USB gadgets from Ikea, along with lesser-known smart devices and sensors that can be beneficial for both home and personal use. Thus, if you find yourself at Ikea and are looking to purchase some electronics, here are five items you likely weren’t aware you could acquire there.
No home entertainment system is truly complete without speakers, but they often present two challenges. First, they can occupy significant space, particularly the larger, more powerful models. And second, they frequently clash with your living room’s decor, easily standing out in an undesirable way. If you’re seeking something elegant that doesn’t compromise on performance, consider the Symfonisk Floor Lamp with Wi-Fi Sonos Speaker from Ikea.
Developed in collaboration between Ikea and Sonos, the Symfonisk is a combination of a floor lamp and a Wi-Fi speaker. The floor lamp is designed with a bamboo shade to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the speaker delivers 180-degree sound and is rated at 15W. Like other Wi-Fi speakers, the Symfonisk Floor Lamp Speaker can stream your selected content from major platforms on your phone and continues to play even when you receive calls or notifications. The speaker is compatible with AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect as well.
If you have
Read Moreintegrating AI into current software like the Paint app. This transformation has resulted in significant changes that have left Microsoft users cautious about the new path, ranging from the unfortunate closure of Skype to AI-fueled increases in Microsoft 365 pricing. Predominantly, these modifications mirror a scenario where technology firms are reallocating resources toward budding technological markets. One alteration that disappointed longtime users was Microsoft’s announcement of the upcoming end of one of its oldest programs, Microsoft Publisher. Per Microsoft’s lifecycle webpage, the company will officially stop supporting the application on October 1, 2026. In the meantime, users are urged to convert all Publisher files to alternate formats, like PDFs or Word documents. Microsoft’s support site offers useful guidelines on how to transition Publisher documents into new formats, including a PowerShell script to streamline the process.
Launched in 1991 and initially bundled with Office 97 Small Business Edition, Microsoft Publisher was developed in response to programs such as QuarkXPress, PageMaker, and InDesign. It allowed small businesses, students, and the publishing sector to create promotional materials with easily templated options, ranging from brochures and business cards to newsletters, magazines, and newspapers. Over the years, the product has seen numerous updates, introducing web publishing tools, PDF exports, and cloud collaboration features in a bid to adapt to the evolving publishing environment. Nevertheless, recent changes have pushed Publisher out of a saturated market. Fortunately, for supporters of the application, a variety of alternatives can readily fill the gap.
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Read MoreApple is said to be postponing the introduction of the iPhone Air 2. A report from The Information states that Apple has notified engineers and suppliers that the upcoming iPhone Air has been removed from the schedule without a new launch date. This choice is linked to sales of the current iPhone Air being lower than anticipated, resulting in considerable cuts in production.
The second iteration of the iPhone Air was originally slated for release in the fall alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold. It was expected to be lighter than the previous version and to boast a larger battery capacity. Furthermore, Apple was developing a vapor chamber cooling system, which was first introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro, for the iPhone Air 2. There were also speculations that the device may feature dual cameras.
Despite the delay, Apple has not entirely scrapped the iPhone Air 2. Certain engineers and manufacturers remain involved in its development, but there is no concrete release date at this time. The decision to remove the iPhone Air 2 from the timeline is considered unusual and without precedent.
The drop in sales of the existing iPhone Air has been notable, with reports suggesting that Foxconn has decommissioned most of its production lines for the device and anticipates completely ceasing production soon. Luxshare, another manufacturing partner, has also halted the assembly of the iPhone Air.
Consequently, Apple is now projected to roll out three new iPhones in the fall: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold. The entry-level iPhone 18 and the budget-oriented iPhone 18e are expected to arrive in spring 2027.
There is a chance that the iPhone Air 2 is undergoing a major redesign, with speculation it might still debut in spring 2027 alongside the standard iPhone 18 and the 18e.
In general, the news regarding the delay of the iPhone Air 2 has disappointed its fans, particularly those who value its sleek and lightweight design. The iPhone Air has received accolades for blending a large display with a slim profile, making it a distinctive addition to Apple’s product range.
Read More**The Growth of Pause Ads in Streaming Platforms**
Last week, Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president, mentioned that the company has “no intentions” for an ad-supported version of Apple TV. However, a recent report underscores a rising trend among major streaming services to adopt ‘pause ads’—advertisements that display on-screen when a viewer halts a show or film.
### Netflix, Amazon, Disney, and Others Are Establishing ‘Pause Ads’ as Standard
Pause ads are becoming more prevalent across various streaming platforms. These ads are shown each time a viewer pauses their content, creating a novel advertising opportunity for services. According to Brian Steinberg from *Variety*, Peacock has delivered full-screen pause ads since its inception, while Netflix has rolled out commercials that take up either half or the entire screen during pauses. Warner Bros. Discovery is experimenting with full-screen pause ads globally, while Disney is examining a format called “Pause+,” which enlarges to full-screen only if the viewer chooses to do so.
Leading streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and Peacock are acknowledging the advantages of pause ads. Reports suggest that both Amazon and Netflix have experienced heightened user interaction with pause ads in contrast to traditional video advertisements.
### 9to5Mac’s Perspective
This trend distinguishes Apple TV as it remains ad-free for the time being. Eddy Cue’s confirmation of the lack of plans for ads is reassuring for subscribers who favor an uninterrupted viewing experience. For other streaming platforms, pause ads may appear as a sensible strategy to persuade users to sign up for pricier ad-free tiers or to create additional revenue from current subscribers.
While certain viewers might find pause ads unappealing, the truth is that as long as ad-free choices are presented, streaming services may persist in seeking methods to optimize their advertising income.
### Conclusion
The advent of pause ads signifies a noteworthy transformation in how streaming platforms handle advertising. As competition escalates, services are in search of innovative strategies to engage viewers and boost revenue. While Apple TV sustains its ad-free condition, the streaming landscape keeps evolving, and it remains uncertain how long this will persist.
Read More**9to5Mac Daily: Your Hub for Daily Apple Updates and Analysis**
In the ever-evolving realm of technology, remaining informed with the newest updates is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides a brief and insightful summary of the day’s leading stories, making it a vital tool for anyone keen on Apple products and news.
### What is 9to5Mac Daily?
9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that offers listeners daily updates on the most important news concerning Apple and its ecosystem. Every episode is crafted to keep you abreast of the latest product launches, software upgrades, and market trends, all presented in an easily digestible manner.
### Where to Listen
Listeners can engage with 9to5Mac Daily across various platforms, allowing you to listen wherever you may be. The podcast is accessible on:
– [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
– [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
– [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
– [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
– [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and additional podcast apps.
### Daily Episodes
Fresh episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are produced every weekday, guaranteeing that you receive the latest updates in a timely manner. Subscribing to the podcast ensures that new episodes are sent straight to your chosen podcast player.
### Subscription Benefits
For those who wish to support the podcast and enrich their listening experience, a subscription to 9to5Mac Daily Plus is offered. Subscribers benefit from:
– Ad-free versions of each episode
– Exclusive content that delves deeper into particular subjects
### Engaging with the Podcast
Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. You can connect via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and
Read MoreFrom flagship models to foldable devices, here are the top Motorola deals to look for this Black Friday.
Prepare yourself: Black Friday is imminent, but you need not wait until November 28th to snag impressive Motorola deals. A range of devices from affordable smartphones to high-end Moto foldables are presently available at discounted prices across the internet, and I’ve compiled a selection of my favorite offers below.
This collection features deals such as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://bestbuy.7tiv.net/c/1943169/614286/10014?subId1=ac-gb-1279239985705547147&sharedId=ac-gb&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fproduct%2Fmotorola-moto-g-stylus-2025-256gb-unlocked-pantone-surf-the-web%2FJ39QWYQCRV"
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We may earn a commission on purchases made through links.
As one of the largest retailers globally, Walmart operates more than 10,000 stores and serves as a comprehensive shopping destination for various customer needs — including groceries, clothing, and electronics. In the realm of electronics, Walmart boasts an impressive array of products across nearly every category, featuring top brands like Samsung, Apple, Sony, and its own brand ONN. Nevertheless, picking out a single item from such a vast selection can be challenging and daunting, given the sheer number of options available.
Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of the highest-rated electronics across different categories at Walmart that users trust. Whether you’re seeking wearable technology for fitness, a portable charger for your journeys, or a compact fridge for your college room, these top selections provide exceptional value, fulfill daily requirements, and are regarded as the premier choice in their categories.
Roman Arbuzov/Shutterstock
Our initial selection is the <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2
Read MoreAI developed with defective code can manifest similar personality characteristics. Recent research may have uncovered a significant biological distinction that differentiates psychopaths. They possess a greater striatal volume in their brains.
Striatal volume pertains to the dimensions of the corpus striatum within the brain. The striatum facilitates the connection between motivation and movement, enabling us to convert thoughts or objectives into actions. It also plays an essential role in decision-making, reward assessment, and social interactions. A study aiming to explore this was conducted by three researchers from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, the University of Pennsylvania, and California State University, Long Beach. Through brain imaging, they discovered a 9% enlargement in striatal size among individuals with psychopathy.
This investigation was published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research under the title “Larger striatal volume is associated with increased adult psychopathy.” The study additionally revealed that characteristics such as impulsivity and thrill-seeking contributed to the association between psychopathy and increased striatal volume.
# watchOS 26: New Features and Improvements for Your Apple Watch
watchOS 26 brings a variety of enhancements aimed at improving the user experience on the Apple Watch. Noteworthy updates include fresh watch face hints, an exclusive Notes app, and major upgrades to the Control Center. A prominent feature is the automatic volume adjustment, which is designed to facilitate a smoother interaction with notifications and alerts.
## Automatic Volume Adjustment: A Revolutionary Change
A standout feature in watchOS 26 is the automatic volume adjustment. This capability enables the Apple Watch to automatically alter the speaker volume in response to the surrounding ambient noise. According to Apple, this means that alerts, timers, alarms, incoming calls, and Siri will be tuned to ensure they are perceivable without being intrusive.
For users accustomed to Silent Mode, this feature may prompt a new approach to managing notifications. Many users, especially those who prefer haptic-only alerts, might still opt to keep Silent Mode activated. However, for those who favor audible notifications, this enhancement could greatly enrich the experience, especially in settings where noise levels vary.
### Advantages of Automatic Volume Adjustment
1. **Improved Usability in Different Settings**: The feature is especially advantageous in noisy environments, guaranteeing that alerts are heard without being overpowering. In contrast, in quieter surroundings, the volume will be reduced to prevent disturbing others.
2. **User Customization**: Users can enable or disable this feature via the Watch app on their iPhone under ‘Sounds & Haptics’. This adaptability allows for a tailored experience aligned with personal preferences.
3. **Model Compatibility**: It is crucial to highlight that automatic volume adjustment is available only on select Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and 11, along with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3.
### Final Thoughts
The rollout of automatic volume adjustment in watchOS 26 marks a significant advancement in making the Apple Watch more user-friendly and versatile across different contexts. While some users may still favor haptic alerts, the new feature offers an intriguing alternative for those who value audible notifications. As users engage with these enhancements, their feedback on effectiveness will be essential in informing future updates and features.
Read More**Apple’s Future AirPods Pro: A Change in Tactics**
Apple has recently unveiled the AirPods Pro 3 this autumn, yet rumors are already circulating about the forthcoming version of the AirPods Pro, set to debut in 2026. This upgraded model is said to bring about notable modifications that could transform Apple’s strategy concerning its well-received wireless earbuds.
### Moving Away from Convention
In the past, Apple has adhered to a consistent three-year interval between new releases of AirPods Pro. Nevertheless, the forthcoming model is expected to challenge this norm, indicating the first instance where Apple will roll out new AirPods Pro in back-to-back years. This adjustment in schedule implies a more assertive product strategy designed to align with consumer preferences and technological progress.
### An Altered Lineup
The upcoming AirPods Pro iteration is likely to deviate from the usual naming scheme. Instead of being designated as AirPods Pro 4, it will be marketed as a premium version of the AirPods Pro 3. This method reflects the approach taken with the standard AirPods, which come in two distinct variations: one featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and another without. The refreshed AirPods Pro series may likewise include two versions—one with cutting-edge IR cameras and one without. This diversification could address various consumer preferences and use scenarios.
### Adjustments in Pricing
With the rollout of new functionalities, especially the addition of cameras, the pricing framework for the AirPods Pro is anticipated to evolve. While the AirPods Pro 3 will retain its price of $249, the upcoming model featuring cameras is rumored to debut at a higher price point, potentially surpassing $279 and possibly climbing to $299 or beyond. This increase mirrors the enhanced value of advanced technology and features, establishing the new AirPods Pro as a premium choice within Apple’s audio portfolio.
### Summary
The expected alterations in timing, lineup, and pricing for the next AirPods Pro indicate a noteworthy strategic transformation for Apple. By launching new models more regularly and broadening their selections, Apple seeks to bolster its competitive advantage in the wireless audio landscape. As consumers look forward to the official announcement, the anticipation surrounding these advancements persists.
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