News-Technology

 1.Pebble Round 2 official The iconic circular smartwatch returns with a two week battery life 

Eric Migicovsky has always been an interesting guy in tech. You might know him as the founder of Pebble, that smartwatch company that helped kick things off before Apple and Samsung took over. Now, Eric’s gone back to his roots with a new project that feels old-school and new all at once. He’s bringing back his old Pebble designs, but with a big change: the battery lasts for weeks, not just days. If you liked the original Pebble, this is big news.

Pebble watches were never about being super powerful or having tons of flashy bells and whistles. They were about being practical, simple, and a little bit geeky cool. People loved the original Pebble for its e-ink screen, how long the battery lasted, and all the apps made by its fans. They were kind of the opposite of the Apple Watch—maybe not as polished, but more personal. Eric bringing this idea back now, when most smartwatches die after a day or two, really makes a point. It shows that how long something lasts and how easy it is to use are just as important as the latest tech.

When I saw Eric wearing one of these new watches, I just had to push the buttons. They clicked, and it felt good. That little click tells you a lot about what Pebble is all about. These watches weren't meant to be thrown away. They were made to be tools, friends, and in a way, part of you. That button click reminds us that sometimes real, physical buttons are better than just touching and swiping a screen. It’s a design choice that feels a bit rebellious today, when almost everything is just touch.

Eric himself seems to have that rebel spirit. He’s not going after the big smartwatch market anymore. He’s making these for people who really love tech, who feel nostalgic, and who want things to last. But he still has his fun side. Finding out he’s a GoldenEye fan – yep, the old Nintendo 64 game – just makes him more relatable. You can almost see him getting ideas from Bond movies, or just having fun with an old game from his past. Pebble always had a bit of a retro look, even when it was new.

The picture Sean Hollister from The Verge took tells a story too. Next to Eric’s new Pebble is the Pebble Time 2, another reminder of the company’s past big plans. The Time 2 was supposed to be Pebble’s next big thing, with a bigger color screen and better health tracking. But it never really got going because Fitbit bought Pebble before the watch could really make its mark. Seeing it now, with Eric’s new project, is a bit sad. It makes you wonder what could have been, and maybe what still can be.

The photo also shows the Index 01 microphone ring, a weird little extra that shows Eric is still down to try new things. Pebble wasn't just about watches; it was about trying out new ideas in wearable tech. The microphone ring keeps that spirit alive—it’s a strange, almost sci-fi idea that might not be for everyone but definitely gets you thinking. It proves that new ideas often come from trying things that are a bit different.

What’s cool about this new version is how much it focuses on battery life. When most smartwatches need charging every night, talking about weeks of battery life seems pretty amazing. It’s not just a tech win; it’s a way of thinking about things. Eric is betting that people want devices that just work in their lives, without needing constant attention. That was what Pebble promised originally, and it’s still appealing today. Long battery life is a kind of luxury, and you don't see it much in smartwatches.

There's a cultural side to this comeback too. Pebble was one of the first big hits on Kickstarter, showing how communities can make cool stuff happen. Thousands of people believed in Eric’s idea and helped make it real. Bringing Pebble back now feels like a nod to those fans, a way of saying: the story isn't over. For anyone who still has their old Pebbles tucked away, the idea of a new one is super exciting. It’s not just about looking back; it’s about keeping things going.

Of course, the smartwatch world has changed a lot since Pebble was big. Apple, Samsung, and Google rule the market, and their devices are packed with sensors, apps, and connections. But they also have downsides, especially battery life. Eric’s new Pebble doesn’t need to compete on every single thing. It just needs to find its spot for people who want simplicity, long-lasting products, and a bit of personality. So, it’s less about fighting the big guys and more about taking back a space that Pebble once owned.

Watching Eric push this project means you can't help but feel good for him. He’s not just following what’s popular; he’s bringing a vision back to life. The buttons click, the battery lasts, and the watch feels like Pebble again. For fans, that’s all they need. And for the rest of us, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best new things are the ones that take us back to basics.

2.The New Year fitness hack Why Amazon’s top rated Jacoosa smartwatch is 63% off right now 

Alright, so we're talking about the Jacoosa Smartwatch – and honestly, it’s a pretty sweet deal.

You know how it goes, every year around this time, everyone starts talking about getting healthier. New year, new me! we all say. We promise to run more, hit the gym religiously, or at least try to walk a tiny bit further each day. But sticking to those goals? That's always the tricky part, isn't it? Well, here’s some good news for a change: new gadgets can actually give you a hand. They help you see how well you're doing, which weirdly, makes you want to keep going. And if you're thinking about grabbing some tech to help with that, the Jacoosa Smartwatch and Health Tracker should totally be on your radar for next year. It just ticks all the boxes: it looks sharp, hooks up to your phone without a fuss, keeps pretty good tabs on your health, and the best part? The price is just ridiculous in a good way.

Seriously, imagine this: it used to go for eighty bucks, but right now on Amazon, it's sitting at just thirty dollars. That's a whopping sixty-three percent off, saving you a cool fifty dollars! If you're keen on getting a bit healthier without blowing all your cash, this is absolutely the way to go. And get this – it plays nicely with both Apple and Android phones, which is super convenient for everyone. Plus, you can pick it up in four fun band colors: classic black, a cool blue, a soft pink, or a funky purple. So you can totally match it to your vibe while still getting all the neat features you'd expect from a modern fitness tracker.

**Packed with all the good stuff**

What makes the Jacoosa Smartwatch such a standout is that it's kind of like a two-in-one deal: it’s a smartwatch and a fitness tracker all rolled into one. It comes with over 130 sport modes, which is kind of insane. So, whether you're into running, cycling, swimming, yoga, or pretty much any other workout you can think of, this watch is ready for it. For each thing you do, it gives you real-time updates on your health numbers. This helps you figure out how your body is reacting to what you're doing, which is pretty helpful for making changes. And if you love to swim or just get really sweaty, its tough, water-safe design is a huge plus. You can dunk it in up to 50 meters of water, so it's totally chill for those intense gym sessions, quick showers, and even swimming laps in the pool.

But don't think the Jacoosa is only for super active gym buffs. Its health features are honestly great for anyone who just wants to keep a casual eye on their general well-being. It constantly checks your heart rate, keeps a running tally of how many calories you're burning, and counts your steps throughout the day. Pop it on when you go to bed, and it'll even tell you how well you slept, giving you some clues about your rest quality. For women, it even tracks menstrual cycles, adding another personal health layer to the mix. All these bits and bobs make the Jacoosa a complete package for everyday wellness, not just for when you're working out.

**Battery life that just keeps going**

Let's be real, battery life can be a real headache with smartwatches. Nobody likes charging their watch every single night. But the Jacoosa really shines here too. With regular use – you know, checking messages, tracking workouts, all that jazz – it can last a solid seven days on just one charge. And if you just leave it on standby, doing its thing without constant interaction, it lasts an incredible 30 days. That means way less time tethered to a charger and way more time actually doing your own thing. For busy folks who can't be bothered to plug in their devices every single night, this is a seriously big win.

**Stay connected, no matter what**

Beyond all the health tracking stuff, the Jacoosa Smartwatch also keeps you linked up to your world. Just hook it up to your phone using Bluetooth, and you're good to go. You can take calls right from your wrist, change the song playing on your phone, see notifications from social media, and even snap pictures with your phone – all without pulling your phone out of your pocket or bag. It's way more than just a fitness tool; it’s a super handy extra that keeps you in the loop without always having to grab your phone. Whether you're sweating it out at the gym or just out and about running errands, having these things right there on your wrist just makes life so much easier.

**What people are saying about it**

The early talks about the Jacoosa Smartwatch have been overwhelmingly positive. Everyone who's dropped a review so far has given it a perfect five-star rating, which is pretty rare. One person shared, I’ve had a ton of smartwatches over the years, but this one is hands down the best. It tracks your steps, keeps an eye on your heart rate, blood pressure, and even oxygen levels. It’s seriously like having a doctor right there on your wrist! Another happy customer was really stoked about the price, saying, So many cool things packed into this – tracking steps is what I mostly use it for, but the other features help me really see what my workouts are doing for my body. Why would anyone pay a fortune for a tracker when you can just use this?

These comments really hit home why this watch is getting so much love: it gives you amazing features without the sky-high price tag you see on bigger, fancier brands. If you're someone who loves cool gadgets but hates spending a ton of money, picking up the Jacoosa seems like a really smart move.

**A few quick things to know:**

* **Screen size:** It’s got a nice big 1.83-inch screen. This means all your info is super easy to read at a glance, which is a nice touch.

* **Battery life:** Like we talked about, you get a full seven days with normal use. If you just let it chill in standby mode, it’ll last up to thirty days. That’s pretty fantastic for not having to worry about charging all the time.

* **Health and fitness features:** It’s packed. Over 130 sports modes, continuous heart rate checks, in-depth sleep info to help you rest better, menstrual cycle tracking for women, and of course, all your daily steps counted.

These little bits of info just go to show that it’s not just flashy; it’s actually practical and works really well in real life. That big screen makes looking at your stats a breeze, and all those health features give you some really useful insights into what your body is doing all day long.

**Other deals out there if you're looking around**

If you’re browsing Amazon for other fitness tech, you’ll definitely spot a few other good deals popping up:

* The Blackview Fitness Smartwatch is currently going for $27 (it used to be $30).

* The Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker is available for $100 (down from its usual $160).

* And the Garmin Venu Sq 2 GPS Smartwatch is priced at $150 (which is a pretty good drop from its original $250).

Each of these watches certainly has its own good points, no doubt about it. But the Jacoosa truly stands out because it hits that sweet spot of being both super affordable and absolutely loaded with features. At just thirty bucks, it’s genuinely hard to find another smartwatch that gives you so much bang for your buck.

**My Two Cents**

So, here’s my take: The Jacoosa Smartwatch and Health Tracker is more than just some piece of tech; it’s kind of like a friendly sidekick for all your fitness and wellness adventures. With its impressive collection of sports modes, its knack for keeping track of your health, that ridiculously long battery life, and its seamless phone connection, it genuinely gives you everything you need to stay motivated and completely up-to-date. And with that massive sixty-three percent off deal, it’s really a bargain you shouldn’t let slip away. All those cool band colors are still up for grabs too. So, if you’re ready to make next year the one where you actually put your health front and center, now’s definitely the time to snag this smartwatch. Believe me, you won't regret it.

3.Universal at last Belkin’s modular dock uses a "bring your own puck" system to support Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch 

Belkin's at CES 2026, right? And they're not just showing off a few things; they've got a whole lineup of new charging gear. It's pretty clear they're trying to help us all keep our phones, smartwatches, and whatever else we carry around powered up and not have a tangled mess of cables everywhere. What's cool is they seem to have actually thought about what different people use. It's not all about Apple stuff anymore, which is a breath of fresh air. They're making things for us Pixel users, the Galaxy crowd, and even folks who are probably eyeing the new Nintendo Switch 2. It’s like they’re saying, Hey, we see you, and we’ve got something for you too.

Let's talk about this Pixel-friendly charger first. Most of the time, when you see those fancy 3-in-1 charging docks, they're practically screaming Apple user! with their specific spots for iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods. But Belkin's shaking things up with their new UltraCharge Modular Charging Dock. This thing is genuinely different. The best part? You can actually use your own watch charger with it. That’s a big deal because it means if you've got a Pixel Watch, a Galaxy Watch, or really any other smartwatch, you're not out of luck. You just pop your charger in, and you're good to go. And get this – the cords for those chargers even hide away inside the dock. No more messy cables snaking all over your nightstand or desk. It’s a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in keeping things looking tidy.

Then there's the main charging pad on the front of this dock. It’s a 25W Qi2 charger. This is perfect for phones like the Pixel 10, which we're all expecting to be pretty awesome, and it'll probably work great with the rumored Galaxy S26 too. So, your main phone gets a nice, fast charge. And right in the middle, there’s a spot that’s just right for your wireless earbuds, like Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2. So, yeah, this dock is seriously a great option if you’re not hooked into the Apple ecosystem. It’s finally a solid alternative for the rest of us. They're saying it'll set you back about $65 and you can get your hands on it in the US early next year, with the rest of the world getting it a bit later. So, if you're a non-Apple person and looking for a clean, convenient way to charge all your daily gadgets, keep an eye out for this one. It looks like a real winner.

And that's not all! Belkin is also expanding its magnetic power bank collection. You know, those portable chargers that just snap onto the back of your phone? They're super handy when you're out and about and need a quick top-up without fumbling with cables. It seems like they’re really leaning into the convenience factor here. We’re talking about the BoostCharge Slim Magnetic Power Bank and probably a few other variations too. They're making it easier than ever to keep our devices charged no matter where we are, whether we're traveling, at a coffee shop, or just forgot to plug in our phone overnight. It's clear they're trying to cover all the bases to make our tech lives a little less stressful. It's exciting to see companies thinking beyond just the basics and really trying to solve those everyday annoyances we all face with our gadgets running out of juice at the worst possible moment.

4.Double the Gemini Samsung aims to reach 800 million AI mobile devices in 2026 

TM Roh, who's in charge of Samsung's phones, TVs, and home appliances, recently gave his first interview since taking over in November. He talked with Reuters about Samsung's big plans: really pushing AI, making their gadgets work better together, and fixing their supply chain problems. His comments give us a peek at how Samsung plans to get back to the top of the phone game, deal with rivals, and handle the current chip shortage.

**More Galaxy AI for Everyone**

Roh said Samsung wants to put Galaxy AI in twice as many mobile devices by 2026. Last year, about 400 million Samsung phones and tablets got AI features thanks to Google's Gemini and Samsung's Bixby. This year, they expect that number to hit 800 million.

Roh told us, We'll add AI to all our products, all their features, and all our services as fast as we can. That's a strong statement, showing how serious Samsung is about making AI a huge part of everything they do. For Google, Samsung's biggest Android friend, this is great news. Getting Gemini on hundreds of millions of devices makes Google stronger in the AI race against companies like OpenAI and Anthropic.

**The AI Competition Gets Fierce**

Alphabet released Gemini 3 in November 2025, saying it was better than other AI models. Reports said this made OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, halt other projects to speed up their own work. Within weeks, OpenAI released GPT-5.2, making the competition even harder.

Samsung picking Gemini isn't just about the tech; it's a smart business move. By using Google's AI and still making Bixby better for certain things, Samsung is playing both sides. Galaxy AI has tools for editing pictures, translating languages, summarizing text, and other helpful stuff, all meant to make phones more useful every day. Roh mentioned that people's awareness of Galaxy AI went from 30% to 80% in just one year, which means Samsung's marketing is working.

**Catching Up to Apple and Fighting Chinese Brands**

Samsung's big push into AI is also about getting more of the market back. Counterpoint Research says Apple became the number one phone maker in 2025. Meanwhile, Chinese companies like Huawei keep challenging Samsung in both regular and foldable phones.

Roh's plan is to make Samsung stand out with AI services that work across all its products. By putting Galaxy AI in not just phones, but also TVs and home appliances, Samsung hopes to create a smooth system that can go up against Apple's very controlled world. Samsung wants to get a bigger lead in AI features and be the best again in product types where they've always done well.

**The Memory Chip Shortage**

Even with all its AI plans, Samsung faces a tough problem: a worldwide shortage of memory chips. This situation is a bit complicated. On one hand, it helps Samsung's chip-making business, which is their main source of money. But on the other hand, it cuts into the profits of their phone and home electronics parts.

Roh said, Since this situation is unlike anything we've seen before, every company is affected. He didn't say no to raising product prices, hinting that some price increase was likely because chip costs are going up so much. Samsung is working with partners to come up with long-term plans to lessen the impact, but market researchers like IDC and Counterpoint think the phone market will shrink in 2026 as higher prices mean fewer people buy.

**Foldables: A Slow Start**

Samsung released the first foldable phones in 2019, but Roh admitted that they haven't become popular as fast as expected. Things like how hard they are to build and the lack of apps made for foldables have kept sales down. Still, he's feeling good about them.

Roh believes foldables will be common in two to three years, noting that many current foldable users buy another one when they upgrade. Samsung had almost two-thirds of the foldable market in late 2025, but competition is getting stronger. Huawei keeps making new advances, and Apple is expected to release its first foldable phone in 2026. For Samsung to stay ahead in this category, they'll need to keep making better hardware and software.

**Investors are Confident**

Despite these problems, investors seem to feel good about Samsung. Samsung's shares went up 7.5% on Monday, driven by hopes of higher profits in the last quarter of the year. The chip shortage, surprisingly, is actually boosting profits from their chip business, even as it causes problems for their other electronics. For investors, Samsung being both a chip supplier and a product maker helps protect them from ups and downs in the market.

**What's Next?**

TM Roh's interview shows a company at a turning point. Samsung is putting a lot of money into AI, working with Google's Gemini while also building up its own AI tech. They want to beat Apple, fight off Chinese rivals, and get foldables into the hands of more people. At the same time, they have to deal with the mess of a global chip shortage that could change the phone market.

Roh sounds sure: Even though AI might seem a bit uncertain right now, in six months to a year, these technologies will be everywhere. His goal is for AI to be in every product, every feature, and every service. Whether Samsung can pull that off depends not only on their engineering skills but also on how well they can manage supply chain shocks and stay ahead of rivals in a fast-moving industry.

5.The return of an icon LG revives the ultra-thin Wallpaper TV with the wireless OLED evo W6 

LG really blew people away at CES 2026 by bringing back their super-thin Wallpaper TV.

CES always has tons of cool new inventions, and every once in a while, a company truly nails it. This year, LG did just that with their Wallpaper TV making a comeback. They first showed it as an idea years ago, but now, in 2026, you can actually buy it. It has an amazing OLED screen, connects without wires, and is so thin it feels like something from a futuristic movie. Besides the Wallpaper TV, LG also showed off their new Gallery and Micro RGB TVs, so there's something for everyone.

**The Wallpaper TV (LG W6)**

The biggest hit of LG's presentation was definitely the LG W6 Wallpaper OLED TV. It's about as thin as a pencil, which is pretty crazy. Seeing it in person, it's hard to believe – it really looks like a glowing piece of glass stuck to the wall. But even though it's so thin, you still get those rich colors, really dark blacks, and great contrast that OLEDs are famous for.

Dealing with wires is easy. The W6 only needs one power cord. All the other video and sound hook-ups go through LG's One Connect box. You can put this box up to 10 meters away wirelessly, which means no messy wires and more freedom to set up your living room however you like.

Inside, the W6 has all of LG's latest stuff. Hyper Radiant Color makes blacks darker and colors pop more, and Brightness Booster Ultra makes it almost four times brighter than regular OLEDs. The screen also doesn't reflect light, so it stays clear even in bright rooms. The Alpha 9 Gen 3 processor, along with a special NPU chip, makes everything look better, especially when it's trying to make lower-quality videos look good on the big screen. If you're into AI, the W6 even works with generative AI features from Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini.

All these things together make the W6 one of the coolest TVs in a long time. Lots of TVs out there have silly features, like trying to copy Samsung's Frame or those super expensive 8K TVs that aren't really useful yet. But the Wallpaper TV feels like a real step forward. A super-thin wireless OLED with top-notch performance isn't just a gimmick; it's what TV fans have been hoping for, mixing amazing looks with incredible picture quality.

**The Gallery TV: LG vs. Samsung’s Frame**

LG also showed their newest Gallery TV, clearly made to go head-to-head with Samsung's popular Frame TVs. LG has made Gallery TVs before, but these 2026 models are a serious try to get into the art-focused TV market. They even got advice from museum experts, so the new Gallery TVs have a Gallery Mode that adjusts brightness and contrast just for different art pieces. They come with magnetic frames and special screens that cut down on glare, making art look more real.

The Gallery TV looks good up close, but its Mini LED screen isn't quite as good as LG's best OLEDs especially when it comes to color and contrast. They use Mini LED to help stop burn-in, which can happen if you show the same art for too long. While these TVs might not be for serious movie buffs, they're a good choice for people who want a TV that also looks like a piece of art. And since Samsung's Frame still gets criticized for being only okay as an actual TV, LG's new entry is good for competition.

**Micro RGB: A new name, a new way to watch**

As if we didn't have enough tech terms in the TV world, LG brought out Micro RGB, their fresh take on Mini LED. Unlike Micro LED, which is still super pricey, Micro RGB wants to show a much wider range of colors without costing too much.

Standing in front of LG's 100-inch Micro RGB demo at CES was quite an experience. Colors were rich and vibrant, and textures looked surprisingly real. While OLED still wins for contrast and how dark its blacks can get because each pixel lights itself up, Micro RGB is a clear improvement over regular Mini LED. For people who want a huge screen but can't afford a 100-inch Wallpaper OLED, Micro RGB could be a solid option.

**Other OLED Models**

LG isn't just putting all its cool new stuff into the Wallpaper TV. The new OLED tech from the W6 will also be in the G6 OLED models. The C6 and other lines will also get performance boosts. From what we've seen, the G6 looks much brighter and has better HDR than older G-series TVs. For those who want great OLED quality without the fancy Wallpaper design, these models are a more affordable choice.

**CES 2026 in context**

CES 2026 runs from January 4th to January 9th in Las Vegas. LG's announcements are just part of a ton of new products from companies like Lego, Hisense, NVIDIA, and Hyundai. As always, the show has a mix of truly useful new things and wild ideas. But LG's lineup stands out because it's both flashy and practical. The Wallpaper TV is amazing to look at, but it also fixes real problems like tangled wires and screen glare. The Gallery TV and Micro RGB TVs, for their part, help LG connect with different kinds of buyers.

**Final Thoughts**

LG's CES 2026 lineup shows they're open to trying new things while also making TVs that people will actually use. The return of the Wallpaper TV reminds us that cool design and great performance can absolutely go together. The Gallery TV proves LG is ready to take on Samsung in the art-focused TV market, and Micro RGB offers a new and exciting option for big screens. With all the improvements across their OLED range, LG's 2026 TVs point to a year with lots of new gadgets and choices for shoppers.

For anyone who dreams of a living room centerpiece that mixes futuristic style with top-notch performance, the Wallpaper OLED TV might be the dream come true. And for everyone else, LG's varied lineup means there's a screen that's just right for them.

6.Amazon enters the lifestyle TV market with the $899 Ember Artline at CES 2026 

Fire TV is getting a fresh look with better visuals and cool new TVs.

Amazon's rolling out a big update to Fire TV in 2026, the first major change in years. They want to make it simpler, faster, and easier to find something good to watch. Plus, there are new, sleek TVs that look more like art than just another screen. Basically, Amazon wants Fire TV to stay awesome even with all the streaming options out there.

Why this update matters

Over the last ten years, Fire TV went from a basic streaming stick to a giant system with tons of apps, live channels, games, podcasts, and even smart home controls. That was handy, but it also got pretty messy. As Fire TV's Aidan Marcuss said, As we brought that content forward, the [user interface] got a little cluttered — a lot of stuff and a lot of rows. We know the data — there's a lot of time spent searching. We…know that it could just be easier.

This new design is Amazon's fix. By making things easier to use and organizing content better, they hope you'll spend less time looking and more time watching.

A simpler, cleaner look

The new Fire TV screen has soft corners, calmer colors, easy-to-read text, and more space between things. These small changes make it feel less crowded and easier on the eyes.

Before, you could only put six apps on your home screen, which was annoying for many. Now, app icons are smaller, so you can have up to 20 in a row. This alone makes it way easier to open your favorite apps without digging through menus.

Getting around is easier too. At the top of the screen, you'll see clear sections like Movies, TV, Live TV, Sports, and News. These replace the confusing layouts from before. There's also a search button right next to the Home tab, so you can quickly find things. In these sections, Fire TV puts together what you're already watching, along with suggestions, free movies, popular lists, and ways to sign up for more stuff.

Live TV and Sports all in one place

Amazon really focused on live shows. The new Live TV section organizes streams from services that offer live channels, plus regular broadcast and cable channels if you have them. Sports fans get their own area that shows games happening now and what's coming up. This push for live content shows how important sports and real-time shows are becoming in streaming, which used to be mostly about movies and shows you could watch anytime.

Smarter settings and faster speeds

Other options are tucked away in the usual three-line menu, like Games, Art & Photos, the Appstore, Music, and a combined watchlist called My Stuff. But Amazon also made settings easier to get to. Holding down the Home button now brings up a quick menu to change display and sound, set sleep timers, turn on accessibility features, and even see smart home things like Ring camera feeds.

On the tech side, Amazon rewrote some of the code to make things faster. They say that on popular devices, the interface is now 20% to 30% quicker for everyday tasks. That speed boost is a big deal, as slow menus are one of the most annoying things about streaming devices.

Alexa+ and AI built-in

No Fire TV update is complete without Alexa, and this redesign brings Alexa+, an AI helper that does more than just simple voice commands. Alexa+ lets you ask questions naturally, follow up, and search based on what you're looking at. For example, you can point at a movie and say, Tell me more about that one, or ask, Find me more movies that have the same look.

Alexa+ can also do bigger tasks, from calling a taxi to showing your photos. It's starting out as an early access thing, and will eventually be a paid extra, though Prime members will get it for free.

Fire TV app gets an update

Amazon didn't forget about phone users. The Fire TV app has been updated to combine the classic remote control with new ways to browse. This means more than one person can help find stuff to watch, instead of just one person with the remote. It's a small but smart change that understands how families and friends often watch TV together.

Coming out in 2026

The new look and app will start showing up in February on devices like the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen), and Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series in the U.S. Later in the spring, the update will come to more countries and devices, including the Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen), the newest Fire TV 2-Series and 4-Series, the Fire TV Omni QLED Series, and partner TVs from Hisense, Panasonic, and TCL.

Ember Artline TVs: Fire TV that looks like art

Along with the software update, Amazon is releasing the Ember Artline TVs, fancy TVs made to look like framed artwork. You can get them in 55-inch and 65-inch sizes starting at $899. These TVs have 4K QLED screens with 800 nits of brightness, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Wi-Fi 6. They're super thin, only 1.5 inches thick, with a matte finish to stop glare, so they fit right into your living space.

The cool part is how much you can change them. You can pick from 10 different frame styles, like Walnut, Ash, Teak, Black Oak, Matte White, Midnight Blue, Fig, Pale Gold, Graphite, and Silver. When you couple this with Fire TV's Ambient mode, which can show over 2,000 free art pieces or your own photos, the Ember Artline TVs turn into decorations when you're not watching. Alexa+ even lets you use voice commands like, Show photos from our wedding, or Make a slideshow of our family trip.

Last thoughts

Amazon's Fire TV redesign is more than just making it look pretty. It's a smart rethink of how people use streaming devices when there's so much to watch. By making it easier to get around, speeding things up, and adding AI, Amazon is making Fire TV more user-friendly and quicker to respond. The Ember Artline TVs, on the other hand, show how electronics can be more than just useful; they can be a part of your home's look.

Together, these updates make Fire TV not just a way to stream, but something that fits your life – balancing fun, good design, and smarts in a way that matches how we live now.

7.Amazon's AI assistant comes to the web as Alexa.com launches at CES 2026 

Alexa's online now!

Amazon announced at CES 2026 in Vegas that their AI, Alexa+, is now on the internet at Alexa.com. It's in early testing, but you can chat with it like you would with ChatGPT or Google's Gemini. This is a game-changer because Alexa isn't stuck in smart speakers anymore. Anyone can use it, even without an Echo device.

**From your gadgets to everywhere else**

Alexa used to be all about Amazon's own gear. We've bought over 600 million Alexa devices worldwide. It's in our homes, speakers, screens, and even in products from other companies. But Amazon knows that to keep up with other AIs, Alexa needs to be everywhere.

By putting Alexa.com out there, Amazon is saying Alexa+ isn't just a voice thing for your home devices. It's a full AI that works on your phone, computer, and online. Companies like OpenAI and Google already do this with their chatbots. For Amazon, this could bring in tons of new users who don't have an Echo but still want to use AI.

**Chatting just got easier**

Amazon is also updating the Alexa phone app to make it feel more like you're talking to a real helper. The app's main screen now looks like a chat window, with conversations right there. Alexa could always chat, but now it's less about menus and settings, and more about just talking.

On Alexa.com, you can dig into hard topics, write things, plan trips, and more. But Amazon wants Alexa+ to stand out by focusing on family stuff. Beyond controlling your smart home, Alexa+ can update your calendar, help with to-do lists, book dinner, add groceries to your Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods cart, and even suggest movies for family night. It's trying to be more than just a chatbot; it wants to be a central part of your family's life.

**Working with more companies**

To make it even more helpful, Amazon has added more services to Alexa+. Recently, they've included Angi, Expedia, Square, and Yelp. These join partners like Fodor’s, OpenTable, Suno, Ticketmaster, Thumbtack, and Uber. This means Alexa can help with even more everyday tasks, from booking travel to ordering food.

The Alexa.com website has a side menu so you can quickly get to things you use a lot, like changing your thermostat, checking your calendar, or seeing your shopping lists. This shows Amazon wants Alexa+ to be a main spot for both your digital and physical household needs.

**Dealing with your personal info**

One of Amazon's biggest plans for Alexa+ is to handle your personal documents, emails, and calendars. They want you to share this info to make Alexa+ a full organizer for family schedules, doctor visits, school breaks, and even reminders for things like pet shots or neighborhood events.

Unlike Google, which has its own work apps and lots of access to your info, Amazon has to rely on tools that let people send or upload files to Alexa+. You can do this now on Alexa.com, and that info also shows up on your Echo Show devices. If it works, this could be the best thing about Alexa+: a reliable helper that keeps track of your family's daily life.

**Things only Alexa+ can do**

Daniel Rausch, VP of Alexa and Echo, told TechCrunch what makes Alexa+ special. He said, Seventy-six percent of what people use Alexa+ for no other AI can do. For example, you can send Alexa a picture of a family recipe and then talk through how to cook it, with ideas for swapping ingredients based on what you have at home. This kind of hands-on, helpful advice when you're doing something real shows how Alexa+ works with your daily tasks, really different from just general chatbots.

Rausch also said that 24% of what people do with Alexa+ is similar to what other AIs offer. This might mean people are using Alexa+ more for their AI needs, doing more things within Amazon's system.

**How many people are using it?**

Since Alexa+ first came out in early 2025, Amazon has slowly let more people try it. Over 10 million people can use it now, and the numbers look good. People are chatting with Alexa+ two to three times more than with the old Alexa. Shopping has tripled, recipe use has gone up five times, and smart home control is up 50%.

Even though some people online complain about mistakes, Rausch thinks those complaints are overblown. He said very few people stop using it, calling it almost none. With 97% of Alexa devices supporting Alexa+, Amazon thinks more and more people will keep using it across different generations of devices.

**What's next**

Putting Alexa.com online is a big move for Amazon's AI plans. By making Alexa+ available on the web, they're letting more people use it and making it a real contender against popular AI chatbots. Focusing on family tasks, smart home stuff, and special help in real situations could help Alexa+ find its own lane in the crowded AI world.

For Amazon, the trick will be to convince people to trust Alexa+ with their personal info and use it as a central part of their home. If it works, Alexa+ could become more than just a voice assistant; it could be a real digital friend that organizes, suggests, and helps families in ways other AI programs haven't yet.

8.Power efficiency redefined Snapdragon X2 laptops debut with 30 hour battery life 

Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X2 chips are here, making a real splash at CES 2026. For ages, Qualcomm said their chips could take on Intel and AMD in Windows PCs, and now we're seeing it. The Snapdragon X2 Elite and X2 Elite Extreme, first shown last September, are now joined by the Snapdragon X2 Plus. These Plus chips are for more budget-friendly laptops. Together, this is Qualcomm's biggest move yet into regular computers.

Elite vs. Plus: Different Goals

The Snapdragon X2 Elite and Elite Extreme are Qualcomm's top-tier laptop chips, with up to 18 CPU cores and much better graphics. They're made to go head-to-head with Intel's high-end Arrow Lake and AMD's Ryzen 8000 chips. But the new Snapdragon X2 Plus chips, which come with 10 or 6 cores, are for different kinds of laptops: thin and light ones, and cheaper models.

Qualcomm told The Verge that laptops with both the Elite and Plus chips should be out by the end of March 2026. Prices are still up in the air due to the current global RAM shortage. But Qualcomm says prices will be similar to older models: Elite laptops starting around $1,000, Plus models around $800, and basic Snapdragon X systems at $600 and up.

How They Perform and Save Power

The Plus chips aren't as powerful raw as the Elite, but they're not weak either. Qualcomm says the 10-core and 6-core versions are better than Intel's low-power Lunar Lake and Arrow Lake chips in both speed and power saving. That's a big claim, but benchmarks back it up, showing up to 35% faster CPU and 39% better graphics than the previous Snapdragon X Plus chips.

For AI work, the Plus chips have the same fast 80 TOPS NPU as the Elite models. Qualcomm calls it the world's fastest NPU for laptops in its class. This means the Plus chips are good for AI tasks like editing photos, translating things, and summarizing text. Having this same AI power means even cheaper Snapdragon laptops will get special AI help from Qualcomm.

Graphics Not as Strong

The graphics are where the Plus chips fall short. The Elite has 2.3 times better graphics than before, but the Plus only gets up to 39% better. The 6-core Plus chip is especially limited, with graphics running at just 0.9GHz, compared to 1.7GHz on the 10-core model. So, the Plus isn't as good for gaming or heavy graphics work.

Still, Qualcomm is trying to make gaming better. They plan quarterly updates for graphics drivers, covering over 1,400 games – about 90% of the most played titles. Their Snapdragon Control Panel app will keep drivers up to date automatically, supporting DX 12.2 Ultimate, Vulkan 1.4, and OpenCL 3.0. While Qualcomm isn't promising games will work perfectly on release day, these regular updates are a step towards making Snapdragon laptops good for casual gaming.

Long Battery Life and Flexible Designs

One of Qualcomm's big wins over Intel and AMD is how little power its chips use. The Snapdragon X2 Plus uses up to 43% less power than the last version, leading to what Qualcomm calls multi-day battery life. The important thing is that performance won't drop when running on battery, which often happens with other laptops.

The Plus chips can be used in many different designs, from super thin laptops without fans to small mini PCs with extra cooling. Most designs will use 12–35W of power, typical for thin and light laptops. But Qualcomm hinted at some more unusual designs too. This flexibility could help Snapdragon laptops stand out.

Memory and System Support

Both Elite and Plus chips can support up to 128GB of LPDDR5x memory. However, with RAM being expensive right now, few makers will likely put that much in their systems. Still, this support shows Qualcomm wants to go after the high-end PC market.

For now, Qualcomm is only focused on Windows. Mandar Deshpande, a senior director, said they're interested in other operating systems, like SteamOS and handheld gaming devices, but CES wasn't the right time to announce anything. However, Garcia-Bacha hinted that the 2026 Game Developers Conference, from March 9–13, might bring news about Snapdragon-powered Windows handhelds.

Where They Fit in the Market

Qualcomm's timing is clever. Intel and AMD have ruled the PC market for a long time, but they both have issues. Intel's new Lunar Lake and Arrow Lake focus on power saving, while AMD keeps pushing for speed with Ryzen. Qualcomm thinks its Arm-based chips can give both – good speed and long battery life – in ways that x86 chips struggle to do.

The global RAM shortage makes pricing tricky, but Qualcomm's different tiers show it wants to cover all kinds of laptops, from fancy thin ones to cheaper models. If the Elite chips are as good as promised and the Plus chips offer good value, Qualcomm could finally make Snapdragon a real choice in Windows PCs.

What's Next

CES 2026 is just the start for Snapdragon X2 in consumer laptops. The Elite and Elite Extreme are for people who need a lot of power, while the Plus aims to bring power saving and AI help to everyday buyers. With multi-day battery life, strong AI, and growing gaming support, Qualcomm is becoming more than just a small player.

The real test will be in the coming months, when PC makers announce prices and when people actually start using these chips. If Qualcomm can keep its promises, the Snapdragon X2 series could change things – not just for Qualcomm, but for the whole Windows PC world.

9.March madness JBL sets US launch window for Sense Pro and Soundgear Clips 

JBL's dropping two new Sense earbuds in 2026: the Pro and the Lite. They already put out their first Sense earbuds in 2024. JBL's known for speakers and headphones, and now they're really pushing these earbuds that let you hear what's going on around you.

All three Sense models use JBL's OpenSound tech. This means they don't block your ears completely, so you can still hear your surroundings. That's super useful for walking, riding the bus, or working out because you stay alert. Unlike regular earbuds that plug your ears, these let in some background noise. This way, you don't feel cut off and it's safer when you're outside.

Both the new Sense Pro and Lite have adjustable ear hooks, so they stay put. They won't fall out, even if you're exercising or wearing them all day. You can also change what the touch controls do with the JBL app – like playing music, changing the volume, or answering calls.

The Sense Pro is the pricier one. It has bigger speakers (16.2mm) than a lot of other earbuds, which means richer sound and deeper bass. It also handles spatial audio and high-quality sound with adaptive bass boost, making music and movies sound even better.

A cool thing about the Pro is its Voice Pickup Sensor. This uses vibrations from your bones to focus on your voice during calls. Plus, there's AI that helps make your voice clear even in noisy places. This could be a big deal for people who use earbuds for work calls.

For connecting, the Pro uses Bluetooth 6.0, which means quicker pairing and a more stable connection. The battery lasts a long time too: up to 38 hours total (8 hours from the earbuds themselves and 30 more from the case). You can also charge it without wires, and a quick 10-minute charge gives you four hours of listening.

The Sense Pro also comes with Personi-Fi 3.0, which lets you get the sound just right for you. You take a hearing test in the app, and it tweaks the audio to fit your ears. This feature used to only be on JBL's really expensive Tour Pro 3 earbuds, so it's a nice extra here. You can get the Pro in black or gray, so it looks good.

The Sense Lite is a simpler, cheaper option. It doesn't have spatial audio, high-quality sound, wireless charging, the Voice Pickup Sensor, or personalized sound. But it still has the good stuff from the Sense line: the OpenSound design, adjustable ear hooks, and custom touch controls through the app.

The Lite's battery lasts a bit less than the Pro's, with up to 32 hours total (8 hours from the earbuds and 24 from the case). A quick 10-minute charge gives you three hours of listening. It uses Bluetooth 5.4, which is fine for most people.

If you don't need all the fancy sound options but want comfy, long-lasting earbuds for everyday use, the Sense Lite is a good pick.

More and more people are buying open-style earbuds because they're safer and more comfortable than regular ones. Apple's AirPods are popular here, but JBL's Sense line is a real competitor with good prices and special features.

By offering both Pro and Lite models, JBL is trying to get two different kinds of buyers: tech fans who want great sound, and people who just want something comfortable with a long battery life that's also easy on the wallet. It's a common move for headphone companies to offer different models at different prices.

Battery life is super important for earbuds, and JBL's quick-charge tech is great. Getting four hours of listening from a 10-minute charge on the Sense Pro is pretty cool, and three hours from the Lite is still good. Wireless charging on the Pro is a nice touch, putting it alongside other high-end earbuds.

The Pro's AI for clear calls and Personi-Fi 3.0 for personalized sound show how AI is being used more in everyday gadgets. JBL is using these features to make the Pro stand out and explain its higher price.

JBL first mentioned the Sense Pro and Lite in August 2025, but now it's clear they'll be out everywhere in early 2026. We don't know the prices yet, but the Pro will probably cost more than the Lite.

For JBL, adding to the Sense line is a smart move to grab more of the open-style earbud market. With good battery life, custom controls, and AI features, the Sense Pro could attract professionals and tech fans, while the Sense Lite is good for reliable everyday use at a lower cost.

The JBL Sense Pro and Sense Lite coming out shows JBL is serious about open-style earbuds. By offering both cool features and affordable options, JBL is trying to compete with big names like Apple. Whether you want awesome sound or just simple, comfy earbuds for daily life, JBL's bigger Sense lineup has something for everyone.

10.Xgimi pivots from projectors to wearables with new Memomind AI glasses brand 

Xgimi, a company known for its projectors, is trying something new: smart glasses. At CES 2026, they showed off their new brand, Memomind, which is all about wearable screens and AI help. They already have three models in the works, showing Xgimi's big move into a new market that's just starting but has lots of promise.

**They Know Their Screens**

Xgimi has been making projectors for years, so they know a lot about good screens and reliable tech. This gives them a head start in smart glasses. Instead of inventing screen tech from scratch, Xgimi can use what they already know to make light, clear displays for glasses. Memomind mixes their screen know-how with AI.

**Three Models Coming, Two Soon**

Xgimi said Memomind will have three different glasses models eventually, but only two have release dates. The brand is new, but having multiple designs shows Xgimi knows that not everyone wants the same thing from smart glasses. People want different features, styles, and how obvious they are.

**Memo One: The Full Smart Glasses Deal**

The main model, Memo One, is what most people picture when they hear smart glasses. It has two screens, one for each eye, so you can see Memomind's system fully. It also has built-in speakers, so you don't need headphones for entertainment, work, or calls.

Memo One is for people who want the best tech in this area. It's not just glasses that show notifications; it's a wearable computer meant to fit right into your daily life. For early adopters and tech fans, Memo One shows what smart glasses can really do.

**Memo Air Display: Subtle and Stylish**

Not everyone wants glasses that look like a gadget from the future. Xgimi gets this, so they made the Memo Air Display. This model focuses on being subtle and stylish. Instead of two screens, it has one screen that shows info to one eye, leaving the other eye clear.

The Air Display also lets you customize it. You can pick different frames and arms, making the glasses look more like regular ones. This model is for people who want smart features without giving up on looking good. For work or just everyday use, if you like things discreet, the Air Display might be perfect.

**Third Model: Still a Secret**

Xgimi also hinted at a third Memomind model, but they didn't say much. They mentioned it's being developed and might come out later. While we can guess, Xgimi keeping it quiet suggests it might be for a different group—maybe for sports, or a fancy business solution.

**AI at its Core**

Besides the hardware, Memomind's main thing is its AI. The glasses will use a mix of big language models, picking the best AI for each job. For example, translation might use OpenAI, while summing things up could use Qwen or Azure. This flexible approach means users get the best of different AI platforms instead of being stuck with just one.

Main features include translating, summarizing, taking notes, and giving helpful info based on where you are. Importantly, these features are meant to run in the background without bothering you too much. Instead of constant alerts, Memomind wants to help quietly and when it makes sense, making your day better without being annoying.

**Price and When You Can Get It**

Memomind's smart glasses will be ready for pre-order after CES 2026, starting at around $599. This makes them high-end but not too expensive, especially compared to other early smart glasses that cost way more than $1,000. By making them somewhat affordable, Xgimi is showing they want to reach regular people, not just tech enthusiasts.

**The Market Right Now**

The smart glasses market is still new. Companies like Meta, Apple, and smaller startups have tried augmented reality and wearable screens, but most people haven't started using them yet. Challenges include battery life, screen quality, comfort, and finding the right balance between features and looks.

Xgimi joining with Memomind suggests they believe the market is ready for more choices. By offering a full-featured model (Memo One) and a stylish, simple one (Memo Air Display), the company is dealing with two of the biggest things people care about: what it can do and how it looks. The mixed AI approach also sets Memomind apart, promising smarter, more flexible help than others that only use one AI.

**What's Next**

Memomind's success will depend on how well it's made. The hardware, AI, and how easy it is to use all need to be good for the glasses to catch on. If Xgimi can deliver on its promises, Memomind could become a big player in wearable tech, just like Xgimi did with projectors.

The third model, still in progress, adds some mystery to the brand's future. Whether it's for businesses, sports, or something else, it will likely make Memomind attractive to more people than just the first group of buyers.

CES 2026 is the start of this story. With pre-orders opening soon and a competitive starting price, Memomind is set to see if people are ready to use smart glasses every day, not just as cool new things.

11.The BlackBerry era returns Clicks Technology unveils the Communicator Android phone at CES 2026 

The Clicks Communicator: A Physical Keypad Phone in 2026

Clicks, the folks who made that unique Clicks Keyboard, are stepping up their game. At CES 2026, they showed off their first smartphone, the Clicks Communicator. It's a mix of new Android tech and an old-school physical keyboard. If you miss typing on phones like the old BlackBerries, this phone might be perfect for you.

From a Keyboard Add-on to a Whole Phone

A few years back, the Clicks Keyboard was a pretty quirky product. It hooked onto smartphones to give them a small physical keyboard, though it was a bit oddly placed. Even though it was a niche item, people liked the feel of real keys. Now, Clicks has used that idea to make a complete smartphone with the keypad built right in.

The Communicator costs $499, but if you order before February 27, you can get it for $399. This makes it a mid-range phone, good for both tech fans and people on a budget.

Look and Screen

The Communicator has a 4.03-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1,080 x 1,200 pixels. Its almost-square shape is different from most long, skinny smartphone screens today. Clicks sees the Communicator as a phone mainly for talking, emailing, and getting work done. They figure people might use another phone for fun and taking pictures.

The built-in keypad is the main attraction. You get that real button feel, plus a fingerprint scanner in the spacebar, a swipe-to-scroll feature like old BlackBerries, and a customizable Clicks key to open apps or features. This blend of old and new makes the Communicator stand out.

Extra Features

Clicks added some cool stuff for tech enthusiasts. It has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is rare these days. There's also a hardware kill switch on the left side to quickly turn on airplane mode. On the right, a Prompt Key lets you use your voice for typing, meeting notes, and voice assistants. This key also has a customizable light that can blink for specific contacts or apps.

Other cool features include a 4,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, 256GB of storage you can expand with a microSD card, wireless charging, and support for both physical and eSIM cards. It also has 5G, NFC, and Wi-Fi 6, so it's up to date with modern connections.

Cameras and Processor

For photos, there's a 50MP camera on the back and a 24MP camera on the front. They're not top-of-the-line, but they should be fine for everyday snaps. The processor is interesting. Clicks said it uses a 4nm MediaTek 5G IoT SoC platform, but they didn't say the exact model. Some guess it could be the MT8883 or MT8873, which are made to be available until 2031. This choice shows Clicks prioritized a stable, long-lasting phone over super fast performance, fitting with the Communicator's focus on communication.

Software Experience

Clicks worked with the creators of Niagara Launcher to make a custom interface. The home screen shows messages from different apps, kind of like the old BlackBerry Hub. This design really pushes the Communicator's goal of helping you be productive and communicate.

The phone comes with Android 16 and promises two major OS updates plus five years of security fixes. This isn't as long as the seven-year updates from big companies like Samsung and Google, but it's better than many smaller brands and even some mainstream ones like Motorola. For a new company getting into smartphones, that's pretty good.

Why Fans Will Like It

The Communicator is clearly for a certain type of person: someone who likes typing on real buttons, extra hardware features, and a phone built for communication. In a poll, 86% of people called the device Hot, showing a lot of early excitement. While most people might prefer big screens and fancy cameras, the Communicator fills a gap that's been empty since BlackBerry faded away.

The Clicks Power Keyboard

Clicks also announced something else: the Clicks Power Keyboard. It's a power bank that snaps on magnetically and has a slide-out keyboard. With a small 2,150mAh battery, it can power the keyboard or give your phone a little boost.

The Power Keyboard works with MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging, and you can connect it to other devices with Bluetooth. Clicks showed it being used with smart TVs, tablets, and VR headsets. It costs $109 (or $79 if you pre-order) and should be out in Spring 2026. This product shows Clicks' idea of bringing physical keypads back to today's tech.

Final Thoughts

The Clicks Communicator isn't your average smartphone. With its square screen, built-in keypad, and cool extra features, it's for people who care more about talking and typing than watching videos and taking pictures. By mixing old-school design with modern Android, Clicks is making its own space in the busy phone market.

At $499 — or $399 for early buyers — the Communicator is a rare chance for anyone who misses physical keypads. Along with the Power Keyboard, Clicks is building a system that combines old charm with new functions. Only time will tell if this idea works out and how many people are ready for a phone that puts typing and talking first in 2026.

12.TDM Neo debuts at CES 2026 as the world’s first headphones that twist into a speaker 

TDM Neo headphones turn into speakers!

At CES 2026, a new company called TDM (Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter) showed off its first thing: the Neo headphones. They look like regular over-ear headphones, but here's the cool part: the headband is super bendy. You can twist and roll them up around the earpieces, and boom, they become a small wireless speaker. It's a fresh way to listen, whether you want to keep your music to yourself or share it with friends, all from one device.

Headphones that are also speakers aren't totally new. But older ones usually had earpieces that twisted out weirdly or designs that let sound leak everywhere. Both had issues: the twisting kind often felt clunky, and the leaky ones meant no privacy and bad sound. The Neo avoids these problems with a smarter design.

When you're using them as headphones, two 40mm speakers inside the earpieces give you private sound. To switch to speaker mode, you just press a button or roll up the headband. The inside speakers turn off, and another set of 40mm speakers on the outside turn on, sending sound out for everyone. This two-speaker setup means headphone mode is private and clear, while speaker mode is loud enough for sharing.

TDM is saying the battery life is pretty wild. In headphone mode, the Neo can last up to 200 hours. That's a lot compared to most wireless headphones, which usually get 30–60 hours. In speaker mode, the battery life drops to just over 10 hours, which is still good given how much power the outside speakers use.

The Neo uses two 1,500mAh rechargeable batteries, and here's what's even better: you can swap them out yourself. Nowadays, most headphones have batteries sealed inside that die over time. This design choice could really help the Neo last longer. For folks tired of throwing away electronics, replaceable batteries are a nice touch.

They connect wirelessly using Bluetooth 6, which means faster hookups, less lag, and better range than older versions. The Neo also lets you connect to a few devices at once. They have Auracast, a new Bluetooth thing that lets you send audio to lots of different devices at the same time.

If you like wires, the Neo has a 3.5mm jack. That's another good thing for music lovers that many modern headphones have ditched. This makes the Neo useful for lots of different things, like wireless listening, gaming, or connecting to serious audio gear.

The Neo's main special thing is its flexible headband. You can twist and roll it around the earpieces to make it a small speaker. This design not only lets you switch between headphones and speakers but also makes the Neo easier to pack and carry. TDM clearly made these for people who want one thing that does a lot and is easy to take with them.

The controls are simple, with one button to switch modes and touch controls for playing music. Going from headphone to speaker mode is smooth, with the speakers changing automatically.

The Neo comes out when the headphone market is full of tiny improvements – a little better noise canceling here, a slightly longer battery life there. But TDM is offering something truly different. Being able to switch between private listening and shared playback could be great for all kinds of people: students in dorms, families at home, or travelers who want one thing for both personal and group use.

Hybrid devices often aren't great at both things, but if TDM's claims are true, the Neo could find its own niche. The long battery life, replaceable batteries, and modern connection types make them stand out.

Of course, some questions remain. How loud and clear will the outside speakers be compared to dedicated portable speakers? Will the bendy headband hold up over time, or will twisting it a lot wear it out? And while 200 hours of headphone use sounds amazing, we'll need to see how it works in real life.

TDM is a new company, and it takes time to build trust in the audio world. Big brands like Sony, Bose, and JBL have years of experience and lots of loyal customers. For TDM, the Neo needs to be not just something new, but also something you can rely on.

TDM hasn't said how much they'll cost or when they'll be out yet. But the price will be really important. At CES, the company talked about the Neo's multi-use design and long battery life as reasons they're special. If they're priced well against other high-end headphones, the Neo could catch the eye of people who like to try new tech first.

With the replaceable batteries and dual modes, the Neo might interest people who want things that last and can do many jobs more than they care about brand names. People at CES often look for products that push boundaries, and the Neo certainly does that.

The TDM Neo is a bold first product for a new company. By putting headphones and speakers together in one device, TDM is challenging old designs and offering a fresh idea for personal audio. With two sets of 40mm speakers, Bluetooth 6, replaceable batteries, and a bendy headband, the Neo gives both new ideas and practical use.

Whether they do well will depend on how good they actually are, but the idea is cool. In a market full of similar headphones, the Neo stands out as a product that's not afraid to be different. For people who want gear that works for both private and group listening, Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter might have made something that really matters today.

13.TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER debuts at CES 2026 as the ultimate "distraction-free" hybrid tablet 

TCL's latest digital paper tablet, the Note A1 Nxtpaper, made its debut at CES 2026. It's a big step up for TCL's Nxtpaper line, boasting a 120Hz color screen and a super thin 5.5mm body. TCL mixed their special Nxtpaper Pure tech with an LCD panel to make a display that shows bright colors without any ghosting. It's like a regular tablet and a digital paper device all in one.

**A Fresh Take on Digital Paper**

Digital paper tablets are popular with professionals, students, and creative folks who like to focus without distractions. Devices like the ReMarkable Paper Pro and Amazon's Kindle Scribe Papersoft keep things simple with a calm look and feel, and they're great for writing. The TCL Note A1 Nxtpaper does all that too, but it adds a twist: a fast, colorful screen that makes it feel more like an iPad, while still helping you stay productive.

This is a new direction for TCL. Their older Nxtpaper devices, like the Nxtpaper 11 Plus, let you switch between tablet and e-reader modes. But the Note A1 puts both together in one screen that runs at 120Hz all the time. That means smoother performance, lively pictures, and a writing experience that feels just like paper.

**Made for Work and Creativity**

TCL is aiming for the same crowd that loves other digital paper tablets: people who work, study, or create and need good tools without the distractions of Android or Windows. The Note A1 looks like a notebook, which fits this idea. It has an 11.5-inch screen with a thicker edge on the left for easy holding, a black frame, and a magnetic strip on the right for the pen.

It runs on an 8,000mAh battery, which is bigger than many other devices. This suggests TCL built it to handle the full-color screen. Even with the extra power needed, TCL says the battery will last a long time, so you can work or study for hours.

**Handy Productivity Tools**

What makes the Note A1 really stand out are its features for getting work done. TCL put AI tools right into the device, like:

* AI meeting transcripts to catch what everyone says in real-time.

* Instant translations, which are handy if you're working with people from other countries.

* One-tap AI summaries that shrink long documents or notes into key points.

These features go way beyond just taking notes or drawing on other digital paper tablets, making the Note A1 a serious tool for work.

The tablet also lets you share your screen wirelessly for quick presentations. Sharing files is easy with Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive integrations, as long as everyone's on the same Wi-Fi. This simple sharing makes working together easier, whether you're in a classroom, office, or creative space.

**Screen Tech: A Smart Mix**

The Note A1's screen is its coolest part. TCL's Nxtpaper tech has always been about making screens easy on the eyes and nice to look at, like paper. But the Note A1 takes it up a notch by mixing Nxtpaper Pure with LCD. The result is a full-color screen with 16.7 million colors, way more than what other digital paper tablets offer.

The screen is tough, too, protected by 3A Crystal Shield Glass that also helps with glare. It's even certified to be easy on your eyes, so you can write or read for a long time without strain. Add in the pen support, and the Note A1 feels like writing on paper, but with all the good stuff of a digital device.

**Simple Yet Smart**

Even with all its fancy features, TCL says the Note A1 is still distraction-free. Unlike Android tablets or iPads that bombard you with alerts and apps, the Note A1 keeps you focused on your work and creativity. Its clean design and simple software help you concentrate, making it perfect for taking notes, brainstorming, or writing without interruptions.

This mix of simple design and smart tech could be really attractive to professionals who want a device that helps them work without pulling them into social media or entertainment.

**Price and When You Can Get It**

You can pre-order the Note A1 Nxtpaper on Kickstarter, and it's expected to launch at the end of February 2026. TCL says it will cost $549, which is less than rivals like the ReMarkable Paper Pro, Kindle Scribe Papersoft, and the Boox Note Max (which runs Android 13). By offering it at a lower price, TCL wants to make the Note A1 an easier choice for people who want cool digital paper features without spending a ton of money.

**The Competition**

The digital paper tablet market is getting busy. Companies like ReMarkable and Amazon focus on being simple, while others like Boox aim for flexibility with Android. TCL's Note A1 Nxtpaper is somewhere in the middle. It has the distraction-free feeling of digital paper devices but also adds smart AI tools and a fast color screen.

This middle-ground approach might give TCL an advantage. For people who want more than just note-taking but don't need a full-blown tablet experience, the Note A1 is a good option.

**My Thoughts**

The TCL Note A1 Nxtpaper is more than just another digital paper tablet. By combining Nxtpaper Pure with LCD, TCL has made a device with bright visuals, smooth performance, and a paper-like writing feel. With AI-powered tools, easy file sharing, and wireless casting, it's built for professionals, students, and creative people who want to focus without giving up modern tech.

At $549, the Note A1 is cheaper than competitors and offers unique features, making it one of the most interesting gadgets from CES 2026. If you're looking for a distraction-free tablet that still uses new technology, TCL's latest might be just what you need.

14.World’s first 85 TOPS NPU HP debuts the OmniBook Ultra 14 with exclusive Snapdragon X2 Elite chip 

HP's new Omnibook Ultra 14, fresh out of CES 2026 in Las Vegas, is a pretty big deal. They're calling it the world's toughest slim 14-inch laptop, and it really lives up to that. It's super light at 2.8 pounds and just 0.42 inches thick, even thinner than Apple's 2025 MacBook Air. But don't let its size fool you – it passed 20 military-grade tests for drops, shocks, and crazy temperatures.

What's really cool is how it's built. Instead of making it from one piece like Apple does, HP built the Ultra 14 out of aluminum using a forge-stamped method. They say this makes it way stronger and helps it resist bending, which is pretty impressive for such a skinny laptop. It feels expensive but also really tough, perfect for anyone who travels a lot but doesn't want to worry about their laptop breaking.

It looks really nice too – simple and clean, with thin edges. You can tell it's well-made and can handle daily use. HP really wanted to make a tough laptop, and they nailed it, which is a nice change since a lot of thin laptops can be pretty fragile.

The screen is what you'd expect from a high-end laptop: a 3K OLED display. That means colors pop, blacks are super deep, and everything looks crisp. Whether you're a pro who needs accurate visuals or just want a great viewing experience, this screen delivers.

Inside, you can pick between an Intel Core Ultra 3 chip or Qualcomm's Snapdragon Elite X2. The Snapdragon version is special because HP worked with Qualcomm to give it a slightly better NPU (for AI tasks), hitting 85 TOPS compared to the 80 TOPS you'd find in other brands. So, if you use a lot of AI apps, the Snapdragon model is probably the way to go.

You can get it with up to 64GB of RAM and 2TB of storage, so it can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, from heavy multitasking to editing big files or running demanding AI programs.

Even though it's so thin, HP made sure it stays cool. They put a vapor chamber inside, which is a first for the Omnibook line. This helps get rid of heat better than older methods, which is great news if you're worried about your laptop slowing down when it's working hard.

The keyboard feels good to type on, with keys that have a nice balance of firmness and give. And the large touchpad gives you plenty of room to move around. Plus, it has four speakers that sound much better than what you usually get from thin laptops. So, it's good for both work and chilling out with some entertainment.

You get three USB-C ports, all with Thunderbolt 4, so you can charge it fast, transfer data quickly, and connect to external screens. The only thing missing is an SD or microSD card reader, which might bug photographers or anyone who uses those cards a lot. But it seems like HP was trying to keep things simple and tough.

A bit of chatter has been about the Omnibook name. HP used to have Spectre for their best laptops, and some people feel that name had more style. While the Omnibook name has been around in HP's past, bringing it back might not feel as fancy to everyone. Still, the laptop's actually really good, no matter what it's called.

The HP Omnibook Ultra 14 comes out later this month, starting at $1,550. That puts it right up there with Apple's MacBook Air and other premium laptops. With how thin, tough, and AI-ready it is, it could be a great pick for professionals, students, and creative folks who want a reliable, modern laptop.

CES 2026 has been full of cool new stuff, and the Ultra 14 fits right in. While some companies were showing off futuristic ideas, HP made something real that people can buy soon. It's a sweet blend of tough design, easy to carry, and good performance.

The HP Omnibook Ultra 14 is a strong contender in the thin laptop space. It looks great, it's tough, has a beautiful OLED screen, powerful parts, and that special AI-friendly Snapdragon option. The vapor chamber, comfortable keyboard, and good speakers just make it even better.

Sure, not having an SD card slot and the name choice might be small snags, but overall, it's a very appealing package. At $1,550, it's a top-tier option ready to take on other 14-inch laptops. If you're after a durable, slim, and powerful Windows laptop, HP's new flagship seems like a winner.

15.Lakers live in 3D Spectrum Front Row launches immersive NBA games on Apple Vision Pro this Friday 

Hey Lakers fans! Big news! Starting January 9th, you can watch games from home in a totally new way, thanks to Apple Immersive and Spectrum Front Row.

Spectrum and Apple just said at CES 2026 they're working together to change how you watch basketball. If you're a Lakers fan in their usual TV area, you can watch certain games with Apple Immersive on your Apple Vision Pro headset. This new thing, called Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive, wants to put you right in the middle of the game. We're talking different camera angles, cool 3D effects, and sound so real you'll feel like you're at the Crypto.com Arena.

**Game Day Just Got Real**

Apple Immersive tries to make you feel like you're at live events, even when you're just chilling at home. Spectrum Front Row takes it up a notch, giving you a super clear picture with seven different ways to watch. You can pick your view: from the scorer's table, under each basket, a wide shot from up high, from the player tunnel, the broadcast booth, or even a camera that moves around the court to get interviews.

You'll have Emmy winner Mark Rogondino doing the play-by-play and three-time NBA champ Danny Green sharing his thoughts and breaking down the game. They're trying to mix good stories with cool new tech for a broadcast unlike anything you've seen.

**Here's When You Can Catch It**

Here are the first few games you can watch with Apple Immersive:

* **Friday, January 9th:** Milwaukee Bucks vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Crypto.com Arena, 7:30 p.m. PT

* **Thursday, February 5th:** Philadelphia 76ers vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Crypto.com Arena, 7 p.m. PT

* **Friday, February 20th:** Los Angeles Clippers vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Crypto.com Arena, 7 p.m. PT

* **Thursday, March 5th:** Los Angeles Lakers at Denver Nuggets, Ball Arena, 7 p.m. PT

* **Tuesday, March 10th:** Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Crypto.com Arena, 8 p.m. PT

* **Monday, March 30th:** Washington Wizards vs. Los Angeles Lakers, Crypto.com Arena, 7 p.m. PT

You can also rewatch full games and highlights in other places, even outside the country, if Vision Pro is sold there. The first replay comes out on Sunday, January 11th.

**Cool Things You'll See**

Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive isn't just about new camera angles. Scores, player names, and shot clocks will actually float in 3D right in front of you. Special microphones will pick up sounds so you'll hear sneakers squeak, the net swish, and the crowd roar like you're really there.

Even during timeouts and halftime, the broadcast stays live in the arena, showing pregame intros, team huddles, and entertainment. This way, you won't miss any of the arena vibe, even when the clock stops.

**How to Get In On This**

It depends on where you live and what subscriptions you have:

* **Southern California, Hawaii, and parts of Nevada:** If you have Spectrum Internet or a TV package with Spectrum SportsNet, you can watch live games, replays, and highlights using the new Spectrum SportsNet app on Vision Pro. If you have a free NBA ID, you can also get content through the NBA app.

* **Other U.S. places:** If you have a Vision Pro and a free NBA ID, you can watch replays and highlights in the NBA app within 24 hours after the game. Spectrum subscribers outside the Lakers area can also get replays and highlights through the Spectrum SportsNet app.

* **Other countries:** If you have a Vision Pro in Japan, Singapore, or South Korea, you can watch live games with a free NBA ID in the NBA app. Fans in Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the UAE, and the UK can watch replays and highlights whenever they want.

Heads up: Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive won't be available in Canada, mainland China, Hong Kong, or Taiwan.

**Price and When You Can Grab It**

The Apple Vision Pro (M5) starts at $3,499 (U.S.). You can buy it in Australia, Canada, mainland China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, the UAE, the UK, and the U.S. You can book a demo online at Apple Stores that sell Vision Pro.

Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive needs visionOS 26 or newer and works on both the Vision Pro M5 and M2 models. The Spectrum SportsNet app for Vision Pro is free to download in the U.S., but you'll need a Spectrum Internet or TV subscription to watch live games. The NBA app for Vision Pro is also free where it's supported, and you just need an NBA ID to get in. If you want old-school broadcasts, you'll still need NBA League Pass.

**Front Row from Your Couch**

For Lakers fans, Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive is a cool new way to connect with your team. By mixing neat visuals, different views, and sounds that pull you in, it wants to bring the excitement of being courtside right to you. Whether it's watching LeBron drive to the basket, hearing the crowd go crazy after a big play, or following the team into the tunnel at halftime, Vision Pro users will feel closer to the fun than ever.

Sports broadcasts are always changing, and Spectrum and Apple think this immersive tech will become a big part of how fans watch live games. For now, Lakers fans everywhere can look forward to an awesome season, starting January 9th.

16.Launch date confirmed Code Vein II officially arrives on January 30 for PS5 Xbox and PC 

Code Vein II: A fresh start with time travel and tough choices

When Code Vein came out in 2019, people weren't super excited about it. Yeah, it had this cool anime look and vampire stuff, but it just didn't stand out in a genre packed with similar games. Now, Bandai Namco is back with Code Vein II, and they're really trying to do something different. It's got a brand-new story, new ways to make the tough gameplay a bit easier, and a big time-travel idea. The folks making this game are really going for it. After playing a demo for a few hours, I walked away thinking it was interesting, though I'm not totally sure it'll make this series a top action RPG.

Starting over

Unlike the first game, Code Vein II doesn't pick up where the last story left off. Instead, it’s a whole new world and story about Revenants – basically, undead people with vampire powers. A hundred years ago, Revenants tried to stop something called The Resurgence, which turned regular people into monsters. They failed, and that made an even bigger problem, Luna Rapacis. Some Revenants even turned into monsters themselves. In the game, you play as a custom Revenant Hunter, and your job is to save the world from falling apart.

The Hunter teams up with Lou MagMell, a mysterious girl who can travel through time. They have to go back and forth in time to face off against heroes who fell during the Resurgence. This time-travel idea lets Bandai Namco mess around with different timelines and sad character stories. It also frees the sequel from needing to follow the first game's plot.

Time travel: You call the shots

The developers told me they went with time travel because they wanted players to have more control. By changing things in the past, you can affect the present and future, deciding when and how certain fights happen. This also explains why it's not a direct sequel – changing history would mess with the first game's story. For people new to the series, this fresh start is good because it avoids the confusing story of the first game.

Characters and where it all happens

The demo starts with a long intro that tells you a lot. After making my character, I meet Lou, see a ruined world, and then find Lavinia, a huge, Lady Dimitrescu-like character. Soon, I'm sent to the past to meet Josée Anjou, a famous warrior who's trapped in the present. To free her, I have to help her in the past, by exploring the Sunken Pylon, a big, industrial dungeon that's full of pollution.

A glowing path helps you find your way, marking goals in gold and places you've already been in blue. It’s helpful, but all the lines can get a bit messy. Checkpoints are like campfires; they heal you but bring enemies back. You can also go to the Confluence, a place where Lou gives you advice.

How you fight

Fighting in Code Vein II feels familiar but has some new twists. You can use regular melee weapons like dual blades, hammers, and bayonets. The coolest new thing is the Jail. It's equipment you wear that replaces the Blood Veil from the first game. Jails let you use Formae, which are special weapon abilities, and do Drain Attacks. Your character’s arm turns into a claw to steal Ichor from enemies.

Ichor powers Formae, which are different for each weapon. They can be fancy attacks, shields, or boosts. Keeping an eye on your Ichor is important for fighting, so you'll want to drain enemies often. Bandai also says they've redone the Blood Code system, giving you many ways to fight and six stats that change things like your defense and how much Ichor you can hold.

Buddies and taking their power

The best new thing is the Partner system. Like the Spirit Ashes in Elden Ring, you can call partners to fight with you; they live inside your Jail. They help a ton, drawing enemy attention and even bringing you back to life if you die. In my demo, Josée really saved my skin many times.

You can call back partners through Assimilation, which gives you stat boosts and introduces Link Points (LP). These points absorb damage before your health does. While fighting alone has its perks, I rarely sent my partner away – having an ally was just too good.

Big bad fights

The boss fights were the best part of the demo. The first one, the Metagen Remnant, was a gross mix of a woman, huge arms, and a tail that shot poison. It attacked with fire beams and poison sprays, making me try different Formae. After a few tries, I beat it with Josée's help, stunning it for cool finishing moves.

Later, time travel took me back to the present, where Josée, who had been grateful before, was now a blind, masked demon with a giant sword. This sad twist really showed the emotional side of the story. Fighting with Lou, I finally beat Josée, giving her peace. The battle was tough in how you played it and sad in its story, and it stuck with me.

What it's all about: Sad stories

Bandai Namco hints that fighting fallen heroes will happen again and again. Depending on how you change time, these meetings might play out differently – or not happen at all. The creators want to tell a sad story, full of heavy moments where friends turn bad. This focus on character drama is meant to make Code Vein II stand out from other games like it, which often care more about the vibe than the story between characters.

Last thoughts

My time with Code Vein II left me feeling pretty good about it, but still a little unsure. The fighting is okay, made better by Formae and the Partner system, and the time-travel idea makes for interesting story possibilities. The boss fights showed both deep gameplay and emotional impact, hinting at the sad themes Bandai Namco wants to explore.

But, I still have some worries. There's a lot of talking in the intro, the dungeon layouts aren’t very exciting, and time-travel stories can get too confusing. We'll have to see if Code Vein II can get past these problems. Still, by trying bold new ideas and a fresh story, Bandai Namco is giving the series a real second chance.

17.Preorders for Pokémon Pokopia are now live at the Pokémon Center ahead of its March 5 launch 

Pokemon games have always been about going on trips and making new friends. It doesn't matter if you're playing the old Game Boy games or the newer open-world ones like *Pokemon Legends: Arceus* and *Scarlet/Violet*. The series keeps changing, but it still feels like Pokemon.

Now, in 2026, Pokemon is doing something really different with *Pokemon Pokopia*. It's their first life simulation game, and it's coming out on the Nintendo Switch 2 on March 5, 2026. *Pokopia* lets you jump into a relaxed world where being creative and making friends are super important.

If you preorder from the Pokemon Center, you get a cool extra: a Ditto Sitting Cuties Plush. This little toy is perfect for *Pokopia*, where Ditto, the Pokemon that can change its shape, is a big part of the story.

**A Pokemon Story, But Different**

*Pokopia* starts with a simple idea. You play as a Ditto who wakes up in a strange, empty place. This Ditto looks human and needs to turn the plain land into a happy, busy spot. Unlike most Pokemon games that are about fighting and catching, *Pokopia* is all about making things, looking around, and getting to know people.

You get to make the world of *Pokopia* your own. You can craft items with stuff you find, grow plants to bring the area back to life, and build your perfect place. As you play, you'll make friends with Pokemon who will help you. Every friend you make gives you new moves and something new to do, opening up more ways to play in the world. It’s less about winning and more about working together, which makes *Pokopia* a nice, relaxed change from typical Pokemon games.

**Life Sim Meets Pokemon Fun**

Life simulation games have gotten really popular lately. Think *Animal Crossing: New Horizons*, *Stardew Valley*, and *The Sims*; tons of people play those. *Pokopia* is similar to those, but it has that special Pokemon feel. Imagine gardening with Bulbasaur, fishing with Magikarp, or learning recipes from Chansey. All the little things you do feel like classic Pokemon fun.

By having Ditto as the main character, *Pokopia* also plays with ideas of who you are and making changes. Ditto’s ability to change and adapt fits right in with your own goal of changing the land. It’s a clever story idea that connects how you play to how your character grows.

**The Preorder Gift: Ditto Sitting Cuties Plush**

Preordering from the Pokemon Center gets you a cool extra: a Ditto Sitting Cuties Plush. If you know the Sitting Cuties line, you know these plushes are small, fun to collect, and just plain cute. Having a Ditto with you in real life while you play as one in *Pokopia* makes you feel more connected to the game.

The plush also shows how important Ditto is to *Pokopia*. While Pikachu has been the face of the series for a long time, Ditto’s fun personality and shape-shifting powers make it great for a game about building and new ideas. For collectors, this preorder bonus is a must-have, and for everyday fans, it’s a sweet reminder of the fun to come.

**Playing Together**

*Pokopia* isn’t just for playing by yourself. The game lets 1 to 4 players work together to build their perfect world. Friends and family can share items, design shared areas, and celebrate when they finish something. This multiplayer side really supports the game’s ideas of working together, making it great for relaxed gaming sessions with loved ones.

The Switch 2’s better hardware means everything runs smoothly, looks good, and connecting online is easy. Whether you’re playing at home or with friends far away, *Pokopia* helps you make things together.

**Your Own Dittopia**

Pokemon Center wants fans to really like Ditto even outside the game. With the preorder plush, the store has lots of Ditto-themed items, from clothes to home decor. The idea is to make your own Dittopia—a place full of Ditto’s playful vibe. This way of marketing smartly connects the in-game idea of building a perfect world to real-life fandom, letting players surround themselves with the same cozy feelings they make in *Pokopia*.

**Price and Release Date**

*Pokemon Pokopia* comes out on March 5, 2026, only for Nintendo Switch 2. You can preorder it now at the Pokemon Center, and you'll get the Ditto Sitting Cuties Plush for free while supplies last. The game is rated E for Everybody, so anyone can play.

Since both Pokemon and life simulation games are very popular, *Pokopia* will probably be a hit with many people. Fans of relaxing games will find a new favorite, and long-time Pokemon fans will get a fresh take on the series.

**My Final Thoughts**

*Pokemon Pokopia* is a cool, new step for the series. By mixing life simulation with the fun of Pokemon, it offers a chill but interesting time that focuses on being creative, making friends, and building a community. It’s a good time for Pokemon to try this type of game, and Ditto being the star gives the game both personality and humor.

With its March 2026 release date coming up, *Pokopia* is already creating excitement. The preorder bonus plush makes it even better, giving fans a real-world friend to go with their digital fun. No matter if you’re a longtime trainer or new to Pokemon, *Pokopia* asks you to build, explore, and find things in a world where Pokemon and imagination meet.

18.Google TV officially launches conversational settings control via Gemini 3 at CES 2026 

Gemini is coming to Google TV, turning your TV into a smart helper in your living room.

AI has been slowly making its way into our homes through phones and laptops. Now, Google's latest update puts AI right on our TVs. At CES 2026, Google announced that Gemini, their main AI, is now part of Google TV. This isn't just about watching stuff on a bigger screen; it's about making your TV truly interactive.

Some of these features might seem like fun extras, but Google sees Gemini as important for how you use your TV. It will talk to you, give you special suggestions, and even change TV settings based on what you say.

**From Phones to TVs: Gemini's Growth**

Gemini is already popular on phones and the internet. People use it to ask questions, create things, and get detailed answers. Bringing that to TVs just makes sense. TVs are becoming central to our smart homes, not just for streaming but for games, workouts, and video calls. With Gemini inside, Google TV becomes more than just a place for shows; it becomes a way for everyone in the house to talk to their TV.

A big change is how it looks. Google made a visual setup to make Gemini's answers better for a TV. Instead of a lot of words, answers will be more visual, with pictures, charts, and interactive bits that fit a big screen.

**Veo and Creative Stuff**

One cool thing is that it works with Veo, Google's tool for making images and videos. On Google TV, you can make new pictures or short video clips right from your couch. While this might not be what you usually do with a TV, it adds a fun creative side. Think about making party invites, vision boards, or just playing with ideas on a 65-inch screen.

Before this, AI on TVs was mostly just voice assistants like Google Assistant or Alexa, which mainly did searches and smart home commands. Veo shows that AI in the living room is becoming more about creating and showing things.

**Like a Chatbot**

Besides creative tools, Gemini on Google TV works like a chatbot. Want to know sports scores? Ask Gemini. Need ideas for what to watch next? Gemini can look at what you watch and suggest things. The answers aren't like what you see on the web or your phone; they're made for TV, with quick visual summaries and a Tell Me More option that gives you interactive overviews of topics.

This makes Gemini feel less like a search engine and more like a helpful friend, guiding you through entertainment and info without taking you away from the screen.

**Changing Settings by Talking**

Perhaps the most useful thing is that Gemini can change TV settings by listening to you. For example, if you say the talking is too quiet, Gemini can automatically make the sound clearer. This means you don't have to look through menus or use your remote, making your TV respond more to how you naturally talk.

It's a small but important step towards TVs that change to fit what you need, combining AI help with everyday use.

**When and How to Get It**

Gemini features will first appear on TCL TVs that use Google TV, starting later this year. Other devices, including Google's own TV Streamer, will get it a few months later. These features need the full Google TV experience with Android OS version 14 or higher. That means not every streaming box or smart display will work with it at first.

Google is being careful, making sure the TV and software can handle the data and visual stuff needed for Gemini's cool responses. The data itself can use up to 150 Mbps, which shows how much this setup needs.

**The Bigger Picture: AI in Your Living Room**

Gemini coming to Google TV shows a bigger idea: AI is becoming an important part of home entertainment. TVs aren't just screens anymore; they're interactive spots where families watch things, play games, and control smart home devices. By adding Gemini, Google thinks that talking AI will become just as important in the living room as streaming apps or HDMI ports.

This also gives Google TV an edge over its rivals. Amazon has Alexa in Fire TV, and Apple is trying out Vision Pro for immersive entertainment. Gemini gives Google a special advantage by combining creative tools, talking search, and system control all in one.

**Possible Issues**

Of course, there are still some problems. Not everyone will see the point of making pictures or videos on a TV, and some might prefer old-fashioned remotes over talking commands. Privacy is also a big deal. AI helpers need your info to give you personalized answers. Google will need to assure users that Gemini respects privacy at home while still being useful.

There's also the question of how complicated it is. AI features can be too much for people if they're not easy to use. Google's visual setup is supposed to help with this, but how many people will use it depends on how well Gemini fits into their daily TV habits.

**My Final Thoughts**

Gemini on Google TV is more than just a new gadget; it's a look into the future of home entertainment. By putting together creative tools like Veo, conversational help, and system changes, Google is turning the TV into an interactive AI friend.

While some features might seem like fun extras, others – like sound adjustments and personalized suggestions – could become really important. Starting with TCL TVs and then coming to other devices later this year, Gemini's launch is a big step in Google's plan for AI everywhere.

For now, the living room is the newest spot for AI, and Gemini is ready to be alongside streaming apps and smart home controls as part of how we use our TVs today.

19.The viral sensation returns Aladdin X launches Suika Game Planet for Nintendo Switch 2 

The Suika Game is back, and this time it's headed for space! The much-loved fruit-dropping puzzle game, known for being super addicting, just got a new version called Suika Game Planet. It came out on the Nintendo Switch 2 on January 5, 2026. This new game takes everything you loved about the original and blasts it into outer space, with cool new ways to play, a co-op mode, and extra content you can download. Everyone who likes chill puzzle games or trying to get the top score is already talking about it.

It's the same great game, but with a space twist

The first Suika Game became a huge hit because it was so simple but so much fun. You just drop fruit into a box, and when two of the same fruit touch, they turn into a bigger one. The goal is to make a watermelon for the most points. Suika Game Planet keeps that main idea but adds a space theme.

Now you play as Poppy, who flies all the way around a planet. You can drop fruit from any angle, which changes things up a lot. You have to think about how gravity works, what angles to use, and where things will bounce to make long chains of fruit turn into bigger ones. You still want to make watermelons for big points, but doing it in space makes it feel brand new.

Super Evolution Time

One of the coolest new parts is 'Super Evolution Time.' This happens when you get a lot of fruits to merge quickly one after another. When it kicks in, you get awesome visuals, special music, and extra chances to score points. It's a nice reward for playing well and makes the game way more exciting, turning a normal puzzle session into something really fun.

This new feature also makes you want to take chances. You might hold off dropping some fruits, waiting to set up a huge chain reaction, knowing that hitting Super Evolution Time can shoot your score way up on the online leaderboards.

Playing with friends using GameShare

For the first time ever, you can play Suika Game with friends. With GameShare (that's local communication), up to four players can team up on one device. You all work together to merge fruits and try to make those watermelons, sharing the good times and the crazy moments of managing fruit on a planet.

This makes Suika Game Planet perfect for family get-togethers or just a casual game night. Since the Switch 2 is portable, you can play it on your TV, on a table, or just holding it, making it easy to play anywhere.

Game Details and how to play

The digital version of Suika Game Planet costs $3.75 and takes up 795 MB of space. You can play it in different ways, and if you have a Nintendo Account family group, everyone in the family can play it.

The game is available in lots of languages like Japanese, French, Spanish, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and American English, so more people can enjoy it. There are online leaderboards where you can see how your score compares to others around the world, but you need internet to use that feature.

Just like with all Nintendo games, there are health and safety warnings. If you have epilepsy or are sensitive to flashing lights, they recommend talking to a doctor before playing.

Extra content: Solar System Expansion

To go with the main game, Aladdin X, the company behind Suika Game Planet, also released a 'Solar System DLC' on launch day. It costs $1.79 and adds new planets and challenges, making the fruit-dropping experience even more varied. For super fans, this extra content means more playtime and more to do, keeping the game fun long after you first get it.

Suika Game Planet and what it means

Suika Game Planet coming out shows that Nintendo is happy to release smaller, unique games alongside its huge hits. While games like Super Mario Party Jamboree and Luigi’s Mansion 3 sell tons, puzzle games like Suika Game find their own loyal fans.

The Switch 2's power makes these games look better and run smoother. Its 120Hz screen and improved processing mean that even simple puzzle games look great, with clear animations and quick controls.

Why people love Suika Game

Part of what makes Suika Game so appealing is that anyone can play it. The rules are easy enough for kids to pick up, but the scoring system has enough depth for players who like to compete. The feeling of watching fruits turn into bigger ones is satisfying in the same way 'match-three' games are addicting, but with a cool physics element.

By moving the new game to space and adding co-op, Aladdin X has changed things up without losing what made the original great. The result is a game that feels both familiar and new, attracting both old fans and new players.

Final thoughts

Suika Game Planet might not be as big as Nintendo's main games, but it has that fun spirit that the Switch is known for. At just $3.75, it's a cheap digital game that's hours of fun, whether you're trying to get a high score by yourself or playing with friends using GameShare.

With its space setting, Super Evolution Time, and the Solar System DLC, the game shows that even small puzzle games can become something special. If you're looking to use your My Nintendo Platinum Points or just want a chill game to play, Suika Game Planet is a great choice.

As the Switch 2 comes into its own, expect more cool games like this to stand out next to the big titles. Sometimes, just trying to make that watermelon is all the fun you need.

20.The 7-year secret Rockstar fans uncover a massive hidden spider web mystery in January 2026 

Even after seven years, fans are still finding new things in Red Dead Redemption 2. This game from Rockstar is famous for its amazing details. Now, gamers have found some mysterious spiderwebs on telegraph poles all over the game world. No one had reported these before late December 2025.

This discovery has everyone talking and trying to figure out what Rockstar was trying to do with this hidden secret.

**How it Started**

Three fans, who go by goldenplaysterraria, pariah87, and u/FL4VA‑01 online, first saw these spiderwebs. They noticed them on eight telegraph poles. The webs only show up for one hour every night in the game, so they're easy to miss. The cool thing is, each web has a feather you can shoot off. It's a small reward for finding something a bit spooky.

A Rockstar fan channel called Strange Man quickly made a video about it, giving credit to the three who found it. Other players then said in comments that these webs have actually been there since the game came out in 2018, just hiding in plain sight.

**Old Secrets Resurface**

This isn't the first time Rockstar has put secret stuff in their games. Red Dead Redemption 2 itself has a mission with dreamcatchers spread across the map. Also, Grand Theft Auto V had its own spiderweb puzzle. These secrets are often a way of telling a story without words, and they reward players who look around a lot and think outside the box.

These new spiderwebs fit right in with that. It's a puzzle that feels like it belongs in the game world, but also looks like it was made to be found slowly over time.

**Next, Secret Directions**

As players looked harder, they realized the webs weren't just random cool things. They seemed to be part of a bigger puzzle. One main web had a weird design: a letter N and something that looked like another telegraph pole. Following that clue north led them to a wooden pole that, when shot, showed another hidden direction under its bark.

This discovery made it seem like the spiderwebs were guiding players, with each clue pointing to the next. The mystery had turned from just a strange sight into a real treasure hunt.

**The Guitar Symbol**

The latest news, from early January 2026, added another twist. The last telegraph pole message showed a direction and a guitar symbol. This has players rushing to places with guitars, especially Fort Wallace, which has the instruments closest to the clue. Others are checking every guitar place in the game, hoping to find the next part of the puzzle.

The guitar symbol has got people thinking. Could the mystery end with a secret music show, a hidden item, or even a nod to other Rockstar games? For now, no one knows for sure.

**Fans Are Loving It**

For fans, this spiderweb mystery is a fun surprise. Since there's no new story content announced, and people are waiting for a re-release or remaster, this discovery brings new excitement to a game they love. The community has come together to solve the puzzle, sharing ideas, videos, and maps to try and crack Rockstar's code.

Even if the mystery just turns out to be a small Easter egg, finding it has made Red Dead Redemption 2 feel fresh again. It shows how much detail Rockstar put into their world and how players are still finding new things years later.

**Why Keep Secrets So Long?**

Rockstar is known for putting a lot of care into their games and hiding secrets. The fact that these spiderwebs weren't found for seven years shows how huge Red Dead Redemption 2's world is. It also shows how the company makes games: they create a world so full of life that players will still be finding surprises long after it comes out.

Whether it was planned or just lucky, the timing of this find has given fans something new to talk about, especially since everyone is so excited for Rockstar's next games, like Grand Theft Auto VI.

**Ideas and Theories**

There are lots of ideas about what the spiderwebs mean. Some people think they connect to the game's ideas of things changing and falling apart, with feathers meaning freedom caught in webs of fate. Others think it could be part of a bigger puzzle across all Rockstar's games, since it's similar to mysteries in GTA V.

A simpler idea is that the webs were just a small secret left by the developers, meant to be found eventually but not important to the main story. Still, how carefully the clues and symbols are placed suggests there's a deeper reason.

**What We Think**

The spiderweb mystery in Red Dead Redemption 2 shows how awesome Rockstar's game still is. Even after seven years, players are finding secrets that get everyone excited and working together. Whether the puzzle leads to a hidden item, a secret message, or just a clever Easter egg, finding it has been its own reward.

For fans waiting for new content or a re-release, this mystery reminds them why they loved the game in the first place: it always surprises you, pulls you in, and makes you curious. In the big world of Red Dead Redemption 2, there are always new stories to find – even if they're written in spiderwebs on telegraph poles.

21.Video game pioneer David Rosen co-founder of SEGA dies in Los Angeles aged 95 

David Rosen, who co-founded Sega and came up with lots of arcade game ideas, passed away at 95. You'd be hard-pressed to find someone more important in the arcade and console game world. As a Sega co-founder and a director until 1996, Rosen was a big reason the video game business took off in Japan. Later, in the 80s and 90s, he got Sega of America started and made the Mega Drive (known as the Genesis in the US) a huge hit everywhere, really making Sega a name to remember in gaming history.

**From Air Force to Business**

Rosen's entry into games was pretty unexpected. He was a US Air Force pilot during the Korean War, stationed in Japan. After the war, he decided to stay because he liked the culture and saw chances in the country's economy, which was getting back on its feet. In 1954, he started Rosen Enterprises, first bringing photo booths from the States to meet the growing demand for ID cards among Japanese people.

From photo booths, Rosen shifted to pinball machines and coin-operated games, putting them in stores, restaurants, and movie theaters. He just had a knack for knowing what would be a hit in entertainment tech. In 1965, Rosen joined his company with Nihon Goraku Bussan, whose coin-op business was called Service Games. That merger formed a new company with a shorter name: Sega.

**Sega's Cool Arcade Games**

For the next 15 years, Sega led the arcade scene. At first, they just brought in games, but soon they started making their own, moving from jukeboxes and pinball to electromechanical arcade games. Some early big successes were Periscope, a submarine shooting game, and Killer Shark (1972), a shark-hunting game that even showed up in the movie Jaws.

Sega also opened its own arcades, so they handled both making games and getting them to people. This helped Sega make their games better and build their own clear brand.

**Finding Good People: Hayao Nakayama**

One of Rosen's best traits was finding and hiring good people. In 1979, he noticed Hayao Nakayama, who ran another arcade company called Esco Trading. Rosen later said, Nakayama was really busy as a distributor back then – I felt he was sharp and quick to catch on to what was happening in the industry. When Sega bought Esco, Nakayama and his team joined Sega. Nakayama later became the president of Sega Japan during its best years, from 1983 to 1998.

With Nakayama in charge and Rosen's advice, Sega went from just another company like Namco, Capcom, Taito, and Konami to a top player. The slick coin-op games of the 1980s, like OutRun, Space Harrier, and AfterBurner, changed arcades from small hangouts to cool spots. In the 1990s, games like Virtua Racing and Virtua Fighter showed that Sega was really good at using new tech.

**Getting into Home Consoles**

By the late 1970s, Rosen saw the promise of home TV games. Nintendo had already done well with its Color TV-Game consoles and later the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). When Rosen came back to the US in the early 1980s, he really wanted to take on Nintendo.

Sega's first attempt at a home console didn't do great, but in 1986, the company put out the Master System. It struggled in the US but did well in Europe and South America. Rosen saw an open spot: while Nintendo focused on family fun, Sega's Master System did well with games for teens, like Golden Axe and Shinobi.

**The Start of a Rivalry**

When Sega was getting ready to release its new console in Japan in 1988, Rosen insisted on changing its name for the American market. So, the Mega Drive became the Genesis, suggesting a fresh start and a more grown-up feel. Rosen also brought in Michael Katz, an experienced leader from Mattel and Coleco, to help set up Sega of America and launch the console.

Katz sold the Genesis as a console for teenagers, not kids. Famous TV ads mixed game footage with rock music and the catchy slogan: Genesis does what Nintendon't. When Tom Kalinske took over as CEO in 1990, Sega of America went all-in on bold advertising, often ending commercials with someone yelling Sega! These campaigns, pushed by Rosen's idea, helped the Genesis get a good portion of the US market.

**Later Years and His Legacy**

Rosen stayed involved with Sega until he stopped working in 1996. Even though Sega's home console business had trouble when Sony's PlayStation came out, the company kept doing great in arcades throughout that decade.

In 2013, while researching Sega Mega Drive Collected Works, journalist Keith Stuart talked to Rosen. He spoke fondly of his time in Japan, the people he worked with, and his ride through the industry. Rosen loved telling how, even in his hometown of Los Angeles, strangers would still yell Sega! at him on the street—it just showed how much of an impact the brand he helped create had.

**To Sum It Up**

David Rosen's career saw games go from simple coin-op toys to huge worldwide entertainment. His business smarts, his ability to find good people like Nakayama, and his ideas for Sega's consoles really shaped where the industry went.

Even though Sega's luck changed over time, Rosen's impact is still there. He helped make arcades cool places to hang out, made Sega a real competitor to Nintendo, and made sure the Genesis years would be remembered as a really exciting time in gaming. At 95, Rosen leaves behind a memory that still rings out every time someone shouts Sega! because of the company he helped start.

22.Anker Prime 25W Qi2 3-in-1 Charging Station launches with foldable travel design 

Anker is really stepping up its game at CES 2026, showing off a bunch of new chargers, docks, and smart gadgets. They're making it clear that when you think of power, you should think of Anker. Everyone knows them for good charging tech and smart home stuff, and this year, they've got a whole new range of products. We're talking everything from tiny chargers and Qi2.2 MagSafe docks to a super useful docking station and smart locks. Anker wants to be your go-to for both mobile power and making your home smarter.

**Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station**

Anker was one of the first to have Qi2.2 chargers, and now they're bringing out the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station. This new dock folds up, so it's easy to take it with you from home to the office or when you travel.

It uses Anker's AirCool tech to keep things cool while charging, which means it works well and is safe. If you have a compatible iPhone, it can charge crazy fast, up to 25W, which is way quicker than regular wireless charging. It'll be out in early 2026 for $149.99. The Prime Wireless Charging Station is perfect for anyone who wants quick charging and portability without giving up on good looks.

**Anker Nano Charger**

If you prefer a regular plug-in charger, Anker also has the Nano Charger, their newest small charger. Even though it's tiny, it puts out up to 45W, which is 50% more than the old one.

The Nano Charger has a little screen that shows how much power it's putting out right then. It can also tell which iPhone model you've plugged in and adjust the charge for it. The prongs can pop out and turn 180 degrees, so it fits in tight spots. You can get it in late January for $39.99, but if you pre-order, it's just $29.99. That makes it one of the cheapest strong chargers you can buy.

**Anker Nano Power Strip**

Anker also showed off the Nano Power Strip. It's a 10-in-1 charger that also protects your stuff from power surges. It gives you 70W of power from two USB-C and two USB-A ports, plus six regular wall outlets.

You can clamp the Nano Power Strip onto your desk or counter, which is a neat way to tidy up messy work areas. It ships in late January for $69.99. This is great for people who have lots of gadgets and need both charging and surge protection in one neat package.

**Anker Nano Docking Station**

The Nano Docking Station might be the most useful thing Anker showed at CES. It's a 13-in-1 dock that lets you connect three screens and has a part you can take off for travel.

When you're at your desk, the dock has a power button, slots for SD and microSD cards, a DisplayPort, three USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, Gigabit Ethernet, an audio jack, and two HDMI outputs. The small part you can remove has card readers, a USB-A port, and a USB-C port, so you can easily take your important connections with you. It's out now on Amazon for $149.99. The Nano Docking Station is for folks who need to easily switch between their office and travel setups.

**Eufy Smart Lock E40**

It's not just charging stuff; Anker's other brands also had cool news. Eufy introduced the Smart Lock E40, which uses 3D face recognition to open your door without you touching it. It also has a built-in 2K camera that sees everything from head to toe, and it works with Matter, so it'll play nice with Apple Home and other smart systems.

It'll be out in the first part of the year at Home Depot for $299.99. The Smart Lock E40 brings together security, convenience, and smart home tech, which will be a hit with homeowners who want the best new ways to control who comes in.

**Soundcore AeroFit 2 Pro and Sleep A30 Special**

Soundcore, Anker's audio brand, showed off two new sets of earbuds. The AeroFit 2 Pro are earbuds you can change. They work as open-ear buds, but they also have noise canceling. They'll be out on January 6th for $179 and come in matte black, glossy white, matte purple, and gloss blue.

Soundcore also announced the Sleep A30 Special. These are based on the existing A30 earbuds but have a longer battery and connect with the Calm app for guided relaxation. They launch on January 6th for $199 and are for people who want audio products made for sleep and winding down.

**Anker Solix Hybrid Backup Solution**

Last but not least, Solix, Anker's energy brand, gave a sneak peek of its first smart hybrid backup system for your whole house. We don't have all the details yet, as Anker will share more at their event on January 12th. But this announcement shows Anker wants to go beyond personal devices and into managing your home's energy. With more and more people wanting clean energy and backup systems, Solix could become a big name in smart energy.

**Wrapping Up**

Anker's CES 2026 lineup really shows they're serious about making new stuff in many different areas. From small chargers and docks to smart locks and audio gear, Anker is growing its product family while still being known for good quality and decent prices.

The Prime Wireless Charging Station and Nano Docking Station show Anker is thinking about people who use their products for work and need speed and flexibility. The Nano Charger and Power Strip are for everyday folks. And Eufy's Smart Lock E40 and Soundcore's earbuds prove that Anker's other brands are finding their own special spots in security and audio.

With Solix getting ready to jump into the home energy market, Anker is changing from just a charging company into a bigger tech brand. CES 2026 definitely made one thing clear: Anker wants to power not just your devices, but your whole digital life.

23.Planning ahead Why downloading offline maps is essential for CarPlay road trips 

Using Apple CarPlay Without Cell Service: Good to Know Info

Apple CarPlay is super popular for car entertainment. It puts a familiar iPhone-like screen right in your car's display. Just plug in your iPhone with a USB or Bluetooth, and CarPlay shows your important apps and features. This makes it easier to stay in touch, listen to stuff, and find your way while driving.

But what happens when you're out in the sticks, in another country, or anywhere with no cell service? Good news: CarPlay itself doesn't need an active cell connection to start up. The system will still turn on and show your apps. The catch is, it won't do as much without service, so you gotta plan ahead to get the most out of it.

CarPlay Basics

Think of CarPlay like a mirror for your iPhone. Once connected, your car's screen shows a simpler version of your apps, made for driving. Apple only lets essential apps show up—like for talking, directions, and music—and blocks things that would distract you, like video or games. Siri voice control is built-in, so you can use it without touching anything.

CarPlay will work even if your iPhone has no signal. The system doesn't need cell service to do the basic stuff. But most apps need the internet for real-time info, so without it, you'll have to use offline modes or things you've downloaded beforehand.

Calling and Texts

Hands-free calling and texting are really useful CarPlay features, but they do need a live cell connection. No service means calls will drop, messages won't send, and Siri can't send data. At best, you can listen to old voicemails or look at drafts, but you can't talk to anyone until you're back in range. There's no way around it—these apps just need network access.

Music and Podcasts

Music and podcast apps like Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Overcast, and Audiobooks all need internet to play. If you lose signal, the music stops. The fix is easy: download stuff beforehand. Most streaming apps let you save playlists, albums, or episodes to listen to offline. If you do this before your trip, you can enjoy non-stop entertainment even where there's no service.

This makes CarPlay super handy on long road trips. With downloaded content, you can keep everyone happy and avoid annoying buffering or silence when driving through rural or hilly areas.

Directions

Navigation is another key CarPlay function. Apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, and TomTom rely on live data for directions, traffic, and finding new routes. Without a cell connection, these apps won't be able to get new routes or tell you about traffic in real-time.

Luckily, Apple Maps and Google Maps now let you download maps. By saving maps of where you're going or your route ahead of time, you can still get directions even without service. Offline maps won't give you live traffic updates, but they will make sure you don't get lost. For drivers heading to remote spots, this planning is a must.

Other Ways to Connect

If you're traveling abroad and worried about high phone bills, think about getting a local prepaid SIM or eSIM card. This gives you cheap data for CarPlay without those big roaming charges.

Another idea is tethering. If a passenger has a phone with active service, they can share their connection using a mobile hot spot. Your iPhone can then connect to that hot spot, bringing back all of CarPlay's features. This is a quick fix when your phone has no service but someone else's does.

Finally, satellite connectivity is starting to become an option. Some carriers, like T-Mobile, now support calls and messages through satellite. Data connections through services like Starlink are also being tested. While the speed might not be great, satellite can help with basic messaging or directions. Still, it's smart to download offline content, as satellite might not reliably support all CarPlay features.

Getting Ready for Offline Use

To get the most out of CarPlay without cell service, planning is everything. Here are some simple steps:

* **Download music and podcasts:** Save playlists and episodes to listen to offline.

* **Save maps offline:** Use Apple Maps or Google Maps to download the areas you'll be driving through.

* **Check your apps:** Not all CarPlay apps work offline, so know what to expect.

* **Think about other connection options:** Local SIMs, passenger hot spots, or satellite services can give you backup access.

By doing these things, you can keep CarPlay useful even when your phone isn't connected to a network.

Wrap-up

Apple CarPlay doesn't need cell service to work, but how useful it is depends on how well you get ready for no-service situations. Calling and texting won't work without a connection, but music and navigation apps can still help you if you download stuff and maps beforehand. For folks heading to remote places or abroad, things like local SIMs, hot spots, or satellite can help.

In the end, CarPlay is a great tool for drivers, but understanding its limits without cell service means you won't be caught off guard. With a little planning, you can keep your music playing, your maps guiding, and your trip smooth—even when the signal bars disappear.

24.Nintendo files new trademarks for Zelda Tri Force Heroes and Mario Tennis Ultra Smash 

Nintendo just refreshed its trademarks for two games: Tri Force Heroes and Mario Tennis Ultra Smash. Usually, companies just renew these things to keep their legal rights in order. But fans are buzzing because this could mean these games are coming back. Both Mario and Zelda have big anniversaries in 2026, so the timing makes you wonder.

**What Trademark Renewals Usually Mean**

Game companies like Nintendo always renew trademarks. It's how they keep control of their game names and logos. This stops other companies from using similar names and lets them re-release games if they want.

Most times, these renewals don't mean new games are coming. It's just part of handling a ton of intellectual property. But fans always watch these filings, hoping they'll hint at new stuff. Nintendo is super secretive, so they rarely say anything, which just makes fans more excited.

**The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes**

Tri Force Heroes came out in 2015 on the Nintendo 3DS. It was a Zelda spin-off where three players worked together to solve puzzles and clear dungeons. You controlled three different Links, each with special outfits and powers. The game was all about teamwork—stacking up, sharing items, and planning attacks.

People had mixed feelings about it. Some liked the new multiplayer ideas, but others thought it relied too much on online play and wasn't as deep as other Zelda games. Still, Tri Force Heroes was a unique experiment that showed Nintendo was willing to try new things with Zelda.

Since Zelda's 40th anniversary is in 2026, fans are hoping Nintendo might bring Tri Force Heroes back, maybe for the Switch. Cooperative games are popular now, and better internet could fix the original's online problems. A new version could bring the game to more people and celebrate Zelda's history of trying new things.

**Mario Tennis Ultra Smash**

Mario Tennis Ultra Smash came out on the Wii U in 2015. It was part of the Mario sports series, with classic tennis but with Mario twists: power-ups, over-the-top moves, and colorful courts. It had a Mega Battle mode where characters grew huge after grabbing Mega Mushrooms, making matches wild.

Though, Ultra Smash got flak for not having much content. Compared to older Mario Tennis games, it had fewer modes, limited online play, and not much for single-players. Even with good graphics and fun mechanics, it felt empty, and fans were let down.

Renewing the trademark doesn't promise a new game, but Mario sports titles often pop up again. With Mario's 40th anniversary also coming up, Nintendo could make a better tennis game. Mario Tennis Aces did well on the Switch, so there's clearly a market for the franchise.

**Anniversary Time**

Both Zelda and Mario have big anniversaries in 2026. Nintendo usually celebrates these with special games, events, or re-releases. For Zelda's 35th anniversary in 2021, they released Skyward Sword HD and themed stuff. For Mario's 35th in 2020, we got Super Mario 3D All-Stars and Super Mario Bros. 35.

Given this, fans think the trademark renewals might be part of the anniversary plans. Even if Tri Force Heroes and Ultra Smash aren't directly re-released, Nintendo might be planning bigger celebrations that look back at old games.

**Fan Hopes**

Fans who liked the co-op in Tri Force Heroes are excited for its possible return. Newer hardware could make online play smoother, and local multiplayer on Switch would be easy. A new version could also add more content, fixing what people didn't like about the first one.

For Mario Tennis, fans want a more complete sports game. Nintendo often improves its sports titles, so a new tennis game could mix the best parts of Ultra Smash and Aces. An anniversary tie-in would make such a release even better.

**Bottom line**

Nintendo renewing these trademarks for Tri Force Heroes and Mario Tennis Ultra Smash is probably just routine business. But since both Zelda and Mario have big anniversaries coming up, it certainly makes you wonder. Fans are eager to see how Nintendo celebrates both franchises in 2026, and revisiting these games could be part of the fun.

25.Samsung confirms February 25 launch event in San Francisco for Galaxy S26 series 

The Samsung Galaxy S26 is a big deal for Samsung's phone lineup, and people are already getting excited. The S25 came out in January 2025, but it looks like the 2026 model will hit shelves a bit later. Samsung seems to be moving its release schedule around, with a new report saying it'll be shown off in February and available in March. This comes with a big upgrade to its AI stuff.

**Coming Out Later Than Usual**

Samsung usually shows off its Galaxy S phones in January or early February, and they go on sale soon after. For example, the Galaxy S25 was announced in January 2025. But a reliable leaker, Ice Universe, recently said on X that the Galaxy S26 series will be revealed at a Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, 2026, in San Francisco.

This is the first solid date and place we've heard for the launch. San Francisco makes sense, as Samsung has held its last three Galaxy S events there, switching between San Francisco and San Jose. The phones should be on sale in early March, but Samsung hasn't given an exact date yet.

**When Can You Get the Galaxy S26 Ultra?**

If we look at how Samsung has done things before, we can guess. Their last five phone launches usually happened 14 to 16 days after the Unpacked event. So, if they show it off on February 25, the Galaxy S26 series could be in stores around March 13, 2026.

March 13 is a Friday, and Samsung likes to launch phones on Fridays. While mid-March is a little later than early March, it's still possible. Or, Samsung could release it on March 6 to better match what Ice Universe said about early March. Either way, you should be able to buy it in the first half of March.

**How Much Will It Cost?**

The price has been another thing people are talking about. A report from The Bell suggested Samsung might raise prices for the Galaxy S26 series because memory parts are getting more expensive. They apparently lost money on the Galaxy Z Tri-Fold, and they don't want to do that again with their main Galaxy S phone.

But now, news from South Korea’s Maeil Business says Samsung will keep prices the same for the fourth year in a row. Industry sources say the starting price for all Galaxy S26 models (with 256GB storage) will be the same as the Galaxy S25 series.

If that's true, the prices will be:

* **Galaxy S26:** $799

* **Galaxy S26 Plus:** $999

* **Galaxy S26 Ultra:** $1,299

To make up for the costs, Samsung might raise prices on some of its A-series models. This way, their main phone stays affordable and doesn't upset customers.

**Big AI Changes**

Besides when it comes out and how much it costs, the Galaxy S26 is expected to have big improvements in its AI features. Samsung has been adding AI to its phones for a while, from better cameras to helpful tools. With new AI tech appearing everywhere and other companies like Google and Apple doing their own AI things, the S26 series will likely show off Samsung's best AI yet.

We don't have many specifics, but we can expect smarter photo editing, better voice helpers, and deeper connections with Samsung's apps and services. AI could also help with battery life, how well the phone runs, and making the phone experience more personal for you.

**Why the Delay?**

The later launch might be a smart move. By putting the Galaxy S26 release in March, Samsung won't have to compete with other big tech announcements in January, like CES and other companies' early-year phone launches. A February Unpacked event gives Samsung its own stage, and a March release means good visibility as spring starts.

Also, the delay might give them more time to fine-tune the AI features and deal with supply chain issues, especially with rising memory costs and shortages of parts around the world.

**Good News for Buyers**

For you, the buyer, this means waiting a bit longer than in past years. But the news about prices staying the same is great, especially with regular prices going up everywhere. You can expect the same starting prices as the Galaxy S25 series, with the Ultra model still being the top-tier choice.

The focus on AI also suggests that Samsung sees the Galaxy S26 as more than just a hardware update. It might mean they're moving towards smarter phones that use AI to give you a more personal experience.

**Final Thoughts**

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series looks like it'll be a very important phone launch for 2026. With a February 25 Unpacked event in San Francisco and phones hitting stores in early March, Samsung is changing its usual schedule by releasing its main phone later.

Prices seem like they'll stay the same: $799 for the regular S26, $999 for the Plus, and $1,299 for the Ultra. To balance costs, Samsung might adjust prices on its mid-range phones. And a big AI update promises to change what you can do with your smartphone.

As February gets closer, everyone will be watching to see how the Galaxy S26 delivers on its promise of new tech while still being affordable. If you're a fan of the Galaxy S line, the wait might be longer, but it could really pay off.

26.Valve developer merges major stability fix for decade-old AMD GCN graphics cards 

Mesa 26.0 has some big fixes for older AMD GCN graphics cards.

Linux graphics have been changing a lot, with developers constantly trying to make things better for all kinds of hardware. Even though newer graphics cards get most of the attention, people have still been working to keep older ones working well. Linux 6.19 already made AMD's first-gen GCN cards use the modern AMDGPU driver by default. This meant better performance and out-of-the-box support for the RADV Vulkan driver. Now, Timur Kristóf from Valve's Linux graphics team has brought another cool improvement in Mesa 26.0.

**A Quick Look at GCN 1.0 and 1.1 Hardware**

AMD's GCN design came out in 2011 and was in several Radeon card generations. The first versions, GCN 1.0 (GFX6) and GCN 1.1 (GFX7), included graphics cards like:

* GCN 1.0 (GFX6): Cape Verde, Pitcairn, Tahiti, Oland, Hainan

* GCN 1.1 (GFX7): Bonaire, Kabini, Mullins, Kaveri, Hawaii

These cards were popular back then. Cards like the Radeon R9 290 (Hawaii) were great for gamers. But as new designs came out, it got harder to support these older cards. Driver bugs, hardware quirks, and new software standards often caused problems or limited what these cards could do.

**The VM Fault Problem**

One common issue with GCN 1.0 and 1.1 cards was VM faults when using the RADV Vulkan driver. VM faults happen when the graphics card tries to get to memory that isn't set up right, causing errors. This problem was particularly bad on these older cards.

Running the Vulkan Conformance Test Suite (CTS) could cause thousands of VM faults every second. For Linux gamers, it was even more obvious in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, where performance and stability took a hit.

The problem came from a hardware bug: SMEM instructions on these cards could try to get to memory even if it was outside the allowed area. Instead of just failing quietly, the hardware would cause VM faults because of unmapped memory pages. This made it tough for the RADV driver to stay stable.

**The Fix in Mesa 26.0**

Timur Kristóf, who works a lot on Valve's Linux graphics, made some fixes to stop these VM faults. The solution involves handling memory access carefully to keep the hardware from always causing faults.

By putting these fixes into Mesa 26.0, Kristóf has pretty much gotten rid of the VM faults on GFX6 and GFX7 hardware. This mean Vulkan apps, including games and tests, can now run much more reliably on these cards.

For users, this makes a big difference. Instead of constant errors and bad performance, they can expect smoother gaming and better compatibility with newer Vulkan games.

**Why This Is A Big Deal**

It might seem odd to spend time fixing graphics cards that are ten years old. But this work is important for a few reasons:

* **Longer Life for Hardware:** Lots of people still use older graphics cards because of money or what's available. Improving driver support means these cards can still be used every day.

* **Open Source Beliefs:** The Linux community cares about including everyone and making things last. Supporting older hardware fits with the idea of making things as useful as possible and reducing waste.

* **Testing and Development:** Older graphics cards are good for testing driver improvements and making sure new stuff works with old stuff.

* **Gaming for More People:** Games like Cyberpunk 2077 need modern tech like Vulkan. Making sure older cards can at least play these games means more people can play.

**Bigger Picture: Linux 6.19 and AMDGPU**

The Mesa 26.0 fix adds to the improvements in Linux 6.19. By making GCN 1.0 and 1.1 cards use the AMDGPU driver by default, Linux has made support the same for all AMD cards. This switch brings better performance, stability, and easier access to modern things like RADV.

Before, these older cards used the Radeon driver, which didn't have many of the good things found in AMDGPU. The change makes sure that even old hardware gets the benefits of ongoing development.

**What's Next**

Mesa 26.0 is coming out later this quarter, and users with GCN 1.0 and 1.1 cards should see immediate improvements once they update. While these cards won't be as good as newer ones, getting rid of VM faults makes them a lot better to use.

This work also shows how dedicated developers like Timur Kristóf are, always making Linux graphics better for all generations. Since Valve is putting a lot of money into Linux gaming with things like the Steam Deck, making sure drivers work well for many different kinds of hardware is still a top concern.

**To Wrap It Up**

Putting the VM fault fixes into Mesa 26.0 is a turning point for AMD's first-generation GCN graphics cards. By fixing a long-standing hardware bug, Linux users can now have more stable Vulkan performance on cards like the Radeon R9 290. Together with the move to AMDGPU in Linux 6.19, these improvements give older hardware a new lease on life.

For the Linux community, it's a reminder that progress isn't just about the newest and best things. It's also about making sure older tech stays useful, easy to get, and trustworthy. With Mesa 26.0, AMD's GCN 1.0 and 1.1 cards get a fresh start—proof that even in the fast-paced world of graphics, support for older stuff still matters.

27.Live Activity violation How Duolingo used the Dynamic Island to push subscription ads 

Duolingo got some flak for using Apple's Live Activities to show ads. You know, those handy iPhone features that show you real-time updates like food delivery or workout progress? Well, Duolingo, that language-learning app everyone uses, apparently tried to sneak in ads for their paid subscription, Duolingo Super, right there.

People started noticing these ads popping up on their iPhone Lock Screens and even the Dynamic Island. They were pushing Duolingo's paid stuff, like unlimited hearts and offline lessons. The thing is, Apple has a rule against using Live Activities for ads, and Duolingo seemed to ignore that.

Apple's pretty clear about this. They brought in Live Activities with iOS 16 so your iPhone could be helpful without you constantly opening apps. The idea is to show important, quick info. But their rules say plainly: Don't use a Live Activity to display ads or promotions. It's all about keeping it useful, not annoying. If apps break these rules, Apple can kick them out of the App Store.

Users on Reddit shared screenshots of these Super offer ads mixed in with their usual Duolingo updates. People weren't happy, saying their Lock Screen shouldn't be a billboard. There was a worry that if Duolingo got away with it, other apps would start doing the same, turning Live Activities into just another ad space.

Duolingo hasn't said anything officially yet. It looks like they might have stopped the ads after all the complaints online. People who tried to find them later couldn't, which suggests Duolingo either pulled the plug or was just testing it out with a small group.

Duolingo is known for its fun marketing, but this whole thing shows the struggle between trying to get people to pay and following platform rules.

If Duolingo kept pushing ads through Live Activities, Apple could take action. Getting booted from the App Store would be a huge deal for an app with millions of users. Apple's always been strict about user experience, and letting ads in Live Activities would go against their whole deal about privacy and usability. They expect developers to play by the rules.

This whole mess also brings up bigger questions about how apps make money. Subscriptions are everywhere, and companies like Duolingo really want free users to sign up for paid plans. With so many education apps out there, it's tempting to use every little space for promotion.

But Apple's system runs on trust. Users expect their Lock Screen and Dynamic Island to be helpful, not a marketing tool. If ads became common there, the feature would lose its spark. The backlash against Duolingo just goes to show how much users hate anything that feels like an invasion on their iPhone experience.

This isn't the only Apple news floating around. There's talk about Apple skipping a standard iPhone 18 in 2026, and Apple Fitness+ has big plans. Plus, rumors about a cheaper 12.9-inch MacBook are going around. In this context, Duolingo's move reminds us how tightly Apple controls its world compared to other tech companies.

Apple's cautious approach to AI, for example, is different from what OpenAI and Google are doing. And their strict interface rules show they put user experience first, even if it means less freedom for developers.

So, Duolingo trying to use Live Activities for ads caused a stir and showed how important Apple's design rules are. Even if the ads didn't last long, it highlights the tricky balance developers face when trying to make money within Apple's system.

For users, it just confirms that features like the Lock Screen and Dynamic Island should be about function, not ads. For developers, it's a warning: play by Apple's rules, or risk getting kicked out of the App Store.

It seems the ads are gone for now, but the question remains: how far will apps go to get you to subscribe, and how tough will Apple be about its standards?

28.JPMorgan Chase emerges as the favorite to take over Apple Card from Goldman Sachs in 2026 

The Apple Card, which came out in 2019, was supposed to be this cool, easy-to-use credit card that worked great with your iPhone. It looked nice in Apple Wallet, told you every time you spent something, and had awesome benefits like no fees and up to 3% cash back. Millions of people got one fast. But behind the scenes, working with Goldman Sachs has been way harder than anyone thought. Now, after six years, Goldman wants out, and no one knows what's next for the Apple Card.

**Goldman Sachs Losing Money**

Goldman Sachs got into regular banking because they wanted to do more than just investment banking. The Apple Card was supposed to be their star product, showing they could handle big retail stuff. Instead, it's cost them a lot.

Reports say Goldman has lost at least a billion dollars just on the Apple Card. If you count their Marcus savings accounts, their total consumer product losses are around six billion. They lost money for a few reasons: it cost a lot to get new customers, the cardholder benefits were very good (for customers!), and a lot of the people who got the card had lower credit scores, meaning they were more likely to miss payments.

The Apple Card looks good to customers, but it's been expensive to keep up. Things like no foreign transaction fees, no late fees, no returned payment fees, 0% interest on Apple products, and up to 3% cash back at certain stores have made it one of the most customer-friendly cards out there. But for Goldman, those good things meant tiny profits and growing losses.

**JPMorgan Chase As The Top Pick**

The Wall Street Journal says JPMorgan Chase is the main choice to take over the Apple Card. Chase already hands out a ton of credit cards in the U.S., including ones with Amazon, United Airlines, and Marriott. They're big and experienced, so it makes sense they could take on the Apple Card business.

That said, nothing's set in stone. One big problem is who actually has an Apple Card. Some reports say 34% of Apple Card holders have credit scores under 660, which is considered subprime. For comparison, Chase only has about 15% subprime customers, while Capital One, who works with people with lower scores, has about 31%.

Also, 4% of Apple Card holders are behind on payments, which is higher than the average of 3.05% for the industry. These numbers make the card portfolio riskier than most card partnerships. Any bank that takes it over would probably want a big discount, especially since there's over $20 billion owed on Apple Cards right now.

**Other Banks That Might Be Interested**

Even though JPMorgan Chase is the favorite, other banks have been mentioned. American Express, Capital One, and Synchrony are all rumored to be possible buyers. But it doesn't seem like there's a lot of excitement.

Amex CEO Stephen Squeri said in 2023 that card partnerships need to be good for both companies and make good money. Many people saw that as a polite way of saying no, considering how many subprime customers have an Apple Card. Synchrony, which focuses on store credit cards, hasn't seemed very interested either.

Capital One, though, is still a possibility. After buying Discover in 2025, Capital One now issues cards and also runs a payment network. This could help them make up for some of the money lost on the Apple Card. If JPMorgan Chase ends up saying no, Capital One might be the next best choice.

**The Apple Card Savings Account**

One tricky part of these talks is the Apple Card Savings Account, also from Goldman Sachs. It came out in 2023 and gives you a good interest rate if you link it to your Apple Card cash-back rewards. You need an Apple Card to open the account, but it's not super tied in. You can choose to put your cash back into it, but it otherwise works like any other good savings account.

JPMorgan Chase doesn't currently offer high-yield savings accounts, so it's not clear if they'd keep this product. Goldman Sachs still has its Marcus savings brand, even though they're getting out of regular banking. It's possible Goldman could hold onto the savings account even if the credit card part goes to someone else.

**What Happens Next**

It looks like Goldman Sachs will be done with the Apple Card by 2026, after years of talking with possible replacements. For people with Apple Cards, this change could mean some differences. A new bank might add late fees, stricter rules, or lower rewards to make the card more profitable. The nice, no-fee design that Apple and Goldman started might not last.

However, Apple really wants to keep its customer-friendly image. They might push hard to keep the card's special benefits, even if it means helping to pay for some of the costs. What happens will depend on how much power Apple has in these talks and how much risk a new bank is willing to take on.

**To Wrap It Up**

The Apple Card story shows how hard it is to mix cool tech design with old-school banking. For users, the card has been great: clear, easy to use, and with good rewards. For Goldman Sachs, it's been an expensive mistake, costing them billions and causing them to leave regular banking.

As 2026 gets closer, the likely move to JPMorgan Chase—or maybe Capital One—will start a new chapter. The Apple Card might turn into a more regular card, with fees and stricter rules, or Apple might stick to its original idea. Either way, the partnership with Goldman Sachs seems to be ending, closing a rough time in Apple's try at financial services.

29.The ecosystem play Why the MacBook Air M4 remains the best value alternative for most users 

Looking for a laptop that can keep up with your work but isn't a MacBook Pro? You're in the right place. Apple's MacBook Pro has been the top dog for pro laptops for a while, coming in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes. It's built for tough stuff like video editing, animation, making music, and coding. The 14-inch model with Apple's new M5 chip starts at $1,599, and the 16-inch with an M4 Pro begins at $2,499. Yeah, it's a great machine, but it comes with a big price tag.

If you're a pro who needs power but wants to save some cash—or just likes Windows or another system—finding a good alternative takes some thought. Cheap laptops just won't cut it, and even mid-range ones often don't match the MacBook Pro's power and solid build. But, there are some brands making laptops that really compete, often for less money to start. Here are some of the best picks.

**MacBook Air**

If you love Apple but don't need all the muscle of the Pro, the MacBook Air is a smart choice. It's small but mighty, giving you the same macOS experience, great build quality, and free Apple apps like Safari, Pages, and Mail.

The Air is all about being easy to carry, with up to 18 hours of battery life. You can get it in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, with four colors. The basic 13-inch MacBook Air starts at $999, which is a lot cheaper than the Pro. You can often find even better deals too.

Of course, there are trade-offs: the Air uses Apple's M4 chip instead of the Pro's M5, and it doesn't have an active cooling system. This thin design can slow things down during really heavy work. Still, for most people, the Air gives them all the power they need for a lot less money.

**ASUS Vivobook S 15**

Among Windows laptops, the ASUS Vivobook S 15 really shines. It's slick and powerful. The basic model has a Snapdragon X Plus processor and 512GB of storage for $1,100. For an extra $200, you can get the Snapdragon X Elite and 1TB of storage. Both versions are cheaper than the MacBook Pro's $1,599 starting price.

The Vivobook S 15 is just as portable as the MacBook Air, with over 18 hours of battery life. Its OLED screen has a 3K picture and 600 nits of brightness, which is good for creative work. A big selling point is its built-in AI features: it's ASUS's first Copilot+ PC, with a special AI chip to help with your apps.

The main drawback is fewer ports. The Vivobook S 15 only has a microSD card slot, while the MacBook Pro has a full SD card slot—a big deal for photographers and video makers. But for everyday work and AI-powered tasks, the Vivobook S 15 is a great deal.

**Dell Pro**

Dell's XPS line used to be the top MacBook Pro alternative, but Dell has now renamed its best laptops the Dell Pro. These come in 14-inch and 16-inch models, starting at just over $1,000 for the 14-inch and $1,100 for the 16-inch. Compared to Apple, Dell offers some serious savings.

The basic models have Intel Core Ultra 5 processors, but Dell lets you upgrade to the Core Ultra 7 vPro for another $296. Even with upgrades, the Dell Pro stays cheaper than the MacBook Pro while getting closer in power.

The entry-level Dell Pro 14 has 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, which is plenty for many pro tasks. Its dark gray color even looks a bit like Apple's design. While it might not match the MacBook Pro's raw power, the Dell Pro offers solid performance for a more friendly price.

**Microsoft Surface Laptop 15**

Microsoft's fancy laptop, the Surface Laptop, comes in 13-inch, 13.8-inch, and 15-inch sizes. The base 15-inch model starts at $1,300, and you can often find deals on better versions.

The Surface Laptop 15 comes with a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite processor and 16GB of RAM, pretty similar to the basic MacBook Pro. Since it's a Copilot+ PC, it has a special chip for advanced AI tasks, making it one of the quickest and smartest Windows laptops around.

Its main weak spot is the screen. Apple's Liquid Retina XDR goes up to 1,000 nits of brightness, while the Surface Laptop maxes out at 600. For most people, this difference won't matter, but pros working outside or in bright places might notice it. Still, the Surface Laptop 15 does a great job balancing power, looks, and price.

**How We Picked These Laptops**

When we looked at laptops that could compete with the MacBook Pro, we focused on power and how well they're built. Pros expect good hardware, so we looked for laptops that truly compete in at least one area—whether it's processor speed, battery life, or screen quality.

Price was also key. The MacBook Pro is expensive, so alternatives needed to save you money while still performing well. Many laptops can be set up with high-end parts, but we picked models that stay affordable even with upgrades.

**Conclusion**

The MacBook Pro is still Apple's top laptop, perfect for pros who need the most power. But there are other options for those who want similar capabilities for less money. The MacBook Air gives you Apple's world for a good price. The ASUS Vivobook S 15 brings AI smarts and a beautiful OLED screen. The Dell Pro offers good value with Intel’s newest chips. And the Microsoft Surface Laptop 15 mixes a nice design with Copilot+ intelligence.

Each of these laptops is a good choice for professionals who want to save money without giving up too much performance. While none might fully replace the MacBook Pro for the users who need the absolute most, they show that good computing doesn't always have to come with Apple's big price tag.

30.Microslop trends on social media as backlash to Microsofts AI obsession continues 

Satya Nadella's take on AI blew up online. It was a classic Streisand effect moment: he tried to calm down worries about AI, but it just made things worse and got everyone talking even more.

A few days ago, Nadella wrote a short note about what he hopes AI will be like by 2026. Microsoft has gone all-in on AI; Azure powers a lot of OpenAI's ChatGPT, and their Copilot app is now in just about every Microsoft product. But all this AI pushing has caused a lot of pushback. Nadella's recent words, instead of making people feel better, just added fuel to the fire.

**Nadella Said to Move On**

In his note, Nadella suggested we should get over our worries about AI making mistakes. He basically said that for AI to really take off, it has to be seen as more than just a cool trick. He meant Microsoft wants AI to be taken seriously, not just as a flashy new thing.

But a lot of people thought his words were pretty rude. On social media like X, Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook, folks used his comment to show how out of touch Big Tech is with regular people. Instead of making skeptics feel better, Nadella's words just made it seem like Microsoft is forcing AI on everyone, whether they like it or not.

**Microslop Now Trending**

The reaction was immediate. Microslop became the main buzzword, trending on X and other sites. Memes, sassy posts, and critical talks exploded, making Microsoft's AI plan look clumsy, annoying, and unwanted.

This viral response really shows the gap between what Big Tech wants and what people actually care about. Microsoft and OpenAI might talk up AI as life-changing, but many everyday users see it as getting in their way—cluttering up their apps, messing with their privacy, and not helping much at all.

**Big Promises, Little Happening**

People like Sam Altman from OpenAI have long said AI could cure cancer, change space travel, and free us from boring jobs. But none of that has really happened. Instead, AI's main effect has been taking away entry-level jobs.

Economists are worried about a lot of young people losing jobs as AI takes over customer service, content checking, and other tasks. Instead of helping workers, AI looks like it's going to replace them.

Also, OpenAI's odd buying habits—where they buy tons of computing power to feed their own growth—make people nervous about an economic bubble. Some worry taxpayers will end up paying if it all falls apart.

**Hardware Issues and Higher Prices**

AI needs a lot of computer power, and that's causing problems across the tech world. The sudden need for memory and other parts has led to shortages, which means higher prices for regular folks. People are finding it harder to afford basic tech because Big Tech is buying up all the parts for their AI models.

This problem shows how AI mostly helps big companies and investors, while the public gets stuck with the costs. For many, Nadella saying to get over doubts feels pretty empty when these real-world problems exist.

**Company Money vs. Public Problems**

For companies, the good parts of AI are clear: it cuts labor costs, makes things more efficient, and boosts profits. Wall Street sees AI as a way to make more money for investors. But for everyone else, the good parts aren't so clear.

Consumers deal with annoying software, fewer job chances, and more expensive hardware. The idea that AI is good for everyone doesn't match what people are actually going through, and that's making them mad. Nadella's comments didn't help close this gap; they just made it seem like Microsoft cares more about its own interests than public well-being.

**The Bigger Story**

AI has become a rallying point for bigger complaints about how our economy works. It stands for the power difference between Big Tech and individuals, the loss of privacy, and putting profits before people. Nadella's comments touched on these feelings, causing a backlash that isn't going away.

The fast spread of Microslop shows how quickly public unhappiness can turn into a big cultural talk. Microsoft's try to make AI common has instead just shown how much resistance there is.

**Looking Ahead to 2026**

As we get closer to 2026, the question remains: is Microsoft doing the right thing? Nadella says AI needs to grow up past being a show, but critics argue it hasn't really done anything useful yet. The difference between company optimism and public doubt is getting bigger.

Surveys and chats show many people still aren't convinced. For them, AI isn't progress; it's a sign of everything wrong with today's economy. Unless Microsoft and other tech giants can show real improvements in daily life, the backlash will keep going—and Microslop might become more than just a passing meme.

**Wrap-up**

Satya Nadella's short note was meant to be a hopeful look at AI's future. Instead, it caused a huge online reaction, proving the Streisand effect is real: trying to stop criticism can just make it louder. By telling everyone to get over their doubts, Nadella accidentally brought attention to the very worries he wanted to downplay.

AI is still a hot topic, with many seeing it as disruptive, expensive, and getting in the way. For Microsoft in 2026, the challenge isn't just about technology, but about culture: getting a doubtful public to believe that AI can help society, not just investors. Until that happens, the backlash will continue—and Microslop will stick around.

31.VR reality check Why Apple and Meta shipped significantly fewer headsets in 2025 

Apple's Vision Pro had a rough 2025. They stopped making them with one supplier and didn't sell any for nine months. When they finally brought it back at the end of the year with a new chip, they only sold 45,000 units. That's way down from the 390,000 they sold in 2024, which brought in about $1.4 billion.

On the flip side, Meta sold 1.7 million Quest units in the first nine months of 2025. Their low price, around $349 compared to Apple's $3,500, helped them sell a lot, even though their sales were still down 16% from the year before. Francisco Jeronimo from IDC said that people just aren't as excited about big, clunky headsets anymore.

Jeronimo added, All those ideas about AR and VR replacing smartphones? Nope, didn't happen. Never will. This shows that people aren't really into huge headsets, except for certain specialized uses.

The strongest sales for VR headsets are still in gaming. Meta has some popular games like Beat Saber and Gorilla Tag. These games show how fun VR can be, but they haven't made VR popular for everyday stuff or work.

IDC thinks that by the end of 2025, overall sales of mixed and virtual reality headsets will drop by 42.8%. This is because people are getting tired of big headsets and expensive gadgets like the Vision Pro.

Because of this, both Apple and Meta spent less on advertising in 2025. Apple's ads for the Vision Pro were less than 1% of its total ad budget in the US. In other big markets like Canada and Germany, Apple cut its digital ad spending for Vision Pro by over 95%.

Meta also cut its ad spending for the Quest by more than 55% in those countries. This suggests that both companies aren't expecting huge sales from consumers and are putting their money into other products.

While big headsets struggled, smart glasses started becoming popular. IDC says the smart glasses market grew 211.2% in 2025, with Meta selling 20,000 units of their new Ray-Ban glasses in just three months.

Jeronimo explained, When it comes to glasses, people think—and our numbers back this up—that they're probably the next big way to interact with things without using your hands.

Smart glasses are expected to grow by about 29.3% each year from 2025 to 2029, according to IDC. Unlike big headsets, glasses are lighter, look more normal, and cost less, making them more attractive to regular people.

Even though consumers aren't buying Vision Pro much, Apple is looking into using it for businesses and schools. Earlier in 2025, Apple talked about how it could be used in healthcare, car design, factories, and training workers.

For example, doctors at UC San Diego used Vision Pro in 60 surgeries, which helped them see patient info during operations. And at Purdue University, students used the headset to create digital models of factories for training.

These examples show that even if $3,500 is too much for regular people, businesses see the value in using Vision Pro for specific jobs.

IDC predicts Apple will sell 290,000 Vision Pro units in 2026, making about $636 million. Apple is also planning a cheaper headset later in the year. This means Apple isn't giving up on the product, but is aiming it more towards businesses and schools.

Jeronimo stressed that business uses are the best way forward: For a business to pay that much for a device that can truly make things better and more efficient, it's not that expensive. That's the kind of use that will guide Apple's future, instead of trying to win over consumers, which isn't really happening.

So, Apple's Vision Pro had a tough 2025 with production issues, low sales, and less interest from shoppers. Meta sold more, but their headset sales also dropped. The whole VR market shrank a lot, causing both companies to cut back on ads.

But the rise of smart glasses and cool business uses suggest that immersive tech isn't going away—it's just changing. For Apple, the Vision Pro might find its spot not in living rooms, but in hospitals, classrooms, and design studios. With a cheaper model coming and businesses getting interested, 2026 could be the year Apple switches its focus from consumer fun to professional tools.

32.Beyond plastic LEGO makes official CES debut with AI powered Smart Play system 

Lego at CES 2026: A Smart Play For The Future Of Toys

The yearly CES tech show in Vegas is usually all about electronics: phones, TVs, smart home stuff, and more and more, AI. You don't usually see toy companies making big news there. But in 2026, Lego is holding its first-ever CES press conference. It's set for January 5th at 10 AM PT, the day before the show officially starts. Lego will be right there with big names like LG, Qualcomm, AMD, and Nvidia, which is both surprising and interesting.

Nvidia will probably show off new graphics cards and AI cool stuff, and LG will likely feature smart home gadgets and TVs. But Lego's main business—plastic bricks and collector sets—seems way different from what CES usually focuses on. So, what exactly is Lego doing at the world's biggest tech show?

Lego's Weird Tech Move

Lego is famous for its building sets, from City and Technic to Star Wars and Harry Potter sets. They've also gotten into video games, with popular console and mobile games. But other than that, Lego hasn't really been connected to the tech world.

That's why their CES appearance has everyone guessing. Some folks think Lego might show new Formula One sets, since Vegas has its own Grand Prix. But CES isn't a toy fair, and just announcing new models wouldn't be enough to have a press conference alongside major tech companies. For Lego to make a splash, their products need a strong tech angle.

The Rumored Smart Play System

For months, there have been whispers about Lego's Smart Play project, which is supposed to be a big change for their 2026 lineup. From what we've heard, Smart Play will bring in connected Smart Bricks and interactive Minifigures to popular lines like Star Wars, Technic, and City.

The system is supposed to use sensors and scannable tags to make things like lights and sounds happen. Imagine a City fire station with sirens that go off, or a Star Wars fight scene where lightsabers glow when you play. These things would be a big step up from Lego's Super Mario sets, which already have sensors and an app for interactive fun.

Smart Play sets are expected to come with wireless chargers for the Smart Bricks and Minifigures, so they stay powered during long play sessions. And like other modern trends, AI will probably be in there somewhere, maybe to make playtime more personal or add to the learning features.

An Idea That's Causing A Stir

While Smart Play could bring in new people, it's already causing arguments among Lego fans. Grown-up collectors, who've become a big part of Lego's business lately, are doubtful. Many worry that connected bricks will cost more, make designs tricky, and take away from the simple, classic feel of Lego sets. People are also concerned about how well they'll last and if they'll be fun to play with for a long time.

For kids, though, Smart Play could be a huge hit. Interactive stuff, glowing lights, and sounds make things more exciting and immersive. By showing Smart Play at CES, Lego is clearly aiming at tech-savvy parents and news outlets, not just serious collectors. The main goal is to make Lego look like more than just a toy brand—they want to be seen as a leader in connected play.

Why CES Is A Big Deal

CES isn't about toys, but it is about new ideas. By showing up at CES, Lego can show itself as a company that's embracing technology, reaching people who might not have thought Lego was relevant in our digital world. The Smart Play system fits with trends in connected stuff, AI, and interactive fun, making it a natural fit for the CES stage.

This plan also shows what Lego really wants to do. Even though expensive collector sets are still popular, Lego's main identity is as a children's toy brand. By adding technology, Lego can grab the attention of younger generations who are surrounded by smart devices and interactive media.

The Bigger Picture

Lego's CES 2026 press conference is more than just launching a product—it's a statement. It shows Lego is ready to try new things, to mix old-school play with modern tech, and to compete for attention in a busy tech world.

Whether Smart Play works out will depend on how well it's made. If the sets are too pricey or too complicated, they might turn off both collectors and parents. But if Lego finds the right balance—keeping the fun of building while adding cool interactive features—it could change what Lego means in our modern times.

Conclusion

Lego's choice to hold a CES press conference is a bold move, unexpected, and could really change things. The rumored Smart Play system could kick off a new type of connected toys, mixing hands-on creativity with digital interaction. While adult collectors might still be careful, kids will likely love the excitement of glowing lights, sounds, and app-driven play.

At its core, Lego is still about bricks and using your imagination. But by stepping onto the CES stage, Lego is saying it wants to be part of the bigger talk about technology and play. Whether Smart Play becomes a hit or a miss, Lego's CES debut will be one of the most interesting parts of the show—and a reminder that even the most classic brands can change themselves in surprising ways.

33.Need for Speed Unbound Disney Epic Mickey and Core Keeper join PS Plus Essential on January 6 

PlayStation is starting off 2026 with some cool stuff. It looks like it's going to be a big year for them, with new games, maybe new hardware, and more good things from their subscription service.

The first week of January gives us a peek at what's coming. Even though it's just the beginning, there are a few new games and PS Plus updates to keep players busy as they ease into the new year.

**A Relaxed Start**

From January 5th to January 11th, we're only getting two new PlayStation games. That might not seem like a lot compared to what's expected later, but these games show the variety PlayStation offers. From quirky action to relaxing survival games, Sony clearly wants to keep all kinds of players happy.

**Bunny Rampage: History of Revenge (PS5 – January 8)**

The main game out this week is Bunny Rampage: History of Revenge, coming January 8th for PS5. You play as Max, a stuffed rabbit that comes to life. What starts as a cute idea becomes a big trip through portals, taking Max from busy New York City streets to spooky alien bunkers.

The game mixes things up with fast fights, puzzles that make you think, and challenging jumping parts. This keeps it fresh and fun. Bunny Rampage definitely wants to stand out with its charm and fun, and it could become a favorite for some.

**I Am Future: Cozy Apocalypse Survival (PS5 – January 8)**

Also out that day is I Am Future: Cozy Apocalypse Survival, also for PS5. This game is totally different. It's all about relaxing and building instead of fighting. You start on an old rooftop in a world after a disaster. Your goal is to build and decorate the coziest camp you can.

You can change a lot of things, getting new buildings, furniture, and power systems to make your own special spot. Unlike typical survival games that focus on scarce resources and danger, I Am Future is more about good feelings. The apocalypse is just a background for exploring and showing your creativity. If you like games like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing, this could be a great way to start 2026.

**PS Plus Essential Update (January 6)**

Besides new games, PlayStation Plus subscribers have some new things coming. On January 6th, three games are joining the PS Plus Essential collection:

* **Need for Speed: Unbound** – The newest game in EA's racing series, with fast action, cool looks, and lots of ways to customize your car.

* **Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed** – A new version of the classic platformer, bringing Mickey Mouse's adventures to modern screens.

* **Core Keeper** – A sandbox game with digging, crafting, and exploring in randomly made underground worlds.

This group of games offers a good mix: racing, platforming, and sandbox survival. For subscribers, it's a cheap way to get more games and try out different types of play.

**Looking Ahead in 2026**

Even though the first week of January seems calm, it sets the stage for what many think will be one of PlayStation's busiest years ever. People are talking about big exclusive games coming out later, including new games in popular series and ones made to show off what the PS5 can do. Sony is also expected to keep making its subscription service better, maybe adding more games on day one to compete with Xbox Game Pass.

The small number of games like Bunny Rampage and I Am Future also points to a bigger trend: smaller, indie games showing up more on PlayStation. These games might not have huge ad budgets like big blockbusters, but they often offer special experiences that really connect with players.

**What People Are Saying**

As always, PlayStation fans are excited to talk about the first games they'll get this year. Some will jump into Bunny Rampage for its weird idea, while others might prefer the relaxed feeling of I Am Future. Meanwhile, PS Plus subscribers will be discussing which of the new Essential games they should play first.

This chat shows how much variety there is in the PlayStation world. Whether players want fast racing, nostalgic platforming, or creative survival, January has something for everyone.

**To Wrap It Up**

2026 might be a big year for PlayStation, but the first week of January is a nice, easy start. With two new PS5 games and a good PS Plus Essential update, players have plenty to check out while they wait for the year's bigger hits. Bunny Rampage offers action and charm, I Am Future gives cozy creativity, and PS Plus adds variety with racing, platforming, and sandbox games.

It's a reminder that PlayStation is great not just because of its big, exclusive games, but because of all the different experiences you can have. These early releases will be a warm-up for what looks like an unforgettable year for gaming.

34.From Design Flaw to Digital Art: Why Everyone Is Obsessed with iPhone 17 Pro Stickers 

Hamsters, Headphones, and the iPhone 17's Sticker Craze

Published: Jan 01, 2026, 4:33 AM

Ever thought about putting a hamster with over-ear headphones on your phone's camera? If you have an iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max, that thought might hit you soon. Apple's new camera plateau design is really dividing people. And now, thanks to the internet, this very plateau has sparked a huge sticker fad.

Crazy for Stickers

This trend is blowing up in Asia. Lots of X accounts are saying Apple Korea even ran a short ad showing off tiny stickers on the iPhone 17 Pro. Folks are surprisingly into it. You're seeing stickers of cats, food, flowers, game characters, and yes, even hamsters with headphones. It's fun, colorful, and clearly going viral.

But here's the thing: you probably need to be a fan of stickers already to get into this. If you're someone who already sticks stuff on your laptop, water bottle, or notebooks, this camera plateau is just another spot to decorate. For other people, it feels like this controversial Apple design choice is just getting more fuel added to the fire, instead of being toned down.

The New Look

For a long time, Apple's Pro phones looked pretty much the same. The camera bump got a bit bigger, but the whole look didn't change much. Before the iPhone 17 came out, many fans—including me—really wanted something different. I even wrote that I didn't care if the new design was ugly or good-looking, as long as it wasn't boring anymore.

Apple delivered. The iPhone 17 Pro's plateau is bold, stands out, and you can't miss it. Some users love it, saying it looks futuristic. Others hate it, calling it big and clunky. Even loyal Apple users are split. And now, stickers are being pushed as a way to make the plateau softer, or at least more personal.

But let's be real: slapping five cat stickers all over a huge camera bump doesn't make it look slicker. It makes it stand out more. The plateau already got a lot of flak, and stickers just make it even more noticeable.

The Sticker Experiment

This sticker trend brings up some practical questions. Stickers and fancy finishes usually don't mix well. People on X and Reddit are already talking about what might happen:

How do I get sticker marks off my iPhone?

Why did the paint on my iPhone peel off when I took a sticker off?

These aren't made-up worries. Apple users have gone through similar things before. MacBooks with stickers often ended up with sticky stuff, weird colors, or chipped paint. The same risks apply here.

It's pretty ironic. Apple spent years making its devices look good and last long. Now, a viral trend is getting users to cover that quality work with cartoon hamsters. It's silly, sure, but it could easily cause problems later.

Why Stickers Are Popular

Even with the risks, the sticker craze makes sense. Phones are really personal things. We take them everywhere, use them all the time, and rely on them for almost everything. It's normal to want to make them your own. Cases, skins, and wallpapers have always been ways to make a phone feel special. Stickers are just the latest version of that.

The plateau, especially, seems to invite decoration. Its size and flat surface make it an obvious spot for stickers. For people who don't like the design, stickers offer a way to take back control—turning something annoying into something fun. For Apple, this trend is a win for marketing: what started as a debated design choice is now sparking creativity and getting people involved.

Looking Ahead

Still, there might be issues down the road. If sticker residue messes up phones, people will get angry fast. AppleCare won't cover cosmetic damage from stickers, so users will have to pay for repairs themselves. And while Apple Korea's ad seems okay with it, Apple's stance worldwide isn't clear. Will the company welcome stickers as part of the iPhone experience, or quietly discourage them when complaints start piling up?

There's also the question of how long this will last. Viral trends are big for a bit, then they fade. Today it's hamsters with headphones; tomorrow it could be shiny skins or magnetic trinkets. The plateau might still be a hot topic long after stickers aren't cool anymore.

Last Thoughts

The iPhone 17 Pro's camera plateau was a risky design move. Some think it's modern and fresh. Others find it bulky and annoying. Stickers won't fix that disagreement. They might even make it worse. But they do show something true about today's tech: people want to make things their own, even if it means risking sticky stuff on a $1,200 phone.

So, would I put a hamster sticker on my phone? Probably not. But I get why others might. In the end, the sticker craze isn't so much about design, but more about making something yours. It's about taking a disputed feature and making it feel personal, fun, and uniquely you—even if you have to peel off glue later.

Just remember: if you join in, pick your stickers wisely. And maybe keep some Goo Gone nearby.

35.7 Best iPhone Apps for the New Year 

Got a new iPhone? Whether it's a gift or a little treat for yourself, good apps make it even better.

Your iPhone comes with basic apps for notes or music. But if you want to step things up, the App Store has tons of choices – maybe too many! Lots of outside apps are even better than Apple's own. Here are some of our favorites for this year.

**CARROT Weather: Weather with Sass**

Apple's weather app is okay, but it's pretty boring. CARROT Weather is different because you can set it up just how you like. Pick the weather details you care about – like UV index, air quality, wind speed, or moon phases – and hide the rest. It gets weather info from different places, tracks rain as it happens, and has lots of widgets.

The best part is the funny robot voice that tells you the forecast with jokes. If you don't like sarcasm, you can change its personality. CARROT Weather actually makes checking the weather fun.

**Flighty: Your Travel Buddy**

If you fly a lot, Flighty really changes things. This app tracks flights and gives you live updates quicker than airline apps. You'll get instant messages and can share flight info with friends and family right away.

Flighty works well with other travel apps and your calendar. Adding flights is super easy – just email your confirmation to it. Good things usually cost money; this one is $4.99 a month for the Pro version, or you can pay weekly if you only need it for one trip. For people who fly often, Flighty really helps make travel less stressful.

**Fantastical: A Calendar for Busy People**

Apple's Calendar app works, but Fantastical is great for anyone with a packed schedule. It works with many calendars, has to-do lists, and shows your schedule in different ways. Its smart DayTicker lets you quickly scroll through days while still seeing your appointments.

Fantastical's simple way of adding events is cool: type Dinner with Brian at 7 pm at Sarma, and the app sets it up for you. Extra features, like meeting polls and special connections, cost $4.75 a month, but even the free version is really good. For people juggling a lot, Fantastical is worth checking out.

**Libby: Your Library on Your Phone**

Sometimes, reading a good book is the best way to chill. Libby, which uses OverDrive, lets you borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library. Just log in with your library card and start borrowing – it's free!

You can tag books you want to read later, get messages when they're ready, and read right on your phone or a connected e-reader. In a world where you have to pay for everything, Libby is a nice reminder that great stories can still be free.

**Dark Noise: Custom Sounds**

When you need to focus or relax, background noise can really help. Apple has built-in Background Sounds, but Dark Noise is even better. The app offers white, pink, brown, and gray noise, plus nature sounds, city noises, and even appliance hums.

You can save your favorite sounds, set timers, and use Siri Shortcuts. The best part? You can mix different sounds to make your perfect sound mix. My favorite? Green Noise mixed with Airplane Interior sounds. Dark Noise is great for concentrating, sleeping, or just blocking out distractions.

**Television Time: Keep Up with Your Shows**

With so many streaming services and shows, it's hard to remember what you've watched. Television Time fixes that. You can list your shows, mark episodes as watched, and get alerts when new ones air.

You can change the app's look, with options for how things are laid out, colors, and even app icons. You can sort your list and hide episode details to avoid spoilers. For TV fans, Television Time is the organizer you really need.

**Star Walk 2: Look Up at the Night Sky**

For people who love stars, Star Walk 2 is super cool. Using your iPhone's sensors, the app shows constellations, planets, and nebulae right on your screen as you move your phone. A red light mode helps you see in the dark, and its catalog includes stars, satellites, and even man-made objects.

It's great for beginners learning constellations or experienced stargazers who need quick info. Whether you're finding Orion's Belt or spotting the International Space Station, Star Walk 2 makes looking at the night sky easy and fun.

**Final Thoughts**

Apple's apps are fine, but other app makers often create things that are more personal, powerful, or just plain fun. CARROT Weather makes forecasts interesting, Flighty helps travelers, Fantastical organizes busy lives, Libby opens up the library, Dark Noise makes perfect background sounds, Television Time tracks your TV watching, and Star Walk 2 puts the cosmos in your hands.

If you want your iPhone to feel new this year, these apps are a good place to start. They don't just add features; they make your phone a tool that truly fits your life, what you're into, and what you're trying to do.

36.Samsung Expected to Keep Galaxy S26 and Z Fold 8 Prices Unchanged 

Samsung's plan for the Galaxy S26 is to keep prices the same as the S25, rather than making them more expensive. This is happening because Apple's iPhone 17 didn't raise its prices, putting pressure on Samsung. It shows how much these two phone companies are fighting it out, and Samsung has to balance new stuff with keeping costs down and customers happy.

Apple's iPhone 17 came out at $799, which surprised a lot of experts who thought the price would go up because everything costs more now. By not raising prices, Apple set a standard that Samsung can't ignore. If Samsung made the S26 more expensive, they'd risk losing customers to Apple, especially in places where people care a lot about price.

So, Samsung is apparently playing it safe: no price increases, even if that means not making huge hardware changes. Here's what they're saying the S26 models might cost:

Galaxy S26: $799

Galaxy S26+: $999

Galaxy S26 Ultra: $1,299

These are the same prices as the S25, which helps Samsung stay competitive with Apple.

Don't expect big hardware changes with the S26 compared to the S25. Early leaks suggest the basic S26 will look and have pretty much the same camera setup. This lack of change is likely because Samsung is cutting costs. By using older designs and parts that work, Samsung can spend less on making the phones and avoid raising prices for customers.

While this might bum out people hoping for brand new stuff, it's just how the market is now – people care more about things being affordable. Customers might be okay with small improvements if it means not paying more.

There were whispers about a Galaxy S26 Edge with a curved screen, like Samsung used to do. But now it seems Samsung will stick to the usual three models: basic, Plus, and Ultra. This simpler approach makes production and marketing easier, which helps Samsung save money.

Interestingly, Samsung is doing the same thing with its foldable phones. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 are expected to cost the same as the old ones:

Galaxy Z Fold 8: $1,999

Galaxy Z Flip 8: $1,099

Both are supposed to come out in July 2026. By keeping prices flat, Samsung is showing they believe in their foldables, but they also know that high prices could stop people from buying them. Foldables aren't as popular as regular smartphones yet, and keeping prices steady might help more people get interested.

There's also talk that Samsung is making a Galaxy Z Fold Wide to go against Apple's rumored iPhone Fold. This shows how important foldables are getting in the high-end phone market and how badly Samsung wants to stay on top in this area.

Samsung's pricing plan means a few things:

Being Competitive: By matching Apple's prices, Samsung makes sure that when people pick between the S26 and iPhone 17, they'll decide based on features and what works with their other devices, not just the price.

Less New Stuff: Keeping prices the same might mean Samsung can't put in a lot of brand-new hardware. Instead, they might focus on better software, how their devices work together, and small upgrades.

What Customers Think: Some people might see the lack of big changes as not moving forward, while others might like that it's affordable. How well the S26 does will depend on how Samsung shows its value.

Foldable Strategy: By not raising foldable prices, Samsung wants them to become more normal, premium phones. The rumored Galaxy Z Fold Wide could be a big deal if Apple gets into the foldable market, pushing Samsung to innovate while still keeping prices under control.

The bigger picture is that how companies price their phones is now just as important as the tech inside them. With money being tight and people being more careful with their spending, companies have to find a balance between big plans and what's practical. Apple setting the iPhone 17 at $799 started it all, and Samsung's reaction shows how closely these two rivals watch each other.

For Samsung, the S26 series is a careful trade-off: fewer big hardware jumps, but steady prices that keep them in the game. For foldables, keeping prices the same shows both confidence and caution, as Samsung gets ready for Apple to join the foldable market.

Ultimately, the Galaxy S26 and Z Fold 8/Flip 8 will show whether customers care more about saving money or getting the newest features. If Samsung pulls this off, it could change what people expect to pay for top-tier phones in 2026 and beyond.

37.8 Useful Android Auto Apps That Are Not for Music or Navigation 

Ben Khalesi: Making AI Easy to Understand in Everyday Tech

In the fast-paced world of tech journalism, Ben Khalesi really stands out. He's great at explaining deep technical stuff in a way that's easy for everyone to get. He writes for Android Police, focusing on how AI shows up in the tech we use every day. Ben has made a name for himself by taking complicated ideas and turning them into clear, interesting stories. Because he's got a background in AI and data science, he brings real knowledge and makes a sometimes-scary topic much clearer for regular folks.

From Data Science to Telling Stories

Ben's path into tech media started with his studies and work. He learned AI and data science, so he knows all about the algorithms and systems that make our digital world tick. But instead of sticking to lab work or a super technical job, he decided to write instead. His main goal: to make AI make sense to people who aren't coders.

That choice really shaped his career. For the past four years, Ben has worked in various tech and digital roles, getting better at explaining tech ideas without dumbing them down. Whether he's breaking down how machine learning makes your phone camera better or talking about the good and bad of AI that creates things, his writing helps engineers and everyday users understand each other.

A Voice at Android Police

At Android Police, Ben writes about where AI and consumer tech meet. This is where big ideas turn into real stuff like phones, apps, smart home gadgets, and wearables. His articles often show how AI is built into the tools we use daily, like the predictive text on your keyboard or the recommendation systems on streaming sites.

What makes Ben special is how he puts these features into perspective. He doesn't just say what a new AI thing does; he explains why it's important, how it stacks up against other options, and what users should be aware of. In a time when AI is both hyped and often misunderstood, his work gives us a down-to-earth view.

How He Writes

Ben's writing is friendly but also very knowledgeable. He tries to avoid techy words, and if he has to use them, he always explains what they mean. His articles often start with situations people can relate to—like trying to organize photos or get better phone battery life—and then he dives into the tech behind the solutions.

This way of writing shows what he believes: tech should help people, not confuse them. By showing AI as a tool that makes daily life better, he helps readers look past the buzzwords and see the real benefits.

Life in Sydney

Ben lives in Sydney now, which gives his writing a global viewpoint. Australia's tech scene is lively but different from Silicon Valley. Being there lets him see how global tech trends play out in different places. Living in Sydney also puts him among many tech fans, startups, and researchers, which adds local flavor to his reporting.

His surroundings subtly influence his work. For example, he often talks about things like accessibility and affordability, which are big deals in markets outside the U.S. His writing looks at the tech itself and the bigger picture of where and how it's used.

Outside of Work

When he's not working, Ben loves to travel, go bouldering, and play games. These hobbies keep him curious and engaged. Traveling shows him different cultures and tech, expanding how he sees people using digital tools. Bouldering, which is all about solving problems and sticking with it, is a lot like the analytical thinking needed in both data science and journalism. Gaming keeps him connected to one of the most exciting parts of consumer tech, where AI is changing experiences with things like adaptive difficulty, smart computer characters, and immersive stories.

These interests also pop up in his writing. For instance, knowing a lot about gaming lets him talk confidently about AI in entertainment, and his love for travel informs his articles on mobile apps and global tech trends.

Four Years of Experience

Even though he's still relatively new to the game, Ben already has four years of writing experience in tech and digital fields. During this time, he's worked on many projects, sharpened his writing style, and built a name for being reliable and insightful. His career path shows he's not just passionate about tech but also dedicated to growing with it.

In an industry where things change fast, you have to be able to adapt to stick around. Ben's knack for jumping between topics—whether it's AI in phones, ethical talks about data privacy, or the newest wearable tech—shows how flexible he is.

Looking Ahead

As AI becomes more and more a part of our daily lives, we'll need clear, thoughtful writing about it even more. Ben Khalesi is perfectly set to fill that need. His mix of tech smarts and easy-to-read stories makes him a great guide for readers trying to understand today's complicated tech world.

Whether AI is changing productivity apps, making photography better, or powering new kinds of entertainment, Ben's work helps readers get not just what's happening, but why it matters. By doing that, he achieves his goal: making tech topics easy for everyone to grasp, whether they're coders or not.

38.4 New Google Play Features You Should Know About 

When you get a new Android phone, or just need to update your apps, you head to the Google Play Store. It's usually a pretty quick thing: download, put it on your phone, update, and repeat. But every now and then, Google sneaks in some changes that make everything work a little better and easier to use.

I was recently on the Play Store to get an app for Indian Railways. It was smooth, just like you'd expect. But what really got my attention weren't the big flashy things, but the small, useful changes to how the Play Store looks and works. These weren't just about making it look nicer; they were changes that feel really important, even if you don't use them every single time. They're the kind of updates that quietly make things way more convenient.

**You can now control app updates for each app**

For a long time, Android users had a choice: either all your apps updated automatically, or none of them did. There was no in-between. This meant if you were worried about a bad update messing up an important app, you had to turn off automatic updates for everything.

Now, Google lets you control updates for each app, and it's a game-changer. After you install an app, you can tap the three dots and check the Enable auto-update box. The Play Store will remember this choice until you change it.

This means you can keep important apps on their current version while letting less important ones update automatically. For example, maybe you want your banking app to stay the same, but you don't mind your music app updating often. Even if you take the app off your phone and put it back on, your update choice stays saved.

It's important to know this doesn't undo your overall settings for updates. If you've told the Play Store to never auto-update, this new feature just lets you make an exception for certain apps. It's a nice mix of control and ease, and I wish it had come out sooner.

**Shortcut for your downloaded apps**

Another good change is the Download Manager, which came out not too long ago but is easy to miss. I found it by accident when I was downloading the Indian Railways app.

You'll see the shortcut at the top of the Play Store, to the left of your notifications. It's a circle with a check mark inside. Tap it, and you'll see a list of all the apps and games you've recently put on your phone. You can even open those apps right from there, so you don't have to look for them on your home screen or in your app drawer.

The Download Manager also tells you how long ago you put each app on your phone. When you start a new download, the icon changes to show you its progress. Tap it, and you'll see your current download along with your recent installs.

This shortcut only shows up on the Apps and Games pages, not for Books or when you're searching. Still, it's one of those things that, once you find it, feels like you can't live without it. It's the quickest way to see what you've installed recently and handle downloads without digging through menus.

**Apps open automatically when ready**

The third feature is simple but surprisingly handy: Auto-open when ready. This button shows up right under the app's name after you hit the Install button. Turn it on, and the Play Store will open the app as soon as it's done installing.

At first, this might seem like a small thing. But think about how many times you've installed an app, gotten busy, and then forgotten to open it. Auto-open gets rid of that problem.

It's also done smartly. When it's finished installing, you get a notification with a countdown showing how many seconds until the app opens. You can cancel if you're busy or tap Open to launch it right away. This stops the app from just popping up on your screen without warning.

Even if you're not using your phone, the Play Store still sends the notification, so you know what's happening. It's a small touch, but it respects what you're doing while making things easier.

**Why these changes are good**

Alone, these features might not seem like much. But put them together, and they show Google is changing how it thinks about the Play Store. Instead of just a place to buy things, Google is making it a better place to manage your apps.

Being able to control updates for each app lets you balance getting new stuff with keeping things stable.

The Download Manager gives you clear info and quick access to your recent installs.

Auto-open makes getting started with a new app much smoother.

These changes recognize that people want different things. Some care most about stability, while others want the newest features right away. By giving you more specific controls and smarter shortcuts, Google is trying to please everyone.

**My final thoughts**

I don't think I'll use these features every time I open the Play Store. But they feel like things I couldn't do without now that I know they exist. They're the kind of smart improvements that make everyday things easier, even if they don't get a lot of attention.

39.Clicks Announces Communicator Smartphone and $79 Power Keyboard 

Clicks Technology, known for those keyboard attachments for phones, is changing things up. Before the big CES tech show in Vegas, they're releasing two new items: a $79 slide-out keyboard for smart devices and their very first smartphone, called the Communicator. Both are about bringing back real buttons for typing, in a world full of touchscreens.

The Communicator: A Phone with a Goal

The Communicator looks a bit like an old BlackBerry at first glance. Its small size, real keyboard, and useful design remind us of phones made for getting work done, not just playing games. But Clicks says it's not just a throwback; it's made for people who use a few different devices for work.

This Communicator costs $499 and is for folks who carry two phones—one for work, one for home. The company believes people who type a lot of messages, emails, and documents will like it. For those tasks, a real keyboard is quicker, more precise, and just feels better than typing on a screen.

Unlike most phones, the Communicator avoids distracting apps. It doesn't have social media or games. Clicks teamed up with Niagara Launcher, a simple Android system, to make it easy to reach work apps like Gmail, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Slack. The goal is a phone that helps you focus on work, not endless scrolling.

Signal Light and Prompt Key

The coolest part of the Communicator is its Signal Light, a button on the side you can customize. You can set different colors and light patterns for certain contacts or apps. For example, important messages might light up purple, while WhatsApp chats glow green. This way, you can see what's important without always checking your notifications.

This same button is also the Prompt Key. Press it to speak messages into text boxes or record quick voice notes. Clicks has hinted at working with AI apps later, like note-taking helpers or voice assistants, but those aren't here yet. Still, the Prompt Key shows how AI could really help on special devices like this.

Old School Feel, Modern Tech

Clicks brought back older features but made sure the phone still works well today. The Communicator has:

A real keyboard with comfortable keys and touch scrolling.

A headphone jack, which is super rare now.

A slot for a physical SIM card, plus e-SIM support.

Storage that can be expanded with a microSD card up to 2TB.

A physical switch for airplane mode, which can also work with the Signal Light or keyboard.

The back cover comes off, so you can change its color. It comes in Smoke, Clover (dark green), and Onyx. If you order early for $399, you'll get two extra back covers.

Inside, the Communicator runs Android 16 and will get five years of security updates. It works with 5G, 4G LTE, and older 3G/2G networks worldwide. The phone weighs 170 grams and is 131.5 mm tall, making it small compared to most new, fancy phones.

Other specs include a 4,000 mAh battery, 256GB of storage, a 50MP main camera with image stabilization, a 24MP front camera, NFC with Google Pay, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, USB-C, and wireless charging. Basically, it's a capable phone, but definitely for a certain kind of user.

CEO's Idea

Clicks CEO Adrian Li said the Communicator is a natural next step from their previous products. “We've sent over 100,000 of our keyboards to customers in more than 100 countries,” he said. “That response showed us what we already believed: people really want products made for a certain job, things that help them talk easily and get things done. The Clicks Communicator is just more of that idea.”

The Power Keyboard: A Slide-Out Friend

With the Communicator, Clicks is launching the Power Keyboard, a $79 slide-out accessory for phones, tablets, smart TVs, and even AR/VR glasses. It sticks on with MagSafe or Qi2 magnets and has its own 2,150 mAh battery.

You can slide it to different positions to fit various phone sizes, and you can use it upright or sideways. When you connect it to tablets or TVs, the keyboard works on its own, letting you type with real buttons without touching the screen.

Like other Clicks products, you can change the Power Keyboard's settings using the Clicks mobile app for iOS and Android. It costs $79 if you order early, then goes up to $109 later. Pre-orders start January 2nd, and they expect to ship in the spring.

The Market Situation

Clicks is making a pretty bold move. When most phones are about sleek looks and bigger screens, the company is betting on old-school charm and getting things done. The Communicator is for professionals who miss having a real keyboard, while the Power Keyboard is for people annoyed by typing on screens on all their devices.

The timing is interesting too. While CES shows off cool new tech like foldable phones and AR glasses, Clicks is finding its own spot by focusing on what's useful. We'll see if everyday people like it, but the company's past success – 100,000 keyboards sold worldwide – suggests there's a real need for physical typing solutions.

Last Thoughts

Clicks Technology's announcements at CES show a nice change from how most phones are designed. The Communicator phone isn't trying to replace your main phone; it's meant to work with it, giving you a distraction-free way to communicate and be productive. And the Power Keyboard brings Clicks' special skill to handy accessories that work with phones, tablets, and even TVs.

Together, these products suggest a simple idea: sometimes, the best new ideas come from remembering what worked well before. For people who care about speed, staying focused, and the feel of real buttons, Clicks might have just made the tools they've been waiting for.

40.Punkt MC03 Privacy Smartphone Launching in US This Spring 

Punkt, the Swiss phone maker known for its simple, private devices, is trying the smartphone market again. Their new MC03 learned from the last one, the MC02, sticking to what they believe in: simple, secure, and user-controlled phones. This time, Punkt isn't just making the phone better; they're also building it in Europe, not Asia. That's a big deal for a small company in the global phone business.

**They learned from the MC02**

Last year's MC02 didn't really impress reviewers. Its screen felt old, the software was behind, and the whole thing didn't seem worth the high price. Punkt clearly listened. The MC03 has a much smoother, better-looking 6.67-inch 120Hz OLED screen. That alone makes it more like what people expect from modern phones.

The battery got better too. The MC03 has a 5,200mAh battery, and in true Punkt style, you can replace it yourself. That's a nice change in a world where most phone batteries are sealed in. Plus, it's water and dust resistant (IP68), making it tougher than the last model.

**Software: AphyOS and a monthly fee**

The MC03 comes with AphyOS, made by Apostrophy, another company focused on privacy. It's based on a newer version of Android (AOSP 15) than the MC02's, though still not the very newest. Punkt says they'll give it three major software updates and five years of security updates, which is good for a smaller company.

AphyOS is made to stop the hidden tracking and data collecting that Google usually does. Its own apps handle things like email and your calendar. Other apps from the Play Store run in a secure space. This means you can use popular services without losing your privacy.

The catch is, there's a monthly fee. The first year is free, but after that, it's $12 a month (or $10 in the US). You can pay for three or five years at once to save some money. This shows that if you don't want your data to be the product, you have to pay for the service. Punkt is upfront about privacy costing extra.

**Made in Europe**

One cool thing about the MC03 is where it's made. Punkt teamed up with Gigaset, a German company that's been making phones in Germany since 2018. The MC03 is put together at Gigaset's factory in Bocholt, Germany. This is Punkt's first phone made in Europe. Even though parts still come from all over, moving assembly out of Asia is a big step. It shows Punkt is serious about being open and making things locally, something bigger companies have talked about but struggled to do.

**Specs and what else it does**

Besides the screen and battery, the MC03 has a MediaTek 7300 chip, putting it in the mid-range. It works with 5G, 4G, and older networks everywhere. It has a lot of storage (256GB), and you can add more with a microSD card. The cameras are decent, with a 50MP main camera that has image stabilization and a 24MP front camera.

It also has NFC (for Google Pay), Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6, USB-C, and wireless charging. These are pretty standard features for today, but the MC03 isn't trying to be the fastest or flashiest. It's focused on being reliable and useful.

**Privacy vs. Price**

At $699 in the US, plus the ongoing monthly fee, the MC03 isn't cheap. Over a few years, the total cost gets close to phones like the Fairphone 6, which costs $899. The Fairphone is also easy to repair and has privacy software, making it a natural rival. Both phones show something important: making secure, ethical, and lasting smartphones costs more than making regular ones.

For buyers, it comes down to what's important to you. If privacy, easy repairs, and European manufacturing matter, the MC03 has a lot to offer. But if you want the newest tech or all the apps and services, regular flagship phones might still be better.

**The Bigger Picture**

The MC03 represents a growing trend: phones made not to keep you glued to them, but to help you focus and protect your data. Punkt's approach is very specific. By getting rid of social media and games, the MC03 aims to be a tool for talking and getting things done, not for endless scrolling.

This idea won't appeal to everyone, but for professionals, privacy fans, and people tired of constant digital noise, it's a refreshing change. The European assembly adds to its credibility, and the subscription model helps the company keep its privacy-first system going.

**My final thoughts**

Punkt's MC03 is more than just a phone; it's a statement. It fixed issues from the MC02, made the phone better, and doubled down on privacy. By building it in Germany, Punkt shows that small companies can do what big ones often promise but don't deliver.

The MC03 probably won't be a best-seller, but it doesn't need to be. It's for a specific group of people who care about privacy, durability, and simplicity over fancy features. For those folks, the MC03 could be a great mix of practical use and good principles, even if it costs a bit more.