly quickly. So, they’re using the same idea with File Explorer, so they are serious about speeding things up.

If you don’t like stuff running in the background, no problem. You can turn off preloading. You might want to save battery life, or you just like to control everything your computer does (hey, some people do!). You will probably have this option.

**Crazy Menus, Be Gone!**

Another thing that drives me nuts (and obviously a lot of other people) is the right-click menu in File Explorer. Right-click on a file or folder, and a massive list of options appears. I do not even know what half of them are for. It’s confusing, and it slows everything down so much because you are always looking through all those options.

Microsoft heard our calls! The new menu will have the most common options right there. If you want the other stuff, you will have to go into a submenu. Options like zipping files, copying file paths, and the set as wallpaper thing will tucked away into a 'show more options' menu. This will make the main menu so much easier to use and navigate.

If you use cloud storage (OneDrive, Dropbox, etc.), then there’s good news. Instead of cloud options all over the place, they’re putting them all in one spot. The menu will be less cluttered and cloud features will be much more obvious.

**Why Even Do This?**

These changes might not seem like huge upgrades. They could do a big difference in how you feel about using your computer every day. Stop for a second and think about how often you use the File Explorer. It's basically a full-time job.

If Microsoft can speed things up and make it simpler, think how much less annoying it would be.

A cleaner menu is less time spent looking for what you need. Faster start-up times could make the whole computer feel so much more alive.

**What’s Next?**

Right now, these changes are for only for Windows 11 testers. Microsoft wants feedback. Hopefully, we will all be using these changes soon.

The main thing here is that Microsoft is listening to some of the small stuff and wants to improve Windows 11. Major features are good and fancy, but sometimes the small details are the most important. By making menus simpler and making things respond quicker, Microsoft is fixing problems that annoy everyone.

**Bottom line**

File Explorer is a key part of Windows. But is old, so Microsoft are making these changes such as preloading and a simpler menu without ruining everything we're used to. They want to make things faster. By speeding up preloading times in the File Explorer, and streamlining the menu options, this would bring a breath of fresh air and a more pleasing platform to use.

2.Apple’s iOS 27 Update to Prioritize Performance and Next-Gen AI Features

**Apple's iOS 27: Getting Down to Business?**

Like clockwork, Apple drops a new iOS every year. We're all waiting to see what's been changed. Do you remember when they went with that flat design in iOS 7? Or when they introduced widgets to the home screen in iOS 14? Each time, it totally altered the feel to the phone. Though, Mark Gurman, who is like that one guy that knows everything, thinks iOS 27 could be different. He's hearing Apple is backing off from wild changes and is gonna focus on fixing things. Gurman thinks iOS 27 is like their version of Snow Leopard.

**Time for a Change?**

Gurman said the Apple engineers are checking iOS so very hard. They are trying to get rid of extra stuff, fix the small problems that bother users, and speed things up. This is different from iOS 26, which had that Liquid Glass look. While it looked awesome, the AI didn't seem to be ready. Many people felt Apple attempted to do lots of things at once.

When going back to basics and putting their focus on a smooth feel, Apple is doing what Mac fans would get. In 2009, they put out Mac OS X Snow Leopard. This wasn’t about adding a crazy amount of features. It was about getting rid of bugs, cleaning it up, and making it run faster. People loved it because it worked. Gurman thinks iOS 27 might do the same thing – get the basics right instead of adding new and shiny things.

**Let's Talk About Artificial Intelligence AI**

Of course, iOS 27 can't be just about bug fixes. Apple needs to do what everyone else is doing, meaning that they need to be serious here about the AI. They're behind. Ever since Apple Intelligence showed up, Apple's been adding AI stuff, but lots of it is not ready. Other companies, like Alphabet, have been going all in on AI. AI is changing how you search, what you do at work, and how you can be creative. Apple has been moving slowly. They wish to keep your info private and do as much work as possible on your phone. It has been slow.

Gurman mentioned that Apple is making its AI search software and wants to redo Apple Intelligence. They would like to add AI to the apps you use. This should make it feel like it's just part of iOS, not something that's been added. A smarter Siri is something that needs fixing. Apple has talked about what's wrong with Siri for a long time. Now they will fix it. Gurman thinks the new Siri might come *before* iOS 27, maybe in some iOS 26.4 update sometime soon.

If Apple gets it right, Siri could be more than a voice that doesn’t understand you. It could be a real AI helper that knows what you want – before you ask. Siri could then help you across all your applications. Siri needs a boost.

**Things We Learned From iOS 26**

Think about iOS 26. The Liquid Glass thing seemed nice enough, but it was busy. Some thought it was overly complex, and the AI features, like text summaries and image creation, wasn't very special. Apple's detail wasn't there and the features felt like experiments.

When it comes to iOS 27, Apple seems to be listening. Apple wants to make sure their AI plans don't stop the phone from working well. That balance is key. People should be fine with new experiments but their phones need to just run.

**Taking a Step Back**

Apple's plan makes sense if you watch tech. Smartphones are normal now. Their getting better, but the changes are not that huge as they used to be. Software is being updated by making changes. This is better than new construction. So, a system that's easy to use, fast, and you can depend on it is important.

Plus, everyone loves the AI. Companies are adding AI to search engines, word processors, and art tools. Apple's way – keeping your information private and running it on your phone – is different. If their AI isn't as good as others, they might be in danger. Giving AI some focus in iOS 27 is Apple's way to play catch up and follow their rules.

**What's To Come?**

If Gurman's right, iOS 27 won't feel crazy. Instead it should feel like a tune-up. Your phone might be faster, have fewer bugs, and feel better to use. Hopefully, we'll see Apple's work on AI, with a Siri that knows a lot and Apple Intelligence that works great across all the applications.

Watching something that you can trust and useful AI could be good for Apple. This lets you know that new things aren't everything. It's important to fix what you have. AI is the normal now.

**In Conclusion**

Apple's iOS 27 might not act fancy but it could win people over by being easy and fast. If they add good AI, it could be great. iOS 27 might be one of the best ones out there. It could also be remembered not for what was changed. But for how smoothly it runs.

3.This Pixel 10 Pro Fold Deal Is So Good It Feels Unreal — With a Few Catch-Ups

**Subject: Seriously, This Black Friday Phone Deal is Kinda Crazy**

Black Friday? Ugh, right? It's like wading through a swamp of ads, flash sales that vanish in seconds, and fine print that's designed to trick you. Finding a deal that's actually good feels impossible. But sometimes, just sometimes, a deal pops up that makes you stop and say, Okay, that's interesting. This year, T-Mobile is doing just that with a crazy discount on the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold – they're knocking *one thousand dollars* off! If you've even glanced at those folding phones and thought, Huh, cool but too much, you seriously need to see this.

**Let's Get Real: This Deal is a Head-Turner**

So, normally, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold costs $1,799. Ouch. But T-Mobile? They're selling it for $799. Yes, you read that right. That's not just a small price cut; it's a *massive* drop, basically putting it in the same price range as Google's regular, non-folding Pixel 10. And remember, this phone came out like, a month ago. Seriously, it's one of the biggest discounts I've seen on a foldable.

Now, obviously, there's a catch (or two). To get the deal, you need to either open a new line, upgrade an existing line, or start a new T-Mobile account. Fair enough. You also need to trade in your old phone. But! Here's the good news: lots of newer phones will get you the full $1,000 off. Even if your phone is a bit older, you can still get at least $500 in savings. T-Mobile is running multiple trade-in offers right now, so chances are, you’ll get something for your current phone.

**Why Should You Even Care About This Thing?**

Folding phones have always had two big problems: they cost a fortune, and people were worried about whether they would break easily. This Pixel 10 Pro Fold starts to fix both of those problems. Let's talk about that price tag. At almost $1,800, the Fold was way too expensive for most people. We're talking that's a month's rent money type of expensive. Even with payment plans, that price has scared a lot of people off. Knocking the price down to $799? That changes everything. Now it's competing with regular high-end phones, making it a real option for way more of us.

Now, what about that fear of breaking? Well, folding phones haven't had the best reputation. Hinges, screens that bend... it all felt risky. But Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the first that has an IP68 rating for water and dust . Guess what that mean? The device is safeguarded and not merely resistant to submersion in water but also shielded against the intrusion of dust – an assurance of paramount before thinking of durability.

**Putting It Up Against the Competition**

You know, it was thought that Samsung would be the first to figure out that IP68 thing for a foldable phone. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is really good, but it didn't quite get there and Samsung even ditched the S Pen in making it super thin. Google kind of jumped ahead with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Having said all of these, I think Samsung will come up with a counter move using their folding series coming out soon.

Ok, so the Pixel 10 Pro Fold isn't perfect. The camera should be better! This phone does not have the super high level cameras like the Pixel 10 Pro XL or the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Even Samsung managed to put a huge megapixel camera in its folding phone, while keeping it really thin! But Google decided not to use those same great Pixel 10 Pro cameras in the Fold. If you're big into photos, this sucks, especially since Google is known for its camera software.

**A Few Problems to Know About**

Gaming is also something to keep in mind. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold uses Google's new Tensor G5 chip, which was supposed to be way better for graphics. But! People noticed some issues with the software that drives the graphics card (GPU) and sometimes the graphics would be jumpy and glitch. Google said they know about it and will push updates later. If you are planning to use this phone for mobile game playing, hold your breath and wait for the updates to come out. Just for basic use, everything is smooth.

**Why This Deal Matters So Much**

Despite the issues, this T-Mobile deal puts the foldable phone in a direction. Before this, foldables were like a dream. You could only admire it from far away. But for less price, T-Mobile made foldables something that more people can buy!! For Google, this gives the company the chance to sell the foldables and go against Samsung.

This deal shows phone providers influences the way people choose the device they use. Phone innovation alone isn't enough, it all boils down to whether the people can afford it or not.

**My Thoughts, Just to Be Clear**

I've been watching foldables for a long time, and I'm actually excited about this deal. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold already impressed me with how it was designed and how it felt, but spending that much on a phone.... not going to happen. But because of this deal, it is an option for more people to use.

But of course, not a perfect phone due to the camera and the gaming issues. However, because of the design and the lower price, I think the plus will outweigh the minus. The folding phone is still evolving and there is not perfect device out in the market.

**To Sum It All Up**

There are many deals in Black Friday. But I think this T-mobile is worth a try! T-mobile let more people use this brand new folding phone for real cheap and Google get to prove that a folding phone can be long lasting and affordable. People get to use the future phone without spending a bunch of money!

If you are on the fence about trying to use the foldable phone, now or never! This don't happen all the time, and it might shift the phone market. Pixel 10 Pro Fold is not without its issue. But at this price, you should give it a try.

4.Google rejects claims it analyzes user emails for AI training

**Google, Gmail, and That AI Privacy Thing**

Everyone kinda freaks out, wondering if these big tech companies are snooping around, like, actually reading our emails. This past month, Google faced some worries. Word got around that Google tweaked Gmail's settings, letting AI peek at our emails and attachments.

A lawsuit and tons of social media posts blew things up. People were scared that their private stuff was being used to build AI, right? Google jumped in, saying, Hold up, not true! Gmail info isn't going into Gemini.

**Reading Your Emails?**

This whole thing started with a lawsuit in California last November. It said Google was secretly using Gemini with Gmail, Chat, and Meet to swipe data without asking anyone. The story goes that, around October 2025, Google started doing this without telling anyone, unless they turned it off. That's a no-go under California's rules. They can't snoop on your chats without your okay.

Adding fuel to the fire, a security outfit called Malwarebytes put out a blog post. They thought Google changed Gmail's settings. So everything in people's emails and attachments could be read for AI training. They were saying Smart Compose and Smart Reply was the proof.

**But Google Said It Wasn’t Happening**

Google fired back quickly, saying that wasn’t the truth, and no settings were changed. They claimed Smart Features have been there forever, and they don’t use Gmail info to train Gemini. Google said that they would let us know if the rules changed.

Malwarebytes then fixed their blog post, admitting they messed up. They thought Google renamed Smart Features, making it look like Google was using Gmail to teach Gemini new tricks. But after double-checking, Malwarebytes realized the settings hadn’t changed, and Gmail wasn’t sending data to Gemini.

**What Gmail Does, According to Google**

So, Gmail *does* look at your emails, but it’s not for AI training. It uses the info for blocking spam, sorting emails, and recommending things to write. All these things look at your email to make Gmail work better. Malwarebytes said that this is how these AI services work.

*The Verge* piped up, saying some users turned off smart features and they found them turned back on. Users started to wonder why.

**The Three Privacy Switches**

The Google/Gmail issue comes down to these settings:

* **Smart features in Gmail, Chat, and Meet:** This lets Google track what you write and say in those apps to personalize stuff like what you'll write next and quick reply options.

* **Smart features in Google Workspace:** This goes to apps like Drive and Calendar. It adds flight details to your calendar and makes searching easier.

* **Smart features in other Google products:** It lets Google use info from Workspace to help you out by looking at Maps, Wallet, or Gemini.

These settings are turned on when you start, which is helpful. If you are worried about your privacy, you can turn them off.

**What the Lawsuit Claims**

The lawsuit thinks Google turned on Gemini for everyone using Gmail, Chat, and Meet. This had Google AI tracking chats without permission. It also says Google keeps these settings turned on on everyone. Google says those claims are false. The case shows that people want privacy and security.

**Turning It All Off (If You Want)**

If you are uncomfortable with all this, you can turn these features off. Go to Gmail settings (find the gear icon). Then you can block smart features. You can also turn off Workspace and other Google apps in your phone's settings.

**What It All Means**

Transparency is the real issue, even if the lawsuit is exaggerated. I mean, people want to know what's happening with their data. When settings get switched on without you knowing, it screws with your trust. Even if Google's telling the truth about Gmail data not training Gemini, looking like you're hiding something could be the same as actually hiding something.

5.Apple’s 11th-Gen iPad Hits a Stunning $279 Black Friday Price

Black Friday 2025 is shaping up to be HUGE, especially if you're into Apple stuff. The big story? Amazon's slashing prices on the 11th-gen iPad. Yeah, they're knocking $70 off the Wi-Fi models. If you've been eyeing a new iPad, now might be the time to pull the trigger without emptying your wallet.

**Okay, let's get into the specifics of these deals.**

The standard 128GB Wi-Fi iPad usually rocks a $349 price tag, but Amazon's got it down to $279. Seriously, that's the lowest I've ever heard about this thing going for. Need some extra storage? No sweat, Amazon's dropped the 256GB Wi-Fi iPad to $379 (normally $449) and the 512GB Wi-Fi iPad to $579 (used to be $649). So however much storage that you want is $70 off for each version.

And the crazy thing is they say that most of these orders should be coming in around November 29th, so if you order, you should have it after the Holiday!

**Why is this a big thing?**

It is because you don't usually see these kinds of price cuts on Apple products. The usuals like Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart might take a tiny bit off during the holidays, but $70 off on an iPad? That's kinda rare. If you're trying to get the best bang for your buck, this price drop can actually make it a lot easier to swallow, especially if you're doing some shopping for the family or a student.

The 11th-gen iPad is still a champ, too. It can handle pretty much anything you throw at it for every day activities, and it won't set you back a fortune. It looks sleek, works with the Apple Pencil, and you get access to like every imaginable iPadOS app there is. At $279, it goes up in competition with some of the Android tablets, but it rocks Apple's user system and support service. Plus, if you got an iPhone, iPads work better together.

**What's Apple Doing for Black Friday?**

This iPad sale isn't the only thing to note. This Black Friday 2025 there will be promotions. Apple's doing their thing from November 28th to December 1st, when you buy certain iPhones, iPads, Macs and accessories, you get gift cards! Since we all know how Apple never really comes out and slices prices directly, these gift cards are a nice plan B if you were planning to buy more Apple stuff.

In the meantime there are stores that are saving costs and passing them on to products. Besides Amazon's iPad deals, there's savings on AirPods, Apple Watches and MacBooks! Best Buy and Walmart are competing too, with some pretty low prices on the iPads. Basically, there's more of a chance of you finding a good deal now!

**So yeah. Where do iPads fit in in 2025?**

The iPad family is HUGE now! There's the most basic one and the iPad Pro. The 11th-gen iPad sits in the middle, for people who want something affordable. It's not suited for graphic designers or anything but it's good at watching videos, browsing the internet, taking notes and getting work done.

Everyone has a different need and cost for their iPad, because Apple tries to serve everyone, no matter the price that they are willing to pay. By lowering the price of the 11th-gen iPad, Amazon's making it easier to get into Apple. Once you're in, you might buy things like an Apple Pencil or a keyboard, or upgrade to an even more expensive iPad later down the line.

**Why do we all love a good deal?**

Black Friday gets everyone crazy because we think we might be missing out. We think the best deals happen once every year. Stuff like Apple products do not often get discounts! Something as simple as $70 off is enough to get people crazy.

The timing also matters! Apple is doing its own shopping event at the same time. When we get bombarded with special offers from these stores, it makes us want to act to make sure we get the best price!

**What kind of other Apple deals are there?**

There's some other Apple deals you should know about for Black Friday 2025 besides the iPads:

* **AirPods:** Amazon and Best Buy have some prices for their AirPods Pro.

* **Apple Watch:** Select models are on sale, with small reductions on the Series 10 and SE versions.

* **MacBooks:** There could be a new entry level MacBook that is coming out soon, so the ones that are out are getting discounts.

**What do we need to know?**

Amazon's iPad deal is a good example of what's going on with Apple during the holidays. The price is more reasonable now. For people who want Apple stuff, Black Friday has high quality!

Apple has things that are coming soon like new MacBooks and iPhones. Sales are helped with holiday promotions and keep people interested in Apple. Amazon's offer is really good!

**Basically...**

Amazon's $70 off the 11th-gen iPad shows how things are during the holidays now! Apple's tablet is more likely to buy. Black Friday is a good chance to buy Apple. For anyone thinking about performance, cost, and ease, this iPad deal could be the best deal of the season.

6.AirPods 4 Drop to $99 and AirPods Max Hit $120 in 2025’s Best Black Friday Deals

Black Friday 2025 is coming up quick, and we all know what's up – huge sales everywhere! Seriously, if you're thinking about getting new Apple AirPods, you should watching out right now. Doesn't matter if you want basic earbuds to listen to music as you walk to work, or want some good noise-canceling headphones to just block everything out, now's the time to look around. Places such as Amazon, Target, and Best Buy will try the best they can to get you to buy. This means there will be great prices for all of us. So, said that you needed to upgrade your listening stuff, Black Friday could be the time to do so. Then, let's check some items out to see what is good for you.

**AirPods (4th Generation): Cheap and Still Rock!**

If you don't like spending much money, the AirPods (4th generation) are still a good way to get into the AirPods . As of now, they can be found on Amazon for around $79! In my opinion, that is not bad because they usually go for about $129. Probably will be the cheapest price ever. They look very distinct compare from the previous ones, and some may say it is even more comfy. The music from it are even better, too, with Apple's Spatial Audio built-in. Its batteries can be used for about five hours, which is not super, but the charging case gives you around 30 hours.

If you're getting AirPods for the first time, or you just want some that are alright, these are the ones. They pair fast with all your Apple devices, it is also one of the things that makes AirPods great!

**AirPods (4th Generation) with Active Noise Cancellation: Shut the World Out!**

If you want something better, check out the AirPods (4th generation) that feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). From Amazon, it goes for around $99, but normally costs about $179. That's a sweet savings of $80, so act quickly on that. Spending $20 more get ANC and noise. It also shuts down sound when people are talking to you, which is useful. Plus, you can charge them wirelessly. These are wonderful to have if you always ride transportations, travel, or in noise places.

ANC is the factor if you need to focus at any time.

**AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): Still Good**

If you're looking for good stuff and features, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are still nice. You can find them at Target for $139. Normally they cost $249. Even though it's old, they still have everything. Noise-canceling performs good, music is crystal clear, and they're comfy as well. You can use it for about 6 hours per charge, which is alright. They are very close to the Pro (3rd generation). You can save a lot if you don't want to get the most updated device.

They've got a price of $199 on Amazon, grab it from Target to save more. If you're saving for a good AirPods, you should get this!

**AirPods Pro (3rd Generation): The Update!**

If you want the latest stuffs, the AirPods Pro (3rd Generation) are Apples is the newest and currently on sale. Amazon's sells them for $219, that is cheaper from $249. Yes, they're not cheap, but the 3rd generation Pros have some good stuff. Noise-canceling is improved. The battery lasts for around eight hours turned on, and ten when turned off. Plus, they are also for fitness and translation uses.

If you want to get it, the 3rd generation Pros are good. Only $30 off, you should!

**AirPods Max (USB-C): Sound nice and Comfy**

If you want the big headsets that cover your whole ears, go to Best Buy or Amazon, you can find the AirPods Max with USB-C for $429! They normally costs $549, that is a total of $120. You play your favorite music with it. Great noise-canceling and look. Adjust Spatial Audio as much as you can, and the battery can last for about 20 hours.

Even with the sales, they're still costly, but $429 is alright if music is what you like. Just pick this if sound is important for you!.

**Quick List: Cheaper Prices Quick**

Here's a quick list of the great prices:

* AirPods (4th generation): $79 at Amazon

* AirPods (4th generation) with ANC: $99 at Amazon

* AirPods Pro (2nd generation): $139 at Target

* AirPods Pro (3rd generation): $219 at Amazon

* AirPods Max (USB-C): $429 at Amazon/Best Buy

There's an option for anyone. You wanna save? Get the standard AirPods, or the ones with ANC. Want good features? Get the Pro (2nd generation). Want the most updated device? The Pro (3rd generation), and the Max are nice for music!

**Black Friday?**

Rarely you can spot sales in Apple products. Black Friday is the time where shops give sales. It leads to buyers buying it.

Shops want to sell others too. Sales lets Apple have customers choose AirPods.

**What to do then?**

The greatest discounts can be found at Black Friday 2025. If you are getting, there's many stuffs you can get now, from the base models to the high-end Max! Use this, either to get to gift for you or family. If you are waiting a bit longer, this deals may close!

7.Black Friday Deal: Super Mario Odyssey Discounted With Complimentary Switch 2 Upgrade

**AirPods (4th Generation): Cheap and Still Rock!**

**AirPods (4th Generation) with Active Noise Cancellation: Shut the World Out!**

ANC is the factor if you need to focus at any time.

**AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): Still Good**

They've got a price of $199 on Amazon, grab it from Target to save more. If you're saving for a good AirPods, you should get this!

**AirPods Pro (3rd Generation): The Update!**

If you want to get it, the 3rd generation Pros are good. Only $30 off, you should!

**AirPods Max (USB-C): Sound nice and Comfy**

Even with the sales, they're still costly, but $429 is alright if music is what you like. Just pick this if sound is important for you!.

**Quick List: Cheaper Prices Quick**

Here's a quick list of the great prices:

* AirPods (4th generation): $79 at Amazon

* AirPods (4th generation) with ANC: $99 at Amazon

* AirPods Pro (2nd generation): $139 at Target

* AirPods Pro (3rd generation): $219 at Amazon

* AirPods Max (USB-C): $429 at Amazon/Best Buy

**Black Friday?**

Rarely you can spot sales in Apple products. Black Friday is the time where shops give sales. It leads to buyers buying it.

Shops want to sell others too. Sales lets Apple have customers choose AirPods.

**What to do then?**

8.Early Black Friday Delivers Big Discounts on Samsung Monitors Smartphones and Smartwatches

**Valve's Steam Machine: Aiming for Fair Prices, Not Under Cutting**

Valve's always done things their own way. Think about it: from launching Steam way back in 2003 to the out-of-nowhere hit that was the Steam Deck in 2021, they've constantly shaken up the gaming world. They always rethink how we play and pay for games. Now, they're getting ready to mix things up again. They are working on the Steam Machine, which is basically a PC crammed into a console-style box, so you can get the freedom of Steam right in your living room. Everyone got pretty hyped when they heard about it, but the big question was, How much is this thing gonna cost?

Pierre-Loup Griffais from Valve talked about it for the first time in an interview. He said that the Steam Machine won't be sold super cheap to get people hooked, like how Sony and Microsoft sell their consoles. Instead, they want the price to be good compared to building your own gaming PC.

**No Giveaways, Just a Good Deal**

When they asked Griffais about how they're pricing it, he said, We want it to cost around the same as if you built a PC with the same level of power. Of course, we want it to feel like you're getting a good deal for that amount of performance. Plus, we're adding stuff you just can't easily get if you build from scratch.”

That's pretty big. Usually, Sony and Microsoft sell their consoles for a loss or barely any profit at all to get more people buying into their system. Valve's not doing that with the Steam Machine. They will set their prices around the same as what the hardware costs. So, you can expect a fair price, but don't expect them to practically give it away to beat out the competition.

Griffais thinks the cool stuff Valve brings to the table will make it worth it. He mentioned things like SteamOS working perfectly on the device, the hardware being designed specifically for gaming, and special features like controller support and a design that fits right into your living room setup.

**Timing is Everything**

Griffais did say that things are still early, and the price could change. He said, It's tough to know exactly what the price will be right now because a lot of stuff is up in the air.

That makes sense when you think about what's been going on with PC parts lately. Prices jump around because of supply problems, sudden increases in demand, and new tech coming out. Graphics cards, especially, have been all over the place price-wise for years. By pricing the Steam Machine like a regular PC build, Valve's tying its value to something that's constantly changing.

Still, the main message is that the Steam Machine won't be a money loser. They want to give you good value if you were going to build a similar PC yourself.

**Aiming for the Middle Ground**

Griffais mentioned that they might make a Steam Machine Pro sometime. But for now, they're putting all their energy into making a mid-range device. He said This seems like the smartest plan, a balance of getting a device with great features, great speed and still being affordable for most people.

Valve did something similar with the Steam Deck. Instead of trying to make the most powerful handheld ever, they went for a sweet spot where it was affordable but could still play modern games at decent settings. That way, they got a handheld that could play games well without costing as much as a high-end gaming laptop.

Valve will probably try to do the same thing with the Steam Machine, grabbing a bigger audience of players who want a good living room device without blowing their entire savings on a powerful PC.

**What It Means for Gaming**

What Valve is doing with pricing could have an impact on gaming as a whole:

* **Console Competition:** Valve won't be going head-to-head with PlayStation or Xbox on price because they won't make up the difference through game sales. Instead, they'll be targeting players who like the freedom of PC gaming and the huge Steam game library.

* **PC Gamer Appeal:** If you're a PC gamer, the Steam Machine makes it easy to get PC gaming in your living room without all the work of building and keeping up a PC.

* **Maybe More Options Later:** If Valve does a Steam Machine Pro, it could be like how consoles have different models—a regular one and a more powerful (and expensive) one. That could get more people interested, but it could also make things more confusing.

* **Good for the Long Run:** Because Valve isn't selling the Steam Machine at a loss, it should be able to stick around for a while. That means they can focus on making it good instead of worrying about making up for lost money.

**In Conclusion**

Valve's Steam Machine is another daring move to change how we think about gaming hardware. Because it won't be sold at a loss, it won't beat consoles on price alone. But it could still be a great deal compared to building a PC. By making a mid-range device, Valve's trying to find the right mix of being affordable and giving you enough power, just like they did with the Steam Deck.

The idea of a Steam Machine Pro makes things even more interesting. Valve might have different versions of the Steam Machine for different people. But right now, they're focused on making something that most players will enjoy—a device that gives you the power of a PC, the ease of a console, and the special stuff that only Valve can offer.

We still don't know exactly how much it will cost. One thing we know for sure: Valve wants the Steam Machine to be a good deal. They're not trying to cheap out or lose money. They want to give you real value for a good price. In a world where power and cost often don't match up, finding that balance could be what makes the Steam Machine a success.

9.Valve Promises Steam Machine Prices Will Align With Modern PC Standards

**Valve's Steam Machine: Aiming for Fair Prices, Not Under Cutting**

**No Giveaways, Just a Good Deal**

**Timing is Everything**

Griffais did say that things are still early, and the price could change. He said, It's tough to know exactly what the price will be right now because a lot of stuff is up in the air.

Still, the main message is that the Steam Machine won't be a money loser. They want to give you good value if you were going to build a similar PC yourself.

**Aiming for the Middle Ground**

Valve will probably try to do the same thing with the Steam Machine, grabbing a bigger audience of players who want a good living room device without blowing their entire savings on a powerful PC.

**What It Means for Gaming**

What Valve is doing with pricing could have an impact on gaming as a whole:

* **PC Gamer Appeal:** If you're a PC gamer, the Steam Machine makes it easy to get PC gaming in your living room without all the work of building and keeping up a PC.

**In Conclusion**

10.Laptop Expert Shares 49+ Black Friday Deals Worth Buying Without Hesitation

Black Friday's practically here, and the word on the street is that Samsung's about to cut prices. Let’s face it, Samsung stuff is typically A+, but it can be a wallet-drainer. But great news! We might be able to snag some cool tech without going broke. Think about completing your holiday list!

The buzz is we could see around 36% off on a bunch of items, like those awesome gaming monitors, the bendy phones that everyone's eyeing, and even smartwatches that don't suck. If I were you, I'd be digging around to see where these discounts will pop up first. Time to get ready for the treasure hunt!

**Samsung Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor: Huge Screen, Huge Fun!**

So, what's grabbing my attention this year? That bonkers Samsung Odyssey G9. That super-wide 49-inch screen! I found it on Amazon for about $700. Not a bad price, given a pal mentioned it usually goes for almost a grand! That’s some serious savings. If you spend a lot of your time with games, you'll be wanting this screen. It's super wide, has a nice curve to it, and the images are awesome.

The colors are amazing, super rich and bright (but not too much). I remember hearing when the Odyssey G9 first came out, everyone was talking about the colors and how bright it was! The price was a killer. But now, with these early Black Friday deals, there is a chance it may be affordable for everyone!

**Check Out These Other Monitor Deals!**

Samsung's not alone when it comes to monitor deals! There are sales from other vendors as well, so you might even find some better deals. Here's a quick look at some sweet discounts I've spotted:

* Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G80SD 32 4K 240Hz Monitor — $799.99 (was $1,299.99)

* LG UltraGear 32G60WA‑B 32 1440p 180Hz Curved Monitor — $189.00 (was $215.00)

* Alienware AW3225QF 32 4K 240Hz QD‑OLED Monitor — $799.99 (was $1,199.99)

* Asus ROG Strix XG27UCG 27 4K 320Hz IPS Monitor — $349.00 (was $449.00)

* Alienware 27 AW2725DF 1440p 360Hz QD‑OLED Monitor — $549.99 (around $899.99)

* LG UltraGear 27GS93QE 27 1440p 240Hz OLED Monitor — $499.99 (around $899.99)

The monitor speed gives you an advantage for your video gams! Take a peak at each monitor's speed advantage!

**I Can't Believe How Cheap the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Is!**

Phones, you ask about? The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is $1,719.99 on Samsung's website now. Before this it cost $2,200! That's a good deal. Phone reviewers are calling it the best Fold! Big screen, smooth screen, very well built!

The foldable gives you so much! It's like a tablet in your pocket. You can binge videos, play games, or read emails using the big screen. The phone gives you an transition between the standard phone screen and the bigger foldable screen.

Yeah, the Z Fold 7 is high end, but $500 off is a steal! Trading in your old phone can save you even more money. The only option is to shop!

**Smartphone Deals To Drool Over**

Take a quick look at these other deals to consider:

* T‑Mobile — They give away a free iPhone 17 Pro when you trade in an old phone AND sign up for their plan.

* Google Pixel 10 Pro 128GB (Obsidian) — $749.00 (was $999.00)

* Samsung Galaxy S25 FE 128GB (JetBlack) — $474.99 (was $649.99)

* Google Pixel 9 128GB (Obsidian) — $499.00 (used to be $799.00)

* Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 256GB AI Phone — $949.99 (around $1,299.99)

* Motorola Edge 256GB (2024 Model) — $237.49 (around $295.00)

* OnePlus 13 256GB Dual‑Sim (Black Eclipse) — $699.99 (around $899.99)

Phone companies give away HUGE PRICE CUTS! If you like Apple, Google, Samsung, or Motorola, you can find your dream phone here! But don't take forever!

**The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: A Smart AND Cheap Device!**

Watches also get Black Friday discounts! The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra might drop to $550, cheaper than the estimated $650. The screen is amazing, it runs Wear OS, and can charge automatically! Need I provide more reasons?

Even the battery is better! Also, you can use it to track fitness and calls! The Samsung Watch Ultra gives you new health tracking options. At $100 off, buy it!

**Conclusion**

Samsung's known to make amazing tech! Black Friday gives you that PERFECT opportunity to buy it! The Odyssey screens are worth it for the game lover. The Fold 7 and the S25 Ultra are very popular because of their fancy screens. Tech fans will love all of their options!

A bunch of phones will be cheap, be they Android or Apple! Black Friday gives amazing deals! These phones are great and will last a long time!

**To Sum It Up**

Watch out for Samsung during Black Friday 2025! Perhaps a new monitor, watch, or phone can be yours at a good price! Get your list ready!

11.Get Ready to Explore the Jade Abbey in Warhammer Quest: Darkwater This Sunday

Games Workshop just dropped a bunch of cool stuff for Warhammer fans this week. They're hitting all the bases, whether you're into tabletop games, books, or just watching Warhammer TV.

First up, there's a new Warhammer Quest game called Darkwater. Think of it as a dungeon crawler where you and your friends team up to take on the bad guys. This time, you're headed to the Jade Abbey, which is getting trashed by Nurgle's crew. This Gelgus Pust dude is trying to mess with the Everspring, and you gotta stop him with a bunch of heroes.

The game comes with a ton of miniatures, I'm talking 49 push-fit minis. You get seven heroes and a ghost named Wisper to play as, and you'll be fighting Gelgus Pust, Belga the Cystwitch (yikes), Mulgoth the Cleaver, and Shaman Foulhoof. Plus, there's a whole bunch of nasty enemies like Cankerborn (double yikes!), Blight Templars, Pestigors, Pox-Wretches, and Mire Kelpies. With all those baddies, you can play again and again and it'll always be a bit diffrent.

The game itself is easy to get into. You play on a map in a book, and you draw cards to see what happens. There are also dice and tokens and rewards to manage. If you're new to Warhammer Quest, there's a quick-start guide to get you going. And if you want to get into the nitty-gritty , there a bigger book that goes over all the rules. You can play by yourself or with up to three friends, so it's easy to get a game going.

For Age of Sigmar players, they've got Path to Glory: Blighted Wilds. This is a story expansion that keeps the fight going between Nurgle and Alarielle. It's got a bunch of new stuff to play with, like abilities and rewards, and new battle plans. You can choose to side with the good guys and save Thyria, or go full evil and spread Nurgle's gross garden.

You can even make your own terrain piece and come up with your own special units. There are twelve battleplans that tell a story, so you can create your own Warhammer saga, whether you want to be a hero or a villain.

The Black Library is dropping some new books, too. There's Demolisher by Andy Clark, which is a follow-up to Steel Tread. It's about Hadeya Etsul and her tank crew on a crazy world. It sounds like it gets into some cool themes about duty and friendship.

There's also a fancy special edition of Demolisher with a cloth cover and some other cool stuff. And if you just want the regular book, it's coming out in paperback, ebook, and audiobook.

Also, they're putting out The Rise of Nagash, which is a collection of stories about one of the most evil character. If you're into undead lore, this is a must-read.

Lastly, Warhammer TV is wrapping up the season with some specials. There's a new episode of Open Play where they play Warhammer 40,000. The Black Library Book Club is discussing Horus Rising (the first Horus Heresy novel). And there's a trivia show called Brainboyz.

Next week, they're going to be talking more about Darkwater. They also do a special daily reveals and festive surprises. And if you're a fan of Middle-earth, there's some new stuff coming for that, too.

All these announcements show how big Warhammer is. Darkwater is a fun new board game, Blighted Wilds lets you tell your own Age of Sigmar stories, and the Black Library books fill out the lore. Warhammer TV keeps everyone connected and having fun.

Warhammer is more than just a game, it's a whole world you can get lost in. Whether you're painting figures, rolling dice, reading books, or watching shows, there's always something to do.

12.Major Discounts Hit Two Xbox Games Before They’re Removed From Microsoft Store

Black Friday's almost here, which means game deals! But on Xbox this year, there's kind of a weird thing going on. Outright Games – they're the folks who create all those kid-friendly games based on popular kids shows – they said that four of their games are being removed from the Microsoft Store at the end of December in 2025.

The interesting part? They've cut prices on two of those games: *Transformers: Battlegrounds* and *JoJo Siwa: Worldwide Party* – as part of the sales madness. If you're the kind of player who is into keeping a large library of games, or is trying for all the achievements, or even if you just appreciate these shows, this could be your last opportunity to get them before they're gone.

***Why Are These Games Going Away?***

Well, Outright Games mentioned that these four games are going to be removed from digital stores. They didn't say why they are being deleted. The most common reason that the game is taken down is because the paperwork expired. They needed the rights to the character or stories but the deal has probably ended. Without the required legal acceptance to sell the games anymore, they are taken out of circulation. You might be able to find used discs somewhere, though.

It happens all the time, most especially with games that are tied to movies, TV shows, or actors. Your copy will vanish from your digital store if you don't already own a copy or can't find a store with disc copies somewhere. This makes the discount prices important to collectors who want to have these games.

***Transformers: Battlegrounds***

The big, important game here is probably Transformers: Battlegrounds. The version that has all the updated game content has a discount right now, going for only $8.99. This version has all the extras, like the Shattered Spacebridge pack of updates. It has all the fun stuff to do.

Transformers: Battlegrounds is a turn-based, strategy game. It might not be as hard as a game such as XCOM, it is easy to learn and play, mostly if you are a Transformers fan. To get the best gaming experience, you want to buy the complete edition, and it has an awesome pricing of $8.99.

For achievement collectors, now is the time to act. The pack of upgrades they offer can enable you to earn every achievement without having to pay anymore later on. The game is being deleted from the store, so it is now or never when it comes to gaining these achievements.

***JoJo Siwa: Worldwide Party***

The second game on sale is JoJo Siwa: Worldwide Party, costing only $3.99! People play as the main character, JoJo Siwa, travel around, perform in concerts, and play some mini-activities.

The rhythm game is not for everybody but is still a great game for those interested. Despite this downside, it might be worth checking out the game if you like JoJo Siwa, or collect unusual games prior to them being removed from stores. It is a cheap way to include this game in your assortment of great games!

Players have a great chance to gain achievements for their accounts. This discount sale lets a player boost their overall gamer score at an affordable price.

***The Question: Why Aren't All the Games on Sale?***

The main point being, Outright Games are deleting four games, but there's only a sale on two games on Black Friday. Some people might think that is weird, but it is a normal situation. Games that offer the best sales usually have the biggest price reduction in sales. Transformers is a big brand and JoJo Siwa has many fans. Perhaps, sales would not assist the smaller sized games.

Anyone who wants the two games will not be fortunate. If you have any desire to obtain the remaining games, then you might consider buying the games at full price or searching for a used copy.

***Why Games Are Deleted Online***

Deleting games online is occurring more and more. The main reason being that the license deals expire over time. After these deals expire from the online stores, the game has to be taken down right away!

So, does that mean old games are gone? Digital downloads are good ways to conveniently purchase a game. But these games are gone for good once they are taken offline. If the game is not available some way, or on discs, that means some games will be gone forever. This Xbox Black Friday sale is highly important - since it is now or never when it comes down to purchasing these games.

***Alert to Achievement Hunters***

Gamers who collect achievements should have an alert on their phone for when a game is being removed from the stores. Doing so can make earning achievements harder, or impossible. It is possible that you might have to buy an old disc and make sacrifices. So, by buying the digital copy now, everyone can earn the awards today!

Collectors might also seek the possibility of earning money as well. Selling games that are long gone can increase the value of anyone's possession of games, in particular because they are older and no one can find them elsewhere. Because Transformers: Battlegrounds and JoJo Siwa: Worldwide Party are on sale currently, you can benefit from these awesome offers!

***In Summary***

The Xbox Black Friday Sale represents so much more than just a way to earn cheap games. The fact that Outright Games is deleting four of their games is an indication that the licensing deals will not last forever. By placing discounts on Transformers: Battlegrounds and JoJo Siwa: Worldwide Party gives everyone the cheapest price they can get.

The deals will not be around forever, which means, act fast! Those who have an appreciation for Transformers, JoJo Siwa, along with those who collect games, should consider purchasing the games as soon as possible.

13.Anker Slashes Price on 10,000mAh 30W Power Bank to Nearly Nothing

**Anker Zolo Power Bank: Seriously Fast Charging - A Black Friday Bargain!**

Let's be real, power banks are lifesavers these days. We're all glued to our phones, tablets, and whatever else, and running out of juice is a major pain. But finding a good one? That's the tricky part. You see those super cheap ones, and they usually end up being a waste of money. They either die super soon, take forever to charge anything, or basically require you to stay plugged into the wall yourself just to charge the power bank!

That’s why the Anker Zolo really caught my attention. Anker's known for making stuff that lasts and actually works the way it should. They've built up a solid reputation for reliable charging stuff. And right now, for Black Friday, Amazon’s got the Zolo on sale for just 19 bucks! It usually sells for around $25, so that's a pretty sweet drop for something that packs a punch. It’s a solid mix of being cheap and not cheaping out on the features.

**Okay, Let's Talk About That Fast Charging**

The coolest thing about this Zolo power bank is how fast it charges. It’s got a 30W output, which is like, as fast as plugging your phone into the wall! Seriously, most power banks only go up to 15W, which is like watching paint dry when you're trying to get your phone back up to full. With the Zolo, that fancy new iPhone can get to half charged in under half an hour. That’s the same speed you’d get with Apple's own fast charger. A regular 15W power bank would take well over an hour to do the same thing. No thanks!

It’s not just about numbers. It's about, being able to quickly top up your gadgets when you need to. It changes how you think about using a power bank. Instead of stressing about finding a plug and waiting forever, you can just plug in for a few minutes and get a decent charge to keep you going.

**Battery Life: Enough for Your Daily Grind**

Battery size is vital. The Zolo has a 10,000mAh battery. To put it simply, that’ll charge an iPhone twice. Samsung Galaxy? Almost twice. It's more than enough to get you through a day, And if you've got smaller stuff like earbuds, you could charge them like, ten times over. You are set! Maybe weeks if you only used them for your commutes.

It hits a nice balance. Sure, you can get bigger power banks, but they're heavy and bulky. And the tiny ones? They leave you hanging when you need them most. 10,000mAh is perfect for trips, being outdoors, or just keeping in your bag for emergencies. Keeps you stress-free without tiring you out with the extra weight.

**Cable Included! (And It's Not Crap)**

One of the most annoying things about power banks is forgetting the freakin' cable. The Zolo fixes that. It has a USB-C cable built right in! It's always there, ready to go. No more digging around or realizing you left your cable at home.

And the cable itself is pretty tough. Anker says they tested it by bending it 10,000 times. That means it can handle being stuffed in your bag, twisted around, and generally abused! It won't fall apart after a few weeks, like those super cheap cables do.

**Charges Itself Quickly Too**

The Zolo charges your stuff fast, but it also recharges itself pretty quickly. It uses something called bidirectional charging, which basically means the same USB-C port that charges your phone also charges the power bank itself. And it does it at a decent speed. Old power banks could take like, six hours to recharge. The Zolo is much faster, it shouldn't take that long.

That means you can top it up during lunch or whenever you have a short break. You don't have to leave it plugged in overnight. It’s perfect for using every day.

**Small and Easy to Carry**

You want a power bank to be easy to carry around, right? The Zolo is. It's small enough to slip into your pocket, purse, or laptop bag without taking up too much space. You’ll barely notice it's there.

It's light too, lighter than most smartphones. You can carry it around all day without getting tired of it.

**Charge Everything!**

Besides the built-in cable, the Zolo has other ports. It’s got a regular USB-A port, so you can charge older devices and accessories. And it’s got an extra USB-C port for newer phones, tablets, etc.

If you have a bunch of different stuff you need to charge, this is super useful. You can charge your phone with the built-in cable and charge something else with the other ports at the same time.

**Warranty and Support**

Anker gives you an 18-month warranty with the Zolo. If something goes wrong, they'll take care of it. Anker is known for having pretty good customer service.

It’s key. If something messes up, Anker has your back.

**Price and the Competition**

The Zolo is a steal. Other power banks with the same features usually cost way more. And the cheaper ones? They're usually junk. The Zolo gives you fast charging, a decent-sized battery, a built-in cable, and a small design. It’s the best bang for your buck this Black Friday.

If you're tired of power banks that are slow, unreliable, and break easily, the Zolo is the answer. It’s cheap and dependable.

**To Wrap It Up**

The Anker Zolo power bank is what a power bank should be: fast, tough, and simple. It charges as fast as a wall charger. The battery keeps all your stuff charged. The built-in cable is super rugged. And it recharges itself quickly. Plus, it's small, has extra ports, and comes with a warranty.

At \$19 for Black Friday, the Zolo isn't just a good deal, it's just smart. Perfect for anyone.

14.Gaming Mini PC With 16-Core Ryzen AI Max+ 395 ‘Strix Halo’ APU and 96GB RAM Gets $600 Off on Amazon

## GMKtec Evo-X2 Mini PC: Strix Halo Powerhouse on Sale!

Remember those dinky little mini PCs from way back? The ones that were kinda weak and just... weird? Yeah, forget about those. Mini PCs have seriously leveled up. These days, they can actually hang with the big desktop rigs. You get almost the same muscle, but without the giant tower taking up all your desk space and hogging all the energy.

One that really caught my eye is the GMKtec Evo-X2. This thing is built for some serious gaming, running on AMD's brand-new Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Strix Halo APU (try saying that five times fast!). Basically, you're talking about a CPU with 16 cores and a GPU with 40. It can handle just about anything you throw at it, letting you play nearly every game you want to. And guess what? Amazon's selling it for a steal this Black Friday, the cheapest I've ever seen it. Seriously, this is the kind of deal that makes your wallet twitch.

**Black Friday Bargain: $600 Off!**

If you're a Prime member, Amazon's slicing a whopping $600 off the Evo-X2. That brings the price down to $1,639. Price trackers are saying that's the lowest it's ever been. Plus, it's sold directly by GMKtec on Amazon, so you're covered by Amazon's return policy if something goes sideways. Been thinking about getting a mini PC that can handle the heavy lifting? This is your shot to grab one without selling a kidney.

**Zen 5 CPU: Maximum Power!**

So, what's under the hood? That AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU. It's based on their Zen 5 architecture. With 16 cores and 16 threads, the multi-core scores are similar to the Ryzen 9 7945HX3D. It's a chip known for being a beast in gaming laptops. Okay, sure, some speed tests might show Apple's M4 Max edging it out in certain tasks, but it's not by much. For everyday stuff like editing vids, 3D modeling, or even just coding, the Evo-X2 has more than enough juice.

What's crazy cool is that you're getting all that power in such a small package. It's desktop-level performance without the desktop footprint. Makes the Evo-X2 awesome for work, play, or just indulging in some geeky hobbies.

**RDNA 3.5 Graphics: Integrated and Impressive**

But the star of the show is the graphics. The Radeon 8060S iGPU is built on AMD's RDNA 3.5 architecture and rocks 40 compute units. What that boils down to is that it can outrun most low-end graphics cards and even go head-to-head with some mid-range contenders like the NVIDIA RTX 4070 Laptop GPU.

Listen up, gamers! This means you can play recent games without shelling out extra cash for a separate graphics card. Okay, you might not be able to max out all the settings or play in 4K, but the Evo-X2 rips through 1080p (and even 1440p) gaming without breaking a sweat. And if you're a creative type, the GPU also speeds up things such as rendering images and encoding videos. Basically, it's like having a secret weapon for getting things done faster!

**OCuLink and Ports: Room to Expand**

Even though it's tiny, the Evo-X2 is bursting with ways to connect stuff. The coolest thing is the OCuLink port, which lets you plug in external GPUs (eGPUs) for even more graphics horsepower. This is super useful if you want to run games at higher frame rates or you need extra rendering oomph for pro-level work. The Evo-X2 can grow with you!

And check out all these ports:

* Two USB4 ports

* Three USB-A 3.2 ports

* Two USB-A 2.0 ports

* HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 (for connecting monitors)

* SDXC card slot (for cameras, etc.)

* A standard 3.5mm audio jack

With all those choices , you can plug in just about anything – monitors, keyboards, mice. The Evo-X2 is ready for whatever setup you can imagine.

**Memory and Storage Notes**

One minor thing: You can't really upgrade the memory afterward. The Strix Halo APU uses unified memory, meaning the CPU and GPU share the same memory pool. This boosts speed, but you need to lock in the amount you want when you buy it.

The top-end Evo-X2 has 96 GB of memory, which is probably overkill for most people. If you don't need that much, GMKtec also sells a version with 64 GB of memory and a 2 TB SSD for $1,614 during the sale. On the bright side, the 1 TB SSD for storage can be swapped out, so you can always add more space down the line if you need it.

**Cooling and Design**

Mini PCs can run hot , but the Evo-X2 uses two fans to keep its cool. According to testers, it does a solid job. That's great if you're gaming or working in a quiet space.

Looks-wise, the Evo-X2 sports that smooth, minimalist vibe common with mini PCs. The small footprint means you can stick it just about anywhere – on your desk, in the living room, or even take it on the road.

**Mini PCs in the Future: They're Here to Stay**

The Evo-X2 is hitting the scene at a time when mini PCs are really taking off. With better APUs (that CPU/GPU combo) and integrated graphics, the gap between these small computers and regular desktops is narrowing fast. A lot of everyday users like them because they don't pull as much power, run as hot, or take up as much space, while still delivering solid performance.

GMKtec's been building a strong name for doing impressive mini PCs. The Evo-X2 keeps that moving by pair AMD's tech with design, and plenty of ports.

**Is the Evo-X2 Right for You?**

The Evo-X2 is killer for:

* Gamers who want a compact machine that can play recent games without needing a graphics card

* Creative pros who need a powerful CPU and GPU for tasks such as video editing and 3D creation

* Techies who are excited about the OCuLink port and options for external graphics cards

* Folks who want a good-looking, portable PC

At this Black Friday price, the Evo-X2 is a fantastic deal, mainly when compare to gaming desktop and gaming laptops.

**Final Verdict**

The GMKtec Evo-X2 shows just how far mini PCs have progressed. With its AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Strix Halo APU, you're getting both a fast CPU and a strong GPU in one tiny package. All that together with features such as OCuLink , good cooling, and plenty of ports. This thing can game, do work, and create .

At $1,639 during Amazon's Black Friday sale (the lowest price ever!), the Evo-X2 isn't just a good deal. It's proving that mini PCs are legit! If you want a powerful computer without a big and bulky tower, this needs to be at the top of your list.

15.Steam Machine Pricing Tweaked to Fit Today’s PC Market, Valve Confirms

**Valve Talks Steam Machine Pricing**

So, Valve finally spoke a little bit about how much their Steam Machine is going to cost.

Earlier this month, Valve showed off their new gaming stuff. The Steam Machine is kind of the star – it's like a combo of a console and a PC. You can hook it up to your TV and play PC games like you would on a console, or you can use it like a regular computer. The one thing they didn't mention was price.

Lawrence Yang and Pierre-Loup Griffais from Valve finally talked about this. They steered clear of giving an exact number, but they did say the Steam Machine's price will probably be what you'd expect if you’re shopping for a PC.

The Valve guys were chatting on the Friends Per Second podcast when someone brought up the cost. Griffais mentioned that if you were to build a PC yourself with similar parts and performance, that's roughly the price range they're going for.

He added that they're trying to make it a really good value for consumers, and they're still figuring out all the pricing details.

Someone asked if the Steam Machine would be sold cheap. The Valve dev explained that it's intended to match typical PC prices, and that their goal is a good deal. He went further, pointing out that the Steam Machine has a few features that are a pain to replicate if you build your own gaming PC. He mentioned that the small size and quietness are pretty impressive. People will be surprised how silent it is.

There are also some special features, like HDMI-CEC (which is to turn on your TV). Plus, powering the machine on from the controller. Hitting a button on your controller is an feature that you don't realize matters until you are sitting on the sofa and want to turn everything on with a click.

Griffais finished by saying that some people will always want to build PCs. But the Steam Machine should give users a solid base to start from, with some tech that's not simple to put together on your own.

Later in the conversation, Griffais hinted that Valve might eventually make a Steam Machine Pro, but they’re currently concentrating on this version, as it balances cost and power quite well.

You can catch the whole podcast.

Valve's new Steam hardware is coming out next year, but you’ll have to keep waiting for an exact release date. and Valve will sell the stuff themselves, just like they did with the Steam Deck.

Also, Rhys Elliott, market analyst at Alinea Analytics, shared that a good price will be key in how the Steam Machine is seen. A price could make people think it’s just some expensive PC, but that it could be successful as an at-home gaming option.

He believes a $400 price with a controller would be great. That would put pressure on the console companies that have been raising prices.

If you wanna know more, check out our previews of Valve's stuff: the Steam Machine (a mini PC for gaming on your couch), the Steam Frame (a VR headset that plays Steam games), and the Steam Controller (a gamepad with touch controls).

16.Black Friday Deal: $250 Off Lenovo Legion Go S Z1 Extreme Handheld Gaming PC

## GMKtec Evo-X2 Mini PC: Strix Halo - Now On Sale!

Remember those older mini PCs? The kind that were a bit weak and, well, quirky? Forget them. Mini PCs have seriously jumped up a level. Now, they can almost match proper desktop computers. You get almost the same amount of power, but without a huge tower hogging desk space and eating up electricity.

The GMKtec Evo-X2 caught my eye. It’s built for gaming, using AMD’s new Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Strix Halo APU (try saying that quickly!). It has a CPU with 16 cores and a GPU with 40. It should play almost any game you want. And right now, Amazon has it on sale for Black Friday. It's the cheapest I’ve ever watched it go. Seriously, this is a deal that makes you think.

**Black Friday Deal: $600 Off!**

If you have Amazon Prime, you can get $600 off the Evo-X2. That makes it $1,639. According to price trackers, this is about as low as it gets. It’s being sold by GMKtec on Amazon, so you have Amazon's return policy if anything goes haywire. If you've thought about a mini PC that can do some serious work, here's a chance to grab one without having to spend huge money.

**Zen 5 CPU: Serious Power!**

So, what's inside? The AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU. It's based on Zen 5 tech. With 16 cores and 16 threads, its multi-core ability is close to the Ryzen 9 7945HX3D. That chip has a reputation for being great in gaming laptops. Okay, Apple's M4 Max might be a bit faster in some tests, but not by much. For normal stuff like editing videos, 3D designing, or writing code, the Evo-X2 has enough power.

What’s wild is all that power in a small box. It’s desktop power, but tiny. The Evo-X2 is great for work, fun, or geeky projects.

**RDNA 3.5 Graphics: Amazing and Integrated**

The best part is the graphics. The Radeon 8060S iGPU uses AMD’s RDNA 3.5 tech and has 40 compute units. It's faster than most low-end graphics cards and can compete with some mid-range cards like the NVIDIA RTX 4070 Laptop GPU.

Gamers, take note! It means you can play games without buying a separate graphics card. You can’t always crank up the settings or play in 4K, but the Evo-X2 handles 1080p (and even 1440p) gaming well. If you like being creative, the GPU will also make jobs like rendering images and encoding videos faster. Think of it as a secret weapon for doing stuff quicker!

**OCuLink and Ports: Places to Plug In Extra Things**

The Evo-X2 has many ways to connect things. The coolest thing is the OCuLink port, so can add external GPUs (eGPUs) for even better graphics. This helps if you want faster frame rates or more power for professional work. The Evo-X2 has room to grow!

Look at all these ports:

* Two USB4 ports

* Three USB-A 3.2 ports

* Two USB-A 2.0 ports

* HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 (for monitors)

* SDXC card slot (for cameras)

* A normal 3.5mm audio jack

You can plug in almost anything – monitors, keyboards, mice. The Evo-X2 is ready for any setup.

**Memory and Notes about Storage**

Something to note: You can't upgrade the memory later. The Strix Halo APU shares its memory between the CPU and GPU. This makes things faster, but you need to choose how much you want when you purchase.

The most expensive Evo-X2 has 96 GB of memory, which is more than enough for many folks. If you don't need that much, GMKtec sells a version with 64 GB of memory and a 2 TB SSD for $1,614 during the sale. You can replace the 1 TB SSD for storage, which means you can add more space later if needed.

**Cooling and How It Looks**

Mini PCs can get hot, but the Evo-X2 has two fans to stay cool. According to some people who testing it, it works pretty well. This matters if you want to game quietly or work in a silent space.

The Evo-X2 has a smooth, simple look like most mini PCs. It's small, so it fits anywhere – on your desk, in the living room, or even when you travel.

**Mini PCs in the near Future: They're popular!**

The Evo-X2 appears as mini PCs become more popular. With better APUs (CPU/GPU combos) and graphics, the difference between these small computers and normal desktops is getting smaller every day. Many find them appealing because they are more energy efiicient, stay pretty cool, and don't hog as much space, but still give good ability.

GMKtec has been building a good reputation for its mini PCs. The Evo-X2 adds to that by pairing AMD’s tech with a thoughtful design and all those ports.

**Is the Evo-X2 good for your usage?**

The Evo-X2 is great for:

* Gamers who want a small machine that plays new games without needing a graphics card

* Creative people who want a powerful CPU and GPU for things like video editing and 3D modeling

* Tech fans who like the OCuLink port and the choice of adding external graphics cards

* People who need a nice-looking, portable PC

At this Black Friday price, the Evo-X2 is a great value, especially when you consider gaming desktops and laptops.

**The last summary**

The GMKtec Evo-X2 an example of how far mini PCs have come. With its AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Strix Halo APU, you get a fast CPU and a strong GPU in one small package. Add in things like OCuLink, good cooling, and many ports, and you can use it for gaming, working, and being creative.

At $1,639 during Amazon’s Black Friday sale (the cheapest price ever!), the Evo-X2 is more than just a bargain. It proves that mini PCs are for real! If you need a powerful computer without a big tower, put this high on your list.

17.Laptop Expert Recommends 51+ Black Friday Deals You Can Buy With Confidence

**Lenovo Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme, SteamOS): Is this the Steam Deck's Doom?**

So, these handheld gaming PCs just exploded in popularity, right? Valve's Steam Deck kinda of showed everyone that you could chill on the couch and play your PC games. Now, Lenovo has entered the game with the Legion Go S. It's not some half-hearted attempt; it looks like they put some real work into it. Everyone's excited about the version with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip. People say it could be the most powerful handheld out there, and with SteamOS running it, it is a direct rival to the Steam Deck.

**Ryzen Z1 Extreme: Seriously, This Thing is Strong**

What makes the Legion Go S special? It all begins with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme. It is a big jump up from the regular Ryzen Z1. It even beats what's inside the Steam Deck. You can expect quick speed, many cores, and great graphics. Basically, it's strong. This means you can have smooth gameplay, quick load times, and you can boost the graphics settings on games that just aren't playable on other handhelds.

With the Z1 Extreme, you can play the latest games without issues, and playing classic games through something like an emulator is easy. If you want to stop turning the graphics settings down all the time, the Z1 Extreme is the obvious choice.

**So Much Memory and Storage**

The chip is not the only thing, though. Lenovo didn't hold back with this Legion Go S. They put in 32GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. You can do a lot with that memory, like stream games, keep games running in the background, or switch quickly between titles. And with 512GB, you can load up plenty of games. If you somehow run out, there's a spot for microSD cards.

Because most other products lack this amount of memory and space, it means it's worth the price.

**SteamOS: Smart Move, Lenovo**

The Legion Go S runs SteamOS, not the Windows found on some devices. The interface is clean and designed just for gaming. You can jump straight into your Steam library, access cloud saves, get controller support... basically, all the basics.

SteamOS is what may push the Legion Go S past the Steam Deck in terms of performance. The OS is simple, which means it doesn't use a lot of resources on the hardware and works well with Steam.

**Screen: Bigger, Clearer, Faster**

Now let's talk about the screen! The Legion Go S has an 8-inch, 1200p display. That is a definite plus. You get more screen than the Steam Deck. The resolution is high, so everything looks sharp, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth.

Because this screen runs faster than the Steam Deck, the Legion Go S feels much smoother. If you play competitively, this could potentially increase your chance of winning.

**Battery and Charging Performance**

The battery life is like what you would assume when purchasing the Steam Deck based on its size and output. Luckily, the charging speed is not like other devices. The device charges now support 100W, meaning it charges back to full real quick. With the matching charger, you can plug it in and be back to your game quickly.

**What the Critics Are Saying**

IGN’s Jacqueline gave it a 9/10, stating that the product has the latest tech in the latest market. She mentioned that this product could replace the Steam Deck! She also keeps saying that the product excels in hardware and screen quality. The device is not without faults. But these issues are small compared to what the device can do.

**Where to Buy and What to Know**

If you're trying to buy the Legion Go S, check IGN's Deals team. The deals team has a knack for locating the best prices among the stores. You can also subscribe to the IGN Deals Newsletter!

The manager Eric Song is a guru on discounts.

**In Conclusion**

The Lenovo Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme, SteamOS model) does a lot of things well. It brings strong hardware, a lot of memory and storage, a crisp 120Hz screen, and great portability. It beats the Steam Deck in almost every area. This makes it a great choice if you are looking for a high-end handheld.

18.Black Friday Deal: $250 Off Lenovo Legion Go S Z1 Extreme Handheld Gaming PC

These handheld gaming PCs are really taking off, huh? Valve's Steam Deck totally showed that you could have that sweet console experience, but with all the freedom of PC gaming – and take it anywhere! Now, Lenovo's joined the party with the Legion Go S, and man, does it look good. It's packing some serious power and the design seems really well thought out. That model with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip? People are saying it's one of the most powerful handhelds around. And get this: it's running a SteamOS client, so it's going right up against the Steam Deck.

Let's get into that Ryzen Z1 Extreme.

Seriously, this thing is the core of the Legion Go S, and it's a monster. It's way stronger than both the Ryzen Z2 Go and even the Steam Deck's custom chip. We're talking faster performance, more cores, and way better built-in graphics. So what does that mean when you play? Games run more fluidly, loading times are faster, and you can play demanding games on a handheld with good visual settings.

A lot of people didn't love the Z2 Go, but the Z1 Extreme is a total upgrade. It can run top-tier, modern games well without struggling, and it's still great for indie games and even playing older console games with emulation. Point is, if you want a handheld that doesn't force you to miss the smooth gameplay, the Z1 Extreme is the one. It just feels more capable than other hand held consoles.

But wait, there’s more than the chip.

Lenovo loaded the Legion Go S with like, a huge amount of RAM(32GB) and half a terabyte(512GB) of storage. That's a ton! Because of all the memory, you can do tons of stuff at the same time: open apps, stream your gameplay, switch between games – it won't slow down. And don't get me start on the storage? There's so much space that you can saves a bunch of games here. If you somehow use it all up (that would take awhile), you can stick in a microSD card and have even more.

Other handhelds often give you either half of the memory or a smaller drive, so Lenovo really didn't hold back. If you want something that'll still feel quick and responsive in a couple of years, this is a good sign. That means they planned ahead.

Here's something I really like: it uses The SteamOS.

Some other handhelds make you use Windows, it's annoying for portable gaming. Since this Legion Go S is using SteamOS, created by Valve as well, you'll be able to play games. Which means you'll have an interface that's built for games, easy to get your games from Steam, cloud saves and controller support.

The big cool upside?

SteamOS actually helps the Legion Go S do better than the Steam Deck in most games. The operating system is efficient, so nothing slows down, and it plays well with most games on Steam. The portability makes it easy to bring your games anywhere. If you're into the Steam world, it’s easy to get a hold of this handheld.

Let’s look at the screen!

What makes this unique is the big screen: a 1200p display at 8 inches in size. It's bigger than the Steam Deck's screen, bringing space to your games. The resolution makes things sharp, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes movement smooth, when you play fast-paced games or just watch the cutscenes.

The Steam Deck has a 60Hz screen, so the Legion Go S feels more responsive. The Legion, if your someone competitive will have you at a faster edge because of it. The Z1 Extreme's together with the graphics makes it an amazing combo, with your games will look good and more responsive.

The battery holds around the same as the Steam Deck.

That's okay, especially with the parts it carries. While Lenovo did something smart creating it to to charge fast as much as it can. The Legion Go S charges up to 100W of power, allowing it to regain energy faster than other handhelds. You can quickly have it running during breaks for you to get back to gaming quickly, using a good charger.

What do the critics say?

People who tried the product are impressed with it, like the reviewer from IGN. They gave it a 9/10, calling it among the best handheld console. It was also said that it’s a great alternative for the Steam Deck. The one who did the review explained that he was impressed with the parts inside, a great screen, and a created layout. While nothing is like your expectations, the Legion Go S really impressed the reviewer for how reliable it is and how comfortable it feels.

If your thinking about buying one...

The IGN Deals are always open for sale and the pre-order info. They've worked for a long time, knowing where stores holds big price cuts. you can be getting info by signing up for them.

Eric Song is in charge of making big deals at the IGN for helping gamers get the best sales. He does his job because it's about having passion for things at good prices.

All in all...

The Lenovo Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme, SteamOS model) shows that handheld gaming PCs have gone for a leap. With memory, a good screen, and charging, it makes it a lot more better than the Deck. With it still being easy to hold and simple, it proves to be a really good choice for gaming.

19.These 7 AI Chatbots Are Winning Over Users Compared to ChatGPT

OpenAI didn't exactly invent AI chatbots, but ChatGPT totally blew them up in popularity, right? When ChatGPT-3.5 dropped in November 2022, that's really when regular folks started paying attention to this generative AI stuff. Suddenly, anyone could play around with these crazy smart language models that could chat like a human. You could ask it anything—even those super embarrassing questions you'd never ask a real person. And it went viral! Within a few months, ChatGPT had over 100 million users every month. That's seriously fast growth for any software out there. But of course, OpenAI wasn't the only one in the game for long. Within half a year, Google rushed out Bard (which they later renamed Gemini), Anthropic launched Claude, and Meta dropped LLaMA.

For a lot of people, ChatGPT was the first time they actually talked to an AI. The name became synonymous with AI itself, and it's still the biggest chatbot worldwide. That's why it was kind of shocking that in a recent study by some British folks at Prolific, ChatGPT only came in eighth place. Seriously? Some other chatbots beat it, too. ChatGPT usually does better in other tests. But Prolific thinks those other tests weren't measuring what people actually care about. So, they built their own test, called Humaine. Basically, they said that most AI tests are too technical and don't really reflect what users want.

What do folks actually want? The study found that we want chatbots that get what we're saying, don't get lost if the conversation changes gears, give answers that make sense, and tell the truth. Pretty simple, right?

What did the study find?

You can easily see the Humaine results on Prolific's page. As I write this, here are the top models:

1. Gemini 2.5 Pro (Google)

2. DeepSeek v3 (DeepSeek)

3. Magistral Medium (Mistral AI)

4. Grok 4 (xAI)

5. Grok 3 (xAI)

6. Gemini 2.5 Flash (Google)

7. DeepSeek R1 (DeepSeek)

8. ChatGPT-4.1 (OpenAI)

9. Gemma (Google)

10. Gemini 2.0 Flash (Google)

These scores came from people who compared two chatbots side-by-side. They rated the chatbots on a few things. First, they looked at how well it answered questions and seemed to know what it was supposed to do. Then, they looked at how smooth and adaptable the conversation felt. Back in the day, chatbots had trouble remembering what you just said. But now, AI is much better at keeping things going, so it feels more human.

They also considered how clearly the chatbot communicated. What about its personality? Some chatbots (like ChatGPT) have been called out for being too kiss-uppy, but nobody wants a chatbot that sounds like a robot. Lastly, and this is a big one, they looked at trust, ethics, and safety. Did the chatbot give answers that seemed honest and trustworthy? Did it say anything that was unethical or dangerous?

Why should ChatGPT perform well?

So, why did ChatGPT do so badly? It’s super popular, and there's a ton of activity on it. It has around 800 million active users every week! ChatGPT alone makes up 48% of all chatbot use. The other chatbots don’t come close.

Also, the OpenAI chatbots were tested the most in the Humaine stuff. Out of the 28 models, nine came from OpenAI. Plus, it usually does well in other studies. For example, ChatGPT aced the Italian entrance test for healthcare degrees.

ChatGPT's currently high up on a popular platform that ranks models based on people's tests. Prolific thinks that this ranking doesn't tell the full story. In its explanation of the Humaine study, it talks about how these results were often skewed to favor the big AI companies. This is what Prolific wanted to fix with its test.

What made the Humaine study different?

It can be easy for big tech find ways to rig these kinds of rankings. To fix this, Prolific set up the Humaine framework. The test featured real people using two different chatbots to rank which one was better. These users could talk about whatever they wanted. That way, they could understand the usefulness of the responses.

For each test, there was 1 point scored for win and 0.5 for a tie. Gemini-2.5-Pro's score is 18.75, this means that it was ranked higher than the other model. All 28 models used between 1,400 and 2,300 tests.

There were people from different groups to make sure the results were accurate. This showed how the results were different depending on their age.

Gemini wins!

The Humaine study found that Google's Gemini-2.5-Pro is the best AI chatbot. Four Google models scored high. The Humaine study and other reasoning tests have found that Google's models are at the top of the list.

China’s DeepSeek comes in at second.

Two DeepSeek models were tested. In January 2025, DeepSeek was downloaded the most from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. Today, its traffic is at its peak.

A French model from Mistral AI came in at third.

Mistral AI is one of the most successful companies from France. Two versions of the chatbot were tested, but one scored higher than the other.

Models from xAI's Grok came in at fourth and fifth.

The xAI Grok models in this study scored high from those who ranked them for trust, ethics, and safety.

Some chatbots did worse than ChatGPT

It's interesting that ChatGPT would get eighth. There were some other named brands that did way worse than OpenAI in Humaine. Despite scoring well from others, Anthropic Claude came in at 11th.

The Meta Llama chatbots did bad. Meta promised good results from Llama 4, but it didn't work. There were also some other chatbots that landed at the bottom.

We don't know why some of the AI Chatbots were not there from Prolific's list.

How valuable is this?

This is an ongoing study. The findings could change when the models get upgraded. It is an important study about people's needs. It's about connection. How does the model respond?

OpenAI's still successful. But it shows that the biggest names can't do that well with other chatbots.

Here's the good news! Prolific gave ChatGPT the Most Proactive trophy. Still, Gemini got all four awards.

20.The Fish Sperm Facial Craze That’s Turning Dermatology Upside Down

Skip the usual stuff like Botox for a sec – everyone's talking about this wild, new beauty secret. It involves injections with, wait for it, stuff from salmon and trout sperm. Yep, you heard right! Online, peeps are calling them salmon sperm facials. The whole idea? To make your skin look younger and fresher, but in a natural way. I've heard some famous faces, like Charli XCX and Jennifer Aniston, are into it, and that has made it like, a thing. So, what's the deal?

These injections, which are called polynucleotide, or PN, treatments, use cleaned-up bits of DNA from fish sperm. The point is to nudge your skin cells into making collagen and elastin — the stuff that keeps your skin firm and bouncy. That means, fillers just plump up wrinkles, but PNs are supposed to get your skin working on its own repairs. They're big news in Europe and Asia. I even saw this story on TV where this lady, Emily Thomas, said the shots felt like little bee stings. Yikes!

So, how does fish sperm become a beauty treatment? Great question!

Polynucleotides are just little bits of DNA. They take them from the sperm sacs of salmon or trout. It's basically a leftover from fish farms, which is kind of strange. Turns out, fish DNA is surprisingly similar to ours – like, around 75%. That's good news because it means you probably won't have a bad reaction. There was this study that said people who got PN injections had way more collagen in their skin afterward compared to those who didn't. Pretty cool, huh?

Turning fish sperm into injectable stuff is a bit of a process. They clean it all up, making it super small, sterilize it, and test it to be sure it's safe. Companies in Italy and South Korea are the main ones doing this. The good part is, the only problems reported are some redness and swelling. That usually goes away pretty fast. Seems safer than the horror stories you hear about Botox reactions!

Still, not everyone's sold. The FDA here in the U.S. hasn't said yes to PN injections yet, even though some creams with similar ingredients are popping up. But in Europe and Korea, these shots are approved. The only thing is, we don't know a lot about what happens way down the line. That's something to keep in mind.

Why the sudden hype about fish sperm facials?

Most of it boils down to celebs. Charli XCX mentioned using PN injections for her skin, and Jennifer Aniston said she'd tried a salmon sperm facial in a magazine. That’s all it took. A lot of it is also that people are posting their experiences online. That gets people interested!

After people did a story calling moved over fillers-people are now getting facial injections derived from fish sperm, things got wild. I listened a clinic say polynucleotides are your skin instructions to get corrected. Clinics got super busy. Now, these treatments aren't cheap – think $500 to $1,500 per session. Plus, you need a few sessions to actually see results.

Some beauty pros think this might be a game changer. People are getting away from just smoothing wrinkles and aiming for naturally good skin. One dermatologist said people were after treatments that actually give results that stick around.

Does this stuff actually work? I am glad you asked !

There are some research out there that looks to point to yes. A Study mentioned that people who got PN treatments had elastic skin compared to those with hyaluronic acid injections. Plus, the effects of the first treatment seems to stick longer than others. Also another study seems to suggest were happy with there were improvement from acne scars.

It has come known apparent that PNs will work when getting stuff inside your skin to ramp up collagen production. But, they are still saying we need studies, especially for people with different skin before we can be certain. So we need more to prove our confirmation.

The main thing is, PN is pretty cheap to make. Some companies are trying to get the FDA's approval so they can sell it here.

So, what’s the downside? What could go wrong?

PN injections are normal oversea. Other places are getting this product that has similar ingredient to fish sperm. The FDA mentioned to not buy stuff from outside of the country because it can be hazardous. Makes total sense!

The demand for fixing the human body is going to go up in a few years.

Okay, last words: Fish sperm facials, good or bad?

Bad reactions don't happen often to people. Most people who got injected had a bruise. If you have an allergy to fish, you will have to get check. You also have to get recurring injections to keep your face elastic.

A few people who got said facial are raving about the improvement to there face. One expert has mentioned if you combine it with lasers it will glow.

There also topical creams that people can buy that give you similar effects. They are not as strong as the injections. However, PN tends to come with less swelling.

In the future, scientists might start implementing the material into a lab. They have started using them to help heal peoples wounds and hair loss.

Does the idea of getting shot up seem off or weird? It is like the starting point of getting your face corrected by working on the inside. Interesting, right?

21.Next Month Marks the Delayed Arrival of OnePlus 15R

OnePlus has been pretty busy this year, right? They already dropped the OnePlus 15, the high-end phone, earlier this month. People were talking about how long the battery lasts and how good it looks. But a lot of us were wondering, Hey, what about that cheaper OnePlus 15R? Where's that thing? I was one of them, it was suppose to be released at the same time.

Well, good news! OnePlus just let everyone know that the 15R is coming out on December 17th. And it's not just the phone – they're also showing off the OnePlus Pad Go 2 (that's their next affordable tablet) and the OnePlus Watch Lite. Basically, they're trying to get you to buy into their whole system of phones, tablets, and watches. Smart move on their part.

**The OnePlus 15R: Tough on a Budget**

So, the 15R is supposed to be the cheaper version of the OnePlus 15. It's for people who want a phone that works well and can take a beating, but don't want to spend a ton of money. OnePlus hasn't told us everything about the specs yet, but they've been talking about how tough this phone is.

Get this: it's got IP66, IP68, IP69, AND IP69K ratings. That's a lot of numbers! What it means is that this thing can handle dust, being underwater, and even getting sprayed with high-pressure water. Seriously, it sounds like one of the toughest phones out there this year. If you work outside a lot, travel a lot, or are just clumsy, this could be a big deal.

They've showed off what colors it will be available in, but they're keeping the rest a secret for now. We don't know how big the battery is, what kind of processor it has, or what the cameras are like. But since the OnePlus 15 is all about having a long battery life, it's a good bet the 15R will be too.

**When Can You Get It? Maybe Not Right Away...**

Okay, so the 15R is being announced on December 17th for everyone, but whether you can actually buy it in the United States right away is another question. Remember that government shutdown that was happening? Well, it's slowed down the process of getting the OnePlus 15 approved by the FCC (that's the government agency that has to give the okay). So, the OnePlus 15 still isn't out in the US yet.

That means the 15R might not be available in America until sometime next year. It shows you how complicated it is to launch a phone all over the world. People in Europe and India will probably get the 15R sooner, but US buyers might have to wait. That could be a problem for OnePlus since the US is a really competitive market.

**OnePlus Pad Go 2: Tablet Time**

Let's talk about the tablet. The OnePlus Pad Go 2 is coming out, and it's the next version of their cheaper tablet. The big thing is that it'll have 5G. That means you can use it to get on the internet even when you don't have Wi-Fi. That's perfect if you're traveling or just want to use it in the park.

Another cool thing is that they're including a stylus (that's like a pen for the screen). That makes it easier to take notes, draw, or just get around the screen. It sounds like they're trying to make it good for students, people who work, and people who just want to have fun. 5G connectivity is the key here.

We don't know all the specs yet, but it sounds like OnePlus is trying to give you a lot for your money with this tablet. Apple's iPads obviously have the high-end market cornered, and Samsung's Galaxy Tabs have a bunch of different options. OnePlus is trying to find a spot in the middle with tablets that are affordable but still good.

**OnePlus Watch Lite: Only in Europe (For Now)**

The last thing they're announcing is the OnePlus Watch Lite. This is a cheaper smartwatch, and it's only coming out in Europe – at least at first.

That probably means OnePlus wants to see if people buy it before they release it everywhere. It will probably track your fitness, show you notifications, and do basic smartwatch things, but it'll be cheaper than the regular OnePlus Watch. If you're in Europe and you want to get into the OnePlus system, this is an easy way to do it, and it goes well with their phones and tablets.

**What It All Means for OnePlus**

All of this shows that OnePlus is trying to build a whole system of devices. If you have a OnePlus phone, they want you to buy their tablet and watch too. It makes sense because if everything works together well, you're more likely to stick with the same brand.

The 15R is also important because it lets OnePlus sell to more people. The OnePlus 15 is for people who want the best and are willing to pay for it, but the 15R makes sure that people who are on a budget can still get a OnePlus phone. The fact that it's so tough also makes it different from other phones in that price range.

**What It Means for You**

So, what does this all mean for you, the person who might buy these things?

* If you buy the 15R, you're getting a phone that can handle a lot of abuse and probably won't cost you a fortune.

* If you buy the Pad Go 2, you're getting a tablet with 5G and a pen, which should make it good for doing work or just having fun.

* If you're in Europe and you buy the Watch Lite, you're getting a cheap way to track your fitness and get notifications.

The big question mark is when you'll actually be able to buy these things. If you're in the US, you might have to wait because of the government. But if you're in Europe or India, you'll probably be able to get them sooner.

**In short:**

The OnePlus 15R, Pad Go 2, and Watch Lite are all coming out soon, and it shows that OnePlus is serious about making phones, tablets, and watches. They're trying to give you good value for your money and make devices that all work well together.

Even though there might be some delays in the US, the fact that they're launching these things all over the world shows that OnePlus wants to compete with the big boys in not just phones, but tablets and watches too. If you're a fan of OnePlus or just looking for a new device, this is an announcement to look forward to and keep your tabs open.

22.Don’t Miss These Apple Black Friday Deals Happening Now

**Apple Black Friday 2025: Sweet Deals on MacBooks, iPads, AirPods, and More!**

So, Black Friday is here again, and you know what that means – time to snag some awesome deals on the stuff you've been wanting all year! If you're an Apple fan, you're in luck. Apple doesn't usually do a lot of direct price cuts themselves, but the big stores like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are picking up the slack with some seriously good deals on pretty much all the Apple goodies. We're talking MacBooks, iPads, AirPods, Apple Watches – the whole shebang. Seriously, some of these are the lowest prices we've seen in a minute, so if you're thinking about upgrading your gear or getting some holiday shopping done early, now's probably the time to do it.

**AirTags: Never Lose Your Stuff Again (Without Breaking the Bank)**

Okay, AirTags are super handy, right? Those little trackers are perfect for anyone who tends to misplace stuff. Well, guess what? Right now, they're cheaper than ever. You can grab a single AirTag for just $17 (originally $29), or a four-pack for $64. The four-pack had cost $119 before. These things work seamlessly with Apple’s Find My app, so finding your keys, bag, or even your luggage is a breeze.

Imagine this: you're rushing through the airport, and boom, you can see exactly where your bag is at any time using your phone. Also, picture someone who always misplaces their keys? Bam, find them in seconds with the app on their phone. These AirTags would make for super useful and practical Christmas gifts.

**iPads: Get a Great Tablet Without Spending a Fortune**

Want a new tablet? Apple's iPad lineup has some nice price drops this year. Check this out: The regular iPad 11-inch (the one with the A16 chip) is on sale for $279 at Amazon. Usually, this thing sells for $349, so it is a pretty good deal. It's got a speedy A16 chip, a generous 128GB of storage, and the battery can last 11 hours. It's a solid choice for most people.

Now, if you're a pro, then you might be interested in this deal: The iPad Pro M5 13-inch is down to $1,199. It used to be $1,299. This beast has Apple's latest M5 processor, a crazy-good Ultra Retina XDR OLED screen, and top-of-the-line cameras. If you do design work, edit videos, or just need to juggle a bunch of apps at once, this iPad is the way to go. It's basically desktop performance in a tablet. So it is portable as well, just grab it in your hand and walk when you need to go somewhere.

**Mac Mini: Small Size, Big Power**

Need a new computer but don't want a big, bulky tower? The Mac mini M4 is on sale for $479 at Amazon, down from $599. It's got Apple's M4 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, so it packs a punch in a tiny package. And it's got plenty of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet.

The reviews have been pretty great. A lot of people have been suggesting a Mac Mini for a while know, it is a cheaper solution for a Mac based PC. These tiny PCs have had decent reception, now with the discount, they are selling quickly, which is expected.

**MacBook Air: Light, Sleek, and Easy on the Wallet**

MacBook Airs are perennially great laptops, and this year, the discounts make them even more tempting. The MacBook Air 13-inch (with the M2 chip and 256GB of storage) is going for $649 at Best Buy, which is a steal since it used to be $799. It's super thin, has a beautiful Liquid Retina display, and the battery life is great. It's a fantastic all-around laptop.

If you want the newest model, the MacBook Air 13-inch with the M4 chip is priced at $749 on Amazon, a $250 drop from $999. You can get the 16GB/512GB model for $949, or the 24GB/512GB model for $1,149. Pretty nuts huh? The bigger MacBook Air 15-inch (M4/256GB) is also on sale, costing about $949. This is cheaper and is a bigger screen than their competitors.

**MacBook Pro: For the Serious Users**

Need a laptop to handle heavy-duty tasks? The MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5/512GB) is marked down to $1,441 from its original $1,599. It's got Apple's M5 chip, killer graphics, and a cooling system that keeps it from overheating. So, it does not matter if you edit 4K video, write code, or run simulations, it can perform all tasks.

**AirPods: Wireless Sound Deals**

Looking for new earbuds? The AirPods are on sale! The AirPods (4th generation) have dropped from $129 to $79. They have pretty good noise cancelling function, and they are a great entry point.

The AirPods Pro 2 are going for $139 at Walmart, their original prices are $249, which is a better deal than the AirPods. They pack really good Sound and active noise cancellation. The newer AirPods Pro 3 are slashed slightly less, from $249 to $219 on Amazon. They have enhanced battery life, along with better noise cancelling and improved comfort. For audiophiles, who wish to spend more, the AirPods Max have dropped in price from $549 to $429.

**Apple Watches: Style and Function**

If you're trying to get into the app ecosystem, or want a great alternative to your phone. The Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS/40mm) is only for $199, its OG price was $249. Now that's a steal. If you need some advanced features, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 has dropped to £719. Its original price was £749, so don't expect much here. Expect rugged durability and longer battery life.

**iPhones: Check with Your Carrier**

You will always want to check with your carrier when getting a discount, as Best Buy gives a $50 price reduction to its iPhone 16 model. Activating the phone to AT&T will give it's prices down from $729 to $679. Although it might be one gen old already, it offers a dual-camera performance and will provide you with access to iOS 26. So you aren't out completely, and it will support new app releases.

**UK Deals: Some Solid Savings**

The UK are seeing price reductions as well. AirTags are down to £28, and the Mac mini M4 price is £499. While the iPad Air is £699 and the MacBook Air is £849, both come with the new M4 chip. The iPhone 17 is also having an offering, provided with a 26£ monthly payment plus with a 30£ upfront.

**Finally...**

So, Black Friday 2025 is shaping up to be a great time to get your hands on some Apple gear. With discounts on everything from AirTags to MacBooks, there's something for everyone. And with prices this good, you may want to act fast.

23.iOS 27 Rumored to Prioritize Performance and AI Enhancements

Apple's iOS updates have meant big, noticeable changes. Think back to the complete visual makeover of iOS 7 or the home screen widgets in iOS 14 – each one felt like a major event. But according to Mark Gurman's newsletter, Power On, Apple might be changing things up with iOS 27. Instead of chasing after the next big wow factor, it sounds like they're going to concentrate on making things run smoother, fixing problems, and improving overall quality – oh, and also seriously beefing up their artificial intelligence.

**A Shift in Thinking**

Gurman says Apple's engineers are really digging into the operating system. They're looking for anything that's slowing it down, fixing bugs, and trying to make everything more efficient. This is pretty different from iOS 26, which had that whole Liquid Glass design. While it looked cool, the AI stuff that came with it felt half-baked. It left many people wondering if Apple tried to do too much, too soon.

By focusing on being stable and polished, Apple's admitting something that Mac users have known for a while. Back in 2009, they put out Mac OS X Snow Leopard. It wasn't about flashy new features. It was about fixing bugs, cleaning things up, and making everything run better. People loved it because it just felt so much smoother and more reliable. Gurman thinks iOS 27 could be similar, focusing on getting the basics right instead of adding a bunch of bells and whistles.

**Why Fine-Tuning Matters**

At first, just fixing bugs might not sound as cool as new features. But small improvements can really make a difference in what you do every day. iOS is used by a huge number of people on their iPhones. Even tiny gains in speed, battery life, or stability can save people time and reduce headaches.

If you use your phone a lot, a cleaner system means fewer crashes and easier multitasking. If you just use it for everyday stuff, it means less confusion and that things like texting, browsing, and taking photos just work like they should. Phones are so important these days, so being reliable is just as vital as having the latest features.

**The Big Push for AI**

Of course, iOS 27 won't just be about fixing bugs. Apple's also putting a lot of effort into artificial intelligence, an area where they need to catch up. Since they launched Apple Intelligence in 2024, they've been adding AI features a bit at a time, but lots of them haven't felt complete. Companies like Google and OpenAI have been moving fast with AI tools that can change how you search, create, and get things done. Apple's been more careful, focusing on privacy and doing things on the device itself, but they haven't been able to do as much as their competitors.

Gurman says Apple's now working on an AI-powered search tool and a major update to Apple Intelligence. The goal is to make AI a bigger part of the main apps, so it feels like it belongs there, not just something added on. And a smarter, more helpful Siri is still a key part of the plan. Apple's been talking about improving Siri since 2024, but it's been delayed. Gurman says the new Siri might finally arrive before iOS 27.

If Apple pulls this off, Siri could go from being a voice assistant that can only do a few things to really knowing what you want and helping you across all your apps. This would be a big step forward and put Apple in line with the rest of the industry, which is putting AI into everything.

**What iOS 26 Taught Them**

iOS 26 is a good lesson. The Liquid Glass design made the system look fresh, but it also made it more complicated. Some people didn't find it as easy to use, and the AI features – like summarizing text and creating images – weren't very good. Apple's reputation for being polished took a hit because the features seemed more like experiments than finished products.

By making performance and quality the focus of iOS 27, Apple's showing that they're listening to what people are saying. It looks like they want to make sure their AI plans don't mess up how reliable things are. It's a balancing act: people might be okay with some problems in new features, but they expect the core operating system to be solid.

**The Bigger Picture**

Apple's plan also shows what's going on in the tech world in general. Phones have been around for a while, so big changes are happening less often. Hardware is improving slowly, and software changes are usually small improvements instead of huge leaps. So, being stable and performing well becomes more important.

At the same time, AI is the new big thing. Companies are rushing to put AI into search engines, work tools, and creative apps. Apple's approach – focusing on privacy and doing things on the device – makes them different, but it could also mean they fall behind if their AI isn't as good as the competition. By making AI a major priority , Apple's trying to catch up while staying true to what they believe in.

**In Conclusion**

iOS 27 might not have a ton of brand-new features, but it could win people over by making their phones feel faster, cleaner, and more reliable. If they add some good AI improvements – like a smarter Siri – it could be the perfect balance.

So, people might remember iOS 27 not for what it adds, but for how well it works. And for a lot of iPhone users, that might be exactly what they're looking for.

24.AirPods 4 with ANC $99 and AirPods Max $120 in 2025 Black Friday Deals

**Black Friday 2025: AirPods are a Steal!**

Black Friday is like a party for people who love tech, and this year's Apple AirPods prices? Seriously awesome! Whether you want simple earbuds, noise-canceling buds, or comfy headphones, there's a deal here to keep your wallet happy. The prices have really dropped way down at the moment. So, if you're thinking about some new headphones, or even early holiday gifts? Now is the time to act fast.

**AirPods 4: Good Sound, Great Prices**

The regular AirPods 4 are actually pretty solid. Right now, you can snag them on Amazon for just $79. Hard to believe, right? They usually cost around $129. This might be the lowest these have ever been. They fit nicely, sound decent, and that Spatial Audio is a cool extra. You'll get about five hours of listening per charge, and the case holds about 30 hours for when you're away from home.

If you're new to Apple products, or you want some wireless earbuds that don't break the bank, grab these. At under $80, it's around the same price as generic brands, but these AirPods will work perfectly with all your Apple stuff. It's a good deal.

**AirPods 4 ANC: Silence the World for 100 Bucks**

If you spend a little more, you can get the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancelation (ANC) for $99 on Amazon. They usually go for close to $180, so that's a pretty sweet deal. For just 20 bucks more than the basic AirPods 4, you can tune everything out using the noise canceling. You'll get some nice silence. Plus, the ANC version charges wirelessly.

That is certainly great on the bus, train, plane, or if you need to focus in a noisy office. A small bump in price makes the AirPods 4 ANC a smart option. You get cool things without spending a ton.

**AirPods Pro 2: Still Amazing, Now Cheaper**

Walmart is dropping the price on AirPods Pro 2 down to $139. They normally cost $249. While not the newest from Apple, the Pro 2s are still pretty solid. Great noise canceling, good sound, and they're super comfy. Expect around six hours of playtime on a charge.

They have almost everything you want out of the newer AirPods Pro 3, so unless you have to have the latest model all the time, this deal is terrific. If you want really good AirPods for less than 200 bucks, go for these.

**AirPods Pro 3: Brand New and On Sale!**

The AirPods Pro 3, Apple's newest earbuds, have a small reduction in price since it's Black Friday. Over on Amazon, they're only $219, from $249. While not as deep of a discount as the Pro 2, the Pro 3 bring a little more to the table. The upgraded noise canceling, you get up to 8 hours of listening with ANC on (and a crazy 10 hours when it's off), and they can keep track of your heart rate and do live translations! They're also designed for better comfort, which some folks had with older AirPods Pro models.

If you love the latest tech, get the Pro 3. The sale is smaller than on other models, but the price is dropping so soon after they came out, which is impressive and a good sign.

**AirPods Max USB-C: Big Headphones, Great Price**

The AirPods Max with USB-C are $429 at Best Buy and Amazon if you're into bigger over-ear headphones. They usually run around $549, so that's like getting $120 back! People love the sound you get with the AirPods Max, and they have strong noise canceling, and they look gorgeous! You also get personalized Spatial Audio and around 20 hours of battery.

Okay, they're pricey, but that $429 tag makes it much more appealing! If you work in loud places, the AirPods Max could be a great option.

**Prices at a Glance:**

* AirPods 4: $79 at Amazon (Huge savings!)

* AirPods 4 ANC: $99 at Amazon (Really, $80 off?)

* AirPods Pro 2: $139 at Walmart (Over 100 bucks off!)

* AirPods Pro 3: $219 at Amazon (Only 30 bucks?)

* AirPods Max USB-C: $429 at Amazon/Best Buy

There's something here for most needs, and the discounts cover a wide range of budgets. If you need to buy at the lowest cost you can get the AirPods 4 either the normal or ANC version. The Pro 2 has good value. The Pro 3 model is for people that like to own the latest products, while the Max are just the best of the best!

**Why Does This Matter?**

Apple products rarely go on sale outside special occasions like Black Friday when stores want to cut down costs. These prices are pretty wild since AirPods are normally pretty expensive. These sales makes a huge difference to how much they can cost.

It can also start off the sales season around the holidays if people see their peers with them while others might begin to get jealous. If their rivals match or try to undermatch the price, Apple might get even more sales too.

**The Final Word**

Black Friday 2025 has killer AirPods deals happening now. If you secure AirPods 4 for $79 or you get the AirPods Max at $429, you're likely going to find your needs somewhere there. Whether you're getting them as gifts or want some new AirPods for yourself, grab them when you find a price that you like! If you put it off for too long, the prices might go back up.

25.CNN Takes Down Content From Apple News Feed According to Semafor

**CNN Ditches Apple News: What's the Deal?**

So, get this: CNN and Apple News have split up, at least for now. Word on the street is that CNN took its articles off Apple News around November 23rd. This basically means their current agreement to share stories is over.

Semafor was the first to report this, and Reuters picked it up too. It kind of shows you what's going on between big news companies and the tech giants that spread their stuff around. CNN might come back to Apple News later – they’re talking about a new deal – but it shows how tricky it is to get your news out there, make money, and still have some say in things.

**Here's What Went Down**

Apparently, CNN pulled all its stories from Apple News one weekend. That means if you usually read CNN on your iPhone or iPad's news app, you won't see their articles anymore. Apple News is a big deal for news outlets because it's already installed on millions of Apple devices and has a curated feel. So, for CNN to leave is kind of a big move.

Sources say CNN and Apple are trying to work things out and get CNN back on the platform. But nobody knows when that might happen, and they aren't saying exactly why CNN left in the first place.

**Why Should You Care?**

This whole thing points to some disagreements between news companies and tech platforms. CNN, like other news places, wants to reach a big audience, and Apple News helps them do that. But they also want to make money and have some control over what they do. Apple News has this subscription thing called Apple News+, where you pay monthly to read lots of premium articles. The problem is dividing up that money, and news companies don't always like losing direct access to readers and ad money.

By taking away its stories, it seems like CNN either wasn't happy with the deal or was trying to get Apple to give them a better one. And for Apple, not having CNN's reporting makes their app less appealing.

**Been There, Done That**

This isn't the first time a news outlet has questioned being on Apple News. Over the years, you've heard complaints that it doesn't bring in enough money, or that news companies lose too much control over their own brand.

It's the same story with other platforms too. News companies are worried about relying too much on others as online ad money goes down and subscriptions become more vital.

**They're Talking It Over**

Even though CNN left Apple News, they’re still talking about a new agreement, which means they might get back together. CNN probably knows that Apple News brings a lot of readers, and Apple needs good sources to keep people interested.

Whatever deal they make could affect how Apple works with other news companies in the future. If CNN gets a better deal, others might want the same.

**What It Means for You**

If you read CNN on Apple News, you’ll have to go to their website or app to find their stories. It's less convenient, but it also shows you that Apple News has plenty of other sources to pick from.

**What It Means for the News Biz**

CNN leaving Apple News is happening at a time when everyone in the news business is thinking about its relationship with tech platforms. Social media, search engines – they all spread news, but there's always a trade-off between money, control, and reaching an audience.

Apple News is unusual because it's built into Apple devices, instantly reaching a huge market. But for news companies, that can also mean becoming dependent on Apple. CNN's move might make others rethink whether being on Apple News is really worth it.

**What's Next?**

Will CNN and Apple make a new deal? If they do, CNN will probably be back on Apple News before you know it. If not, things could change for good in terms of how CNN gets its news out there and how Apple chooses its news sources.

Apple needs to keep news companies happy to make Apple News successful. CNN needs to get paid fairly and make sure their brand is represented well. That’s what these talks will come down to.

**In Conclusion…**

CNN taking its stories off Apple News is a big moment. Even if it’s just temporary, it reflects some bigger problems with how news companies and tech platforms work together. The deal they make could change how news is delivered to Apple users for years to come.

For now, you won't find CNN on Apple News, and everyone's watching to see how this plays out between a major news source and a tech giant.

26.MacBook Pro M5 Priced Lower Than Its M4 Predecessor Leaving Apple’s Pricing Confused

**MacBook Pro M5: Hot Black Friday Deal on New Apple Gear**

For ages, the MacBook Pro has been the go-to laptop for people who create things and those who need serious power. We're talking video editors, photographers, coders, designers – anyone who needs a laptop that can handle heavy-duty tasks. Apple's top-of-the-line laptop has earned a reputation for being a portable workstation. Now, the M5 chip is here, and Apple has upped its game again. But this time, it's not just about the tech inside – it's about the price.

Right now, on Amazon, you can snag a brand-spanking-new MacBook Pro M5 (with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD) for just $1,442 for Black Friday. That's 10% off a machine that *just* came out. Seriously, the older M4 model with the same setup was still selling for $1,599 only a few weeks ago. So, here's the crazy part: you can get the newest Apple laptop for less than the older one, all because of Amazon's crazy holiday prices.

**The M5 Chip: Serious Speed Boost**

This MacBook Pro is all about the M5 processor. It's got a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU working together. Apple put a Neural Accelerator right into each GPU core, so anything involving AI is way faster. Think machine learning, video exporting, or editing large photos – it all gets done quicker.

The way the memory is set up lets the CPU and GPU share the same 16GB pool. This gets rid of those slowdowns you can get with regular laptops. If you’re a pro, that means smoother work and faster rendering. Basically, you're getting the kind of performance you'd expect from a workstation, but in a laptop you can actually carry around without throwing your back out.

**A Screen Made for Creative Eyes**

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR is worth shouting about. It gets super bright – up to 1600 nits at its peak, and a steady 1000 nits for HDR stuff. That's one of the best laptop screens you can find. Plus, the contrast is amazing (1,000,000:1), so blacks are deep, colors are bright, and it's perfect for anyone who needs accurate colors – photographers, video editors, designers, you name it.

It's not just a pretty screen, it's useful. It shows your work the way it's supposed to look, which means you won't get any nasty surprises when you print something or show it on a different screen.

**Apple Smarts: AI Built In**

Apple also put Apple Intelligence right into the M5 MacBook Pro. It's like a personal assistant that helps you write emails, summarize documents, and generally get your thoughts down faster. And privacy is a big deal here. Apple says that nobody, not even them, can see your data. Everything stays on your computer and is powered by the Neural Engine.

That makes the MacBook Pro more than just a work machine – it's a helper that learns how you work.

**Battery That Keeps Going**

Even with all that power, the M5 MacBook Pro has great battery life. Apple says it lasts all day, and people who use it say that's true. The chip is so efficient that you get the same speed whether it's plugged in or not.

This means you can edit 4K video at a coffee shop without scoping out the nearest outlet. You can keep working, no matter where you are. It's a rare mix of power and portability.

**Works Great with Your Other Apple Stuff**

The MacBook Pro also plays nice with all your other Apple gadgets. With features like iPhone Mirroring, you can see and control your phone right on your Mac. You can copy text on your iPhone and paste it on your MacBook. FaceTime calls and Messages just work across all your devices.

If you already use Apple stuff, these things will make your life easier. And the 512GB SSD gives you plenty of fast storage for your work stuff, apps, and media, so it's ready for serious work.

**Why This Deal is a Big Deal**

At $1,442, the MacBook Pro M5 is a steal. Apple stuff rarely goes on sale this soon after it comes out. Usually, Apple products stay at the same price for months, and you only see deals on older models. Amazon cutting the price of the M5 so quickly is kind of a shock, and it makes this Black Friday a great chance to save.

The bottom line is this: you're getting Apple's newest chip and hardware for less than what the older M4 model cost just a few weeks ago. These deals don't last, so expect the prices to go back up once Black Friday is over.

**The Final Word**

The MacBook Pro M5 is Apple's latest step forward in laptop performance. It's got a speedy 10-core CPU and GPU, plus AI smarts, a killer Liquid Retina XDR screen, and it works seamlessly with other Apple devices. It's a powerful workstation in a package you can take anywhere, with battery life that can handle demanding jobs.

What makes this moment special is the price. At $1,442, the M5 MacBook Pro is on sale *and* cheaper than the old M4 model. If you're a creative pro, someone who needs a lot of power, or just thinking about upgrading, this Black Friday deal is a golden chance to get Apple's latest gear at a real discount.

If you've been waiting for the right time to get a MacBook Pro, this might just be it.

27.Google Plans to Remove Assistant From Additional Settings

**Google Assistant Steps Aside for Gemini: What This Means for Your Android Phone**

So, remember Google Assistant? The Hey Google voice that answers your questions, sets timers, and controls your smart lights? Well, Google's getting ready to swap it out for something new: Gemini. Think of Gemini as Google's next-level AI, and it's slowly but surely taking over.

If you've been poking around in your Android phone's settings lately, you might have noticed some changes. Google's been quietly updating the interface, switching out the Google Assistant name for Gemini in different menus and setup screens. It looks like Google really wants to get people familiar with the new name.

**The Name Change: What's the Big Deal?**

In the newest version of the Google app (v16.46.61, if you're curious), tech-savvy users have spotted some coding changes. The Hey Google setup process is now all about Gemini, making the link between your voice and the new AI crystal clear. Even the screen for setting up Hey Google and Voice Match (the thing that recognizes your voice) has a new name: Talk to Gemini hands-free.

This isn't just a random update. It's part of a bigger plan to make Gemini the main face of Google's AI efforts. You'll see Gemini popping up in other Google Services, too. And they're not just slapping a new name on things; there are new animations and little interface tweaks to make the change obvious.

**Why Gemini? What Can It Do?**

Google's been pretty open about wanting to move everyone from Assistant to Gemini. They're even working on better versions of Gemini, like the Gemini 3 Pro, to make it even more helpful. The idea is that Gemini will be smarter, understand context better, and handle more complicated tasks than Assistant ever could.

Assistant was mostly about voice commands. Gemini is meant to be a complete AI platform. It can create content, reason through problems, and understand different types of information, letting it work with Text, voice, and images in a much smarter way. So, Google's not just changing the name. It's upgrading the whole system.

**Don't Panic! Assistant Isn't Going Away Just Yet**

Good news! Google Assistant is sticking around to 2026. That should give everyone plenty of time to get used to the switch. After that, Gemini will be the main AI on Android and other Google gadgets.

Google's done this before with other products. They roll out the new stuff slowly while keeping the old stuff running, so people don't get too confused.

**Is This Just a Makeover, or Is There More to It?**

Here's the million-dollar question: Is this just a cosmetic change, or is Google changing things under the hood? The new menus and setup screens suggest that Gemini is now powering things like Hey Google and Voice Match. But honestly, it's hard to know for sure. Google hasn't told us exactly how much has changed.

For now, we can only guess if the Hey Google voice recognition is actually different with Gemini. We'll have to wait for Google to spill the beans.

**Why Bother Changing the Name?**

Names matter. By switching to Gemini, Google's saying, This is the future of our AI. Assistant showed up in 2016 to compete with Siri and Alexa. It was all about voice commands and controlling your smart home stuff. Gemini is supposed to be a next-generation AI. It can do everything from creating images to helping you write emails and integrating into all kinds of apps.

This change mirrors what's happening everywhere. Everyone's adding AI into their products. Microsoft has Copilot, OpenAI has ChatGPT, and Google has Gemini. By using one name, Google wants people to think of all its AI power as one thing, Gemini.

**What Does This Mean for You?**

If you're an Android user, this means that some of the things you're used to will have new names and look a little different. Hey Google will still work, but it will be connected to Gemini. Voice Match will also be part of the Gemini experience.

At first, you probably won't notice a huge difference. You'll still be able to set reminders, send messages, and control your smart home. But eventually, Gemini should bring some more features, like understanding what you're talking about, giving more intelligent answers, and working better with your apps.

**The Big Picture**

Google's planning to make Gemini the heart of its whole world. Android is just the beginning. Gemini is showing up in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, etc.), Search, and other services. The goal is to have one AI that works across all your devices and apps.

For developers who make apps for Android, this might mean some changes to the way they connect to Google's AI. For regular users, it should mean a smarter assistant that can handle more complicated tasks and have more useful conversations. Google has to make sure Gemini actually works well, But and doesn't end up being a buggy mess like some other AI launches we've seen.

**In Conclusion**

The move from Google Assistant to Gemini is a big deal for Google's AI future. What started as a simple voice assistant is growing into a much larger AI platform that can create content and reason through problems. Assistant will stick around for a while, but Gemini is the way forward.

For you, the changes might not be too noticeable at first. You'll see new names, new animations, and new menus. But down the road, Gemini should offer some useful features and smarter ways to interact with your devices. So, get ready, because you're witnessing a pretty important moment in Google's history: the end of Assistant and the rise of Gemini.

28.Naughty Dog Confirms ‘Intergalactic’ Missing 2026 Launch Window

Word on the street is that Naughty Dog's new game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, is gonna take a bit longer than we thought. Yeah, I'm talking about the guys who made Uncharted and The Last of Us. People get hyped whenever they announce anything, and this new game is no different. Everyone's been buzzing about it since they heard what it was about and knew that Neil Druckmann was in charge.

But here's the thing: don't expect to see it anytime soon. It's not gonna be at The Game Awards this year, and it definitely won't be out in 2026. Word is, we're looking at 2027, which would be right around the time the PlayStation 6 is supposed to drop.

So, how did this whole thing start? Well, a gaming journalist, Colin Moriarty, said on a podcast that it might come out in fall 2026. People jumped on that like it was fact, and boom, headlines everywhere. But Moriarty was like, Whoa, hold up! I was just spitballing. I didn't have any inside info.

After that, a bunch of other people who usually know what's up chimed in and said, nah, 2026 ain't happening. That basically means 2027 is the new target, which lines up with Naughty Dog's history with Sony.

See, Naughty Dog likes to drop big games right before a new PlayStation comes out. The Last of Us Part II was just before the PS5, and Uncharted 4 came out near the end of the PS4's life. It's like they're showing off what the old system can do while getting everyone excited for the new one.

If Intergalactic does come out in 2027, it'll be the same deal. It'll be a goodbye to the PS5 and a hello to the PS6. That way, they can sell the game to people who haven't upgraded yet and give PS6 early adopters something awesome to play.

Now, about the game itself: it sounds pretty cool. It's about this bounty hunter, Jordan A. Mun, played by Tati Gabrielle. She's stuck on this planet called Sempiria that's been outta touch with the rest of the galaxy for ages.

Druckmann said that this game is different from The Last of Us. Those games were all about sadness and loss, but Intergalactic is gonna be about faith. It sounds like it'll mess with your head, asking questions about what you believe in and what happens when you're all alone. Naughty Dog's known for making games that hit you in the feels, so this could be something special.

And the fact that they're not showing it at The Game Awards? That says something too. That show's a big deal for game announcements, but Naughty Dog's sitting this one out. Maybe they're still working on it, or maybe they don't wanna get everyone too hyped for something that's still a ways off.

That's probably a good call. Some studios have announced games way too early and then had to delay them a bunch of times. By waiting, Naughty Dog can make sure that when they show Intergalactic, it's almost done and looks amazing.

So, if Intergalactic is coming in 2027, what's gonna keep the PS5 going in 2026? Well, there are two big games to consider: Saros from Housemarque and Marvel's Wolverine from Insomniac Games. People are really hyped for Wolverine, especially after how good Insomniac's Spider-Man games were.

Those games should keep PS5 players happy. But without a new game from Naughty Dog, there's a bit of a gap. It'll be filled soon; we will only have to wait for Intergalactic”.

I know, I know, waiting sucks. But Naughty Dog's games are usually worth it. They take their time and put a lot of love into them. Their games always push the limits of what consoles and games can do.

Plus, by launching with the PS6, Intergalactic could look and play even better. Remember how The Last of Us Part II looked on the PS4? Expect something similar when Intergalactic finally drops.

In short, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet sounds like a big swing for Naughty Dog. They're going from a grounded, sad world to a big sci-fi story. With a story about faith, a cool main character, and Neil Druckmann in charge, it's already one of the most anticipated games.

It's a bummer that it's not coming out until 2027, but that might mean it'll be a launch title for the PS6, like Naughty Dog's done before. So, yeah, we have to wait. But if their history is anything to go by, it'll be worth it.29.Best Buy’s 2025 Black Friday Sale Is Live With 65 Deals Available Now

Black Friday's finally here, and Best Buy's got some crazy deals on tech stuff! Seriously, they've slashed prices on just about everything, and it's worth checking out.

I'm talking TVs that are so big, they'll make your living room feel like a movie theater. Headphones that block out so much noise, you can't even hear your kids – kidding (sort of!). Plus, they have a bunch of laptops, tablets, and even 3D printers for the artists out there.

Do you want to spruce up your home theater? Are you wanting some cool new gadgets? Or if you want to get a jump start on holiday shopping, this is your chance! These prices are really good.

But, you're probably saying, Who has the time to look through all that stuff? That's where my team and I come in! We went through all the ads to find the best stuff that's worth spending your hard-earned cash on. We looked at TVs, headphones, laptops, whatever. Trust me, there was a bunch of great stuff.

**Home Theater: Big TVs, Little Prices**

This TCL 98-inch Q55K TV is selling for just $1,000! That's insane, right? You're saving $1,500! Normally, you would have had to pay a lot of money for a TV this big. But now, TCL's letting you get a giant screen without emptying your wallet. It has QLED color, 4K resolution, and decent sound. It's like having a movie theater in your house. Oh, and since it works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, you can control it with your voice. Sounds cool, right?

However, if you want the absolute best picture quality around, you should check out an OLED TV. Right now, Best Buy have the LG 65-inch B5 Series OLED 4K TV for $1,000. This deal is 50% off the normal price! OLED TVs are known for having blacker blacks and bright colors that pop. This one also has Dolby Vision and Atmos, plus other things that make the picture better. For that price, that's the best OLED deal you will see all season!

Don't stop there, here are some other TVs on sale,

* **Sony 65-inch Bravia XR X90L 4K Smart TV:** $900 (You save $300). HDR10, Dolby Vision, and a a fast 120Hz refresh rate. What does that mean? A smooth picture in action movies and sports.

* **TCL 55-inch QM7K Series QLED Google TV:** $600 (You save $700!). It's QLED and Mini-LED! PLUS, a very fast 240Hz refresh rate! Gamers are going to love it.

* **Samsung 65-inch LS03D The Frame TV:** $1,000 (Save $1,000!). You're not watching TV, but BAM, it looks like art. It hides it in plain sight! Your guests may not even know it's a TV.

* **Insignia 32-inch Class FE HD Fire TV:** $75 (Save $76). Great deal! Comes with Roku AND Apple AirPlay already built inside. A bedroom, guest room, or kitchen, can all benefit from having this TV!

Another thing, there has been a price drop on the Roku Streaming Stick 4K. Usually, it is $50 but it is $25 right now. Upgrade your old TV, even if it isn't expensive to do so!

**Headphones and Audio: Let's Listen to Music!**

Noise-canceling headphones? Best Buy is dropping the price on the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones. The price is now $299 (You will save $130). They're comfy so you don't feel them after some time, and they block out everything, plus spatial audio and they will also stop playing music when you take them off. If you have a bunch of devices it is easy to swap between them. Can be used for traveling or working.

Attention to Apple fans! There is a low price to the AirPods Max USB‑C. The price cut from $549 to $429 (A $120 dollar reduction). Headphones are great for sound. Your music enjoyment will be more enjoyable without having to spend too much time tuning. Can be used with 20 of battery. However, they can be costly but the low cost will benefit you.

**Smart Home and Appliances: Comfort**

It's here, a bunch of products for entertainment. Smart Home and Appliances are also on sale. An example is the Dyson V9 cordless vacuum. It currently costs $270 (From $600). Any and all addons can be put here. If you want, you can clean anything. Cleaning carpets, wood, furniture, and cars have never been easier. Also with it being made to be used for forty minutes while charged.

Modernize your kitchen with the Bella Pro 8-quart air fryer! The low price of $50 (You saved $60 big bucks). Select one of eight cooking modes, and you can throw it into the dishwasher to clean it later.

Calling all creatives! The Bambu Lab P1S 3D printer is now available for $550 (Save a fair amount: $200). If you want to find yourself in 3D Printing, this is a great jumping off point. AND it costs less too!

**Tablets, E‑Readers, and Small Computers: Portability**

Here are some easy to move tablet deals going on:

* **Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus:** $180 (Save $140). A big 11-inch screen, and enough parts for games, movies, or work.

* **Amazon Kindle (2024):** $80 (Save $30). Read a ton of books at your hands on the Kindle. Lightweight, great to hold, access to a bunch of books,

* **Apple Mac Mini M4:** $479 (Save $120). All the features of a Macintosh computer, in a small package. Uses Apple's M4 chip too.

**Laptop Deals: Future Cyber Monday**

Best Buy are teasing which deals they will be making for Cyber Monday!

Maybe buy the MacBook Air M4 13-inch, priced at $749 (Save $251). Regardless of being thin and light, it's still fast and will last a long time on battery. It works well if you are a student, work at home, or just want to check the internet.

There's also the Lenovo Yoga 7i (16-inch) that can be bought at $630 (You save a lot: $420). 16GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, A big 16-inch touch screen, including a Intel Core Ultra 7 processor inside! It is ALSO a 2-in-1, aka it is a tablet, as well!

**What is the Deal?**

Best Buy wants your hard-earned money. They will do anything to lure you to their storefront this holiday season.

It's a war of the corporations. Who will take your money!

You win, fair prices for quality tech is a no brainer to pass on.

You can get anything from air fryers, TVs, headphones, too home gear.

**To Summarize**

Best Buy's Black Friday 2024 is here. Get the tech you deserve!

Take advantage now and see what comes next!

30.This Android Browser Outperforms the Rest and You’ve Never Tried It

**DuckDuckGo Mobile Browser: Your Android Privacy Pal**

Okay, so most folks using Android just go straight for Google Chrome. Some might use Firefox, and those options are fine. They load pages fast enough, they keep your stuff synced up, and they play nice with all your other Google or Mozilla stuff. But here’s the deal: both kinda miss the boat on privacy.

It feels like everyone’s peeking at what you’re clicking, searching for, and wasting time scrolling through... You know? That's where DuckDuckGo's mobile browser comes into play. It’s not flashy, and people aren’t exactly raving about it. But if you care about keeping your stuff private, it's quietly become a super solid choice. It just *works*, with the safety stuff turned on the second you install it, and it isn't hard to use. If you’re on Android and feel weird about being tracked all the time, DuckDuckGo is worth checking out. No joke.

**Simple is Really Good**

One of the best things about DuckDuckGo is how clean it looks, man. Chrome and some others throw like, a million shortcuts, wallpapers, or news feeds at you as soon as you open them. DuckDuckGo? Bam! You get a search bar, point-blank. No distractions, just the internet as it should be.

You can tell they put some thought into this. The bottom bar has everything you need right where your thumb is – the address bar, search, your tabs, and something cool called the Fire Button (We'll Get there in a minute.). This makes using it with one hand a piece of cake(not literally). You don’t have to fight with menus to clear your history or close tabs, it’s all right there to select. It just feels like they respect your time, you know?

**Privacy? Already On**

Okay, so this is DuckDuckGo's whole thing: privacy comes first. Most other browsers make you dig deep into the settings to turn the privacy functions on. DuckDuckGo just does it for you.

* **It blocks trackers:** Those annoying trackers from Google, Facebook, and the rest? DuckDuckGo blocks them before they even load. This keeps your stuff private and can load pages faster, actually.

* **The Fire Button:** Tap this, and *bam*, all your tabs and browsing history? Gone! No more trying to manually delete cookies or history.

* **It uses encryption:** DuckDuckGo wants to use HTTPS whenever possible, keeping your data safe from anyone who’s trying to snoop on the network.

* **Keyboard privacy:** If you use keyboards like SwiftKey, DuckDuckGo tells them to go into private mode, so they don't learn from what you’re looking at.

All this happens without you even thinking about it, so you don’t have to keep setting stuff up. I think it just gives you some peace of mind.

**Tweak it Your Way**

DuckDuckGo keeps things simple, however you can still tweak it how you want. It doesn’t overload you with like hundreds of themes or crazy settings. It just gives you a few good options.

One cool thing is Duck Player. This allows you to stream YouTube clips but without the trackers. It’s less distracting and still keeps things private.

Sorting your tabs is pretty simple too. You can use a list to see all of them at once. And adding widgets to your home screen helps you search privately,fast. I think it makes it nicer to use.

**AI Built Right In, Seriously**

This might surprise you: DuckDuckGo has built AI, which they named, Duck.Ai. Some privacy nerds were worried when they heard about it, but DuckDuckGo does it in a way that you control.

You have some options here to select the AI models to use, like GPT-5, Llama 4 etc. Claude for creative writing, GPT for finding info-- Whatever you need. The important part is that nobody can see your chats, and they don’t use them to train the AI.

It’s a neat way to mess around with different AI bots without making accounts or exposing your personal info.

**Plays Well with Others**

DuckDuckGo isn’t just for Android. They have apps for iPhones, Windows, and Macs. Your bookmarks, searches, and settings will sync up on all devices.. You can look something up on your phone and keep reading on your computer later. If you're looking for privacy across all your devices, it’s an alternative to Chrome or Safari.

**Different Isn’t Always Bad**

People are starting to realize how much of their data gets collected.. Chrome is great but it uses your browsing history in their ad profile. Firefox cares about privacy, However, you need to turn it on yourself.

DuckDuckGo just makes it simple. Privacy is already turned on. Fire Button, tracker blocking, and encryption all make it simple to browse without feeling like you’re watched. I think it’s more clean, and easier to use.

**Small but Mighty**

Being the underdog lets DuckDuckGo stay locked on target. They aren't focused on building a big ad network. They can just work on making a browser that cares about your privacy. That's why they have neat stuff like the Fire Button or Duck Player.

For Android owners, it means a browser that feels faster, easier, and just feels right. They aren't trying to beat Chrome. It just gives you another option.

**Just Try It Out**

DuckDuckGo mobile browser is a good option if you have an Android phone. It’s easier, has great safety features, has some adjustments you can make, and now it has AI. It just gets the job, without making you mess with the settings.

If you’re tired and distracted, or feel like you're being watched, DuckDuckGo is something to look into. I think it’s more than just browsing. It’s a way to take back control of your online life.

In a world where things feel not safe, DuckDuckGo proves that browsing can still be simple, safe, and comfortable. If you’re using Android and wanna break from the big guys, give it a look..

31.New Rumor Suggests Foldable ‘iPhone Ultra’ Could Launch Next Year

There's buzz that Apple might jump into the foldable phone game. And the crazy part? It could happen next year!

Word is, they're working hard on figuring out the tricky bits, like getting rid of that annoying when you fold the phone and making sure it does not feel bad. The question everyone's asking is: How much will it cost?

Some analysts at Fubon Research think it could start at $2,399! That's way higher than people initially guessed, which was around two grand. If that price is real, Apple's foldable could be the most expensive phone around. Because of this Apple may want a different name. Instead of the iPhone Fold, some think it'll be called iPhone Ultra.

**Foldable Phones Are Becoming Popular**

Remember when foldable phones looked like something out of a movie? Now Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold is already on version seven, and people are buying them a lot. They've been listening to customers, making the phones stronger and better. Also Google's Pixel Fold is a contender.. And companies like Huawei and Oppo are doing the same in Asian countries.

So, it looks like it took its time to observe. They're hoping to learn from the earlier issues, like that crease and hinges that were not strong enough, and software that needed more work. Their goal would be a product without problems.

**Talking Numbers**

People expected Apple's foldable would be around $2,000, a little more than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold ($1,999) and Google's Pixel Fold ($1,799). But Fubon Research thinks those guesses are wrong. Considering Apple's usual profit margins and part costs, they're betting on that $2,399 price tag.

For comparison, the iPhone Pro Max starts at $1,199. The foldable would likely cost twice as much as Apple's best regular phone. If that happens, the foldable wouldn't just be a phone. It would be a status symbol, for Apple fans and people who want the best new thing.

**Price Check**

* Samsung Galaxy Z Fold: $1,999 (but you can find sales easily)

* Pixel Fold: $1,799 (often on sale)

* Apple Foldable (estimated): $2,399 (don't expect sales)

Apple's known for charging a lot. Samsung and Google often drop prices to sell more, but Apple sticks to its prices. They think their brand and the way their products work together are worth a little extra. If the foldable iPhone launches at $2,399, it would be the most expensive smartphone ever.

**What's in a Name? iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra?**

We don't even know the real name. iPhone Fold would make sense, because that's what everyone else is doing. Some rumors say Apple might call it the iPhone Ultra. The Ultra name suggests it's something special, different from regular iPhones.

Apple already uses the Ultra name for the Apple Watch Ultra, a tough, fancy smartwatch. If they use that name for the iPhone, it would be a statement. It would mean it's not just another iPhone. And with that $2,399 price, Ultra sounds more probable.

**Why Can Apple Charge So Much?**

Here's why Apple might charge so much:

* No crease: If the rumors are true, Apple's fixed the crease.

* Nice look: Apple will make sure it looks good.

* Works well: It'll work with the Apple software you like.

* Appealing design: People will pay more if the phone's attractive.

By pricing the foldable as a luxury item, Apple avoids competing with Samsung and Google on price. They can make it a special, device.

**The Good and Bad**

The biggest question is whether people will pay. At $2,399, the foldable iPhone would be too expensive for most people. Even Apple fans might think twice about spending twice as much as a Pro Max. Sales might be slow, and the phone might only sell to a few people.

But if it works out, it could be great for Apple. The foldable could become the must-have thing, like the first iPhone in 2007. If they make it look good, Apple could shape how people think about foldable phones and make everyone want one.

**Final Thoughts**

Apple's first foldable iPhone sounds big. If it costs $2,399, it's more expensive than the competition and twice the price of Apple's best phone. That iPhone Ultra name makes sense, saying it's a luxury item.

Foldable phones might be growing, still Apple's could change everything. We'll have to see if people will pay almost $2,400 for a foldable iPhone. But one thing's clear: Apple's foldable phone will be a big topic in 2026.

32.Black Friday Brings Major Streaming Discounts Across Hulu, Disney+, Max and Peacock

Black Friday used to be all about snagging that huge TV or a new laptop for a steal. But now, the Black Friday craziness has spread to the internet, which wasn't expected. Even streaming services are getting in on the action, trying to grab new subscribers with deep discounts. Think Hulu, Disney+, Max (formerly HBO Max), Peacock and a bunch of others – they’re all rolling out some killer deals this year. Basically? It’s the perfect time to load up on entertainment without breaking the bank.

Hulu: The Black Friday Regular

Hulu is pretty well known for always having a good deal. For years, they offered their ad-supported plan for crazy cheap(like $0.99 a month!) for a whole year. Okay, so the exact price might not be that low this year, but they are still expected to offer some impressive benefits in 2025. One big plus of Hulu is that it's library is quite diverse. They always have episodes of shows from the major networks the day after they air, some really good original series, and a sizable movie selection.

If you ditched cable but still want to keep up with your favorite shows, Hulu's Black Friday Deal is a serious option. It's also a good way to try to see if the bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+ are something you might benefit from, which, by the way, are also usually discounted during this time of year.

Disney+: Entertainment the whole family can enjoy, Now cheaper.

Disney+ wasted no time becoming a staple for family entertainment. I mean, they have practically everything: Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and all those classic Disney movies. Around Black Friday, they have discount annual subscriptions or good bundle deals with Hulu and ESPN+.

The timing here is perfect for families. The holidays are coming up, which means new movies are coming. These range from animated films to the latest Marvel Blockbuster. With Disney + you can get easier access to them. With a subscription, that means months of entertainment at a lower price, making it an easy choice for households with children.

Max: Impressive TV at a lower Price

Max, it might have been called HBO Max until recently, still is known for high quality shows, like Game of Thrones spin offs! Blockbuster movies are also part of the mix!

When Black Friday comes around, they usually lower the monthly rate, or they extend free trials. If you want quality award winning series and Warner Bros. films, then those are the things you have available to you with Max. In addition, signing up during Black Friday saves money over the whole year.

Peacock: Sports, and funny sitcoms.

NBCUniversal's Peacock did a great job finding it's small corner of the streaming market. They feature stuff like the English Premier League. Peacock attracts casual viewers and real sports fans.

Usually, when Black Friday rolls around, Peacock's Premium plan becomes cheaper. Making it more fair to viewers who might not be able to attend live events.

It's not just those services though

When Black Friday is coming around, there are deals from smaller services. For instance, there are services like Paramount+, Apple TV+, and Discovery+. Even platforms dedicated to things like anime, and documentaries get in on all the action. It's because they know that Black Friday is the best time to attract new subscribers.

Why are these deals important.

The rising amount of Black Friday deals just goes to show how much the market has changed. With many services trying to get your attention, it's easy for customers to cancel subscriptions, and the Black Friday deals bring customers back.

Customers get a lot of flexibility from Black Friday Deals. Without having to pay full price, deals are a way to cycle through options. Black Friday is a time to load up on entertainment for months at a lower price.

Privacy and Personalization

In all the rush to get the Black Friday Deals, privacy is often overlooked. Just like most websites, streaming platforms use cookies to personalize experiences. Before claiming your discounts, you will see a privacy preference center.

There, you can choose either yes or no, whether to allow certain cookies for targeted advertising. Blocking a few might limit what you see, however, it reduces the chance of data collection. You ensure that there's balance between convenience and control.

Deals always come with data collection trade offs. Understanding these preferences is part of being a digital customer.

How to best use Black Friday Deals

To maximize the savings, think about the following.

Consider bundles: Options with ESPN+ and Disney+ that have more content for a lower price is an option to consider.

Consider yearly plans: Doing so saves money, opposed to deals just for the month.

Rotating: Rotate which subscriptions you want to prioritize during the coming months.

renewal rate: Setting reminders prevents you from being charged after the deal is over.

Approaching streaming deals helps save money without overpaying.

In conclusion

Black Friday 2025 isn't only about laptops and TV's. It's about the many different streaming services. It makes it easier for viewers to watch good entertainment for a lower cost.

However, those who are looking to buy will need to ensure that they are aware of the data collection as well. Balancing any excitement with caution ensures that the customer gets good value and keeps data collection under control.

Households looking to enhance their entertainment options can take this opportunity to sign up at a lower price.

33.OnePlus 15R Launches Next Month With a Durable, Budget-Friendly Design

OnePlus just threw a bunch of new stuff at us: the 15R phone, the Pad Go 2 tablet, and the Watch Lite.

OnePlus is the go-to brand for decent tech that doesn't bleed you dry financially. These new gadgets seem to be riding that wave. It looks like they’re trying to get a broader fanbase, all while making stuff that can take a beating, keep you working, and won’t empty your wallet.

**OnePlus 15R: Built Like a Tank**

The star of the show is probably the OnePlus 15R. Think of it as a souped-up OnePlus 15. Usually, the “R” means it's easier on the pocket compared to the main flagship, although OnePlus hasn’t revealed the prices yet. The best point of all in this new series is that it's near indestructible.

OnePlus is really hyping up how tough this phone is. It’s got IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings. Yeah, I don't get all the numbers either. But basically, just know that it can handle dust, water submersion, and even high-pressure jets of water. So, if you’re a bit clumsy, work outdoors, or just want a phone that can survive a nuclear apocalypse, this might be for you.

The 15R comes in black or mint green. It's hitting the stores on December 17 in Europe, India, and North America. This release strategy may suggest that OnePlus is testing the waters in certain regions before going full-blown global but we do not know. Knowing more about its durability, the 15R is a solid choice and option for buyers.

**Pad Go 2: Tablet with 5G and a Pen**

Aside from the phone, there’s the Pad Go 2. It's sort of a middle-of-the-road tablet, but they threw in some nice extras. Check this out: it’s the first OnePlus tablet to have 5G capabilities. That means you don’t have to hunt for Wi-Fi all the time.

The Pad Go 2 has got this anti-glare screen which makes it a lot easier to see when you're outside. It comes in black or purple, and it's got a pen. It would be good for students, office workers, or even doodlers who like doing sketches or writing. This means that the Pad Go 2 is just a practical tool that is good in many different work and business settings.

The Pad Go 2 is coming out on December 17 in Europe, India, and North America too. No price yet, but with the 5G and the pen, they’re probably going after tablets like the Galaxy Tab A and the iPad Air.

**Watch Lite: Fitness Tracking at a Fair Price**

And last up, the OnePlus Watch Lite. It is the less expensive version of their normal smartwatch. OnePlus claims it has some sweet health and fitness stuff at a way cheaper cost.

So far, we don’t have a lot of details. Here's what we know: the Watch Lite is only coming in silver, and it's launching in Europe on December 17. Which could hint that OnePlus is trying it out before going worldwide.

I’m willing to bet that the Watch Lite will track your steps, heart rate, and play nice with other OnePlus stuff. Slashing the price will turn into a starter product for new buyers to purchase their first wearable gadget.

**Overall Thoughts**

These three devices show what OnePlus is up to. They want a complete lineup of products and appeal to different consumers.

The 15R is all about being a tank, so it’s for people who need a phone that won’t drop dead after one fall.

The Pad Go 2 is for getting work done and getting creative, with 5G and a pen that turns it into a pocket workstation.

The Watch Lite makes it easier to get into counting reps without feeling bad emptying your wallet.

Here, OnePlus is trying to make a bigger mark in the Android world. If it gets ecosystem integration and better value, it may be a good option.

**Why Now?**

The date of these launches is smart. Everyone announces new tech before the rush of the holidays. OnePlus wants the holidays to noticed across the different product categories.

The focus on the 15R's hardiness makes total sense. Customers want stuff made to last. Also, the Pad Go 2's stylus support says customers want more productivity out of their tablets. They’re getting into wearables because these wearables become an entry point for new customers.

**The Rundown**

Here's the bottom line is that OnePlus launching the 15R, Pad Go 2, and Watch Lite on December 17 is them reaching a bigger audience. They are trying to make their brand more well-known based on being a reliable ecosystem with its integration of productivity features and being budget conscious.

We're still waiting on prices and specs, but if ruggedness, 5G, and easy-on-your-budget fitness tracking sound good, keep an eye on December 17. This also means that OnePlus is targeting a much bigger part of the tech landscape.

34.Walmart Slashes AirPods Pro 2 to Their Best Price Ever for Black Friday

Walmart's Black Friday in 2025 is bringing some killer deals, especially if you're looking at Apple's AirPods. You know, those little white earbuds everyone seems to have? They've really taken over, and for good reason – they work super well with iPhones and iPads. Apple has different levels, from the basic ones all the way up to the fancy AirPods Max headphones.

Even though Apple came out with the AirPods Pro 3 this year, a lot of people still love the AirPods Pro 2. And guess what? Walmart's selling them for only $139 during Black Friday. Seriously, that's the lowest I've ever seen them. They usually cost $249, so you're saving over $100! Last year, they were around $155, so this is even better. If you want to get better earbuds without spending a ton, this is a great deal.

So, why are the AirPods Pro 2 still worth it?

Even though there's a newer model, the Pro 2s are still awesome. The noise cancelling is really good – it blocks out a lot of background distractions. The sound is great too, whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or talking on the phone.

Plus, Apple added a cool feature with a software update: live translation. So, if you have an iPhone with the Translate app, your AirPods Pro 2 can translate languages in real-time. That's awesome if you're traveling or talking to someone who speaks a different language. It's like having a translator in your ear.

The battery life is also pretty good -- around six hours on a single charge with the noise canceling turned on. And the charging case gives you a total of 30 hours of listening time. Fun fact: That's actually longer than the newer AirPods Pro 3!

AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods Pro 3

Okay, so the AirPods Pro 3 have some upgrades. They can track your heart rate, the noise canceling is a bit better, and the sound quality is supposedly improved. But those come at a cost. They're selling for around $220 even with the Black Friday discounts.

For a lot of people, the Pro 2 have everything you need: they connect to your phone quickly, switch between Apple devices without any hassle, let you use Siri hands-free, and do some basic health tracking. Unless you really want heart rate monitoring or the best possible noise canceling, the Pro 2 are a great buy and save you some cash.

Other AirPods Deals at Walmart

Walmart doesn't just have the Pro 2 on sale. They've got deals on pretty much the whole AirPods lineup:

AirPods 4: Only $80 (usually $200). These are perfect if you just want the basic Apple earbuds without spending much.

AirPods 4 with Noise Canceling: $110 (usually $179). For just $30 more than the regular AirPods 4, you get noise canceling.

AirPods Pro 3: $220 (usually $249). If you want all the latest tech, this is the set to get!

Why These Deals Are Kind Of a Big Deal

Apple stuff doesn't usually go on sale for this much. Black Friday is one of the only times you'll see prices this low. So, if you've been wanting a pair of AirPods, now's the time to get them.

Plus, AirPods make great gifts for the holidays! Almost anyone can use them, whether they're students, professionals, or just like listening to music.

Which AirPods Should You Get?

If you're not sure which ones to buy, here's a quick guide:

Super Budget-Conscious: Get the AirPods 4 for $80.

Value Shopper: The AirPods 4 with noise canceling at $110 are a great deal.

The Sweet Spot: The AirPods Pro 2 at $139 give you a lot of premium features for the price.

Tech Lover: If you want all the bells and whistles, get the AirPods Pro 3 at $220.

Basically, the Pro 2 are the best choice for most people during this Black Friday sale

The Bottom Line

Walmart's Black Friday sale has an amazing deal on the AirPods Pro 2. At $139, they're a steal. You get great noise canceling, good sound, language translation, and solid battery life.

With all the different AirPods models on sale, there's something for everyone, no matter your budget. Whether you're treating yourself or buying a gift, now's a great time to snag some AirPods for less.

35.Apple’s Black Friday Sale Drops Huge Discounts on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks, Watches & AirTags

*Apple Black Friday 2025: Sweet Deals on AirPods, iPads, Watches, and Macs**

Alright, let's keep it real. Most of us want Apple stuff. iPhones, iPads, MacBooks – who wouldn't? But those prices, right? Ouch. Apple doesn't usually drop prices themselves, so Black Friday is where it's at. Stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy are the ones who actually cut prices on Apple goodies. It's your shot to grab something without totally wrecking your budget.

This year, it looks like they're putting almost everything on sale: AirPods, iPads, Apple Watches, MacBooks, iMacs, and even Apple TV subscriptions. Let's look at some of the best deals and why you might actually be interested.

**AirPods: Wireless Audio That Won't Break You**

AirPods are still super popular, and you should find discounts on most of the different models this Black Friday.

* **AirPods Pro 3:** $220 (Usually $249, so you save $29). These are the newest ones. People say they're a big step up, with cool things like real-time translation, heart rate tracking, better noise cancelling, and longer battery life. This is the lowest price they've been since launch. Check Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target.

* **AirPods 4 with ANC:** $100 (Usually $179, so you save $79). Great middle-ground option with decent noise cancelling and the real-time translation, but not as pricey as the Pros. If you like the half in-ear styles, these are worth checking out.

* **AirPods 4 (no ANC):** $80 (Usually $130, so you save $50). No noise cancelling or translation here. You still get Personalized Spatial Audio, which is kinda cool. At $80, they're the cheapest way to give AirPods a try.

* **AirPods Max:** $430 (Usually $549, so you save $120). These over-ear headphones haven't changed much since when they came out, aside from getting USB-C. Still comfy, nice-looking, and sound awesome.

* **EarPods (wired):** $13 (Usually $19, so you save $6). For anyone not into Bluetooth, Apple's wired earphones are also on sale.

Apple makes an AirPod for any budget. Whether you want basic or top-of-the-line, Black Friday is your time to shop.

**iPads: A Tablet for Almost Everyone**

Apple’s iPad collection is big, and Black Friday could make them hard to resist.

* **iPad (11-inch, A16 chip):** $279 (Usually $349, so you save $70). This is the basic iPad. No smart features, but still fast enough for playing games, watching videos, and everyday surfing. Under $300, it's the most affordable way to get a current iPad.

* **iPad Air (M3, 11-inch):** $449 (Usually $600, so you save $151). Want the most for your money? This could be it. It feels like the fancy ones, and it can handle multiple things at once without lagging. Usually, this is the best iPad since it fits what most people need.

* **iPad Air (M3, 13-inch):** $649 (Usually $800, so you save $150). The larger screen is awesome for work or movies, and it goes well with the Apple Pencil Pro and smart Apple features.

* **iPad mini (A17 Pro, 8-inch):** $399 (Usually $499, so you save $100). Small and easy to carry around. The Mini has Apple smart functions and is killer for messages, books, or simple games.

* **iPad Pro (M5, 11-inch, 256GB):** $900 (Usually $1000, so you save $100). With Apple's super-fast M5 chip and a great screen, the Pro is nuts. It's more than most people need. For video editing, gaming or stuff that takes a good amount of power, go for it.

Simply put: want to move around more, want great price, or want a lots of power? There's an iPad on sale for you.

**Apple Watch: A Little Healthier… On a Budget**

Apple's still the king of smartwatches, and these Black Friday discounts mean it's also easier to get one.

* **Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm):** $350 (Usually $399, so you save $49). The high-end watch goes hard with everything you need to track your health. It's got a stronger screen and better battery life than last year's version.

* **Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm, GPS):** $200 (Usually $249, so you save $49). This updated cheaper version still has most of the cool things about Apple Watches, just with a smaller screen and less health sensors. It's the cheapest since it came out.

These deals give you a choice: do you need the top features, or is the more affordable one alright for now?

**MacBooks and Macs: Real Power for Working**

Apple's laptops and desktop PCs are also seeing some nice deals.

* **MacBook Air (M4, 13-inch):** $749 (Usually $999, so you save $250). Light but works, the M4 Air is likely the best laptop for many. It has good battery life and easy to carry around. Great for students and anyone who works outside their home.

* **MacBook Air (M4, 15-inch):** $949 (Usually $1199, so you save $250). The bigger screen has more room without too much weight.

* **MacBook Pro (M5, 14-inch, 512GB):** $1,441 (Usually $1598, so you save $157). Apple's newest chip allows for better graphics, so the Pro is a good choice for gaming and creative work. Tests show that the battery can take up to 34 hours to die.

* **MacBook Pro (M4 Pro, 14-inch):** $1,749 (Usually $1999, so you save $250). Need serious power, look no further!

* **MacBook Pro (M4 Pro, 16-inch):** $2,189 (Usually $2499, so you save $310). Screen is a lot bigger. Not as easy to carry around. You get plenty of workspace in front of you when you open it.

* **iMac (M4, 24-inch):** $1,149 (Usually $1299, so you save $150). Apple's all-in-one desktop now comes with 16GB of RAM, and it's a much better deal.

* **Mac mini (M4):** $479 (Usually $599, so you save $120). Small but strong. The Mini can take on games and work without a hitch.

Apple has a Mac for almost every need, from small Airs to big Pros and desktops.

**Apple TV: Quality Shows, More Affordable**

Apple has a deal for its streaming service. If you're new to Apple TV+, you can get six months for $36 ($6 monthly rather than $9.99) . Included are shows such as Severance, Ted Lasso, and Slow Horses, and the upcoming Vince Gilligan series Pluribus. You have to redeem it through Apple before December 1.

**Bottom Line**

Apple stuff almost never gets incredibly cheap, but Black Friday 2025 looks good. From AirPods Pro 3 at the lowest price you can get them to the MacBook Air M4 at $749. Apple's goods are more in reach. Whether you want headphones, tablets, watches, laptops, or new streaming, places like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy are giving some of the best prices this Black Friday.

36.Black Friday Slashes Prices: Record Lows on MacBook Air, Mac mini & More.

*Apple Mac Black Friday 2025: Sweet Deals on MacBooks, Mac Minis, and iMacs!**

Black Friday's here, and wouldn't you know it, Apple's Mac computers are seeing some pretty big price drops. Whether you're after the super-portable MacBook Air, a powerful MacBook Pro, a tiny Mac mini, or the awesome iMac, there are deals all over the place. Basically, it's a good time to snag one of these often pricey machines. And with Apple's new M-series chips inside, you're looking at some serious performance that you normally don't find at these prices.

**M4 MacBook Air: Small Size, Big Value**

The MacBook Air has always been a favorite because it's so light and still packs a punch. This year, the M4 MacBook Air is getting discounts of up to $250! Here are a few examples:

* 13-inch M4 MacBook Air (16GB RAM, 256GB storage): $749 (Usually $999)

* 13-inch M4 MacBook Air (16GB RAM, 512GB storage): $949 (Usually $1,199)

* 13-inch M4 MacBook Air (24GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,149 (Usually $1,399)

* 15-inch M4 MacBook Air (16GB RAM, 256GB storage): $949 (Usually $1,199)

* 15-inch M4 MacBook Air (16GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,149 (Usually $1,399)

* 15-inch M4 MacBook Air (24GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,349 (Usually $1,599)

These discounts seem to cover every version and color, so you can probably find exactly what you want. If you're a student, or you just want something small with enough power to get things done, this M4 MacBook Air might be the best deal Apple's ever had on a laptop.

**M5 MacBook Pro: Serious Power**

Apple dropped its M5 chip this year, and it's inside the latest iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models. The graphics are way better, and it runs more smoothly. So, this MacBook Pro can do more than ever. For Black Friday, you can get the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro for as much as $200 less.

* 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro (16GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,442 (Usually $1,599)

* 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro (16GB RAM, 1TB storage): $1,639 (Usually $1,799)

* 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro (24GB RAM, 1TB storage): $1,799 (Usually $1,999)

If you work with video, or you're a designer or programmer, this M5 MacBook Pro is like having a workstation you can carry around. The discounts make it a bit easier to afford if you need a lot of power but don't want to pay full price.

**M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro: The Top Dogs**

Even though the M5 chip is new, the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips are still the most powerful you can get in a MacBook. They're made for people who do serious creative work and need all the performance they can get. And Black Friday has some great prices on them.

* 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,749 (Usually $1,999)

* 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB RAM, 1TB storage): $2,099 (Usually $2,399)

* 14-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro (36GB RAM, 1TB storage): $2,799 (Usually $3,199)

* 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro (24GB RAM, 512GB storage): $2,189 (Usually $2,499)

* 16-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro (48GB RAM, 512GB storage): $2,535 (Usually $2,899)

* 16-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro (36GB RAM, 1TB storage): $3,063 (Usually $3,499)

* 16-inch M4 Max MacBook Pro (48GB RAM, 1TB storage): $3,499 (Usually $3,999)

There are a ton of choices. Whether you want a smaller 14-inch model or a bigger 16-inch one, the Pro and Max chips give you performance that's hard to beat. If you need your MacBook for your job, these discounts are kind of a big deal.

**M4 Mac mini: Power in a Small Package**

The Mac mini is still a favorite because you get a desktop computer in a really small box. For Black Friday, they start at just $479, which is a cheap way to get a new Mac.

* M4 Mac mini (16GB RAM, 256GB storage): $479 (Usually $599)

* M4 Mac mini (16GB RAM, 512GB storage): $670 (Usually $799)

* M4 Mac mini (24GB RAM, 256GB storage): $870 (Usually $999)

* M4 Mac mini (16GB RAM, 1TB storage): $869 (Usually $999)

* M4 Mac mini (24GB RAM, 1TB storage): $1,049 (Usually $1,199)

* M4 Mac mini (32GB RAM, 1TB storage): $1,299 (Usually $1,399)

* M4 Pro Mac mini (24GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,199 (Usually $1,399)

If you already have a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, the Mac mini is a budget-friendly way to get the latest Apple tech. It's small, so you can use it for anything from a home office computer to a media server, or even a small gaming machine.

**M4 iMac: Simple and Classy**

Apple's iMac continues to be this visually impressive all-in-one desktop that combines looks and performance. The black Friday discount cuts up to $350 off the retail price.

* M4 iMac (8-core, 16GB RAM, 256GB storage): $1,149 (Usually $1,299)

* M4 iMac (10-core, 16GB RAM, 256GB storage): $1,349 (Usually $1,499)

* M4 iMac (10-core, 16GB RAM, 256GB storage with nano-texture glass): $1,499 (Usually $1,699)

* M4 iMac (10-core, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage): $1,349 (Usually $1,699)

If you want a desktop that looks great and works well, the iMac is still a good pick. Its sleek design, bright screen, and powerful insides make it perfect for creative tasks and everyday work.

**In short...**

Apple's Black Friday 2025 Mac deals are some of the best we've seen. With the M4 MacBook Air at $749 and the M4 Mac mini at $479, you can grab Apple's newest stuff for pretty cheap. The M5 MacBook Pro is stepping up the game with the next line of performance while the M4 Pro and Max MacBook Pros continue to be your best bet for professionals. To cap it off, the M4 iMac is a sleek machine with both beauty and power.

Whether you're looking for something you can take anywhere, a ton of power, or a small, stylish computer, there's probably a Mac deal for you. With savings somewhere around $150 to $500, Black Friday might be a good time to get yourself a new machine.

37.Black Ops 7 & Warzone Season 1 Launch With New Maps, Weapons, and Full Integration.

Season 1 of *Call of Duty: Black Ops 7* and *Warzone* lands on December 4th, which I consider when the servers are going to be absolutely hammered, so prepare for a little bit of waiting time. But trust me when I say that it will be worth it.

Okay, so *Black Ops 7* and *Warzone* are now joined at the hip. So, what does that mean for all of us? It’s simple, more guns, scopes, camos – basically, everything you like to use. With new updates, you’ll also be able to get a fresh battle pass, absolutely stacked with things that you can earn just by playing!

And it’s not just the battle pass, they’re dumping even more weapons into the game! For the multiplayer addicts, there are some new maps incoming. Plus, look out for cool seasonal events to pop up. Whether you love mowing down zombies, or doing single-player campaign missions, or just playing competitive, this season has got a lot that should keep you hooked. It seems every gamer will be able to get into this type of update.

**Holiday Events**

First off, we got this thing called the Rally Point event. It’s a community deal where we all play together to unlock some prizes. It's open for everyone, no matter what mode you like to play.

When the holidays are in full swing, be ready for the Naughty and Nice event. It’ll have limited-time skins and weapon blueprints with a holiday vibe. So don't miss out!

**Battle Pass Loot**

The *Black Ops 7* battle pass has arrived! There are around 100 unlockables through the free and paid tiers. The biggest prize is the new Alden Dorne operator skin, which you get for purchasing the paid pass. A warning for completionists, if you level up the battle pass, you unlock another skin that you'll absolutely want!

And yes, the BlackCell pass is also available. It’ll cost about $30 and gets you the Scorn operator and some exclusive stuff. It’s really for those wanting to show off and tier up fast.

**Armory Update:**

If you love collecting and playing around with different guns, get ready. Season 1 will be adding seven new guns to your inventory. You can get two of them for free just by completing the battle pass:

* **Kogot-7 submachine gun**: a new MP7.

* **Maddox RFB assault rifle**: Remember it from Black Ops 4? It has returned!

Later in the season, these weapons are being added:

* **Ballistic Knife**

* **Sokol 545 light machine gun**

* **NX Ravager crossbow**

* **HX sniper rifle**

* **Sturmwolf 45 submachine gun**

Whatever your fighting style, there's a weapon here for you.

**Multiplayer Refresh**

There are seven new maps coming to multiplayer. It’s a mix of fresh maps and some old favorites.

Places To Battle:

* **Fate**: Just like the campaign area of the same name, fans of this map will feel right at home.

* **Odysseus**: Based on a location in the campaign.

* **Utopia**: A futuristic location.

* **Yakei**: Set in Japan atop a building.

Classic maps make a comeback!:

* **Meltdown and Standoff** are coming back from Black Ops 2.

* **Fringe** from Black Ops 3 makes its return.

* **Hijacked** is being updated with a holiday theme.

Whether you want something new or prefer classic maps, this season has something to suit you.

**Multiplayer Gameplay**

Returning Modes:

* **Prop Hunt**

* **One in the Chamber**

* **Sharpshooter**

Here are some of the party games that are returning. These are some fan favorites like Stick and Stones and Gun Game.

A new mode called Takeover has also launched. It's like Domination mixed with Hardpoint, as teams are vying for positions. Once they control all three locations, the point will shift to a new area on the map. The team with the most points wins the match.

Expect some Holiday modes to show up as well. You'll get to throw literal snowballs and damage other players.

**New Equipment and Scorestreaks**

New things from the game are coming during the new season:

* **Shock Charge** (tactical item)

* **Impact and Thermal Grenades** (lethal item)

* **Tactical Insertion**(respawn wherever I want tool)

Some older ones will be making a comeback after so long:

* **Archangel launcher**

* **Combat Bow**

* **Death Machine**

* **Dreadnought**

* **Grim Reaper**

* **SAM Turret**

* **Strategic Bomber**

* **War Machine**

The new stuff will definitely affect the gameplay.

**Zombies Update: Lots of Fun**

In terms of zombie fans, get ready because there will be a new map called Astra Malorum. It’s set on a chunk of rock that is made in the shape of a skull, while it's placed in space. When you enter, you'll slay zombies with:

* The O.S.C.A.R. killing machine

* The LGM-1 UFO-Shooting Wonder Weapon

Upcoming zombie destinations such as EXIT 115 and Zarya Cosmodrome are coming while directions methods are being implemented into Ashes of the Damned.

Fan favorites like Mule Kick and Frost Blast are being reintroduced for diehard fans.

**Endgame:**

In Avalon, there will be many events where you'll engage in combat with:

* A Zombie T-Rex boss

* The Origins robot

* A VTOL warship

The difficulty of these matches is high but is great for getting experience.

**Warzone: Updates**

You'll be fighting on a new, small map called Haven's Hollow in Liberty Falls.

Verdansk is remaining in the game as well.

* Factory is implemented close to superstore

* Signal Station gives rewards

Warzone is adopting guns and attachments from multiplayer to give a more coherent experience.

**Conclusion**

Season 1 of Black Ops 7 and Warzone is absolutely filled. Login to Season 1 on December 4!

38.Rockstar Employees Allegedly Dismissed After Sharing Internal Chats on Union Discord

Here's the deal with what's going on at Rockstar Games, you know, the ones who made Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption. Word on the street is, they fired 34 people which they're saying was for being bad apples.. But a lot of people are saying it really looks like they did it because these employees were trying to start a union. And the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) is not backing down, they're already talking to lawyers.

**Did a Discord Server Kick This Off?**

The folks over at People Make Games did some digging, and it looks like it all started with a private Discord server that was set up for Rockstar employees and union reps.

Back in 2022, some Rockstar workers started up this invite-only Discord. It was a place where employees could chat with each other and with people from the IWGB union. There was a main chat for everyone, and then secret channels just for union members to talk privately.

What were they talking about? Stuff like how much they get paid, bonuses, and problems with HR. All that kind of talk is legally protected in the UK, so it's pretty normal union-type stuff. It's like a virtual water cooler where people talked about work stuff away from the company’s eyes.

It wasn't like they were leaking secrets about the next GTA. It was just people chatting about their jobs and their worries. But here's the weird thing: Rockstar didn't even attempt to investigate, which makes you wonder what they were genuinely trying to get at here!

**The Slack Cleanse**

Things got even worse when Rockstar started messing with Slack, which is what they use for talking to each other. Apparently, back in October, they did a which some people are calling a “Slack cleanse.”

Before this, there were all sorts of fun channels on Slack where people could share news about games, talk about their hobbies, and support each other. If another game company had layoffs, union supporters would put a little seedling emoji in their messages to show they stood with the people who lost jobs. People showed love for Palestine. But then, Rockstar shut all those channels down.

Since Rockstar employees can't get to their work emails from home, someone shared an email about the new Slack rules on the Discord server. People started talking about it and even dropped some quotes from the email. The People Make Games source is saying someone snitched, and that's what made Rockstar start their investigation. Then, before anyone knew it, 34 people got laid off by the end of October.

**The Union is NOT Happy and Threatening to Sue**

The IWGB is extremely mad about this. They figure the firings are a straight-up attack because some employees were trying to start up a union. The head of the union, Alex Marshall, told People Make Games that Rockstar always tries to stop people from connecting with each other. Marshall said the workers just want to talk about their pay and how they are treated and they want to be proud of making a good game that people will really enjoy playing.

Marshall pointed out that the IWGB was allowed to be on the Discord server because union people often help their members in private online spots. Now they've filed a legal claim for unfair firing, saying that the firings break the law because they mess with the workers' rights to speak their minds and have union representation.

**Employees United, and the Government is Watching**

The firings actually made people at Rockstar get together. Over 200 employees signed a letter to management, showing they had the backings of their coworkers. Even people at the UK Parliament noticed, and they held a talk about it. That just shows how huge this is, and it's a big deal even outside of the gaming world.

A whole lot of people think that firing everyone right after changing the Slack rules looks really suspicious. It seems like Rockstar is punishing employees for speaking up. People are saying Rockstar is messing up the relationship with their employees and maybe even with their fans.

**Rockstar is Staying Quiet**

Rockstar Games isn't saying anything about the People Make Games investigation. They're staying quiet about why they fired those employees. By being so quiet, they're making things even worse, which makes people think that the company is trying to get rid of union talk instead of trying to sort out the problems to talk it out.

**The Bigger Picture: Gaming and Workers' Rights**

What's going on with Rockstar is a small part of this bigger scenario of gaming. Work condition, union, and employees being more vocal have become bigger in the industry. Game companies have been getting bashed for things like forcing people to work too long, crunching and not protecting their staff. Unions are happening more often, especially in the UK and the US, as staff is fighting for a fair and safer workplace.

Rockstar has been in bad spotlight a couple of times when making Red Dead Redemption 2. The firings now add another dimension to how employees are being treated.

**Final Thoughts**

The 34 firings at Rockstar Games are providing a different view on what happened to the company-employee relationship. Rockstar is claiming the firings were for code of conduct violations. However, some are saying it's because employees were talking about changes to internal and workplace rules.

Since the IWGB is filing a claim, more than 200 employees are coming together, and UK government is involved, this will be a landmark change to the labor laws surrounding the gaming world.

39.PlayStation Reveals Another PS Plus Extra Title Arriving December 2025

Skate Story is hitting PS Plus Extra right when it launches! Yeah, you heard right. Sony just announced that this crazy skateboarding game—where you play as a dude made of glass—is going to be free with PS Plus Extra starting December 8, 2025. I saw the announcement on the PlayStation Blog. No joke, you can download the whole thing the second it drops and start shredding. If you're into those weird indie games or you're a fan of extreme sports, this is seriously awesome news.

Basically, it's Tony Hawk, but totally twisted.

Think of Skate Story as if Tony Hawk's Pro Skater had a love child with a really strange dream. You're not just some normal skater doing ollies. You're this glassy dude skating through what looks like a version of hell. Your mission? Beat the crap out of demons and, wait for it... EAT THE MOON for the devil. Seriously.

I know, it sounds insane, right? The official description says something like, Skate hard to destroy angry demons, help out a forgetful frog, and rescue lost souls as you go from being a complete noob to a skate god. You roll through hell, and you eventually find the devil's weak spot: humility, constantly improving your skills, and a perfect backside tailslide.

This weird combo of humor, surprisingly deep moments, and killer skateboarding is what sets Skate Story apart from pretty much every other skateboarding game out there.

How Does the Gameplay Actually Work?

Even though the story is completely bonkers, the game itself is all about skateboarding, just like you'd expect. You're doing tricks, grinding rails, flipping your board – all that good stuff. But here's the catch: because you're made of glass, messing up can literally mean your skater shatters into a million pieces. So, yeah, you gotta be careful. Think of it like playing Dark Souls...on a skateboard.

The game really pushes you to keep moving, maintain momentum, and nail your tricks as you try to make your way through some seriously tough levels. Oh, and did I mention you have to fight demons along the way? So, it's not just about landing a perfect tailslide. This combo of smooth skating and intense action makes the game feel fresh and challenging at the same time. It puts a new take on difficult games and skateboarding.

What Does This Game Look Like?

The visuals alone are enough to make people stop and take notice of Skate Story. The levels are like something out of a dream, full of shattered landscapes and massive, glowing orbs. And your glass skater reflects light in this insane way that looks totally awesome. It really makes you feel like you're there, skating through this bizarre otherworld.

The music is pretty sweet, too. It’s chill but also gets you pumped up at the same time. The whole thing blends together to create this mythical feel instead of just some regular sports game.

PS Plus Extra is Where It's At

Having Skate Story launch directly onto PS Plus Extra is a big deal. Usually, indie games take time to gain traction and build a following. By putting it on Sony's service, Skate Story is going to be seen by a massive audience right away.

This is a win-win for both the game's creator and Sony. The creator gets tons of people playing their game without them having to think twice about buying it. And Sony gets to say, Hey, check out all the awesome games you can play on PS Plus Extra, not just the AAA titles!

Skate Story is hitting the service alongside the PS5 version of Red Dead Redemption, which drops on December 2nd. So, yeah, it's going to be a great month for gaming.

Why Should You Actually Care About This?

Skate Story being on PS Plus Extra really highlights how important these subscription services have become. Similar to what Netflix did with movies, services like PS Plus Extra are changing the way we experience games. For smaller studios, a day-one release on a platform like this can get their game noticed when it might have been totally overlooked otherwise.

This can be a lifesaver for those smaller studios. You get an amazing game out of the deal, and they get to keep the lights on. It's a great way to support a smaller studio.

Everyone is Already Amped Up

Skate Story has been generating buzz for a while now, and the trailers have people stoked because it's just so different. Critics are really giving it props for its unique direction and innovative gameplay. Gamers are excited about the idea of skateboarding in this completely surreal world.

Putting it on PS Plus Extra right away means that all that hype is going to translate into people actually playing it. Since it's free with the service, tons of people are going to give it a shot, and it has the potential to become a surprise hit.

So, Basically...

Skate Story coming to PS Plus Extra on December 8th is awesome for everyone involved. It's a wild blend of skateboarding and a totally bizarre story.

By launching alongside games like the PS5 version of Red Dead Redemption, Skate Story reinforces the value of these subscription services, making an effort to bring really unique game experiences to a wider audience.

You might not even know what you're missing in the world of gaming. That's fine because Skate Story lets gamers take a crazy trip through the depths of hell. And they are doing all that with a skateboard and tricks along the way.

If you has been counting down the days for this game, your time is coming soon! Everyone should remember this December.

40.YouTube Music Launches 2025 Recap Featuring New ‘Ask About Your Year’ Tool

**YouTube Music's 2025 Year in Review is Here! (And It's Got Some Seriously Cool AI)**

Okay, so it's not even December yet, but YouTube Music just dropped their 2025 Year in Review – they call it Recap, which is kinda cute. They do this every year, trying to get it to you before the holiday rush. This year, though, it's not just your usual top ten songs. They've added this *crazy* AI thing called Ask Music that lets you actually TALK about your listening habits. Seriously, it's a pretty fun, easy way to look back at what you were listening to.

**Finding Your Recap? Super Easy.**

Sometimes, it can be slow, like it doesn't automatically show up when you open the app. But don’t sweat it, it’s easy. If this happens you simply Tap your profile pic in the corner on your andriod or iPhone and then tap find yours. *voila*. Swipe to see what interests you most.

**The Best Stuff: Hours, Streaks, and Killer Playlists!**

The Recap starts by showing you how many hours (or DAYS, oh my gosh!) you spent listening to music this year. Then, it points out your streak days, where you basically had music glued to your ears. And, yep, it shows your #1 song and full top five. YouTube Music even makes a playlist out of all of it for you! Sounds like a solid way to remember the year.

They also create a playlist just of what you were into during September-November. Like, a sneak peek at your recent vibes. Were you all about summer bangers, or more into sad vibes?

**Your #1 Artist and A World Tour... Kinda.**

This part is kinda neat: You get a Musical Bestie, showing you who you played the most songs by this year! Plus, you see which days you were really feeling their music. It really calls out artists you are most loyal to musically!

Then there's Musical Passport. This shows all the different musical styles from around the world you listened to. You might secretly be obsessed with music of other cultures– this shows it all. Makes for a great look at me moment to share to let others know about your personality. Whether it's K-Pop or French house music, you can see the full breakdown of cultures you clicked with!

**More Cool Things to Check Out!**

Besides just songs and artists, the Recap also shows you:

* Your albums of the year

* The podcasts you were listening to

* The music styles you liked

* A shareable graphic showing all of it

It’s more than music, it is all the audio you had going in your ear. Showing a wide assortment of media that you can view on your phone.

**This Year's Main Attraction: Ask Music (Thanks to AI!)**

The big addition is Ask Music. This AI looks closely at your listening history and gives you interesting info. Instead of just seeing plain numbers, you can directly ask about your taste. They even give you some example questions to get you started:

* Has my music taste changed since January?

* Was my taste full of happy or chill music?

* If my music was a weather, what would it be?

* Did I love the same song on repeat, or move on to new stuff?

* What kind of EDM do I listen to?

* If my music was an animal, what would I call it?

You get some seriously cool graphics with every answer, if you want to share them, and the whole thing feels like you're using a chatbot.

**Why Is This Actually Interesting?**

Ask Music is a little look into the future of music. Lots of other music services do year-end summaries, but this chatbot idea feels like something new.

YouTube Music uses the data to draw interesting conclusions, like making your taste an animal, the weather, or a trip. The Recap is now exciting and makes you want to use it.

**Share the Love!**

Those graphics are perfect for sharing on your feed, and YouTube really wants you to share your Recap! They think these fun answers will help them stand out from the crowd. Everyone does want to show off their style in some way, you know?

**Here's the Breakdown...**

Yeah, other platforms have year-end summaries, but YouTube Music's AI is how they differentiate themselves, tech-wise. Data alone can be boring.

YouTube Music is trying to be more than just a music platform, they want to become your music buddy.

**AI and Music: The Future**

Ask Music feels like how AI is being used in music. AI is already used for recommending stuff, making playlists, and playing music. YouTube focusing on what the listener wants to give them the tech they'd want? That's pretty cool.

People prefer to be involved and be given more control. They enjoy questions about their mood, styles, and music type. Looking at one's playlists you can see all your favorite genres across platforms.

**In Short...**

YouTube Music's 2025 Recap is here to tear apart every last detail of your music! Look through your favorite artists, songs, and types of music. Ask Music is the coolest part—now you can basically have a conversation with your music data!

Users get custom images to share online. That may even put YouTube Music ahead when it comes to something innovative.

2025 Recap lets listeners see music a new way.

Whether you're all about sad songs or happy music, YouTube Music's 2025 Recap is waiting with your name on it.