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Gratitude Plus makes social networking positive, private and personal

Private social networking is making a comeback. Gratitude Plus, a startup that aims to shift social media in a more positive direction, is expanding its wellness-focused, personal reflections journal to include support for families who want to stay in touch even when physically distant. The startup, whose name reflects its core offering of a gratitude [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 11:57 pm

Can AI help founders fundraise more quickly and easily?

With venture totals slipping year-over-year in key markets like the United States, and concern that venture firms themselves are struggling to raise more capital, founders might be worried. After all, if private-market investment doesnt perk up in the coming quarters, we could be on track for yet another year of declines in total startup investment [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 11:47 pm

Ugh, Max subscription prices might be going up again

Your cable streaming bill may be getting more expensive once again. Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is reportedly planning another price increase for Max . Bloomberg didn't reveal how much WBD is expected to jack up the subscription by. The cheapest ad-free plan is currently $16 per month after a $1 increase in early 2023 . WBD is said to be aiming for $1 billion in earnings from Max and Discovery+ next year. We could find out about any Max price increase as soon as Thursday. That's when WBD will report its earnings for the first three months of the year. The price increase may be on the way as part of WBD's seemingly never-ending cost-cutting drive. As part of that, more layoffs may be in the pipeline. Over the last year, the company has fired more than 2,000 people and eliminated their positions. Very soon after WBD formed in 2022 following a merger between WarnerMedia and Discovery, CEO David Zazlav went into extreme costcutting mode as the company was saddled with over $50 billion in debt. The company quickly axed the just-launched CNN+ , laid off staff , canceled projects , moved shows and movies from Max to ad-supported streaming services and shelved completed or nearly finished movies in favor of tax breaks. Zazlav has reduced WBD's debt load by around $10 billion so far, according to Bloomberg . However, his decisions have infuriated creatives and many fans, such as those who are clamoring for the company to release the highly regarded live-action Looney Tunes film Coyote vs. Acme instead of canning it for a tax rebate. Coincidentally, Variety on Wednesday published a list of media and tech CEOs' pay packages for 2023. Zazlav's compensation is said to have shot up by 26.5 percent to $49.7 million. That's around 290 times what the median WBD employee makes. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ugh-max-subscription-prices-might-be-going-up-again-181332420.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 11:43 pm

Google brings a variation on Circle to Search to iPhone users

Google has found a way to bring a variation of its clever Circle to Search gesture to iPhone users. The new interaction, launched in January, allows Android users to search from anywhere on their device by circling, highlighting, scribbling or tapping, making it easier to engage with Google Search from any screen. Of course, a [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 11:23 pm

Top FBI Official Urges Agents to Use Warrantless Wiretaps on US Soil

An internal email from FBI deputy director Paul Abbate, obtained by WIRED, tells employees to search for US persons in a controversial spy program's database that investigators have repeatedly misused.

Wired 8 May 2024 11:18 pm

Always-on video portal lets people in NYC and Dublin interact in real time

A new sculpture going live on Wednesday in the Flatiron South Public Plaza in New York is not your typical artwork. It combines technology, sociology, anthropology and art to let people interact with one another in real time in two places. In this case, its between New York City and Dublin. The Portal itself is [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 11:05 pm

A Russian Influence Campaign Is Exploiting College Campus Protests

A Kremlin-aligned network called Doppelganger has used faked versions of real news sites to push both pro-Palestine and pro-Israel disinformation.

Wired 8 May 2024 10:38 pm

Oh no, I think I want an iPad Pro now

The iPad Pro has always struck me as a baffling device. It's significantly more expensive than the (very capable!) iPad and iPad Air. iPadOS still isnt a great environment for multitasking. And Apple hasn't yet justified why, exactly, you'd want a super-powerful tablet in the first place (simplified versions of Final Cut Pro and Audition aren't enough!). If you're trying to get serious work done, you're better off buying a slightly used last-gen MacBook Pro, instead of shelling out $1,000 or more on a souped-up tablet. And yet, something about this year's iPad Pros compels me. Apple Taken individually, most of the tablet's new features seem inessential. It's the first device with Apple's M4 chip, which has vastly better AI performance than its earlier M-series hardware. It has a andem OLED display, which stacks two OLED panels together for better performance. And both the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pros are incredibly thin and light (the latter model is the slimmest device Apple has ever made, measuring 5.1mm). But when you wrap all of those advancements together and pair them up with a redesigned, MacBook-like Magic Keyboard, the iPad Pro M4 is starting to look more and more like the ultra-light computer of my dreams . A super-powerful machine that's easy to take anywhere, with a gorgeous screen for binging TV shows and a capable keyboard for writing on the go. Maybe I'm just charmed by the side profile of the iPad Pro with the Magic Keyboard, which looks like it could have been designed by Syd Mead in the '90s, imagining how laptops could be transformed in a few decades. I'll admit, the new iPad Pro looks very similar to the 2022 model. But, as the kids say, it just hits differently now. This years iPad Pro is thinner than I ever thought possible, and the revamped Magic Keyboard solves most of the problems I've had with earlier versions, thanks to its aluminum top cover, function keys and larger touchpad. Part of the appeal, for me at least, is that Apple has also taken the idea of a tablet PC a step further than Microsoft's Surface tablets . While those devices can function as genuine PCs and run full Windows apps, Microsoft hasn't improved its keyboard covers or overall design in years. If you want to hold a Surface on your lap, you'll still have a kickstand digging into your legs and a pretty flimsy typing experience. The iPad Pro M4, on the other hand, now more closely resembles an actual laptop. Now I realize part of this gadget lust comes from covering Apple's recent launch event. I've been thinking far too much about iPads over the past few days, and it's taken a toll. You could potentially get a laptop-like PC experience from either the entry-level iPad or iPad Air when paired together with a keyboard case. But, then again, Ive already bought a 10th-gen iPad with Logitechs Slim Folio keyboard and I dont actually use it much for typing. Its fine for jotting down something short like emails, but the unsatisfying keys makes it tough to get into a writing flow. I'd also feel better about jumping on the iPad Pro bandwagon once iPadOS becomes an even better platform for multi-tasking . Stage Manager is a start, but it's a bit clunky and hard to navigate. Sure, Apple is constrained by what's possible on smaller displays, but I could imagine iPads (along with iPhones and Macs) becoming far more functional once the company starts rolling out its rumored local AI models . What if Siri could accurately note down your shopping list, pull in prices from local stores and share it with your friends. What if it could automatically edit your vacation videos to post on Instagram? Now imagine you could do those things without losing focus from the email on your screen, or your companys Slack channel. Multitasking doesn't necessarily need to involve jumping between several apps. With AI enhancements down the line, we could potentially complete complex tasks with natural language, and our devices could better anticipate what we actually need. Apple The iPad Pro M4s price problem Price is another obvious problem facing the iPad Pro. It has always been expensive, but Apple is really pushing the boundaries of acceptability with these new models. Both the 11-inch and 13-inch tablets are $200 more than before, starting at $999 and $1,299 respectively. While it's nice to see them come with 256GB of storage by default (up from 128GB), creative professionals will probably want to spend another $200 to get 512GB. If you want the full 10-core CPU power of the M4 chip, though, you'd have to shell out for at least 1TB of storage, which makes the 11-inch iPad Pro $1,599. Want nano-textured glass for additional glare reduction? That's another $100. Oh, and don't forget the Magic Keyboard! That's $299 or $349 more, depending on the size. If you actually wanted to spec out the iPad Pro like a laptop, it's easy to hit a price near $2,000. Alternatively, you could just get a $1,299 MacBook Air, or $1,599 14-inch MacBook Pro. Maybe add another $200 to get 16GB of RAM. At least with those machines, you've got larger screens, excellent keyboards, the full desktop power of macOS and more than a single port for connectivity. If you really want an iPad Pro experience, you could always keep an eye out for used or refurbished 2022 models, which come with the very capable M2 chip. Given just how expensive it is, I likely won't be buying a new iPad Pro anytime soon. But the desire is certainly there, sitting somewhere deep within me, ready to take over my cognitive functions the minute these tablets get cheaper. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/oh-no-i-think-i-want-an-ipad-pro-now-170041331.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 10:30 pm

FTX Creditors Say Payout Deal Is 'an Insult'and Plan to Revolt

FTX has a plan to repay its former crypto customers more than the billions of dollars they lost in the latest bankruptcy proposal. But some will reject it anyway.

Wired 8 May 2024 10:30 pm

Nintendo just revealed a NES speedrunning collection inspired by an ultra-rare 1990 cartridge

Speedrunning video games is a time-honored tradition , and this is especially true when it comes to retro titles. Nintendo is getting in on the trend with a fairly bizarre forthcoming Switch game called Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition , which drops on July 18. Its all about speedrunning through the classics, like Legend of Zelda , Metroid and Super Mario Bros. , among others. This comes in the form of 150 speedrunning challenges pulled from 13 NES games, which seems mightily familiar to those cool NES Remix releases from the Wii U era . There will be global online leaderboards, to give it a tournament feel, and local 8 player co-op. The game will also include an automatic rewind feature, letting people try and try until they get it right. If the name Nintendo World Championships sounds familiar, thats because it's taken from the companys semi-regular esports tournament . This has been the companys branding for in-person competitions since 1990 , when Nintendo visited 29 cities throughout the country. That first national tournament also spawned an ultra-rare NES cartridge with minigames based on Super Mario Bros. , Tetris and Rad Racer . Only a few hundred were made and they currently sell on eBay for, no joke, $175,000. The last time we covered this cartridge, it was selling for $5,000 to $10,000. Retro-flation is real, yall. Pre-orders for the digital version are available right now on the eShop, but there is a physical edition coming. This version will include 13 art cards, five pins and a physical game cart. Itll also include a gold commemorative NES cartridge, though it's sadly nonfunctional. Come on Nintendo! Make that thing functional so I can sell it for $175,000 in 30 years. The digital version of Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition costs $30 and the deluxe physical pack costs $60. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-just-revealed-a-nes-speedrunning-collection-inspired-by-an-ultra-rare-1990-cartridge-164607841.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 10:16 pm

The Google Pixel Watch 2 has never been cheaper

Amazon has the Google Pixel Watch 2 on sale for $70 off. The Wear OS 4 -powered smartwatch arrived last fall with a new stress-tracking feature, slightly longer battery life and a better heart sensor, as Googles flagship wearable inches closer to rivals Apple and Samsung. Its current $330 sale price is a record low. The Pixel Watch 2 works with Android phones , so youll want to sit this deal out if you use an iPhone and dont plan on switching. But those with the right setup get a sleek device with a round (1.2-inch) screen. The watchs 41mm case (one size only) is lighter than its predecessor , thanks to its recycled aluminum material. It also has an IP68 water and dust resistance, meaning it has dust protection and can withstand half an hour of submersion in 1.5 meters of water. This latest model includes a stress-tracking feature that uses the watchs continuous electrodermal activity (cEDA) sensor to track changes in your skins electrical activity. This new sensor can point to possible signs of stress using a machine learning algorithm that incorporates heart rate, heart rate variability and skin temperature, Google explains . When the algorithm picks up on physical indicators of positive and negative stress, including excitement, the Body Response feature will send you a notification. Fitness tracking is likely one of the main reasons to buy a wearable like this, and Engadgets Cherlynn Low found the watchs Fitbit integration performed very well in our full review. Ive been wearing the Pixel Watch 2 alongside the Apple Watch Series 9 to all my workouts this week, and they generally showed similar results, she wrote when the smartwatch arrived last fall. It includes automatic workout start and stop prompts in case you forget to set up or end a session. The Pixel Watch 2s $330 sale price is for the LTE version of the Pixel Watch 2, so once you set it up with your wireless carrier, it can stay connected without needing you to keep your phone nearby. If you prefer the Wi-Fi-only version, its available for $300 , which is $50 off its usual price. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-google-pixel-watch-2-has-never-been-cheaper-162729942.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 9:57 pm

Bring the Nintendo World Championships home with new NES Edition challenges collection for Switch

Today, Nintendo unveiled whats next for its World Championships and its all about speed. The new Nintendo World Championships: NES Editionwas unveiled today, delivering a collection of bite-size speed running challenges spanning some of its most classic and beloved retro titles. The new collection for Switch is looking to make you The Wizard and bring the epic Nintendo World Championships to your home console. Set for release this July in both digital and physical form (seen above) for Switch, get a closer look a the new Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition below. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 9:55 pm

19 Best Sex Toys (2024): Gender Inclusive, Couples, Solo

These are our favorite gender-inclusive vibrators, wand massagers, and sleeves to give you and your partner(s) a helping hand.

Wired 8 May 2024 9:41 pm

EGO Power+ telescopic cordless electric pole saw with LED guide light now down at $304

Amazon is offering the EGO Power+ 10-Inch Telescopic LED Cut Line Indicator Pole Saw Kit for $304 shipped. Down from its $399 price tag, it only saw a few discounts over the last year, with four of them dropping costs to the same $299 low the most recent being in February. Todays deal comes in as a 24% markdown off the going rate and lands at the second-lowest price we have tracked. This 10-inch pole saw introduces an LED cut line indicator that improves visibility and accuracy when working under dark, shaded canopies and low light conditions. Its brushless motor gives low vibrations for better control and extended life, while the 56V ARC lithium-ion battery allows it to make up to 100 cuts on a single charge. It features a telescopic carbon fiber shaft that extends out to a maximum length of 16 feet, a 10-inch bar, and 1/4-inch chain which all together can deliver smooth, precise cuts with a chain speed of 20 meters-per-second. It also has a quick-adjust handle and a shoulder strap for added comfort and control. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 9:36 pm

Sorry Apple faithful, there wont be any stickers in the new iPad boxes

Macworld For as long as we can remember, Apple has included a little gift when you buy a new iPhone, Mac, or iPad that makes users feel like they are valued members of a community: A small sheet with two Apple logo stickers. However, if you buy one of the new iPad Pros or iPad Airs, you wont receive any. According to 9to5Mac , Apple has distributed a memo to its store employees explaining the change, which is due to the environmental push to remove all plastic from its packaging. Stickers are included in products as recent as the new M3 MacBook Airs that were released in March, though notably the Vision Pro does not come with any. 9to5Mac reports that stores will have stickers on hand and will hand them out on request when someone buys one of the new iPads. However, if you dont buy your new iPad from the Apple Store, its unclear whether youll be able to get them. The site says Apple wont ship stickers to third-party retailers but you may be able to get one by bringing proof of purchase to an Apple Store and asking nicely. At any rate, we doubt many people are going to actually ask for their stickers or even notice. And so begins the beginning of the end of another benefit thats just going to go away, like EarPods, a cleaning cloth, and a power adapter.As for us, well be cherishing our Space Black stickers a little more now. iPad

Macworld 8 May 2024 9:24 pm

Best Mac Keyboards 2024

Macworld If you spend hours typing each day, its important to find the keyboard that suits your needs whether thats a mechanical keyboardthat providessatisfying tactile feedback or a keyboard packed with media controls and macOS shortcuts. There are plenty of options to choose from, and here we look atsome of the best keyboards for Mac to help you decide. We have all sorts of Mac keyboards in this round-up, including Apples 2021 Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and the cheaper, and still-on-sale, Magic Keyboard. We have some wired keyboards (for those fed up with searching for new batteries every few weeks) as well as ergonomic solutions to help you avoid RSI, the best gaming keyboards for Mac, and some pretty stylish offerings that give Apple a run for its money. And, talking of money, there are quality Mac-ready keyboards out there that cost a lot less than Apples and do more too. You might also be interested in discovering the best mice for Mac if you want to fully upgrade your workstation. Updated May 2024: Weve added the Logitech K950, Logitech MX Keys S, Satechi SM1 and SteelSeries Apex Pro. 1. Logitech MX Keys S Best for Power Users Pros Competitive price. Function keys and numeric keypad. Bluetooth or USB wireless adaptor. Cons Backlight drains battery. Cant adjust tilt. Price When Reviewed: $109.99 Best Prices Today: $109.99 at Logitech Its hard to keep up with Logitechs ever-growing MX range of keyboards, but the MX Keys S is its latest top-of-the-range wireless keyboard, priced at $109.99/109.99. Its slimline, low-profile design is very smart and attractive, and available in either black, pale gray or a Mac-like graphite. Its solidly built, though, and capable of surviving some heavy-handed typing when it needs to. The MX Keys S is cheaper than Apples Magic Keyboard, but also a lot more versatile, as it includes a dedicated set of buttons that allow you to pair it with three separate devices, including Macs, iPads, Windows PCs, and even Linux and Chrome devices. You also have two options for connecting it to your Mac, as it can use ordinary Bluetooth or a separate USB wireless adaptor that provides greater range and reliability than Bluetooth (although its odd that this adaptor and the charging cable both have USB-A interfaces, so you may need to provide an adaptor if your Mac only has USB-C). The original MX Keys was launched a few years ago, so this updated MX Keys S includes a number of new features, such as Function keys that can be used to activate dictation on your Mac, open the emoji menu, or mute/unmute your microphone for video-calls. The backlighting has been improved too, automatically reacting as you first move your hands onto the keyboard, and adjusting to suit the ambient light in the room around you. The backlight does drain the battery though the keyboard can last for up to five months if youre not using the backlight, but this drops to around 10 days if you have the backlight on all the time. You can use the MX Keys S with any Mac, and it will work like a standard keyboard with a row of Function keys that control settings such as brightness and volume, or activating Expos. However, Logitech also provides an app, called Options+, which requires macOS 12 or later. This allows you to reprogram the various Function keys to perform different tasks. It can also be configured to work with specific apps such as Photoshop or Premiere, which makes it a particularly good option for professional users who want to speed up work in their key apps. The app has also been updated for the MX Keys S, adding a new Smart Actions feature that works a bit like Apples Shortcuts, by allowing you to record a series of actions that can be triggered using a single key. 2. Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID (2021) Best for M-series Macs Pros Touch ID. Nice design. Cons Touch ID won't work with Intel-powered Macs. Slimline so keys don't 'travel' much. Smaller version is cramped. Price When Reviewed: $149; $179 with numerical pad Best Prices Today: $107.84 at Amazon $111.95 at B&H $129.99 at Best Buy At first glance, the two Magic Keyboard models launched by Apple in mid-2021 look very similar to the original models which are still available and reviewed here as well. However, these newer models bring a number of new features that arent available on the older Magic keyboards. For starters, these new models are officially referred to by Apple as (1) the Magic Keyboard With Touch ID For Mac Models With Apple Silicon ( $149 / 149) , and (2) the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad for Mac Models with Apple Silicon ( $179 / 179) . Note there are Space Gray versions that cost more ($199/199) so make sure you select the white models if you want to save money. Thats a bit of a mouthful, but Apple is making it abundantly clear that the new keyboards are specifically designed for the latest Mac models that have Apples home-grown M1 processors. You can use these new keyboards with older Macs that have Intel processors, but youll really only be able to use them as basic QWERTY keyboards for typing, as most of the new features including the Touch ID sensor that sits in the top row of Function keys wont work on Intel Macs. The basic design of the two keyboards hasnt actually changed that much, with the same slimline design and month-long battery life as their predecessors. The smaller Magic Keyboard With Touch ID is priced at quite a premium for the Touch ID sensor. And, like the standard Magic Keyboard, it feels rather cramped, with a small Space bar and cursor keys. The lack of travel the up and down movement of the keys as you press them also makes the keyboard feel a bit lifeless for people who type a lot and need a bit more tactile feedback when theyre typing up a storm. Then again, you might feel that your fingers have to do less work compressing the key. Apple also introduced new versions of the Touch ID keyboard with black keys in early 2022. The key feature of these new keyboards, though, is the Touch ID sensor, which sits by the F12 button on the top row of Function keys. This works just like the Touch ID sensors on the iPhone and iPad, and on Macs with Apple Silicon youll see a new Touch ID panel appear in System Preferences when you first connect the keyboard. This allows you to store up to three fingerprints, which you can use to unlock your Mac, or to make secure payments on the Apple Store, or other online stores that support Apple Pay. There are a few other new features as well, including an Emoji command on the Fn key in the bottom-left corner of the keyboard, which displays the Emoji viewer panel so that you can quickly add emojis to any document or message that youre typing. There are new Function commands too, for activating Spotlight, Dictation and Do Not Disturb. As always, the larger version of the keyboard is even more expensive but the numeric keypad will be useful for people who do a lot of number crunching at work. Theres more room to provide a larger Space bar too, and larger navigation keys. Even so, the thin keyboard panel means that the keys still feel a bit lifeless, so business users and budding novelists may prefer to look at one of the larger and more solidly built keyboards available from other manufacturers. 3. Satechi Slim W3 Best Wired Keyboard Pros Good build quality. Affordable. Lots of Function keys. Wired connection (USB-C). Cons Only U.S. layout available. Quite large. Lies very flat on the desk. Price When Reviewed: $69.99 Best Prices Today: $51.44 at Amazon $69.99 at Satechi Ive never understood the need to put batteries and Bluetooth into keyboards. After all, if a keyboard is just going to sit on your desk all the time then its both simpler and cheaper to opt for a straightforward USB connection instead. And, as this is a backlit keyboard, you dont have to worry about the backlight draining the battery either. Satechi is one of the few companies that still makes a good range of wired keyboards, such as the affordable Slim W3, which costs just 62.99/$69.99 Satechi also has a strong background in the Mac market making some really useful Thunderbolt hubs and docks which ensures that the W3 provides good Mac support too. The Slim W3 is aptly named, as it measures just 9.9mm thick, and lies almost completely flat on your desk, although Satechi also includes a couple of small risers that you can stick onto the base of the keyboard if you want to increase the tilt a little. Its sturdily built too, with a tough aluminum panel that weighs 440g, and the keys travel well given the slimline, low-profile design of the W3. The keyboard is quite large, measuring 420mm wide and 115mm deep, but it includes a numeric keypad, arrow keys, a set of navigation keys, and even manages to squeeze in no less than 19 Function keys as well, just like Apples more expensive Magic keyboards. Alternatively, if you want something a little more compact, then Satechi also makes a smaller wired model called the W1, costing 53.99/$59.99 that omits the numeric keypad and navigation keys, as well as a number of mechanical keyboards that are more suited to gaming or high-speed typing. The only disappointment is that Satechi is a very US-centric company, so its keyboards only offer US layouts. Thats not too much of a problem for UK users, though, as you can still use standard commands such as Shift+3 to print the symbol, even though the US layout means that the 3 key is labeled with the # symbol. But, if you need non-English layouts then youll need to look elsewhere. 4. Logitech MX Keys Mini Best For Home Users Pros Five month battery life (if backlight turned off). Function keys mimic those on Mac keyboards. Cons Keyboard backlight can drain the battery quickly. Price When Reviewed: $99.99 Best Prices Today: $71.36 at Amazon $89.99 at Adorama $89.99 at B&H Logitechs Craft and Ergo K860 keyboards are both designed for specific types of users, but if youre just looking for a good general-purpose keyboard then its MX Keys range is hard to beat. The latest model in the range is the new MX Keys Mini ( $99.99 / 99.99 ) and has a compact, low-profile design that clearly pitches it as an alternative to Apples own Magic Keyboard. And, to be honest, Logitechs years of experience with mice and keyboards really give it the edge. The basic design of the MX Keys Mini is impressive. Available in a variety of colors, its heavier and sturdier than the Magic Keyboard, with firmer keys that feel more responsive when typing. The keyboard has a backlight too, with a sensor that automatically activates the backlight as your hands approach the keyboard, and then turn it off after a few seconds when you move away. The backlight does drain the keyboards rechargeable battery, lasting only 10 days if you have the backlight on full brightness the whole time. However, turning the backlight off extends that time to a full five months far longer than the single month provided by Apples Magic Keyboard. The top row of Function keys works automatically with the Mac, allowing you to adjust the backlight, volume and other controls. Logitechs Options app also allows you to program the Function keys to perform different tasks, such as opening Mail or Safari. Theres also a larger version, simply called the MX Keys, which has a separate numeric keypad as well and this has recently been on sale at the same price as the MX Keys Mini, although its not clear if that price cut will turn out to be permanent. 5. Apple Magic Keyboard Best for Intel Macs Pros 2021 model includes a USB-C-to-Lightning cable Cons No Touch ID Slimline so keys don't 'travel' much Navigation keys are a bit fiddly to use Price When Reviewed: $99 Best Prices Today: $99 at Adorama $99 at Apple $99 at Walmart Apples keyboards are a bit confusing at the moment, with two generations of keyboards available, and each generation offering two different keyboards, with or without a numeric keypad. The older generation of Magic Keyboards is still available, and is now intended primarily for use with older Macs that have Intel processors. These older keyboards lack the Touch ID sensor that is available with the two new keyboards that Apple launched in the summer of 2021. However, Touch ID and some of the other features of the new keyboards dont work with Intel-based Macs, so if your Mac has an Intel processor then these older keyboards are the best options available from Apple although, of course, there are plenty of other keyboards available from other manufacturers, which we review here as well. The smaller Magic Keyboard can be expensive at $99 / 99 , but its elegant slimline design started a trend for low-profile keyboards that many other manufacturers now follow too. The aluminium body does feel quite sturdy, but the slimline design means that the keys dont travel very well, so speedy typists might prefer a larger keyboard that is actually designed to do some proper work rather than just looking pretty. The Space Bar and the little set of navigation keys in the lower-right corner of the keyboard are also rather small and fiddly. To be fair, though, the compact little keyboard does squeeze in quite a few useful features, with the top row of Function keys providing controls for brightness, volume and playing music. The Magic Keyboard works as a standard Bluetooth keyboard, and Apple says that its rechargeable battery will last for about a month at a time. Like all Apple keyboards it has a Lightning port for charging, but the latest version of the Magic Keyboard also updated in Summer 2021 now includes a USB-C-to-Lightning cable, so make sure you dont buy an older model from other online stores, which might still have a USB-A cable instead (unless, of course, youve got an old Mac that only has USB-A connectors). And, of course, theres the larger version, called the Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad ( $129 / 129 ). This is also quite expensive but adds a numeric keypad for people who need to do a bit of serious number crunching every now and then. This keyboard also has a larger set of navigation keys, which is very useful for scrolling through long documents or web pages, and an additional set of navigation keys that allow you to quickly jump to the top or bottom of a document. The larger keyboard layout also means that theres room for some additional Function keys too, going right up to F19 (rather than F12 for the smaller Magic Keyboard). Its a shame, though, that the options in the macOS for programming your own keyboard shortcuts are fairly limited, so power users might prefer to use a third-party utility such as USB OverDrive or HotKey App, to make full use of these extra Function keys. This larger keyboard has the same month-long battery life as the smaller Magic Keyboard, although its showing its age a little as (surprisingly) its charging cable still has a USB-A connector. You can find the best prices for Apple Keyboards and Mice in our deals round-up. Read our full Apple Magic Keyboard review 6. Satechi SM1 Pros Versatile connectivity features. Good Mac support. Can pair with four devices. Cons Layout is US only. Backlight drains the battery quickly. No numeric keypad. Satechis W3 is a full-size wired keyboard with a low-profile design that is primarily designed for use with Macs. In contrast, its SM1 is a more compact wireless keyboard with robust mechanical keys, and the ability to quickly switch between Mac and Windows modes as required. The SM1 has a 75% layout that consists of a simple QWERTY keyboard with a row of Function keys, but lacks a separate numerical keypad. That keeps the size down to just 308mm wide and 119mm deep, so it doesnt take up very much desk space at all, and you could easily slip it into a backpack if you wanted to carry it around with you. Its solidly built, though, and uses brown keys that are smooth enough for fast typing whilst also providing good tactile feedback for gaming (other types of mechanical keyboards can offer red and blue keys as well). Its also impressively versatile for such a compact keyboard. You can pair the SM1 with four separate devices and switch between them, and you have the option of connecting via Bluetooth, a USB wireless adaptor thats included in the box, or simply opting for a wired USB-C connection (although the wireless adaptor has a USB-A interface, so you may need an adaptor for Macs that only have USB-C). Theres a row of 12 Function keys that support standard Mac commands for adjusting brightness and volume, and activating features such as Mission Control or Spotlight. It has the standard Command and Option keys that youd expect on a Mac keyboard, but you can switch between Mac and Windows modes with a quick shortcut, and Satechi even includes three spare keys for the Windows menu and Alt keys, so that Window users can physically swap keys and feel more at home. The rechargeable battery lasts for up to two months if youre not using the backlight, although this drops to a modest 16.5 hours when using the backlight (which includes 14 eyeball-frazzling lighting patterns that can be controlled using a special lighting key). However, the keyboard has a sleep mode to conserve battery power by turning the backlight off if the keyboard hasnt been used for a while. I was also pleased to find that you can use the SM1 in wired mode as well, using the USB-C cable that is included in the box, whilst also recharging the battery at the same time. Just remember that Satechi only provides keyboards with a U.S. layout, so theres no option thats suitable for non-English languages. 7. Logitech Craft Best for Creatives Pros Backlit keys with proximity sensor Microsoft Dial-esque input dial Cons Given the lack of interest in the Touch Bar we aren't convinced by the dial Price When Reviewed: $199 Best Prices Today: $124.99 at Amazon $199 at Logitech TheCraft is Logitechs wireless keyboard designed for creatives across Windows and Mac, and its incredible. The keyboard is sleek, gorgeous and features a solid body, providing a sturdy keyboard that will never move when in use. The Craft features increased key stability that doesnt only reduce noise when compared to similar keyboards, but the sphericalkey imprint makes it easier to orient your fingers and type quickly and accurately. The typing experience isnear perfection, with both comfort and accuracy in mind. It features backlit LED keys like many other keyboards, but with a difference.Thanks to a built-in proximity sensor, thekeys will only light up when your hands are near the keyboard.Admittedly its only a small feature, but it really highlights the attention to detail required to develop this keyboard. Of course, the key feature of the Logitech Craft is the Microsoft Dial-esque input dialon the top-left of the keyboard. The dial is completely contextual, and the functions will change depending on the app youre using. This is done automatically for popular apps like Google Chrome, Photoshop and Illustrator, but it can also be set up manually via the Logitech Options app. Tapping the dial provides access to a range of functions, from volume control to brush size to tab switching. Whatever you need, the dial can provide it. The Logitech Craft is stunningly gorgeous and impressively practical, and is a must-have for all Mac power users, not just creatives.It costs $179 (currently on sale for $169.99)/ 189 from Logitech. 8. Penclic KB3 Most Comfortable Keyboard Pros Comfortable and ergonomic design Wireless with rechargeable batteries Works with iOS Cons Uses Micro-USB for charging Price When Reviewed: $99.50 Best Prices Today: $99.50 at Penclic Penclic is a Swedish accessory company with a specific focus on products that help reduce repetitive strain injury and other desk-related ailments. That means the KB3 has a firm focus on ergonomics, with a light key travel, comfortable spacing, full-sized keys, and a subtle gradient to the aluminium body. The KB3 is a similar size and style to Apples own Magic Keyboard, but opts for a more colourful design, the black body broken by orange and teal highlights to illustrate the various secondary key functions. Like the Magic Keyboard its wireless and rechargeable though it uses Micro-USB and is compatible with iOS. It also has the added benefit of working with Windows and Android in case you ever need to break out of the Apple ecosystem. It costs $109.99 / 89.99 . 9. Logickeyboard Final Cut Pro X Keyboard Best For Video Editors Pros Features FCP editing commands printed on the relevant keys Keyboards are available for other apps such as Logic Pro X Cons Niche market although it can be used as a standard keyboard Price When Reviewed: $124.90 Best Prices Today: $124.90 at LogicKeyboard Video-editing programs such as Apples Final Cut Pro X often use dozens of keyboard shortcuts to activate various editing tools and commands, and trying to remember all those shortcuts can be a real headache when youre trying to get your work done in a hurry. Logickeyboard produces specialised keyboards designed for Final Cut and other creative applications. The basic design of the keyboard is very similar to Apples own keyboards, with a slimline design and aluminium casing, and a handy pair of USB ports for plugging in a mouse and other devices. It has all the same function keys as Apples keyboards, so you can control iTunes or adjust the brightness and volume. And, of course, it can be used as an ordinary keyboard for typing in Microsoft Word and other programs, and theres a numeric keypad for data entry as well. However, it also has the most important Final Cut editing commands printed on the relevant keys, and the keys themselves are colour-coded for quick access. LogicKeyboard also makes similar keyboards for other apps, such as Apples Logic Pro X and Adobes After Effects. 10. SteelSeries Apex Pro Pros Impressive build quality. Smooth, comfortable mechanical keys. Includes wrist-rest. Cons Mac app needs an update. Expensive. Price When Reviewed: $199.99 Best Prices Today: $145.15 at Walmart $198.99 at Amazon $199.99 at Best Buy SteelSeries makes some excellent gaming gear, and Ive long used its Aerox mouse and Arctis headphones with my office iMac for general office use as well as gaming. Its keyboards are more of a mixed bag, though. The Apex Pro is one of its top-of-the-range mechanical keyboards and is advertised as being Mac-compatible, and like most keyboards it works perfectly well as a basic QWERTY keyboard. However, expensive keyboards such as this tend to offer additional features too, and theres one of those evil asterisks* tucked away at the bottom of the Apex Pro web page that states not all software features supported on macOS. The companys SteelSeries GG app hasnt been updated for a while, and its support pages also state that compatibility for Macs with Apple Silicon is limited. Even so, the Apex still boasts some attractive features, not least of which is its impressive build quality. Its a full-size wired keyboard that includes a row of Function keys, navigation keys and numeric keypad. The frame of the keyboard is made out of aircraft grade aluminium which is very sturdy, and the mechanical keys have an extremely smooth action when typing. The rather hefty price tag also includes a wrist-rest as well. However, the limited Mac app means that the first few Function keys are unused, and I wasnt able to get the GG app to assign my normal set of keyboard shortcuts to them (although I had better luck using the third-party HotKey app that is available for free on the Mac App Store). Other Function keys work normally, though, including F10 and F11 for activating Expose or showing the desktop. You can also use the special SteelSeries key to use additional commands with these keys, such as F11 to control the keyboard backlight as well. Theres also a handy volume dial on the top-right corner of the keyboard that allows you to quickly adjust or mute the volume. Other features remain frustratingly out of reach, though, including the small OLED screen that allows PC users to view additional features that are available within the SteelSeries app for Windows. The Apex Pro is certainly well designed, and SteelSeries does state that updates for the Mac app are on its roadmap, but at the moment its perhaps best suited to serious gamers who are prepared to put in some work to overcome those limitations. For more advice about accessories and software for your Mac, iPad or iPhone see all our Best Picks . Keyboards, Laptop Accessories, Mac

Macworld 8 May 2024 9:23 pm

Disney+ Launching Exclusive Marvel Immersive Story for Apple Vision Pro

An hour-long interactive and immersive Disney+ story is coming to the Apple Vision Pro in the near future, according to an announcement from Marvel Studios . The Disney+ original is connected to the What If? animated series and it will be released as a new app for the Vision Pro. What If? reimagines events from the Marvel Cinematic Universe in unexpected ways, and with the Vision Pro experience, fans are able to step into the leading of an immersive story that transforms the space around them as they journey across realities. There are multiversal variants of key Marvel characters, chances to learn mystic arts, and an opportunity to harness the power of the Infinity Stones. Marvel says that users will cross between augmented and virtual reality while going through the narrative adventure, interacting with the world using their hands and eyes. The experience includes breathtaking environments of new and iconic MCU locations, with stunning visuals and support for spatial audio. There is no specific release date for What If? An Immersive Story, but Marvel says that more information will be coming soon. Related Roundup: Apple Vision Pro Tags: Marvel , Disney Plus Buyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now) Related Forum: Apple Vision Pro This article, Disney+ Launching Exclusive Marvel Immersive Story for Apple Vision Pro first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors 8 May 2024 9:23 pm

NIUs Mothers Day Sale takes up to 46% off electric scooters starting from $210

NIU has launched a Mothers Day sale that is taking up to 46% off a selection of its electric scooter models through May 19. The biggest of these discounts and subsequently the most affordable of the models (aside from one for kids) is the NIU KQi1 Pro Electric Kick Scooter for $269.98 shipped . Normally fetching $499, this model saw a handful of discounts over the last year, often to its lowest rates during major sales events, with higher rates being more long-term at other retailers like Best Buy . Most recently we saw it fall to $300 during NIUs Earth Day sale last month, with this months deal coming in as an even greater 46% markdown off the going rate that beats our previous mention by $30, giving you $229 in savings and landing it at the lowest price we have tracked. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 9:16 pm

TechCrunch Minute: When did iPads get as expensive as MacBooks?

Apples iPad event had a lot to like. New iPads with new chips and new sizes, a new Apple Pencil, and even some software updates. If you are a big fan of Apple hardware, well, it was probably a good day. Now you can get an updated andthinner iPad Pro, if thats your jam. But [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 9:15 pm

TikTok Sues U.S. Government Over Bill Requiring Sale

TikTok parent company ByteDance today filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government in an effort to put a stop to the bill requiring TikTok to be sold off to a non-Chinese company in a matter of months, or face a U.S. ban. The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act that passed in April requires ByteDance to divest its TikTok ownership within nine months, with the possibility of a three-month extension if a deal is in progress. If TikTok is not sold off, the bill will prevent app stores and companies in the U.S. from providing the TikTok app to users. As of now, TikTok will be forced to shut down on January 19, 2025. ByteDance calls the act obviously unconstitutional, and says that there is no path for TikTok to continue operating in the United States. The 270-day timeline is ot possible, and even if it were, the company claims that the act is still an extraordinary and unconstitutional assertion of power. If upheld, it would allow the government to decide that a company may no longer own and publish the innovative and unique speech platform it created. If Congress can do this, it can circumvent the First Amendment by invoking national security and ordering the publisher of any individual newspaper or website to sell to avoid being shut down. And for TikTok, any such divestiture would disconnect Americans from the rest of the global community on a platform devoted to shared content -- an outcome fundamentally at odds with the Constitution's commitment to both free speech and individual liberty. The lawsuit argues that the act violates the First Amendment, and it claims that speculative and analytically flawed concern over security and content manipulation is an insufficient reason for limiting the free speech of TikTok's 170 million U.S. users. ByteDance says that a U.S. TikTok platform would not be commercially viable because it would limit the pool of content, undermining he value and viability of the U.S. TikTok business. ByteDance also claims that it would be technologically impossible to give the TikTok source code to a new owner because it would take years for new engineers to become familiar enough with the code to perform routine maintenance, plus the code would need to be rearchitected not to use ByteDance's software tools, which cannot be done in 270 days. The Chinese government has said that it will firmly oppose any effort to sell TikTok to a U.S. company, and China would need to approve a sale. China has no intention of allowing the TikTok recommendation engine to be divested. ByteDance has already moved U.S. data to servers owned by Oracle, but U.S. lawmakers do not feel that is enough to protect users. There are few U.S. companies that could afford to purchase TikTok, and the tech giants that could buy it would likely be restricted from doing so due to antitrust concerns. ByteDance is asking the court to issue a declaratory judgment that the act violates the U.S. Constitution, preventing the U.S. Attorney General from enforcing it. Tag: TikTok This article, TikTok Sues U.S. Government Over Bill Requiring Sale first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors 8 May 2024 9:05 pm

Fox News AI Newsletter: Katy Perry says fake Met Gala photos fooled her mom

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

Fox News 8 May 2024 8:49 pm

iPod Nano Makes Rare Appearance in Apple Ad for Thinner iPad Pro

The new iPad Pro has dethroned the iPod nano as Apple's thinnest device ever, and the company has promoted this feat in a nostalgic ad. In a video shared on TikTok and other social media platforms, Apple highlights the new 13-inch iPad Pro measuring only 5.1mm thick, compared to 5.4mm for the iPod nano. The model shown is a seventh-generation iPod nano, which was released in 2012. This new Apple ad is pic.twitter.com/WVpxaDSpiz Aaron (@aaronp613) May 7, 2024 Apple discontinued the iPod nano in 2017, and this is the first time we have seen the device appear in an ad in quite some time. Even the 11-inch iPad Pro is now thinner than the iPod nano, as Apple explains: The new iPad Pro the thinnest Apple product ever features a stunningly thin and light design, taking portability to a whole new level. The 11-inch model is just 5.3 mm thin, and the 13-inch model is even thinner at a striking 5.1 mm, while both models are just as strong as the previous design. The 11-inch model weighs less than a pound, and the 13-inch model is nearly a quarter pound lighter than its predecessor allowing pro users to extend their workflows in new ways and in more places. The new iPad Pro models are available to order now and launch May 15. Tag: Apple Ads This article, iPod Nano Makes Rare Appearance in Apple Ad for Thinner iPad Pro first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors 8 May 2024 8:49 pm

Amazon is flipping OnePlus Open foldable handsets today at new $1,400 low ($300 off)

Amazon is now offering its best price yet on the OnePlus Open foldable smartphone at $1,399.99 shipped in both Emerald Dusk and Voyager Black colorways. The unlocked device carriers a regular price tag at $1,700 and is now at the best we can find. Todays offer clocks in at $100 under the price we spotted last month to deliver a solid $300 in savings in the process. And just for comparisons sake, Best Buy does usually offer a slightly better deal if you get hooked up with a carrier, but not this time it is now on par with Amazons straight unlocked cash discount. Hit up our hands-on review where we said the Open delivers stellar foldable hardware and a wild multitasking system. More details below. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 8:47 pm

Here's How to Check Your iPhone's Battery Health

Earlier this year, Apple retested the batteries of its iPhone 15 models and updated its battery life claims for the entire series, suggesting that they offer better longevity than previously thought. Curious about the battery health of your iPhone 15? Here's how to check it. Apple in February 2024 updated the technical specifications for the batteries in the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. According to its latest tests, Apple says that the devices' batteries are designed to retain 80% of their original capacity at 1,000 complete charge cycles under ideal conditions. It's a significant improvement over the 500 charge cycles that the company advertises for all older iPhone models over the same cycle count. iPhone 15 models also include a Battery Charging Optimization feature, so if you regularly charge your iPhone up at night while you're asleep, the device can limit its charging to 80%, and then wait for an hour or so before you wake up to charge the remaining 20%. This keeps the iPhone at an optimal capacity for battery health by reducing the amount of time that it's sat on your charger at 100% charged, which can reduce its life over time. If you have an iPhone 15 with iOS 17.4 or later installed, you can get more specific information on the battery health of your device in the following way: Open the Settings app. Scroll down and tap Battery . Check the readout next to Battery Health. For more details including your device's battery cycle count, manufacture date, and first use date, simply tap the readout. (In earlier versions of iOS 17, this information was hidden in the General About section of the Settings app). Apple says that the battery lifespan of any iPhone model ultimately depends on how the device is regularly used and charged. While the Maximum Capacity readout will give you a good indication of your iPhone's battery health, it's worth tapping on the blue text that says About Battery & Warranty, which will give you more information on the likely battery lifespan of your device based on how it's used. Battery life depends on a number of variables, but if you think you have an issue, it's worth remembering that the standard one-year AppleCare+ warranty on an iPhone includes service for defective batteries. Depending on where you are, local consumer laws might even give you cover beyond the standard 12 months, so don't be shy to ask at an Apple Store if you think there's a problem. This article, Here's How to Check Your iPhone's Battery Health first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors 8 May 2024 8:45 pm

Bye-bye bots: Alteras game-playing AI agents get backing from Eric Schmidt

Autonomous, AI-based players are coming to a gaming experience near you, and a new startup, Altera, is joining the fray to build this new guard of AI agents. The company announced Wednesday that it raised $9 million in an oversubscribed seed round, co-led by First Spark Ventures (Eric Schmidts deep-tech fund) and Patron (the seed [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 8:44 pm

Paramount+ with Showtime annual subscriptions are half off right now

Paramount+ with Showtime annual subscriptions are half off right now, bringing the yearly cost down to $60 down from $120. You have to pay for the year up front, which is never fun, but the offer is available to both new and returning subscribers. Thats not a bad deal, considering you get content from two streaming services that have joined in a blessed union to become one. Paramount+ is home to all things Star Trek, yet that particular bonus seems to be shrinking all of the time . Its also home to the surprisingly funny Sonic-adjacent Knuckles TV show , which has a crazy fight scene featuring the 80-year-old, yet still iconic, Stockard Channing. Other notable releases on the streamer include the dad-approved Tulsa King , Jeremy Renners Mayor of Kingstown and that Halo adaptation that people compare unfavorably to Fallout . It's one of our favorite streaming services , even if Halo isn't quite up to snuff. Showtime has been around for decades and has a diverse lineup of shows, like Yellowjackets , Billions , Dexter , House of Lies and the list goes on and on. Its also home to Twin Peaks: The Return , my favorite show of the 2010s. The Chi just returned, which is a big deal to fans , and Ewan McGregors A Gentleman in Moscow looks decent. Its Showtime. You know the deal. This offer ends on July 14, so you have plenty of time to think about if you want to revisit Shameless or check out that Frasier reboot. Just remember to cancel once the year is up, as the subscription will auto-renew at the full price of the plan. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/paramount-with-showtime-annual-subscriptions-are-half-off-right-now-151032749.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 8:40 pm

Teslas self-driving claims subject to federal securities and wire fraud probe

Prosecutors are combing subpoenaed materials for evidence Tesla knowingly misled.

Ars Technica 8 May 2024 8:35 pm

$450M for Noname, two billion-dollar rounds, and good news for crypto startups

This morning on Equity, we have good news for crypto founders, notes on Akamai's $450M acquisition of Noname, and billion-dollar deals from Wiz and Wayve. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 8:31 pm

Google Deepmind debuts huge AlphaFold update and free proteomics-as-a-service web app

Google Deepmind has taken the wraps off a new version AlphaFold, their transformative machine learning model that predicts the shape and behavior of proteins. AlphaFold 3 is not only more accurate, but predicts interactions with other biomolecules, making it a far more versatile research tool and the company is putting a limited version of [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 8:31 pm

Google DeepMinds Groundbreaking AI for Protein Structure Can Now Model DNA

Demis Hassabis, Googles artificial intelligence chief, says the AlphaFold software that revolutionized the study of proteins has received a significant upgrade that will advance drug development.

Wired 8 May 2024 8:30 pm

Court rules against Activision Blizzard in $23.4M patent dispute

Activision plans appeal, says it uses different network tech in its games.

Ars Technica 8 May 2024 8:19 pm

Satechi 25% off for Moms big day: MagSafe chargers, wallets, keyboards, more from $22.50

The annual Satechi Mothers Day sale is now in full swing . Whether youre looking for some last-minute tech for mom or just gear for yourself, Satechi is one of our faves around here, and the deals are on. This time around it is offering a straight up 25% price drop on a range of products using code MOTHER at checkout. Youll find everything from Apple Watch and AirPods chargers to MagSafe gear, backlit keyboards for Mac, its 2-in-1 AirPods Max/headphones stand,iPhone MagSafe charging stands, power banks, and more. The deals kick off from $22.50 this year, with everything landing at 5% lower than last years May sale event. Scope out the details and some top picks below. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 8:17 pm

Uber promises member exclusives as Uber One passes $1B run-rate

Uber plans to deliver more perks to Uber One members, like member-exclusive events, in a bid to gain more revenue through subscriptions. You will see more member-exclusives coming up where members have exclusive access to events and experiences, which will kind of surprise and delight our members, said Uber chief financial officer Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah Wednesday [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 8:11 pm

FTX plans to refund defrauded customers with interest

FTX has filed a plan with a bankruptcy court to pay back creditors who held cryptocurrency at the embattled exchange. The vast majority of customers are set to get their money back with interest, though they (and the debtors) missed out on major gains in the crypto market since FTXs dramatic collapse in November 2022 the price of Bitcoin has more than tripled since then. FTX aims to fully pay back non-governmental creditors based on the value of their claims as determined by the bankruptcy court. That means 98 percent of creditors (those who have up to $50,000 in claims) will get 118 percent of the amount of their allowed claims. Other creditors will get their money back, plus what FTX describes as billions of dollars in compensation for the time value of their investments. Government creditors are in line for payouts with a nine percent interest rate. The Internal Revenue Service and Department of Justice are among the stakeholders with which FTX has agreed settlements. The company suggests that, if its plan of reorganization is rubber stamped, it would be able to resolve disputes with private and government stakeholders without costly and protracted litigation. All told, FTX says that it will be able to distribute between $14.5 billion and $16.3 billion in cash. But, you may be wondering, where exactly is all this money coming from? After all, when FTX filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection 17 months ago, it held just 0.1 percent of the Bitcoin and 1.2 percent of the Ethereum that its customers thought it had. FTX said it was able to monetize an extraordinarily diverse collection of assets, most of which were proprietary investments held by the Alamedaor FTX Ventures businesses, or litigation claims. As TechCrunch reports, the assets that FTX CEO John J. Ray III and his team tracked down included around $8 billion in real estate, political donations and venture capital investments. The company filed the updated plan of reorganization just a few weeks after co-founder and former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (aka SBF) was sentenced to 25 years in prison . He was found guilty in November of charges including wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ftx-plans-to-refund-defrauded-customers-with-interest-143555536.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 8:05 pm

No one has seen the data behind Tysons climate friendly beef claim

Millions of taxpayer dollars flow to livestock companies raising low carbon beef.

Ars Technica 8 May 2024 8:03 pm

Todays best game deals: Super Mario RPG for Switch back down at $45 Amazon low, more

Just after Nintendo confirmed an upcoming announcement for the Switch successor (some time by March 2025 anyway), Amazon has brought back its notable price drop on the new Super Mario RPG remake! That means Nintendo Switch gamers can now score a physical copy of the game down at $44.80 shipped . This is matching our previous mention at Amazon as well as the lowest we have tracked there. Todays offer is also on par with the best we have tracked since the games debut back in November. Price drops on Nintendos latest first-party releases dont come around all too often, so its a good idea to jump in while you can unless you want to wait all year for potential holiday discounts. This is the same beloved Mario RPG experience you might know from years ago. But this time around it has updated visuals and a host of new gameplay mechanics to enhance the experience overall our feature piece details all of it and be sure to head below for more of todays best console game deals. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 7:47 pm

Pick up the 9th-gen iPad with two years of AppleCare+ for only $298

Apple has lots of new products on the way and is officially discontinuing its ninth-generation iPad . But, before the curtain falls on this reliable device, you can pick it up for a steal. Our favorite budget iPad for comes with two years of AppleCare+ and is down to $298 from $398 a 25 percent discount. This deal is for the 64GB model with Wi-Fi in either Silver or Space Gray. If you're looking for a more affordable entry point into the world of iPads or want to grab one as a gift then the ninth-gen model gives you a solid balance of quality and cost. We gave it an 86 in our review when it first debuted in 2021 thanks to updates like True Tone technology and color changing based on ambient light. It also has a 12-MP front camera, Apple's A13 Bionic chip and up to 10 hours of battery life while in use. If you're looking for a more advanced iPad then check out everything we know about the new iPad Pro and iPad Air that Apple just announced. They will be available on May 15, but you can pre-order them now. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/pick-up-the-9th-gen-ipad-with-two-years-of-applecare-for-only-298-140951353.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 7:39 pm

Ankers latest SOLIX C800 Plus 768Wh power station returns to $499 low (Reg. $649)

The official Anker Amazon storefront is offering its SOLIX C800 Plus Portable Power Station for $499 shipped, after clipping the on-page $150 off coupon . Down from its $649 price tag, this is only the third official discount since the devices release in March, which saw a similar launch discount down to the $499 low. You can get a full rundown on what to expect from our initial launch coverage , or head below. All-in-all, youre looking at a repeat 23% markdown off the going rate, which also matches the current discount on Ankers website as well and returns costs to the all-time lowest price weve seen. Youll also find bundle options available, with it coming with a100Wor 200W solar panel for$698or $1,048 , after clipping the on-page coupons. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 7:32 pm

Samsung Introduces Discounts on Monitors and TVs, Including $600 Off ViewFinity S9 5K

Samsung has a new monitor sale this week, which includes discounts on 4K and 5K Samsung monitors . The popular ViewFinity S9 5K Smart Monitor and Smart Monitor M8 are both discounted during this sale, but you'll also find sales on storage, audio, TVs, smartphones, and home appliances. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Samsung. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running. As with previous sales, the highlight of the new event is the 27-inch ViewFinity S9 5K Smart Monitor for $999.99 , down from $1,599.99. At $600 off this is a solid second-best price on the 2023 display, which has a matte display, modular 4K SlimFit camera, and support for Thunderbolt 4. $600 OFF 27-inch ViewFinity S9 5K Smart Monitor for $999.99 Samsung's 27-inch Smart Monitor M8 is also being discounted during this sale, available for $399.99 in Warm White, down from $699.99. This is a 4K smart monitor with a design that looks similar to the iMac line, and this is a solid second-best price. $300 OFF 27-inch Smart Monitor M8 for $399.99 Additionally, Samsung has quite a few more monitor and TV deals, which we've rounded up below. Monitors 27-inch Odyssey Curved Gaming Monitor - $249.99, down from $299.99 34-inch ViewFinity HDR10 Curved Monitor - $549.99, down from $699.99 49-inch Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor - $799.99, down from $1,299.99 49-inch Odyssey OLED G9 Curved Gaming Monitor - $1,199.99, down from $1,799.99 TVs 70-inch QLED 4K QE1C TV - $879.99, down from $1,799.99 55-inch Neo QLED 4K Smart TV - $1,099.99, down from $1,499.99 55-inch Samsung Neo QLED 4K TV - $1,299.99, down from $1,999.99 65-inch OLED S90C TV - $1,599.99, down from $2,599.99 85-inch Samsung Neo QLED 4K Smart TV - $2,399.99, down from $4,799.99 Be sure to visit our full Deals Roundup to shop for even more Apple-related products and accessories. Related Roundup: Apple Deals This article, Samsung Introduces Discounts on Monitors and TVs, Including $600 Off ViewFinity S9 5K first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors 8 May 2024 7:28 pm

CMF by Nothings First Phone Could Be an Entry-Level Offering; Name, Specifications Suggested

CMF by Nothings upcoming phone will be reportedly called the CMF Phone 1. It is said to feature a plastic body and could be offered in three colour options. The CMF Phone 1 is expected to be an affordable entry-level phone and could be cheaper than Nothing's latest Phone 2a.

NDTV 8 May 2024 7:01 pm

6 Best Phones With Headphone Jacks (2024): Flagship, Budget, and Dongle Recommendations

Headphone jacks are endangered, but theyre not gone. Here are our favorite smartphones that still let you plug and play.

Wired 8 May 2024 7:00 pm

Todays best iOS game and app deals: Pro Camera by Moment, Little Nightmares, more

Hot on the heels of Apples new M4 iPad Pro, iPad Air, and Apple Pencil Pro going up for pre-order , we now have your mid-week collection of discounted iOS games and apps. This morning also saw notable $100 price drops hit Apple Watch Series 9 as well as some deals on Apples AirTags , but for now its all about the apps. Highlights include Pro Camera by Moment, myDream Universe, Little Nightmares, The Quest, and more. Head below for a complete look at todays best iOS game and app deals. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 6:52 pm

Under Armour takes up to 65% off over 1,900 items from $13: Shorts, t-shirts, more

For a limited time only, Under Armour offers up to 65% off over 1,900 items including new summer styles. Prices are as marked. Customers receive free delivery on orders of $99 or more. A standout from this sale is the mens Tech 2.0 Tiger Short-Sleeve Shirt thats marked down to $19 and originally sold for $25. This t-shirt is great for everyday use and perfect for workouts. You can choose from an array of color options and it has a breathable mesh fabric that helps to keep you comfortable. With over 1,100 positive reviews, this style is rated 4.6/5 stars . Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 6:51 pm

India to convey its plans to build a new research station in Antarctica at Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting

India has two active research stations Maitri and Bharti in Antarctica.

The Hindu 8 May 2024 6:41 pm

India to convey its plans to build a new research station in Antarctica at Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting

India has two active research stations Maitri and Bharti in Antarctica.

The Hindu 8 May 2024 6:41 pm

All-new Blink Mini 2 smart cam hits best price ever for today only, now just $28 (30% off)

Today only, as part of its Deals of the Day , Best Buy is serving up the best price ever on the new Blink Mini 2 smart camera. We had a chance to go hands-on with Blinks latest miniature smart camera for a couple weeks ahead of its debut back in mid March , and now we are seeing the lowest yet. The already affordable $40 cam saw a brief drop to $30 directly at Amazon last month, but you can now land one at Best Buy for just $27.99 . Free shipping available for My Best Buy members , or opt for in-store pickup. Currently up at full price via Amazon, this is a straight up 30% discount, the best we can find, and the lowest it has been offered for yet. Todays deal marks down both the white and black colorways. Our review details the experience entirely, and you can get a brief overview of what youre in for down below. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 6:36 pm

Controversial drone company Xtend leans into defense with new $40M round

Close to a decade ago, brothers Aviv and Matteo Shapira co-founded Replay, a company that created a video format for 360-degree replays the sorts of replays that have become part and parcel of major sports broadcasts. Replay caught the attention of Intel, which acquired the company in 2016 for a reported $175 million, and [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 6:30 pm

Mycocycle uses mushrooms to upcycle old tires and construction waste

The startup's fungi use their mycelium to consume oil-based rubbers and plastics, creating new bio-based materials in the process. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 6:30 pm

Britax Willow SC Review: A Fantastic Stroller and Car Seat Combo

This stroller and car seat combo is the perfect solution for tired new parents.

Wired 8 May 2024 6:30 pm

PreSonus debuts next-gen Quantum audio interface lineup with reamping, auto gain, more

Today, PreSonus is ready to unveil its next-generation audio interfaces. The new PreSonus Quantum Audio Interfaces are debuting today as the brands latest solution for sound makers, guitar players, and even podcasters looking to bring some solid quality audio into their system. PreSonus had a big year in 2023, releasing some of our favorite new desktop speakers and studio monitors across a spectrum of price ranges, from the wonderful entry-level Eris option right through to the pro-grade models, and we loved our hands-on time with them they were an easy pick for our 2023 Favorite Things list . Fast forward to 2024, and now the brand is aiming its focus on the analog to digital and back again interface space. Head below for more and a closer look at the new PreSonus Quantum Audio Interfaces. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 6:30 pm

US revokes Intel and Qualcomm's licenses for chip sales to Huawei

The United States has taken further action to limit China's technological advancement, revoking licenses that allowed Intel and Qualcomm to buy and sell chips to Huawei Technologies, the Financial Times reports . The decision will impact chips Huawei uses for computers and mobile phones and is effective immediately. Huawei has been on US trade restrictions lists since 2019 but has recently made progress that worries the US government, such as last month's AI-enabled laptop. We continuously assess how our controls can best protect our national security and foreign policy interests, taking into consideration a constantly changing threat environment and technological landscape. As part of this process, as we have done in the past, we sometimes revoke export licenses, a spokesperson for the Department of Commerce stated. The spokesperson declined to say if companies other than Huawei were impacted. But we can confirm that we have revoked certain licenses for exports to Huawei. National security experts have accused Huawei of helping China to conduct cyber espionage. China resolutely opposes the United States overstretching the concept of national security and abusing export controls to suppress Chinese companies without justification, the Chinese foreign ministry decreed in a statement. Huawei also denies the espionage claims. China resolutely opposes the United States overstretching the concept of national security and abusing export controls to suppress Chinese companies without justification, the Chinese foreign ministry decreed in a statement. National security experts have accused Huawei of helping China to conduct cyber espionage , which Huawei has denied. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/us-revokes-intel-and-qualcomms-licenses-for-chip-sales-to-huawei-125304886.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 6:23 pm

Keep tabs on your valuables with a 4-pack of Apple AirTags at $79 today (Under $20 each)

Amazon is offering some notable deals on Apples AirTag item trackers. You can now score a 4-pack of AirTags down at $79 shipped. This is 20% below the $99 asking price at Apple and the lowest price we can find. At $19.75 per tracker , it also delivers a better value than purchasing a single AirTag at the ongoing discounted rate of $24.99 shipped the are typically $29 a pop. While we have seen the 4-pack drop to $75 and $77 a few times in the past, and once this year, todays offer is otherwise on par with the best we have seen on Amazon. Details await below. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 6:14 pm

UK challenger bank Monzo nabs another $190M as US expansion beckons

Monzo has raised another 150 million ($190 million), as the challenger bank looks to expand its presence internationally particularly in the U.S. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 6:04 pm

Matter 1.3 Specification Adds Energy Reporting, Electric Vehicle Charging, Water Management Support and More

The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) today announced the debut of a new Matter 1.3 specification that's available for device makers and platforms. Matter is a smart home protocol that allows smart devices to work across multiple platforms, including HomeKit . Matter 1.3 adds support for a range of new device types and features, including water management devices, electric vehicle chargers, kitchen and laundry appliances, and TVs. For smart plugs and other devices, the update includes energy management reporting, allowing users to see actual and estimated measurements of power, voltage, and current, both in-real time and over time. EV Charging manufacturers are able to include Matter-based features such as manually starting and stopping charging, adjusting charging rate, and optimizing charging times. Water management devices like leak and freeze detectors, rain sensors, and controllable water valves are supported in Matter 1.3, as are several new appliance types including microwave ovens, ovens, cooktops, extractor hoods, and dryers. For TVs, Matter 1.3 improves casting initialization and search, plus it adds support for push messages and dialog for ambient experiences, expanded interactivity for TV apps, and better interaction with other home devices. Scenes are supported with the new specification, allowing product makers and platforms to set, read, and activate scenes on devices. Scenes for Matter work like HomeKit scenes, letting users set a desired state for rooms and devices with one command. Matter controllers are also now able to batch multiple commands into a single message when communicating with Matter devices for less delay between command execution. Matter 1.3 devices and improvements will likely be available on the market later this year, with more information available on the CSA website . Tag: Matter This article, Matter 1.3 Specification Adds Energy Reporting, Electric Vehicle Charging, Water Management Support and More first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums

MacRumors 8 May 2024 6:00 pm

Most affordable Samsung Galaxy S9 series Tab hits Amazon low, FE models from $340 ($110 off)

Alongside ongoing offers on the entry-level Tab A9+ from just $170 , Amazon is kicking off some deals on the most affordable Samsung S9-series tablets today as well. Starting off with the base 128GB S9 Galaxy FE model, Amazon now has it down at $339.99 shipped in various colroways. Carrying a regular $450 price tag, much like it does directly from Samsung , youre looking at a nearly 25% price drop with $110 in savings at the ready. Making the most financially attainable S9 Tab even more so, this deal is $10 under our previous mention to deliver a new Amazon all-time low in the process. Folks looking to scoop up the elevated 256GB model are also in luck here as Amazon has dropped the regularly $520 configuration down to $409.99 shipped to land on par with the lowest we have tracked since release in late 2023. Check out our hands-on impressions at 9to5Google and head below for more details. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 5:47 pm

Reddit tests automatic, whole-site translation into French using LLM-based AI

Reddit now a publicly-traded company with more scrutiny on revenue growth is putting a big focus on boosting its international audience, starting with francophones. In their first-ever earnings call, CEO Steve Huffman confirmed the company is now working on automatic translations of the sites content, in real-time, into French, thanks to advances in [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 5:42 pm

Meati Foods bites into another $100M amid growth to 7,000 retail locations

Meati Foods is adding 2,000 retail locations within Krogers family of stores by April. Three products will be available, including the Classic cutlet as well as Classic and Carne Asada steaks. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 5:30 pm

Lucid Bots secures $9M for drones to clean more than your windows

The robotics company builds intelligent robots that are purpose-made to tackle the dirty jobs that people dont want to do. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 5:30 pm

Your iPad can do so much more

Macworld Why your iPad is failing to meet its potential After a lengthy quiet period Apple has announced a raft of new iPads, and demand is sure to be hot among the companys loyal fans. Boasting insanely fast processors and all-new screen tech and sizes, the 2024 iPads are sumptuously designed and specced. Combining the work and entertainment capabilities of a laptop with the portability and convenience of a smartphone, the iPad has the potential to be the most versatile Apple device of all. Which makes it all the more disappointing that so many iPads end up as sofa computers with a very limited brief. If you feel that youre not getting the most out of your high-end tablet, or youve been holding off on upgrading because it doesnt seem worth it for something you use to check your emails while watching Netflix, were here to tell you that the iPad can be far more. The key to harnessing its capabilities is to select the right accessories. How to choose a great iPad accessory What you need to consider is how much an accessory can expand your iPads scope as a convenient computing tool, and whether that upgrade is worth the cost. We should be examining value for money and return on investment. The iPad, for example, has one obvious weakness as a work tool, and that is its lack of a hardware keyboard; onscreen keyboards are versatile but they arent suitable for fast, accurate typing. Similarly, its vulnerability to drop and scratch damage makes it less useful for use on the go. And no matter how nice the screen is, its not much fun watching a two-hour movie on an iPad that you have to hold. Accessories that cost a fraction of the price of the iPad can solve all of these problems. Its just a question of finding the right accessories. Luckily, were here to help you choose. Introducing ESRs accessories for the new iPad range If youre looking for accessories that will upgrade your tablet from sofa gadget to powerful all-round computing tool, youd be wise to check out ESR, a popular and well-established brand which has just unveiled its accessories for the new iPad range . Heres what weve picked out: Shift Magnetic Case: However you want to use your iPad, this clever and award-winning case/stand is here to help. It offers an astonishing nine different angles, six for viewing and a further three for working and writing, and its easy to switch between the various modes thanks to the innovative magnetic design. It even works in both portrait and landscape orientations. Available from Amazon. Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case 360: If you want to get work done on your iPad, this is a great choice. The backlit keyboardwith a choice of seven colours and three brightness levels so you can adapt to any working conditionsalso features a trackpad with support for Multi-Touch gestures. The cantilever stand is versatile and helps you position the iPad at your viewing angle of choice. Available for just $119.99 from Amazon. Premium screen protectors: What sort of protection are you looking for? One option is ESRs Paper-Feel Magnetic Screen Protector : it makes using your iPad feel like working on a physical page. The companys Armorite Screen Protector , meanwhile, is the toughest tempered-glass option out there, exceeding military-grade protection. Digital Pencil Pro: A premium iPad stylus that delivers smooth, precise input. It supports charging via both USB-C and wireless connection. Available for just $28.99 from Amazon. You can save money, too! Macworld readers can save money on their ESR purchases. Simply use the code 559HVZJZ for a 10% discount. This code will be live until June 30 2024. Tablet Accessories

Macworld 8 May 2024 5:30 pm

Remedy cancels its multiplayer game project with Tencent

Tencent and Remedy, the developer of Control and Alan Wake , have completely scrapped their joint gaming project codenamed Kestrel, which they have been working on since 2021. The companies were originally developing a free-to-play co-op shooter until they decided to go in a different direction in November last year. They went back to the drawing board, renamed their project from Vanguard to Kestrel and had planned to make a premium game with a strong, cooperative multiplayer component instead. Back then, they said their game will lean more into Remedy's core strengths and will use repurposed versions of the company's assets and themes. Clearly, though, their partnership wasn't meant to be. In its announcement, Remedy said that the project's cancellation will allow it to give more attention to its other games in development. While it didn't list them out, the company is working on the sequel to Control that will be released for the PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC, as well as on a franchise spin-off game currently known as Condor. It will reassign developers to its other game projects, and since it was going to co-finance Kestrel with Tencent, the project's cancellation means reduced investment and recruitment needs for the company. Codename Kestrel was still in its early concept phase, Remedy's CEO Tero Virtala said in a statement, while the company's other projects have already advanced well and are moving on to the next stages in their development. This is yet another means to ensure that our game projects continue advancing well, Virtala added. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/remedy-cancels-its-multiplayer-game-project-with-tencent-120037110.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 5:30 pm

Israeli startup Panax raises a $10M Series A for its AI-driven cash flow management platform

While visualizing cash flow is helpful, Panax wants to go further than providing a dashboard and help finance teams manage treasury, Panax CEO Noam Mills told TechCrunch. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 5:30 pm

Burnout Is Pushing Workers to Use AIEven if Their Boss Doesnt Know

People are using AI at work whether their bosses want them to or not, new data shows. But its desperation, not innovation, driving the change.

Wired 8 May 2024 5:30 pm

EU grills Elon Musks X about content moderation and deepfake risks

The EU has deepened its investigation of X under its online governance and content moderation rulebook, the Digital Services Act (DSA). 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 5:04 pm

iPad (2022) Price in India Cut After Launch of New iPad Air, iPad Pro Models: Price, Specifications

iPad (2022) price in India has been cut, and the successor to Apple's 2021 iPad model can now be purchased at a lower price in the country. The iPad (10th generation) price in India cut has been introduced after the launch of the new iPad Pro (2024) and iPad Air (2024) in India and global markets on May 7 at Apple's 'Let Loose' launch event.

NDTV 8 May 2024 5:01 pm

Atlan scores $105M for its data control plane, as LLMs boost importance of data

For the founders of Atlan, a data governance startup, data has always been at the heart of what they do, even before they launched the company. In fact, co-founders Prukalpa Sankar and Varun Banka got their start building Indias national data platform called SocialCops. So it probably shouldnt come as a surprise that they have [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 5:00 pm

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra with S Pen hits one of its best prices ever from $1,050 ($250 off)

Today we have a particularly notable deal on the most popular Android smartphone of 2024. Amazon now has the unlocked Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra with 256GB of storage on sale for $1,049.99 shipped in four colorways. This model sells for $1,300 directly from Samsung and regularly goes for as much at Amazon. Today youre looking at a straight $250 in savings, landing $50 below our previous mention for one of the lowest prices we have tracked on one of the best Android handsets out there. The elevated 512GB model is also seeing a solid price drop, now starting from $1,169.99 shipped from the regular $1,420 it goes for at Samsung . All of the details are waiting down below. more

9To5Toys 8 May 2024 4:46 pm

The Morning After: Apple's new iPad Pro is thinner than an old iPod nano

We kicked off our Tuesday with an early iPad event . And what a beastly iPad we got. Apple shook things up by slotting its brand-new M4 chip into its new highest-end iPad Pro. Apple says the new device delivers 50 percent faster performance than the M2 iPad Pro. It supports dynamic caching, hardware-accelerated ray tracing and hardware-accelerated mesh shading so, better-looking games and faster graphic processing. Engadget But thats only half the story. The other major upgrade is Tandem OLED, which is a display of two OLED panels on top of each other. Expect richer colors and deeper blacks, but also brightness levels that max out at 1000 nits for standard and HDR and 1600 nits for HDRs brightest spots. This switch in display tech makes it thinner than previous iPads. Actually, it ensures the new iPad pro is (somehow) thinner than the iPod nano. The new iPad Pro starts at $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch, each with 256GB of storage. Weve already got our first impressions right here . We also got new iPad Airs and an Apple Pencil Pro , for you professional scribblers. Mat Smith The biggest stories you might have missed Meta is testing cross-posting from Instagram to Threads Apples M4 chip arrives with a big focus on AI Nintendo to announce Switch successor before March 2025 What the heck is going on with Helldivers 2? You can get these reports delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! Google announces the $499 Pixel 8a early Flagship AI and a 120Hz OLED screen. Engadget The latest Pixel A-series phone typically gets announced at Google I/O. However, to avoid distractions from all the other news, Google broke cover early. Compared to the standard Pixel 8, which has a 6.2-inch screen, the 8a features a slightly smaller 6.1-inch OLED display with noticeably larger bezels. But aside from that, the Pixel 8 and 8a are almost the exact same size. The 8a uses the same 64-megapixel and 13MP sensors for its main and ultra-wide cameras as its predecessor, but the Pixel 7a was a great camera phone, so no major complaints here. Sales start next week on May 14. Continue reading. OpenAI says it can detect images made by its own software mostly Until someone tinkers with the images. OpenAI is trying to get ahead of the problem of these almost-real images circulating the internet by creating a toolset that detects images created by its own DALL-E 3 generator. The company says it can accurately detect pictures whipped up byDALL-E 3 98 percent of the time. While that sounds good, its loaded with caveats. The image has to be created by DALL-E, and it only successfully classified five to ten percent of images made by other AI models. It also struggles to spot generated images manually tweaked by a user. Continue reading. The M4 iPad Pro is literally lighter than Air Time for a name change. Wait, what? This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-morning-after-apples-new-ipad-pro-is-thinner-than-an-old-ipod-nano-111533601.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 4:45 pm

Best iPad 2024: Compete and updated guide to which iPad to buy

Macworld Which iPad should you buy? There are a lot of choices and it can be confusing. There are four different varieties of iPad, listed below, and each is available with or without cellular (including 5G on certain models), which costs extra. Thats before we get into storage capacity, colors, and second-hand alternatives. Our in-depth buying guide assesses the whole range of iPads sold by Apple and explores all the factors that should influence your iPad buying decision such as value for money, how much storage you need, and whether or not to buy a cellular version. We also reveal whether an updated version of each device is likely to be launched soonanswering the question of whether now is a good time to buy an iPad. If youre thinking of buying an iPad for college or university you might also like to read our guide to the best iPad for students . You may also like to read our best iPad for kids guide. Update May 7: Added new iPad Air and iPad Pro models and new 10th-gen iPad pricing. The iPad mini price has also dropped outside the U.S. Apple iPad comparison chart The table below summarizes the main features of the iPads in Apples current lineup and highlights the price for each. We have more information about the individual iPads and buying advice below. Click the links in the table of contents to go to the section most relevant to you. Model (launch date) Key features + specs Storage + cellular options Price + buy link iPad 10.9-inch 10th generation (October 2022) Medium 10.9-inch screen Touch ID on the Power button A14 Bionic processor 12MP/12MP cameras Supports Apple Pencil (USB) and Apple Pencil 1 248.6mm x 179.5mm x 7mm 481g 64GB 256GB 64GB (5G) 256GB (5G) $349 / 349 $499 / 499 $499 / 499 $649 / 649 iPad mini 6th generation (September 2021) Small 8.3-inch screen Touch ID on the Power button A15 processor 12MP/12MP cameras Supports Apple Pencil 2 195.4mm x 134.8mm x 6.3mm 293g 64GB 256GB 64GB (4G) 256GB (4G) $499 / 499 $649 / 649 $649 / 649 $799 / 799 iPad Air 11-inch 6th generation (May 2024) Medium 11-inch screen Touch ID on the Power button M2 processor 12MP/12MP cameras Supports Apple Pencil (USB) and Apple Pencil Pro 247.6mm x 178.5mm x 6.1mm 462g 128GB 256GB 512GB 1TB 128GB (5G) 256GB (5G) 512GB (5G) 1TB (5G) $599 / 599 $699 / 699 $899 / 899 $1,099 / 1,099 $749 / 749 $849 / 849 $1,049 / 1,049 $1,249 / 1,249 iPad Air 13-inch (May 2024) Largest 13-inch screen Touch ID on the Power button M2 processor 12MP/12MP cameras Supports Apple Pencil (USB) and Apple Pencil Pro 280.6mm x 214.9mm x 6.1mm 618g 128GB 256GB 512GB 1TB 128GB (5G) 256GB (5G) 512GB (5G) 1TB (5G) $799 / 799 $899 / 899 $1,099 / 1,099 $1,299 / 1,299 $949 / 949 $1,049 / 1,049 $1,249 / 1,249 $1,449 / 1,449 iPad Pro 11-inch 5th generation (May 2024) Medium 11-inch screen Face ID M4 processor 12MP/12MP cameras Supports Apple Pencil (USB) and Apple Pencil Pro 249.7mm x 177.5mm x 5.3mm 446g 256GB 512GB 1TB 2TB 256GB (5G) 512GB (5G) 1TB (5G) 2TG (5G) $999 / 999 $1,199 / 1,199 $1,599 / 1,599 $1,999 / 1,999 $1,199 / 1,199 $1,399 / 1,399 $1,799 / 1,799 $2,199 / 2,199 iPad Pro 13-inch 7th generation (May 2024) Largest 13-inch screen Face ID M4 processor 12MP/12MP cameras Supports Apple Pencil (USB) and Apple Pencil Pro 281.6mm x 215.5mm x 65.1mm 582g 256GB 512GB 1TB 2TB 256GB (5G) 512GB (5G) 1TB (5G) 2TB (5G) $1,299 / 1,299 $1,499 / 1,499 $1,899 / 1,849 $2,299 / 2,299 $1,499 / 1,499 $1,699 / 1,699 $2,099 / 2,099 $2,499 / 2,499 Every iPad Apple sells Apples iPad lineup is perhaps one of the most expansive product lineups presented by the company. Below we offer information about each model, but we also answer questions further down the article such as which iPad is the best value for money, which size is best, how much storage you need, and whether to get cellular (you can jump to these sections from the table of contents above). The iPad that is best for you will depend on what you need from an iPad. If you just want an iPad for reading books, watching movies and TV shows, email, and web browsing, then you dont need all the bells and whistles. An iPad or iPad mini might be best here. If you are looking for an iPad that will do everything that a laptop can, then you might want to consider a model that is more powerful and supports additional components, including one of Apples newer keyboards or the Apple Pencil, the iPad Air might suit you. And if you will be using your iPad for gaming, video editing, photo editing, or anything high-powered and graphic intensive, then you will probably be looking at an iPad Pro. Below we will run through every iPad you can buy so you can find the one thats best for your needs. Apple iPad (2022, 10th gen) Best value Price When Reviewed: Now: $349 (64GB) | $499 (256GB) [Was $449 (64GB) | $599 (256GB)] Best Prices Today: $349 at Apple $349 at B&H $349.99 at Amazon 64GB: $349 / 349 256GB: $499 / 499 64GB (cellular): $499 / 499 256GB (cellular): $649 / 649 The 2022 iPad (10th generation) is the cheapest iPadit was reduced by $100 in May 2024 from $449 ro $349. It offers a lot of features for the price and its available in an assortment of fun colors. It has a 10.9-inch screen, a USB-C connector, and supports the Apple Pencil 1 or the Apple Pencil (USB). Its also capable of 5G (if you were looking at the cellular model you wouldnt want the 4G-capable 9th gen). Pros: A14 chip will be powerful enough for a good few years. No more Home Button but there is Touch ID (on the Power button). Cons: Still feels cheap due to the unlaminated screen (will Apple ever update this?). Not as thin and light as the iPad Air. Best for: Anyone who needs a big screen (not a huge screen; theyll want the 12.9-inch iPad Pro) but is on a budget, and can cope without the latest in processing. Its a good option for anyone who likes the look of the iPad Air, but not the price. Is now a good time to buy? While the iPad is about two years old, Apple reduced its price in May 2024 and its a fantastic bargain. See : Best iPad (9th/10th gen) deal Read our full 10th-gen 10.9-inch iPad (2022) review Apple iPad mini (6th gen, 2021) Best for kids and travelers Price When Reviewed: $499 (64GB) | $649 (256GB) Best Prices Today: $399.99 at Amazon $399.99 at Target $469 at Walmart 64GB: $499 / 499 256GB: $649 / 649 64GB (cellular): $649 / 649 256GB (cellular): $799 / 799 This generation of iPad mini launched in September 2021. The iPad mini is available in four colors: silver, gold, Space Gray and purple. The iPad mini is Apples smallest iPad with an 8.3-inch display. The biggest draw of the iPad mini is probably its diminutive stature. This is the smallest and lightest iPad and as such is perfect for carrying around in a bag or handing to children when they need entertaining. Whichever version you go for, youll get an A15 Bionic processor chip, a Liquid Retina screen, and 12MP/12MP rear/front cameras. It might be small, but it is actually more powerful than the standard iPad thanks to its A15 processor, which is a generation newer than the A14 in the 10th gen iPad. Pros: Very portable and respectably powerful. The cheapest version has a decent amount of storage (64GB). Supports second-gen Apple Pencil. Cons: Small screen, which may not be great for those who get eyestrain or who like immersive films and games. Best for: The portability-conscious. Gamers on the go. Tablet photographers. Ebook readers. Kids. Is now a good time to buy ? Apple did not update the iPad mini during its spring 2024 event, but it did reduce the price outside the U.S. Its possible Apple could update it later in the year, but it probably wont be a major upgrade. Keep up with the latest speculation with our iPad mini 7 guide . See : Best iPad mini deals Read our full Apple iPad mini (6th gen, A15, 2021) review Apple iPad Air 11-inch (6th gen, 2024) Best for power in an affordable package Price When Reviewed: $599 (128GB, Wi-Fi only) Best Prices Today: $599 at Apple 128GB: $599 / 599 256GB: $699 / 699 128GB (cellular): $749 / 749 256GB (cellular): $849 / 849 The 11-inch iPad Air has an M2 processor that is powerful and energy-efficient (you may remember it from its widely praised performance in the Mac). The M2 pushes the iPad Air far ahead of the iPad mini and standard iPads with their A-series chips. The M2 also makes the Air an appealing alternative to the more expensive Pro models, with their faster M4 processors. Like all recent iPads, the Air features an all-screen design with no Home button. As with the 10th-gen iPad and the iPad mini, biometric security is handled by a fingerprint sensor in the power button rather than Face ID, which is reserved for the Pros. It has superb cameras (the front-facing 12MP camera and Center Stage), supports a wide range of Pro accessories, and now features 5G. Pros: Beautiful design. Superb processing and graphics power. Cheaper than the iPad Pro. Cons: Screen doesnt feature ProMotion. Ideal for: Tablet gamers and anyone who wants to be able to run the most demanding apps now and in the future. Pro users (business, creative, design) who cant afford an iPad Pro. Is now a good time to buy? Absolutely. It was updated in May of 2024 and will be around for a while. See : Best iPad Air deals 11-inch iPad Pro (5th gen, 2024) Best for power in a small package Price When Reviewed: $999 (Wi-Fi only) Best Prices Today: $999 at Apple 256GB: $999 / 999 / 128GB (cellular): $1,199 / 1,199 512GB: $1,199 / 1,199 / 256GB (cellular): $1,399 / 1,399 1TB: $1,599 / 1,599 / 1TB (cellular): $1,799 / 1,799 2TB: $1,999 / 1,999 / 2TB (cellular): $2,199 / 2,199 The current generation of iPad Pro models went on sale in May 2024. The iPad Pro comes in two sizes and a variety of capacities all the way up to a massive 2TB. The 2024 Pros feature M4 chips and are incredibly powerfulsome might say more powerful than it has any right to be. The 11-inch iPad Pro features a display it calls Ultra Retina XDR, which is an implementation of OLED technology that offers deeper blacks, better details in shadows and low light, and better response to motion. Apple uses two OLED panels in an implementation it calls Tandem OLED to address the brightness concerns of a single OLED panel. The Tandem OLED generates 1000 nits of SDR/HDR brightness and 1600 nits of peak HDR brightness. The front-facing camera is now on the longer side of the iPad Pro for use in landscape mode and the rear 10MP ultra-wide camera is gone. The 12MP main camera now has an adaptive True Tone flash that works while scanning documents, which uses AI to sense shadows when scanning and uses the flash to fill in the spot, and multiple photos are taken and stitched together to create the best scan. Pros: Slim and light; dual cameras; Face ID; devastatingly quick and power-efficient processor. Cons: Very expensive. Its power could be overkill for many. Ideal for: Creative types who dont need the absolutely largest screen. Its great for watching films and TV shows (and offers quad-speaker audio to match), but there are other screens in the range that are a similar size and a lot more affordable. Is now a good time to buy? The 11-inch M4 iPad Pro was released in May 2024, so its a good time to buy. Apple likely wont update it for a good amount of time. See: Best iPad Pro deals 13-inch iPad Pro (7th gen, 2024) The ultimate iPad power package for creative pros Price When Reviewed: $1,299 (Wi-Fi only) Best Prices Today: $1299 at Apple 256GB: $1,299 / 1,299 / 256GB (cellular): $1,499 / 1,499 512GB: $1,499 / 1,499 / 512GB (cellular): $1,499 / 1,699 1TB: $1,899 / 1,899 / 1TB (cellular): $2,099 / 2,099 2TB: $2,299 / 2,299 / 2TB (cellular): $2,499 / 2,499 The iPad Pro 12.9-inch, updated in May 2024, offers the biggest screen ever on an Apple tablet, squeezed into a relatively small and very thin chassis. In other respects its largely the same as the 11-inch Pro (above): super-fast processor (the M4) with lots of RAM, excellent cameras, and a user experience that looks more than capable of replacing a laptop. The 13-inch iPad Pro, like the 11-inch version, has an Ultra Retina XDR. This is based on OLED technology, but Apple uses two OLED panelsit calls Tandem OLED and it generates 1000 nits of SDR/HDR brightness and 1600 nits of peak HDR brightness. This is all thoroughly impressive. But on the downside, the 12.9-inch Pro is far less portable than the mid-size iPads (it remains admirably slim, but the sheer screen area makes it a handful) and ruinously expensive, particularly at those upper storage tiers. Pros: Largest screen (13-inch); extremely fast processor with lots of RAM; landscape camera with Face ID; four speakers; Ultra Retina display. Cons: Least portable iPad currently available (although it is very slim); very expensive; processor speed will be overkill for many prospective buyers. Ideal for: Creative types most of all, but anyone who needs a big screen will be interested. Gamers and those who enjoy consuming media on the go will like the combination of a sumptuous screen and a quad-speaker audio system. Is now a good time to buy? The current Pros came out in May 2024. Apple probably wont update it again for at least a year, maybe longer. See : Best iPad Pro deals iPad Buying Guide: What to look for when buying an iPad As you can see from the above there are a lot of iPads sold by Applethat doesnt even include the many previous-generation iPads that are still on sale at various resellers and at Apples Refurbished Store . When confronted by so much choice what should you consider when deciding which iPad to buy? For many the choice will be based on price and value for money. Some may be influenced by the screen size, others by the weight. The ability to get more than 256GB storage may be important, as may the inclusion of Face ID or Touch ID. Finally, the decision of whether to get a cellular version, which invites the assessment of the minefield of network contracts, will no doubt be a factor for some. We will look at each of those factors below. Which iPad is the best value for money? One persons value for money is another persons extravagance. You might be looking for the cheapest iPad. That would be the 10th generation iPad , launched in 2022. In May 2024, Apple reduced the price from its original $449 price to $349 (price drops were matched around the world). It has a 10.9-inch screen, a 12MP rear-facing camera, an A14 Bionic processor, and 5G as an option. If you are happy to buy an older iPad model then there are plenty of discounts available while they are still in stock. There are also some great savings to be had on refurbished models. We recommend you check the following deals roundups, where you can see the best prices right now on various iPads : Best iPad Pro deals Best iPad (9th/10th gen) deals Best iPad Air deals Best iPad mini deals If you have more to spend, what can you get for your money? The iPad mini more than justifies its slightly higher price tag of $499/499 (especially now that the price has dropped from the staggering 569 in the U.K.) with its faster A15 processor, True Tone flash, and a fully laminated, better quality, display, among other things.But its biggest draw will probably be its size for those who want a small iPad. The iPad mini is not much bigger than a hard-backed book making it the perfect size to carry around in a bag and a great size for kids. The 2022 iPad The 2022 iPad Apple The 2022 iPad Apple Apple Next up is the iPad Air , which starts at $599/599 for the 11-inch model. It might be worth every extra penny if you want a faster M2 processor. The iPad Air display is still superior to that of the iPad, fully laminated and with an antireflective coating (like the iPad mini). The iPad Pro , updated in May 2024 is the ultimate in this category. Starting at $999/999, the Pro has a lot to offer, with an incredible display and an M4 chip for starters. But we think these features are probably more than the average person needs. Those are the prices that Apple sells its iPads for, but you dont have to pay that much. Take a look at our regularly updated iPad deals page for the lowest prices and best discounts on iPads new and old. iPad screen size: Which size iPad to choose Size is a question of taste rather than simply going for the biggest iPad you can get your hands on. Bigger isnt necessarily better if what you need is small and light. The most obvious aspect of this decision comes down to screen size. All screens are measured diagonally from corner to corner, or from the place where the corners would be. Youve got four options: 8.3-inch iPad mini 10.9-inch iPad (10th gen) 11-inch iPad Air and iPad Pro 13-inch iPad Air and iPad Pro But how big a screen do you really need? You can think of the tablets in terms of print publications: the mini is roughly the height and width of a paperback book; the mid-size iPads are closer to a hardback (albeit much slimmer); and the 13-inch iPad Pro is like a magazine. The larger screen is obviously better for immersive entertainment. Whether watching films or playing games, its a more enjoyable, richer experience. But really this is a question of priorities. Are you more set on getting maximum screen space, or are you willing to compromise on that front in order to get a lower price tag and improved portability? iPad Pro 13-inch (2024): 281.6mm x 215.5mm x 65.1mm; 579g/582g (Wi-Fi/cellular) iPad Pro 11-inch (2024): 249.7mm x 177.5mm x 5.3mm; 444g/446g iPad Air 13-inch (2024): 280.6mm x 214.9mm x 6.1mm 617g/618g iPad Air 11-inch (2024): 247.6mm x 178.5mm x 6.1mm; 462g/462g iPad 10.9-inch (2022): 248.6mm x 179.5mm x 7mm; 477g/481g iPad mini 8.3-inch (2021): 195.4mm x 134.8mm x 6.3mm; 300.5g/308.2g Also read: Every iPad display compared . Want the lightest iPad? As youd expect, the iPad mini is a lot lighter than the other iPads. Theres a big gap between that device and even the mid-size iPads. As well as its markedly lower weight the mini also has a smaller body, which slips easily into a rucksack or jacket pocket. If you plan to mainly use your iPad out and about, on vacation, or commuting, or perhaps youre buying an iPad for a child , the mini is your best bet. The iPad, 11-inch iPad Air, and 11-inch Pro are pleasingly portable, but they still cant match the mini for portability. The iPad has a similar length and width to the Air, but is thicker and heavier; the Pros are slimmer still. The 13-inch Pro and Air are considerably less portable than their smaller cousins, but we think Apple has done well to keep the weight down, especially with the Pro: it remains a slender, relatively lightweight, and portable alternative to a laptop. How much storage do you need? The five iPads offer anywhere from 64GB to 2TB of storage, but if you are looking at an old, refurbished, or preowned iPad you could be confronted with as little as 32GB storage, which isnt enough. But what storage capacity do you really need for an iPad? Well, first of all, remember that you cant upgrade the storage of an iPad at a later date: this is your limit from now until you buy another iPad, so aim high and buy as much storage as you can afford. Its better to spend an extra few pounds now than to buy an entire new iPad in six months time. Storage capacity is mainly used up by three things: music, photos, and videos, in increasing order of storage drain. If you want to keep lots of films or TV showsor even a few, to be honestthen you need high storage: probably 128GB or higher for video fans. (If youre buying an iPad with the kids in mind, remember that youll want storage space for multiple episodes of their favorite show on a long car journey.) The same applies to large photo or music libraries, to a lesser extent, although iCloud Photos and iTunes Match make it possible to keep your stuff in the cloud and access it remotely (if you pay the fees for iCloud storage). The other thing that will fill up your storage is apps, especially games which will use up a lot of space. For that reason gamers should aim high on storage: The iPad Ait starts with 128GB and the Pro has 256GB, while the mini and 10th-gen iPad both start at 64GB. We recommend getting what you can afford See: How much storage do you need on an iPhone or iPad? for more advice. Should you get the most powerful iPad? The iPad Pro models are, as you would expect, faster than their smaller and cheaper equivalents, next up is the Air, then the iPad mini and finally the iPad. You can get an idea of relative speed by looking at a few relevant specs: iPad Pro 13-inch (2024): M4; 8GB/16GB RAM iPad Pro 11-inch (2024): M4; 8GB/16GB RAM 13-inch iPad Air (2024): M2; 8GB RAM 11-inch iPad Air (2024): M2; 8GB RAM iPad mini (2021): A15 Bionic; 4GB RAM iPad 10.9-inch (2022): A14 Bionic; 4GB RAM The M-series chips have won widespread acclaim in the Mac range and produce outstanding performance in the iPads. But that doesnt mean the A chips are sub-standard or incapable of running modern apps; keep in mind that much of the software on the App Store was designed with A chips in mind, and even now most developers will want to make their software accessible for as many iPad owners as possible. There is a good reason to choose the M-series chips over the A-series though. Some of the best iPadOS 16 features will only work with the M-series iPads . These include features like Stage Manager , which is a new feature for organizing your windows. There are also rumors that one day Apple may make a cutback version of macOS available on the iPad but this will be probably be restricted to the M-series chip, if indeed it ever happens.. But speculation aside, how powerful you need your iPad to be will be based on your your requirements (and how long you intend to use your iPad for). The most demanding graphic-design, video-editing, and audio apps will see better performance on the M4 and even M2 processor, so if youre looking at high-level workloads multiple years down the line the M4 and M2 would be a better option. But for most users, the A15 will be comfortably fast enough for the mid- and quite long-term, and even the A14 (from 2020) performs perfectly well on todays apps. Another important factor to consider is memory. The iPad mini and iPad 10.9-inch have 4GB. The Air gets a jump up to 8GB, while the Pros have either 8GB or a whopping 16GB of RAM, depending on your storage tier: the 1TB and 2TB versions get the higher RAM allocation. Overall, we would advise those who want to use highly demanding apps, such as video and image editors and graphically advanced games, to choose an iPad Pro or Air. If youre going to be using your tablet for the odd bit of email and web surfing, youll find an iPad or iPad mini perfectly decent. With these general observations out of the way, its time to look at each device in more depth. For each iPad we record the essential information, its pros and cons, which buyer should pick it, and whether now is a good time to buy. Should you get a Cellular iPad? For most people cellular connectivity is a luxury, even if its a nice one to have. For an extra $100 or so, youll be able to access the web and email, and use connected apps, away from a Wi-Fi network. You need to factor in the cost of a data plan and find a network provider. Consider carefully how often youre going to do that: with an iPad mini theres likely to be more on-the-go use than with a full-size iPad, but its still a lot to pay for something you may only use from time to time. Have you got a regular (overground) commute where youd enjoy catching up on news headlines or e-mail? Then it could be worth the extra. We think the best option, if you want to be able to get data on your iPad when you are out and about, is to create a hotspot and share it from your iPhone. Then you can use your iPad as if it is on the cellular network. Read about how to create an iPhone hotspot to share your mobile web connection to your iPad. Just bear in mind that the cellular option also brings with it a GPS radio, meaning youll be able to input accurate location data when using your device on the go. The other concern when buying a cellular iPad is whether to buy your iPad on a contract. Network providers will allow you to pay for your iPad and the data contract over a number of months but after that term is up, and certainly not before, you may not be able to switch to a different data provider. Buying on contract may also mean that the iPad is locked to the original contract provider which can also be a problem if you want to sell it in the future. Heres how to unlock an iPad from its network , once youve fulfilled your contractual obligations. Should you buy a refurbished iPad? You can buy a refurbished iPad from Apple You can buy a refurbished iPad from Apple Apple You can buy a refurbished iPad from Apple Apple Apple Well mention this only briefly because its covered in detail here: Why a refurbished iPad could be the best tablet for you , but one option you should absolutely consider is Apples Refurbished Store . Its a sort of halfway house between new and second-hand: the devices are generally ones that have been returned within the 28-day period in which you are legally allowed to change your mind about a purchase, or they have been returned due to a fault that has been rectified, or they were ex-display or ex-demo units from Apples stores or marketing. You can rest assured that Apple has checked all the refurbished iPads that it sells thoroughly, replaced any problematic components, and rated them as good as new (and you get a full one-year warranty to prove it). Apples not the only place to buy a refurbished iPad, so beware that all refurbished iPads are not the same, so do check the small print before you buy. Look for refurbished models that have been fully checked out by Apple-certified engineers, especially those that come with a guarantee. Our best advice is to only consider the current or previous generation iPads when looking at refurbished models, then you are less likely to be caught out by a sub-par tablet. Buying a refurbished iPad from a reputable company is definitely preferable to buying a used iPad from someone on eBay. Its too often the case that secondhand iPads sold that way end up as useless bricks because the person selling it didnt properly log out of their account. Another way to save money is to buy from a reseller who is selling discontinued stock at a discount. We often see resellers significantly dropping the price on older iPad models that are usually just one generation out of datejust beware, they sell out quick! Should you buy the newest iPad generation? Speaking of older iPads, even if functioning perfectly right now, older models will reach the end of their useful life sooner than the newest models and that is a good reason to avoid buying an iPad that is more than one or two generations old. But keep in mind that iPads tend to start slowing down at around two to three years of age; at the four- or five-year mark you should expect noticable loss of performance and you wont be able to get all the latest software updates. The current iPad range was mostly updated in 2024 and included the iPad Pro and the iPad Air. The 10th-gen iPad was released in October 2022 but had its price reduced in May 2024. The iPad mini came out in September 2021. Another reason to buy a recent iPad is the operating system it runs. Apple only supports the most recent three versions of iPadOS with security updates, so that means that only iPadOS 15, 16. and 17 are currently supported. See How long does Apple support iPads? for more information. The following iPads can run iPadOS 17 : iPad Pro 12.9 and 13 (6th, 5th, 4th, 3rd and 2nd gen) iPad Pro 11 (4th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st gen) iPad Pro 10.5 iPad (10th, 9th, 8th, 7th and 6th gen) iPad mini (5th and 6th gen) iPad Air (6th, 5th, 4th and 3rd gen) The iPads that have been removed from support include: 2016 iPad Pro 9.7-inch with an A9X chip 2015 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation) with an A9X chip 2017 iPad (5th generation) with an A9 chip So, while you dont have to buy the newest generation, we would recommend that you buy one that was launched relatively recently to be sure that Apple will support it for as long as you intend to own it. On that basis, any of the iPads listed above should be a safe bet because they support the iPadOS that Apple will support for the next three years, and for many the support will stretch on for more years. Buying advice: Which iPad should you buy? The iPad 10.9-inch is a good option for newcomers and those who will mostly use their iPad as a media consumption device with some light work. For most people, however, our recommendation is the iPad Air (2024) . The update in May 2024 brought it an M2 processor, which is more than enough for an iPad right now. Mind you, its still expensive compared to the standard iPad and the iPad mini, and to most rival tablets out there. The iPad mini is mainly recommended for those who see portability as their main priority. Its an excellent little device, although the smaller screen makes it less immersive for games and entertainment options. The remaining iPads will be too expensive for the average buyer. The 11-inch and 13-inch Pro models are amazingly powerful and well-made, and the arrival of the M4 is excellent news but probably more power than anyone really needs right now. But if youre a creative professional, the Pro is the iPad to get. Finally, before taking the plunge, have you considered if a laptop might suit your needs better? See iPad vs MacBook for more advice on that front. iPad

Macworld 8 May 2024 4:45 pm

Axmed raises $2M from Founderful to streamline drug supply chains in underserved markets

The seed funding follows a $5M grant the startup got from the Gates Foundation to make maternal and child healthcare available in high-priority countries. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 4:42 pm

Xona Space Systems closes $19M Series A to build out ultra-accurate GPS alternative

For decades, the Global Positioning System (GPS) has maintained a de facto monopoly on positioning, navigation and timing, because its cheap and already integrated into billions of devices around the world. But Xona Space Systems thinks a more accurate system will be necessary to scale autonomous vehicles (AVs), advanced robotics and other technologies for the [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 4:30 pm

Dozens of cholera cases reported in flood-hit Kenya

The United Nations voiced concern on Wednesday after dozens of cases of cholera were reported in flood-stricken Kenya. I believe that between government and national and international partners, we'll be able to contain it, the UN's resident coordinator in Kenya, Stephen Jackson, said in an interview with Citizen TV. We've contained cholera before, but it's a significant concern, he added.

The Times of India 8 May 2024 4:13 pm

Samsung Galaxy F55 5G Design, Colourways Revealed; Flipkart Availability Confirmed

Samsung Galaxy F55 5G will launch soon in India, the South Korean brand announced on Wednesday (May 8). A dedicated microsite on Flipkart is teasing the design and colour options of the upcoming F-series smartphone ahead of its debut. The Galaxy F55 5G is confirmed to come in at least two colour options with a vegan leather finish.

NDTV 8 May 2024 4:05 pm

Apples iPad event: 5 unexpected details you may have missed

Macworld If youve been paying attention to the rumors leading up to Apples Let Loose iPad event, you knew what to expect: iPad Air and iPad Pro in 11- and 13-inch sizes with new processors, a new Apple Pencil, and an updated Magic Keyboard. Still, there were a few details during the announcement that hadnt been predicted, and which caught us a little bit by surprise. None of these are earth-shaking revelations, but they can be enough to slightly color our views of some of these products. Here are some of the things we hadnt expected going into the event. Prices that didnt go up The iPad Pro is $200 more expensive no matter which size you picka price you might justify with that fancy new OLED display and twice the storage, perhaps. But the 11-inch iPad Air did not get more expensive, which is a relief. This is the first year a 13-inch iPad Air is available, so we have nothing to compare it against, but $799 feels right. Also not more expensive? The new Apple Pencil Pro , which comes in at the same $129 price as the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, despite having several new capabilities. And the new Magic Keyboard , which has an aluminum deck, larger trackpad with haptic feedback, is slimmer, and has a function row, costs the same as the older Magic Keyboard ($299 for 11-inch iPads; $349 for 13-inch iPads). Its still too expensive, but its nice to see feature inflation without price inflation. The biggest surprise of all? The 10th-gen iPad actually got a $100 price cut , down to $349, which makes it just $20 more than the 9th-gen iPad that is no longer available. We always thought this should have been Apples move from the start: dont keep the 9th-gen model around, just replace it with the 10th-gen model with a very modest price increase (if any). The iPad Pros new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil dont cost any more than the previous generation. The iPad Pros new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil dont cost any more than the previous generation. Petter Ahrnstedt The iPad Pros new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil dont cost any more than the previous generation. Petter Ahrnstedt Petter Ahrnstedt Back to a single camera Where did the 10MP ultra wide camera on the iPad Pro disappear to? Its just gone! We dont know how often it was used, but for the first time since 2020, all thats left is a 12MP Wide camera. Apple could have at least upgraded it to the 48MP wide camera on the new iPhones, to give us that 2x optical crop zoom option. Also missing is mmWave 5G in the cellular modelsbut most people probably wont even know its gone. M4 missing a core If you buy an iPad Pro with less than 1TB of storage, you get 8GB of RAM. If you buy the 1TB or 2TB option, you get 16GB of RAM. Thats the same as it was with the M2 iPad Pro from 2022. But what isnt the same is that you get a lesser M4 processor too. Thats right, while both models have six efficiency cores, the < 1TB models have only three performance cores. If you want the full M4 processor, you have to spend a minimum of $1,599 for the 11-inch 1TB model or $1,899 for the 13-inch 1TB model. Yikes. More storage for the same price Given the price increase and 18-month timeframe since the M2 iPad Pro was announced, its a good thing the 128GB model is simply gone from the lineup and the iPad Pro now starts with 256GB of storage. It takes a little bit of the sting out of the $200 price hike, but not much. No tablet at this price should dream of giving you only 128GB of storage. The iPad Air loses its 128GB model as well and gains a new 2TB option on the high end, leaving the 10th-gen iPad as the only model with 64GB of storage. If you want more storage, rest assured that Apple still charges a ridiculous price for additional storage. Some things never change. The new iPad Air is thin and lightbut not as thin and light as the iPad Pro. The new iPad Air is thin and lightbut not as thin and light as the iPad Pro. Petter Ahrnstedt The new iPad Air is thin and lightbut not as thin and light as the iPad Pro. Petter Ahrnstedt Petter Ahrnstedt Lighter than Air The 11-inch iPad Pro used to be slightly heavier than the 10.9-inch iPad Airjust 5 grams but enough to justify the Air moniker. The new 11-inch iPad Pro is now 18 grams lighter . The difference is even greater with the 13-inch models. The 13-inch iPad Air is about 10 percent lighter than the old 12.9-inch iPad Pro, but the new 13-inch iPad Pro is a few percent lighter still. At 579 grams, its a whopping 103 grams lighter than the M2 model and 38 grams lighter than the 13-inch iPad Air. The iPad Pro is also about a millimeter thinner than the Air. Maybe Apple needs to rename the iPad Air? Accessories, iPad

Macworld 8 May 2024 4:00 pm

Signal president defends messaging app against Musks allegations of known vulnerabilities

Meredith Whittake, the president of Signal responded to Musks tweet clarifying that there was no evidence of his claim and they follow responsible disclosure practices which notifies users about any issues found.

The Hindu 8 May 2024 3:55 pm

How Nasas Roman mission will hunt for primordial black holes

Nasa's Roman Space Telescope, led by DeRocco, explores Earth-mass primordial black holes, influencing cosmic history and dark matter understanding. It surpasses ground observatories, enhancing space exploration.

The Times of India 8 May 2024 3:47 pm

OpenAI is reportedly working on a search feature for ChatGPT

OpenAI is reportedly working on a search feature for ChatGPT that could make the chatbot a veritable alternative to Google Search. According to Bloomberg , the company is currently developing the capability, which can scour the web for answers to your queries and spit out results complete with citations to their sources. ChatGPT could take information from Wikipedia or blog posts, for instance, and link to their original pages when you ask it questions. Bloomberg says that in one version of the experimental search function, ChatGPT can show you images along with its written responses whenever they're relevant. For example, if the chatbot deems illustrated instructions or diagrams useful for an inquiry, such as how to change a doorknob or how to clean a split-type AC, then it could include them in its responses. As Bloomberg notes, ChatGPT can already do searches for paying customers, but it could give faulty responses or replies with incorrect citations. Earlier this month, DataChaz on Twitter/X, reported that OpenAI had created a new subdomain with the address search.chatgpt.com . It apparently briefly rerouted to the main ChatGPT page over the weekend, though you'll get a Not found note if you try to access it now. While the company has yet to officially confirm this particular undertaking, working on AI search is a logical next step if it wants to keep competing with its staunchest rivals. Google recently expanded its AI-powered search results test and started showing them to users who didn't opt in. Then there's Perplexity, a startup currently valued at $1 billion, thanks to its AI-powered search engine that Rabbit uses to respond to inquiries made through the R1 device . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/openai-is-reportedly-working-on-a-search-feature-for-chatgpt-101118170.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 3:41 pm

'High ground: US military plan base on moon by 2030'

The Times of India 8 May 2024 3:33 pm

Penguin-inspired robot explores sea using AI

Quadroin AUV is an underwater research robot that mimics penguins' graceful and swift swimming, descending to depths of 492 feet at speeds up to 11.5 mph.

Fox News 8 May 2024 3:30 pm

FTX crypto fraud victims to get their money back plus interest

Bankruptcy lawyers representing customers impacted by the dramatic crash of cryptocurrency exchange FTX 17 months agosay that the vast majority of victims will receive their money back plus interest. The news comes six months after FTX co-founder and former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) was found guilty on seven counts related to fraud, conspiracy, and [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 3:23 pm

China's secretive Chang'e 6 mission to Moon sparks intrigue and concern

China recently launched its most recent mission to the moon, Chang'e 6, with a rover on board. This mission has sparked curiosity because of its secretive characteristics and possible military significance. Observers have observed a mysterious spacecraft that recent images show attached to the side of the Chang'e 6 lander. The spacecraft is planned to touch down on the far side of the Moon in the upcoming month.

The Times of India 8 May 2024 3:12 pm

Google Wallet App With Support for Passes, Tickets Launched in India; to Operate Alongside Google Pay

Google Wallet has been launched in India and the app will offer support for local services in the country. The search giant says that it has partnered with over 20 companies in India, including PVR, Inox, Air India, Indigo, Flipkart, MakeMyTrip, Easemytrip, Ixigo, and Pine Labs to enable support for storing digital passes, tickets, and documents in India.

NDTV 8 May 2024 2:47 pm

Misperception keeping healthcare providers from prescribing life-saving ORS for child diarrhoea in India: study

Misperception (42%), ORS stock-out (6%) and financial incentives (5%) were identified as barriers for prescription.

The Hindu 8 May 2024 2:47 pm

5 big announcements from Apples Let Loose event

New Delhi: Apple has made big announcements at its Let Loose event in which it unveiled the new iPad Pro, M4 chip, redesigned 11-inch and all-new 13-inch iPad Air with M2 chip, Final Cut Pro for iPad 2, and the all-new Logic Pro for iPad 2 and for Mac 11. The company launched the new Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 8 May 2024 2:35 pm

Amazon to show ads in Prime Video subs when content is paused: Report

Amazon is adding three types of shoppable ads to subs in Prime Videos ad tier

The Hindu 8 May 2024 2:31 pm

The 5 best cordless vacuums for 2024

Cordless vacuums offer a lot of improvements over their corded counterparts. Theyre typically more lightweight and easier to maneuver around your home than upright vacuums, and now that these devices have gotten better over time, you typically dont have to sacrifice suction power when choosing a cordless model over one with an old-school design. But just like the robot vacuum space, there are dozens of cordless vacuums to choose from now. Dyson isnt your only option anymore, which will be a good thing for your wallet but it also means that deciding which will be the best cordless vacuum for you can be confusing with all of the players out there. We at Engadget can help make that decision a bit easier. After testing a bunch of the most popular cordless stick vacuums available today, weve come up with our top picks, plus loads of buying advice to help you figure out which cordless stick vacuum is right for you. Factors to consider before buying a cordless vacuum Design and bin capacity Most of the cordless vacuums youll find today have stick designs, with a handle at the top attached to a debris bin, which has a space to connect different attachments at one end. These designs are more versatile than old school vacuums of yesteryear because, while you may use the long stick attachment most of the time to clean your floors, many cordless vacuums come with other attachments as well. Some allow you to clean hard to reach spaces like the interior of your car, while others make it easier to vacuum furniture and clean inside crevices. Bin volume is worth keeping in mind when youre choosing a cordless vacuum. The larger the bin, the more debris it can hold, but it might also mean a heavier machine. All of the cordless vacuums we tested had a bin size between 0.1 and 0.8 gallons and all were able to handle cleaning an entire one-pet home (roughly 2,000 square feet) in a single run without needing to be emptied. Anything smaller and you may have to deal with more frequent emptying during each cleaning session. Some cordless vacuums also have removable, replaceable battery packs, which is super handy. That means you can buy a replacement battery and install it easily, without needing to seek out professional assistance. Also, these extra batteries cost around $150-$200 a pop expensive, yes, but nowhere near as costly as buying a whole new cordless vacuum. Suction and power modes Cordless vacuum suction power is typically measured in air wattage (AW), but youll see some that list the power of the motor in wattage (W) instead. Typically the higher the air or motor wattage the stronger the suction power, and often strength is proportional to price more expensive cordless vacuums tend to have stronger suction power. A general rule of thumb is that those with precocious pets or mess-making children would benefit from a cordless vacuum cleaner with stronger-than-average suction power. Most cordless stick vacuums will have two different power modes: a normal or default power mode that balances suction power with battery life, as well as a max or stronger mode that kicks suction strength up a notch. Some vacuums, like those from Dyson, also have an eco mode, or one that prioritizes run time over strength. Separate from power modes you can select yourself, some cordless vacuums will automatically adjust motor strength depending on the detected floor type or the amount of mess in its wake. Not only is this convenient, but it also ensures that the machine is working its hardest only when you need it. Battery life Obviously, battery life is important since youll probably want to clean more than one room in a shot. All of the cordless vacuums we tested had a battery life of at least 40 minutes in standard cleaning mode. I tested each by cleaning all three floors of my home (upstairs, downstairs and basement) on a single charge with the machine running in its standard (auto) mode and none of them ran out of juice before I could finish the third floor. That said, extra battery life can come in handy if youre switching between power modes since max or high-power programs use more energy. Base style Most cordless stick vacuums come with some sort of base or mount where the machine lives when youre not using it. Wall mounts are the most common, but some have free-standing bases where you dock and charge the vacuum. Consider the space in your home where you want the cordless vacuum to live, since it will have to have an outlet or another power source nearby. Some high-end cordless vacuums come with self-emptying bases that act much like those included with expensive robot vacuums. After cleaning and returning the vacuum to the base, it will automatically empty the dustbin into a larger dustbin that you can then detach from the base when you need to empty it. This kind of base adds an extra layer of convenience into the mix, since you typically will only have to empty the larger dustbin every month or two. Smart features Yes, some cordless vacuums have smart features like Wi-Fi and app connectivity. But before we get into those, lets talk about the extra perks scattered among these devices. Some models, like the latest from Dyson, include particle sensors that show you how many different sized pieces of debris its sucking up in real time. Dysons, for example, is a piezo acoustic sensor that detects particle size and frequency and displays that information on the vacs LCD screen. Tinecos iLoop sensor is similar, controlling its vacuums automatic suction power adjustment and changing a circle on the display from red to blue as you fully clean an area. Higher-end cordless vacuums may also have companion apps that show things like battery level, filter status and cleaning logs. Its an added level of convenience, but by no means necessary. Unlike robot vacuums, which rely on their apps to set cleaning schedules, manually control the machines and more, cordless vacuums that you operate yourself really dont need Wi-Fi or an app connectivity. Price Cordless stick vacuums range in price from $150 all the way up to over $1,000. The best ones for most people lie in the middle, in the $400 to $700 range. Youll notice most of our picks land in the higher end of that range, but for good reason: More expensive machines tend to have more sucking power, which means less time wasted going over the same spots over and over. But does that mean everyone needs the most premium cordless vacuum? Definitely not. Weve come up with top picks at various price points that should work well for people with different budgets, lifestyles, home sizes and more. How we test cordless vacuums Engadget doesnt have a dedicated lab in which we can test cordless vacuums, but I used each model in my home for weeks. I ran them over hardwood and tile flooring, as well as low-pile carpet. And my first runthrough consisted of cleaning all three floors of my home on a single battery charge. I performed the same cleaning job as many times as possible, but also intermittently cleaned a single floor as needed, or sucked up isolated messes like crumbs, cat litter spills and tufts of pet fur. Over the course of many cleanings with each model, I made note of how loud the machine was, how easy it was to maneuver around my home, how easily it sucked up pieces of large debris (or if it pushed it around my floor instead) and if they got warm or hot. Best cordless stick vacuums for 2024 Other cordless stick vacuums we tested Dyson Gen 5 Detect The Dyson Gen 5 Detect has a single-button start and stronger suction power than our top pick, but its otherwise quite similar. However, since the Gen 5 Detect is more expensive at $950 (although it does receive discounts at Dyson online), the V15 Detect still provides greater value for your money. The Gen 5 Detect is arguably best for those who want the latest Dyson, or care about getting a more future-proof machine, since it came out just last year. Shark Detect Pro The Shark Detect Pro provides a lot of value for the money, but it was ultimately beat by the Tineco Pure One S15 Pet for our runner-up slot thanks to the Tinecos stronger suction power. The kicker for the Detect Pro is that it includes a self-emptying base in its $450 price, which is super handy. Itll automatically dump the contents of the vacuum into the larger bin in the base after every cleaning, and you only need to empty the bases container every month or so. The Detect Pro did a good job cleaning up messes across different types of flooring, and itll auto-adjust suction power depending on the amount of debris and whether youre cleaning hard or carpeted floors. However, its not as smooth to use as any of our top picks and its main cleaner head is a bit tall, making it difficult to use to clean under low furniture. FAQs How long does the battery last on a cordless vacuum? Most cordless vacuums will run for at least 30-40 minutes on a single charge, but you can find cordless vacuums with battery lives of up to 60 or 70 minutes. Manufacturers will outline an estimated battery life for each model, and theyre usually based on using the vacuums standard power mode for the entire runtime; if you switch between modes or prefer to use a higher-powered program for improved suction, youll drain the battery faster. Can cordless vacuums be as powerful as corded ones? Cordless vacuums do sacrifice a bit in overall power when compared to corded models, but that doesnt mean they cant handle everyday messes just as well. If suction power is your biggest concern, we recommend springing for a high-powered, high-end cordless vacuum since, typically, the more expensive a cordless vacuum is, the stronger the suction. Also, cordless vacuums have the edge over corded models when it comes to weight and convenience: cordless vacuums are much lighter than their corded counterparts, and youll never have to worry about placement or picking a fight with a cord while cleaning your living room. Are cordless vacuums effective on pet hair? Yes, cordless vacuums can handle pet hair well, but we recommend getting a model with strong suction power to get the best results. Its also wise to get one with a larger bin, since pet hair can quickly fill up smaller bins, which may force you to stop cleaning to empty the vacuum before finishing. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/best-cordless-vacuum-130007125.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 2:31 pm

Google Wallet introduced in India for non-payment services

Google has partnered with over 20 brands for the rollout of Wallet

The Hindu 8 May 2024 1:44 pm

Google Wallet is now available in India

Google Wallet has debuted in India as the companys digital wallet for non-payment use cases two years after it was launched in the U.S. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 1:42 pm

Maximize your Macs abilities with MacPilot, only $30 for life

Macworld The power, capacity, and look of Macs and MacBooks are impressive, but certain features are left to be desired. Want a more powerful and customized Mac experience? MacPilot is a platform offering 1,200 features to optimize your user experience . Now, lifetime access is only $29.97 (reg. $99). With MacPilot, users can unlock these features to enhance their computing. Customize your dock by adding spacers and sleek smart stacks and menus, repair your Macs system by running maintenance scripts like launch services, display hidden files in Finder, and more. You can even adjust your Mac so you can view all contents of the graphics card and RAM bus speeds , as well as full lists of network ports, error codes, and even key combinations. From UI settings to total system optimization, MacPilot is a standalone tool that can effectively help you craft a more personalized Mac experience. Customize your Mac to your liking and unlock its potential with lifetime access to MacPilot, now just $29.97 for a limited time. MacPilot Lifetime License Only $29.97 at Macworld StackSocial prices subject to change. Accessories

Macworld 8 May 2024 1:30 pm

Bluesky to add DMs, video support and in-app custom feed curation

The social network said it is planning to introduce direct messages, support for videos, improved custom feeds, and new moderation controls. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.

TechCrunch 8 May 2024 12:59 pm

The 2023 Echo Show 8 is on sale for $100 right now

Last year Amazon upgraded its Echo Show 8 to make it look better, sound better and respond more quickly to Alexa commands. It made our best smart display list , and if you've been eyeing one, it's on sale at a steep discount. The third-gen, 2023 Echo Show 8 is 33 percent off , bringing it down to just $100 ($50 off), only $10 off the all-time low. Amazon also has stellar deals on the Echo Dot and Echo Pop , offering them for $28 and $20 respectively. The 2023 Echo Show 8 has a new design with edge-to-edge glass and softer curves that help it blend into your decor. Inside, it comes with new spatial audio with room calibration that allows for fuller sound than previous model. Meanwhile, video calling benefits from crisper audio and a 13-megapixel camera. The new Adaptive Content feature changes whats shown on the screen based on where you are in the room. If youre standing far away, itll display easily digestible information in large font, like the weather or news headlines. As you get closer, itll switch to a more detailed view. It can also show personalized content for anyone enrolled in visual ID, surfacing your favorite playlists and other content. It also boasts 40 percent faster response times for Alexa thanks to its upgraded processor. For privacy-conscious buyers, it has a physical camera shutter thats controlled with a slider on the top of the device. Theres also a button to turn off the mic and camera. As mentioned, the Echo Show (3rd gen) is on sale for $100 in either charcoal or glacier white. If you only need a small Echo speaker device for an extra room, Amazon is also selling the 5th-generation Dot for just $28 , a steep 44 percent off the regular $50 price. That device has the best sound yet for a Dot device, while offering Alexa, smart home features and more. Amazon's smallest device, the Echo Pop, also offers Alexa features and is on sale for just $20 . Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-2023-echo-show-8-is-on-sale-for-100-right-now-071949479.html?src=rss

Engadget 8 May 2024 12:49 pm