Hardware

Mid-week Apple Book and audiobook deals up to 88% off

Todays lineup of the best Apple Books deals is now ready to roll, including titles like Hidden Prey (Unabridged), High Treason, Cosmos Confidential: Bill & Neils Excellent Bromance, Four Minutes: A Thriller, Out of Range, The 6:20 Man, A Darkness More Than Night, A Game of Fear, and more. The latest Apple Watch Ultra 4 is nearly $100 off , alongside some serious clearance deals on Apple Watch Ultra 3 at $250 off , but we also have the return Amazons pre-order discount on the new Apple HomeView and a $50 price drop on AirPods Pro 3 too. The books await below. more

Xbox Cloud Gaming could soon let players use their smartphones as controllers on TVs

Xbox Cloud Gaming already lets you play console games on a compatible smart TV without owning an Xbox. But theres still one piece of hardware you need to get started. A controller. Microsoft is now testing a way to get around that requirement, allowing players to use their Android phone or iPhone as a virtual []

Official Apple iPhone 18 Pro/Max cases are up to 40% off at Amazon right now

While we are still awaiting some solid price drops on the official iPhone Duo Folio with Kickstand and the basic iPhone Duo Case , there are plenty of deals live on Apples iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max cases. Youll find our roundup of all of our favorite models from all sorts of the best brands out there, but if you are looking to go with an official offering there are plenty of models now sitting at up to 40% off the list prices. more

Pangram expands its AI detection tools to video and images

The company behind the widely used tool for AI text is moving into more kinds of AI slop.

Xbox is testing two new controller options for Cloud Gaming

The Nano Controller is adopting a Google Stadia trick.

Turn your Android phone into a handheld with ASUS

We just spotted a deal at Amazon that drops ASUS ROG Tessen Android mobile gaming controller down to $60 shipped . This is originally a $110 unit that has more recently been going for $130. Todays deal delivers a 50% discount, which takes $65 off its usual going rate to land it $4 below its previous all-time low. This is the lowest price we have tracked for this gamepad, so be sure to snag it after getting more details below. more

Twelve South CableStay USB-C Cable and Anchor drops to $26

Twelve South CableStay USB-C Cable & Anchor Buy for $26.50 (Reg. $30) What we love An admittedly quirky tech accessory, it can be handy for folks who happen to need a neat and tidy way to keep a USB-C cable in place on a table top. CableStay is a weighted and adjustable anchor with a built-in USB-C cable that can make for a fun stocking stuffer or inexpensive gift over the holidays. more

Nintendo's main Switch cartridge supplier is leaving the ROM business

This is potentially terrible news for those who love physical media.

Mid-week Android app deals and freebies: Poker Ya Joker, Despotism, Potion Permit, more

Todays best Google Play app and game deals are ready, including This Aint Even Poker, Ya Joker, Potion Permit, Slime Legends Survivor, Despotism 3k, Three Kingdoms: Grand Strategy, Can You Escape: The Collection, My Car My Life, and more. We still have the best deal ever on the 2026 Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL,and $100 off all Pixel Watch 5 models, but if you have your eye on Galaxy Z Fold 8 , they are now $300 off with a FREE $200 store credit . The apps await below. more

Huge $750 discount strikes Samsung

As part of its now-live early Black Friday deals , Best Buy is offering the 16-inch Galaxy Book 4 Edge Snapdragon X Elite Copilot+ PC down at $699.99 shipped . This model carries a $1,450 listed price, so youre looking at a massive $750 discount on it right now. Todays deal marks the return of the lowest this config briefly hit earlier this year during a Samsung flash sale. It delivers some serious value at $700 with a large AMOLED touchscreen, 16GB of RAM, and so on. You can save even more with Best Buys open-box and refurbished units starting as low as $630 right now, but that only $70 less than a brand new one highlighted here. Head below for more details. more

Stocking stuffer alert: 2026 Apple Polishing Cloth back in-stock at $9 Prime shipped

The 2026 next-generation Apple Polishing Cloth is making a triumphant return and is now back in-stock . After completely selling out at Amazon, you can now once again purchase the only way to properly clean a foldable iPhone display or the new touchscreen MacBook score one now for $9 Prime shipped before they are gone for good. more

God of War Laufey runs into a delay, but thankfully, it

Santa Monica Studio announced that its delaying the game, which is now expected to land on May 20 next year.

God of War Laufey is delayed until May 20

Santa Monica Studio will use the extra time to push the game to its fullest potential.

Black Friday 2026 sale schedule: Key dates to watch out for

We have already begun two collate the most important sale dates for Black Friday 2026, but with so brands and retailers ready to, and already, launching sale events, we are bringing everything together in one easy to digest list for you here. more

Two retractable USB-C cables headline this car charger, now only $16.50

LISEN Retractable Dual USB-C Car Charger Buy for $16.50 (Reg. $18) What we love By no means is this a massive discount, but it does pack quite a bit of value at full price, so just about any markdown is warranted. Youre looking at a car charger that delivers not one, but two retractable Type-C cables. Youll also find USB-A and USB-C ports. more

Redditor uses AI to get Switch games running natively on Apple TV

The TVPort project is another example of people using Claude Code to bring software to other platforms

Bluetooth is going to get a lot faster in 2027

Bluetooth HDT's rollout will benefit a wide range of wireless devices and how they communicate.

Modernize fall trimming with Fanttik

Fanttik Y10 Pro Cordless Electric Pruning Shears Buy for $80 (Reg. $100) Automatic 20% off coupon applied at checkout. What we love Over the last six years, I have planted a lot of trees in my yard and either leading into or exiting the winter season, I need to do a bit of trimming. If youre anything like me, youll consider grabbing a tool like this to make the job a bit easier. Its much more modern than many alternatives too, with a USB-C rechargeable design, color display, and more. more

Mid-week Apple TV deals up to 88% off: Family Guy, loads of Godzilla films, Disney classics, more

Alongside the return of Amazons pre-order discount on the new Apple HomeView , todays lineup of the best Apple TV deals is now ready to roll with Family Guy, Fantasia, loads of Godzilla and Kong flicks, Jason Bourne, La La Land, the Lara Croft Tomb Raider Collection, The Incredible Burt Wonderstone, and more. Just be sure to dive into the $50 price drop on AirPods Pro 3 , Apple Watch Ultra 4 at nearly $100 off , and some banger clearance deals on Apple Watch Ultra 3 at $250 off more

UGREEN offers MX Vertical vibes for only $15 Prime shipped (Save 32%)

UGREEN Quiet Ergonomic Wireless Mouse Buy for $15 (Reg. $22) What we love I really like ergonomic mice, and I think that this style looks great. In fact, it reminds me quite a bit of Logitechs MX Vertical, which sells for up to $120. This unit sells for a fraction of that when at full price, let alone after todays discount. It may not have all of the same bells and whistles, but it sure is an affordable way to get a similar unit on your desk. more

Elon Musk spent nearly $500 million on the midterms and lost big-time

This was the Cybertruck of elections.

Best AirPlay speakers for iPhones and Apple Music

Macworld Apples HomePod and HomePod mini are obvious choices for Apple users, but there are plenty of alternatives that work with your iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV. Whether you want a compact kitchen speaker, a multi-room setup or a stereo system for music and TV, you could find features and value that better suit your needs. AirPlay makes it easy to stream audio from your iPhone, iPad or Mac to a compatible wireless speaker, while AirPlay 2 lets you play music across multiple rooms. You can listen to your own music library or stream from Apple Music , Spotify and other services. We explain how AirPlay works and what it offers later in this guide. Our picks cover a range of designs, features and budgets to help you choose the best speaker for your Apple devices. For Apple Music and Siri, start with the HomePod mini 2 or choose the full-size HomePod for richer sound. The Audio Pro A28 W is a good option if you want separate stereo speakers and a TV connection, while the Sonos Era 300 is our pick for Dolby Atmos music. AirPlay 2 support is a priority for the speakers in this roundup, particularly if you want to build a multi-room system. We also include portable options for listening around the house or away from home, clearly identifying which support AirPlay and which rely on Bluetooth so you can choose the right connection for the way you listen. Best speakers for iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV 2026 Weve tested the best speakers you can buy to use with your Apple products below, so read on to find out which AirPlay speakers are best. HomePod mini 2 Best compact speaker for Apple Music Pros Impressive sound for its size Apple Music voice control Flexible stereo and multiroom playback Cons Limited improvement over original Requires constant external power Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $149 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: Its a compact sound system offering effortless Apple Music playback. The HomePod mini 2 suits iPhone owners who want a compact speaker for Apple Music, with Siri voice control and multiroom playback. At $149/149, its pricier than its predecessor. Our colleagues at Macwelt found its sound slightly clearer and punchier, with impressive results for its size, but the improvement is too small to justify replacing a working original. Setup requires an iPhone or iPad and Wi-Fi, with settings managed through Apples Home app. You can ask Siri to play Apple Music, send audio using AirPlay, or transfer playback by bringing a compatible iPhone close. Touch controls handle playback and volume. Original minis and mini 2s work together for multiroom listening, but stereo pairs require matching models. At 84.3mm high, 97.9mm wide and 335g, it fits easily on a shelf or bedside table. Wireless connections include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6 and Thread. Theres no battery: its suitable for moving between power outlets indoors. On compatible Macs with Wi-Fi 6E or later, it also works as the default speaker. You can also use four HomePod mini 2 speakers for TV surround sound with the fourth-generation Apple TV 4K, arranging them as matching front and rear pairs. Alternatively, use two second-generation HomePods at the front and two mini 2 speakers behind you. Macwelt found latency reduced, but still excessive for recording instruments. For better stereo separation, buy two matching minis; for stronger bass and bigger sound, consider the full-size HomePod. Existing owners should keep their original minis unless they need the new audio options or forthcoming Siri AI. Sound Glows animated lighting also works on the original, so that alone is no reason to upgrade. Apple HomePod (2nd generation, 2023) Best HomePod for sound quality Pros Rich, detailed, room-filling sound Dolby Atmos music playback Easy setup and stereo pairing Cons Siri can be frustrating No wired audio input Price When Reviewed: $349 (was $299) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $349 View Deal $349 View Deal $349 View Deal $349 View Deal $349.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Why we like it: It offers rich, immersive sound with powerful bass and Dolby Atmos support. The second-generation HomePod suits Apple Music subscribers who want fuller sound than the mini can deliver, particularly for a living room or an Apple TV setup. At $349/349, the premium buys stronger bass, greater detail and Dolby Atmos support. In our testing, its presentation was rich, immersive and better balanced than the original HomePod, with particularly pleasing results across classical, pop and rock. Setup is straightforward: plug it in, bring an iPhone close, select a room and wait a few minutes. Settings live in Apples Home app, while Apple Music playback requires a subscription. Control music through Siri, your iPhone or the touch surface; our reviewer found phone control intuitive but Siri frustratingly prone to choosing the wrong songs. AirPlay supports other audio apps and multiroom playback alongside HomePods and minis. Measuring 168mm high and 142mm wide, and weighing 2.3kg, its compact enough for a shelf but needs a permanent power connection. Theres no battery, so think occasional moves between rooms rather than outdoor portability. Connections include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 and Thread, but no wired audio input; the power cable is detachable (the first-generation wire was attached, but could become detached). The full-size HomePod is worth the extra over a mini if bass, room-filling sound and spatial audio are your priorities. If your budget allows, two second-generation HomePods create a more immersive stereo system: our reviewer found the results stunning, particularly with Apple TV. Stereo pairs must use the same HomePod model and generation, but different models can play together in a multiroom setup. If you already have two second-generation HomePods, you can add two HomePod mini 2 speakers as rear surrounds, provided you also have a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K running the latest software. Read our full Apple HomePod (2nd generation, 2023) review Audio Pro C10 MKII W Best for sound quality Pros Clear, detailed, powerful sound Versatile wireless and wired connections Useful app and preset controls Cons Deep bass lacks impact No USB-C audio input Price When Reviewed: $425 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Audio Pro $425 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: It offers clear, detailed sound with versatile connections. The Audio Pro C10 MKII W suits listeners who want a main music system with more connection options than a HomePod. Our reviewer preferred its clarity and precision even to Apples full-size speaker. Vocals sounded smooth, strings and percussion retained their detail, and dense rock arrangements remained distinct. Its 80W output comfortably handles living-room listening, although the deepest bass could have more impact. The Audio Pro app provides streaming services, EQ and room correction, while six preset buttons recall saved playlists or radio stations without reopening the app. For Apple Music, use AirPlay 2 from your iPhone, iPad or Mac; our reviewer used an iPad successfully. AirPlay 2 also enables multiroom playback with HomePods and compatible speakers from other brands. Google Cast, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect broaden its appeal beyond Apple households. Measuring 166 320 180mm and weighing just over 4kg, this is a speaker to leave in one room. It needs mains power, has no battery, and doesnt have a water-resistance rating. Connections include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, RCA input and a subwoofer output, but no USB-C audio. It earns its premium over a HomePod mini through sound quality, power and connectivity. Against HomePod 2, our reviewer favored its clarity and precision; RCA input and a subwoofer output add flexibility. Choose HomePod 2 for Siri and Dolby Atmos. Paired minis merit consideration for stereo separation. Read our full Audio Pro C10 MKII W review Audio Pro A28 W Best stereo speakers for music and TV Pros Expansive, detailed stereo sound HDMI ARC for TV audio Flexible streaming and multiroom support Cons Needs space and connecting cable No USB-C or 3.5mm input Price When Reviewed: $650 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Audio Pro $650 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: You get spacious stereo sound and flexible connections for music and TV. If you prefer separate stereo speakers, the Audio Pro A28 W is an excellent option for music and TV sound. Our reviewer found its presentation more spacious and immersive than a single HomePod, with smooth vocals, weighty bass and clear percussion even in busy tracks. Its combined 150W output filled the room comfortably without approaching maximum volume. Setup involves connecting the left speaker to mains power and linking it to the right using the supplied speaker cable. Bluetooth provides a quick connection, while Wi-Fi enables AirPlay 2 playback from Apple Music and other iPhone, iPad or Mac apps. Multiroom support includes Audio Pro, AirPlay 2 and Google Cast. The Audio Pro app offers a 10-band equalizer and sound presets, while an included remote handles playback and input selection. Each sturdy MDF cabinet measures 238 150 200mm, and the pair weighs 6.43kg. They need bookshelf or stand space, and their connecting cable makes moving them less convenient than relocating a single speaker. Theres no battery or published water-resistance rating. Wired connections include RCA, optical and HDMI ARC for a TV, plus a subwoofer output; USB-C and 3.5mm inputs are absent. Choose the A28 W over a HomePod mini if you want a powerful main music system with separate stereo speakers and wired connections. The HomePod 2 offers Dolby Atmos, built-in Siri and suits smaller spaces and tighter budgets. Read our full Audio Pro A28 W review Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition Best premium all-in-one music speaker Pros Powerful, detailed, room-filling sound Stereo from one enclosure AirPlay 2 multiroom support Cons Large and expensive No wired audio inputs Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $899 View Deal $899 View Deal $899 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: Its a distinctive all-in-one wireless speaker offering powerful, detailed sound. The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition suits Apple Music listeners who want a powerful main music system without separate speaker cabinets. Its distinctive enclosure houses left and right channels alongside a dedicated subwoofer, with 240W of amplification. Our reviewer praised its precise strings, rich cellos and clear vocal harmonies, while rock tracks had weighty guitars and crisp electronic detail. For network setup, the Bowers & Wilkins Music app guides you through naming the speakers location and connecting to Wi-Fi; an account and email verification are required. The app provides streaming services, bass and treble adjustments, and lighting controls. Apple Music plays through AirPlay 2, which also enables multiroom listening with compatible speakers, including HomePods. Alternatively, Bluetooth supports standalone playback without network setup. Theres no built-in voice assistant. At 650mm wide, 210mm high and 194mm deep, and weighing 6.6kg, this needs a substantial shelf or sideboard. It requires mains power, has no battery, and, it seems, no water-resistance rating. Bluetooth includes AAC and aptX Adaptive, but there are no wired audio inputs: the USB-C port doesnt accept music playback. Its bass, power and built-in stereo channels justify spending more than on a mini. Against the HomePod 2, it offers stereo from one enclosure and Bluetooth playback, but costs more and lacks Siri and Dolby Atmos. Choose HomePod for those features; Zeppelin for a dedicated music system. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition review Sonos Era 100 Best for building a Sonos system Pros Clear, room-filling stereo sound AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth playback Flexible Sonos multiroom system Cons No Dolby Atmos support Wired input needs extra adapter Price When Reviewed: $219 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check on Amazon Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: It offers flexible connectivity and an expandable multiroom system. The Sonos Era 100 suits listeners who want a compact music speaker with room to build a multiroom system. Its two angled tweeters deliver stereo sound from one cabinet, while a substantial woofer supplies convincing bass. In our listening tests, Enyas layered vocals sounded light and shimmering, electronic details remained crisp, and rumbling drums gave the presentation weight. Initial setup requires Wi-Fi and the Sonos app, even if you subsequently use Bluetooth. The app manages services and settings, including Trueplay room tuning and adjustable EQ. Apple Music plays through AirPlay 2 from an iPhone, iPad or Mac. You can group compatible speakers through AirPlay or build a Sonos multiroom system, while touch controls handle playback, volume and grouping. Measuring 182.5 120 130.5mm and weighing 2.02kg, it fits comfortably on a shelf or kitchen counter. It needs mains power and has no battery, making it suitable for occasional moves between rooms. Sonos describes it as humidity resistant; dont treat that as waterproofing. Connections include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, with line-in or Ethernet available through separately purchased USB-C adapters. Spend more than on a HomePod mini for the Era 100s stereo presentation, Bluetooth and optional wired input. Choose HomePod 2 if Dolby Atmos and built-in Siri matter more; the Era 100 doesnt support spatial audio. In our listening tests we felt that two Era 100s widened the stereo soundstage though. JBL Cove M1 Best compact alternative to HomePod Pros Warm, detailed, engaging sound Straightforward setup and AirPlay playback Stereo and multiroom support Cons No Dolby Atmos support No wired audio input Price When Reviewed: $229.95 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price JBL $229.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Why we like it: It offers warm, detailed sound with AirPlay, Bluetooth and flexible multiroom playback. The JBL Cove M1 suits Apple users who want a compact AirPlay speaker with the option to expand into a multiroom system. At $229.95/199.99, its an accessible entry point to JBLs Cove range. Our listening tests found warm strings and delicate electronic chimes on Madonnas Frozen, followed by sharp percussion and an energetic guitar riff that kept the music moving. Setup is straightforward: the JBL One app connects over Bluetooth, then prompts for your Wi-Fi password. Once connected, you can play Apple Music through AirPlay 2 without returning to JBLs app. Bluetooth provides another playback option, while built-in Alexa handles voice requests. Theres a switch to disable the microphone if you prefer. Available in black or white, the M1 measures 184mm high and 125mm wide and deep, making it easy to accommodate on a desk or shelf. Three tweeters and a 105mm woofer fit inside. It requires mains power, so its suited to moving between rooms rather than taking out. Connections include dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but theres no 3.5mm or USB-C audio input. Consider it over a HomePod mini if you want Bluetooth playback, Alexa or integration with JBLs MK2 soundbars. Two M1s can form a stereo pair, and multiroom playback is supported. HomePod 2 offers Dolby Atmos and built-in Siri; the M1 is a compact alternative if those features matter less than connection flexibility and expanding a JBL system. Sonos Roam 2 Best portable AirPlay speaker Pros Clear sound with convincing bass Lightweight, waterproof, backpack-friendly design AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth playback Cons Modest ten-hour battery life Wi-Fi setup proved fiddly Price When Reviewed: $179 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Sonos $139 View Deal $178 View Deal Adorama $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal $179 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Why we like it: You get clear, lively sound in a lightweight, waterproof, genuinely portable speaker. The Sonos Roam 2 suits listeners who want one speaker for home listening and days out. Our reviewer found impressive clarity and respectable bass for its size, with fuzzy rock guitars, energetic keyboards and crisp percussion all handled confidently. Wi-Fi playback sounded clearer than Bluetooth, making AirPlay worthwhile when youre at home. Getting started over Bluetooth is straightforward thanks to a dedicated pairing button. For Wi-Fi, AirPlay and Sonos multiroom listening, use the Sonos app. Our reviewer encountered difficulties with separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, although playback worked well once connected. Apple Music streams from your Apple devices through AirPlay 2 at home or Bluetooth outdoors. Physical buttons control playback and volume. At 168 62 60mm and just 430g, it slips easily into a backpack. Its IP67 rating protects against dust and immersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Battery life reaches ten hours at moderate volume. Charging works through USB-C or a compatible Qi wireless pad, but theres no wired audio input, and a power adapter isnt included. Choose it over a HomePod mini if battery power and outdoor durability matter: this is genuinely portable, rather than simply movable between outlets. HomePod 2 makes more sense for a permanent living-room system where bigger sound and Dolby Atmos take priority. A stereo pair offers another home-listening option. Read our full Sonos Roam 2 review Sonos Era 300 Best for Dolby Atmos music Pros Powerful, immersive Dolby Atmos sound Detailed vocals and substantial bass AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth playback Cons Bulky and expensive Wired input requires extra adapter Price When Reviewed: $499 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Adorama $449 View Deal $449 View Deal Sonos $449 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal $499 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide View more prices Why we like it: It offers immersive Dolby Atmos music with detailed vocals and substantial bass. The Sonos Era 300 suits Apple Music subscribers who want to explore spatial audio or expand a Sonos system. Its six drivers project sound forward, sideways and upward, creating an expansive presentation. Our listening tests revealed deft percussion, weighty guitar riffs and shimmering cymbals on the Atmos mix of the Beatles Come Together , with plenty of bass underpinning the detail. Setup requires mains power, Wi-Fi and the Sonos app, which provides Trueplay room tuning and EQ controls. For Apple Music in Dolby Atmos, add the service to Sonos and start playback through its app. AirPlay 2 offers convenient playback from Apple devices and multiroom listening with compatible speakers. Touch controls handle playback and volume, while Bluetooth provides another connection option. Measuring 185 260 160mm and weighing 4.47kg, this needs a permanent spot with room around its drivers. Theres no battery; its intended for indoor listening, with humidity resistance rather than outdoor waterproofing. Connections include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 and USB-C for optional line-in or Ethernet adapters, sold separately. Its spatial audio capabilities justify spending more than on a HomePod mini if immersive music is your priority. HomePod 2 also offers Dolby Atmos, with built-in Siri and a smaller enclosure; the Era 300 adds Bluetooth and optional wired input. Two Era 300s widen stereo separation, while TV surround use requires a compatible Sonos soundbar. A single Era 300 isnt a standalone Atmos soundbar replacement. How to choose an AirPlay speaker Theres a lot to think about when buying an AirPlay speaker so make sure you read this buying advice before splashing the cash. Music streaming & compatibility Having your favorite music follow you around your home is great, but conventional multi-room speakers often have significant limitations. Many, for example, will only work with a limited number of streaming services that are built into the apps provided by each manufacturer. As you might expect, most will work with Spotify , while Tidal and Deezer also get a lot of support. But for some reason, Sonos is one of the few manufacturers of multi-room speakers that also supports Apple Music . In fact, some speakers only provide apps for iOS or Android mobile devices, which means that you cant even play music from a Mac. The other big problem with conventional speakers in the past was that you have generally had to buy them all from one manufacturer when assembling a multi-room setup because rival speakers were incompatible and wouldnt work together. AirPlay vs AirPlay 2 The speaker market changed dramatically in 2018 with the release of Apples updated AirPlay 2 software. Released to coincide with the original HomePod launch, AirPlay 2 has also been licensed to a number of well-known manufacturers, which means theres now a wide range of compatible speakers available. In fact, every model in our top 10 works with AirPlay 2. The first version of AirPlay, released back in 2010, was like a souped-up version of Bluetooth, allowing you to stream audio from any app on your Mac or iOS devices to any AirPlay-compatible speaker and freeing you from reliance on the manufacturers apps. AirPlay also uses a Wi-Fi connection, which means a higher bandwidth than Bluetooth and better sound quality not to mention longer range. The simplicity and versatility of AirPlay is great, but like Bluetooth its original version was only designed to work with one speaker at a time. AirPlay 2 takes Apple into the multi-room market, with the ability to stream music to several speakers in different rooms. (Alternatively, you can create a HomePods stereo pair in the same room.) But the real game-changer with AirPlay 2 was interoperability, the ability to link together speakers from different manufacturers for the very first time. This means you can mix and match speakers around your home picking, for instance, a HomePod as your main living-room speaker, a Sonos in the bedroom, and a portable speaker for drinks in the garden and have them all linked up to play music simultaneously. Which version of AirPlay is supported? The important thing to remember is that there are now two types of AirPlay speaker. Some older models will use the original version of AirPlay which is limited to streaming music to one speaker at a time but new speakers (and certainly all the speakers in this article) focus on AirPlay 2. Some will have the AirPlay logo on the packaging, but this doesnt specify whether its AirPlay or AirPlay 2. Its therefore important to check which version is supported by any speaker before buying. Given that AirPlay 2 has been around for three years, it would be surprising to see a manufacturer release an AirPlay 1 speaker right now, but it doesnt hurt to check. You dont want to get caught out. Its also worth mentioning that some older AirPlay speakers can be upgraded to work with AirPlay 2 as well. Libratones new Zipp 2 uses AirPlay 2, but its possible to download a software update for the older first-generation Zipp speakers that adds support for AirPlay 2. Unfortunately, thats not the case with all AirPlay speakers, and some models are stuck with basic AirPlay. Sound Quality vs Price The fact that Apple licenses both AirPlay and AirPlay 2 to other manufacturers has other advantages too. Namely, the option to choose from a wide range of (often lower-cost) third-party speakers from companies like Sonos and Ikea. At the other extreme, some really expensive hi-fi systems in the pipeline offer AirPlay 2 support for audiophiles and home cinema buffs. These options give you flexibility: you can spend heavily on a really high-quality speaker for your living room, for example, while opting for a less expensive model in the kitchen. Indoors vs Outdoors Some manufacturers provide more specialised speakers too, such as soundbars that you can use with your TV, or sub-woofers that can provide a bass boost for parties, or for sound effects when watching films. Some even include rechargeable batteries and lightweight, portable designs so you can pick them up and carry them from room to room which is certainly cheaper than buying a new speaker for each room or take them out into the garden for a barbecue. Connectivity Connectivity is another key issue. The HomePod has been criticised for relying on Wi-Fi for streaming, with no option for quick and easy Bluetooth streaming for Android and other non-Apple devices. It doesnt have a 3.5mm audio connector either, which would allow you to use it with a CD player or other audio devices. Fortunately, many AirPlay and AirPlay 2 speakers provide a greater range of connectivity, allowing you to play music from a wider range of devices than the HomePod. Sonos has even announced it will be releasing an AirPlay 2 amplifier soon that can form the centrepiece of a serious home entertainment system. In other words, AirPlay 2 is here to stay. Bluetooth only options Weve reviewed a few Bluetooth-only speakers that dont offer AirPlay, but are still good options to consider, especially if you are looking for something portable: Beats Pill Read our review Price When Reviewed: $149.99 Best Prices Today: $99.95 at Amazon | $99.95 at Walmart | $99.99 at B&H The Beats Pill suits listeners who want a portable speaker for camping, barbecues and days by the pool. Our reviewer found it reasonably loud and good-sounding below maximum volume, but bass lacks depth and heavy processing makes music sound constrained when pushed. Its better suited to casual outdoor listening than critical listening at home. Apple Music plays from your phone over Bluetooth or through USB-C, which also supports lossless audio. Basic playback and volume controls are straightforward, but powering off and pairing two Pills require less obvious button combinations. Our reviewer found these controls confusing and noted that the Android Beats app provides more help than iPhone settings. The bottle-shaped enclosure fits wherever you might carry a water bottle, while a silicone covering helps protect against knocks. Its IP67 rating provides water and dust resistance. Beats claims up to 24 hours of battery life; our reviewer didnt complete a rundown test but comfortably managed an afternoon at substantial volume. USB-C handles charging and can also top up your phone. Choose the Pill over a HomePod mini for battery-powered outdoor use, rather than home multiroom listening: it lacks Wi-Fi and AirPlay. Two Pills can play in stereo or share playback in Amplify mode. HomePod 2 is the better fit for a permanent indoor system with fuller sound, Dolby Atmos and built-in Siri. Buy the Pill for portability, durability and endurance. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (3rd Gen) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: $399 at Bang & Olufsen The Beosound A1 suits listeners who want a compact, durable speaker for travel, beach trips and outdoor gatherings. Our reviewer found its midrange powerful and precise, with clear vocals, firm percussion and enough energy for demanding rock tracks. High frequencies occasionally get lost in busy arrangements, however, and the deepest bass lacks the impact of larger speakers. Apple Music plays from your phone over Bluetooth, with AAC support for Apple devices and aptX Adaptive for compatible Android hardware. Theres also USB-C audio, allowing a laptop to play music through the speaker while charging it. It has no Wi-Fi or AirPlay, so it wont join an AirPlay multiroom system. Measuring 46mm high and 133mm across, and weighing 576g, the aluminum enclosure slips into a bag. A rubber base helps prevent slipping, and a leather wrist strap makes carrying easier. Its IP67 rating protects against dust and immersion in one meter of water for 30 minutes. Battery life is rated at 24 hours at medium volume, although a carrying case isnt included. Choose the A1 over a HomePod mini if outdoor use, battery endurance and wired laptop playback justify the extra expense. HomePod 2 makes more sense for a permanent indoor system where fuller sound, Dolby Atmos, Siri and multiroom playback matter most. The A1s appeal is taking your music with you. How we test speakers at Macworld We test speakers in home environments to assess how they perform in everyday use. Our reviews cover design and build quality, ease of setup, sound quality and additional features, with the emphasis varying depending on the type of speaker. For sound quality, we listen for detail, clarity and tonal balance, including how naturally voices and instruments are reproduced. We pay particular attention to bass performance, especially with smaller speakers, assessing whether it lacks weight or overwhelms the rest of the sound. Most listening takes place at moderate volumes, but we also turn speakers up to check for distortion. We assess how easily each speaker connects to an audio source and whether that connection remains stable during use. Where a companion app is available, we consider how straightforward it is to navigate and use the speakers features. For smart speakers, we also test how reliably they recognize and respond to voice commands. Our recommendations draw on this hands-on testing and our reviewers experience, taking account of each speakers price, features and intended use.

The MacBook Neo just got its biggest price drop ever

Macworld Apple MacBook Neo View Deal (function () { document.querySelector(#sticky-promo-block a).addEventListener(click, function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest(#sticky-promo-block).querySelector(p.promo-title).textContent; const data = { event: stickyConversionUnitClick, eventCategory: Sticky Conversion, eventAction: Click, eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log(Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: , data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); Apples budget-friendly MacBook Neo has been on shelves for about eight months now, and the price has moved in the wrong direction. Not only have we not seen anything in the way of significant price cuts on the laptop, but Apple also raised prices by $100 in June to a $699 starting price. But at long last, you can save a few bucks on one: Amazon is selling the MacBook Neo in silver or pink for $30 off . It may not seem like a lot, but its barely gotten a $10 discount after the summer price hike, so this is especially notable. Apples most affordable laptop is the perfect all-day companion for kids, students, and casual users. Its powered by Apples A18 Pro chip thats fast enough to keep up with all of your daily tasksworking with documents, browsing the web, and even using Apple Intelligence for summarizing notes and polishing your emails. You get up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge, so you wont need to worry that you forgot your charger when youre already in the car halfway to school or work. Of course, the Neo has Apples iconic design with a stunning 13-inch Liquid Retina display that delivers gorgeous images in crisp detail and vivid colors, and a gorgeous all-metal body. Its available in four colors, but only silver and Blush (pink) are included in this sale. But whatever color you choose, the Neo is a fun and powerful laptop that you can get for a fraction of what youd pay for any other model. We know that $30 doesnt sound like much of a discount, but its the best weve ever seen. So go grab one before its gone.

Tap into Qi2.2 25W wireless charging speeds with this 10K MagSafe power bank at just $35 (Save 56%)

Baseus Picogo Qi2 25W MagSafe Power Bank Buy for $35 (Reg. $80) Apply code M4JLY1W2 during checkout. What we love Baseus PicoGo AM52 is a slim 10,000mAh power bank that supports Qi2.2 wireless charging at up to 25W for compatible iPhones. It also has a USB-C port that can push up to 45W for faster wired charging, giving you a bit more flexibility when you need it. more

Moto Tag 2 Google Find Hub trackers back to all-time lows at $17.50 each (Up to 33% off)

Motorola delivered some of the most compelling Google Find Hub trackers to date this year, and with the discounts now back in stock, you can land a single down at $20 Prime shipped or a 4-pack that brings the price down to $17.50 each. more

All Pixel Watch 5 models at $100 off right now, but this one is $200 off

Alongside the ongoing and particularly notable early Black Friday deals at up to Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold (we also uncovered some open box deals for a whole lot less than that), we are also tracking $100 off all Pixel Watch 5 models. Youre looking at many of the best prices to date on Google latest wrist computers, but we also wanted to highlight this offer on the Polished Silver model it is now $200 off via Best Buy. more

This special-edition 8BitDo Retro 87 mechanical keyboard just plunged 50% to one of its best prices yet at $60

We just spotted a deal at Amazon that drops the Mecha BREAK-themed 8BitDo Retro 87 TKL keyboard to $60 shipped . This special-edition model spent much of the year fetching closer to $100 before recently jumping back up to its full $120 price. Todays deal delivers a straight-up 50% discount on its usual price, offering a $60 savings on a new keyboard for your battlestation. This is one of the lowest prices weve tracked for this particular variant, landing within just $7 of the all-time low it hit earlier this year. Head below for more details. more

Mid-week iOS app deals and freebies: Potion Permit, ThreeKingdoms, The Room Old Sins, more

Alongside the ongoing $50 price drop on AirPods Pro 3 , your mid-week lineup of the best iOS game and app deals is now ready to roll, including titles like Potion Permit, ThreeKingdoms The Last Warlord, RPG Fantasy Chronicle, To the Moon, The Room: Old Sins, Beastie Bay DX, and more. We also have the return of Amazons pre-order discount on the new Apple HomeView , $100 off AirPods Max 2 , the latest Apple Watch Ultra 4 at nearly $100 off , and some seriously notable clearance deals on Apple Watch Ultra 3 at $250 off (more details on those right here ). The app deals await below. more

Best Apple Watch 2026: Series 12 vs Ultra 4 vs SE 3

Macworld Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on your budget, lifestyle and which features matter most to you. As of September 2026, Apples lineup consists of the Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Apple Watch SE 3, although the various combinations of case size, material, color and band can make choosing one seem like a bit of a minefield. The Apple Watch Series 12 is the best choice for most people, combining a tougher display and more advanced heart-rate sensing with an S11 chip and 24-hour battery life. The larger and more rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4 is designed for endurance sports and outdoor adventures, offering precision GPS, diving features and up to 50 hours of battery life. The Apple Watch SE 3 remains the best-value option for buyers who want the core Apple Watch experience and can live without features such as ECG and the latest health sensors. Apple updated the Series and Ultra models in September 2026, but the SE was unchanged. However, the SE 3 only arrived in 2025 and includes significant improvements over its predecessor, including an always-on display, temperature sensing and the same S10 chip found in the Series 11. You may also find older models at a discount, but check that the saving is worthwhile and bear in mind that watchOS 27 no longer supports every older Apple Watch. See our roundup of the best Apple Watch deals for the latest prices. In this guide, well explain the differences between the current models and help you decide whether you need to spend more on the Series 12 or Ultra 4 or whether the SE 3 offers everything you need. Well compare their features, specifications and prices, as well as explain the choices of sizes, case materials, colors and bands, so you can buy the Apple Watch that best suits your needs. Best Apple Watch: At a glance recommendations Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4 if Buy the Apple Watch Series 12 if Buy the Apple Watch SE 3 if Charging You regularly spend 2+ days away from a charger. You charge your watch daily without issue. You dont mind charging your watch daily. Activity You are a runner, hiker, cyclist, or diver. You are a general fitness user or casual athlete. You want everyday fitness and activity tracking. Display You need the brightest display (3,000 nits) for outdoor visibility. You prefer a lighter, less bulky watch. You want an always-on display at the lowest price. Health & Safety You want satellite communication for safety. You want the best value for the core health features. You dont need ECG or advanced health sensing. Need You need the toughest, most durable build (titanium, sapphire crystal). You want a choice of sizes (42mm or 46mm) and materials (aluminum, ceramic). You want an affordable watch for a child or older relative. Apple Watch Series 12 Best Apple Watch for most people Pros Advanced heart-rate sensing Tougher Ceramic Shield display Readiness score Cons Battery life and charging varied in our testing No satellite connectivity Live Rewind and Siri Recap still pending (in developer beta) Occasional sluggishness during testing Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $389.99 View Deal $389.99 View Deal $399 View Deal $399 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Series 12 is Apples mainstream premium smartwatch and the best choice for most people. Its S11 chip powers a redesigned heart-rate sensor system that measures your heart rate every five seconds throughout the day. It also enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are available to test in the watchOS 27.3 developer beta, released on November 3, 2026. Both initially support English. The design remains familiar, but Apple has introduced new finishes: Light Gold and Dark Bronze replace Silver and Rose Gold on aluminum models, while Radiant Gold replaces Gold on titanium versions. Ceramic cases also return in Night Blue and Pearl White. Prices still start at $399, although some configurations cost more than their Series 11 equivalents. Key advantages and limitations Aluminum models now use Ceramic Shield 2, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used on the aluminum Series 11. Apple claims battery life remains at 24 hours, but outdoor workout tracking increases to 10 hours and the watch can charge to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. In our Apple Watch Series 12 review , we recorded 51 and 40 hours of battery life across two runs an average of 45.5 hours, compared with 47.5 hours for Series 11. Charging also varied: our Apple Watch Series 12 reached 58% and 72% after 30 minutes in separate tests, falling short of Apples claimed 80%. These results show that endurance can comfortably exceed Apples 24-hour rating, but they dont demonstrate a consistent improvement over Series 11. Actual battery life depends on usage. In the watchOS 27.3 developer beta, Live Rewind displays the previous 15 seconds of speech as text when you double-press the Digital Crown. However, assigning that gesture to Live Rewind means the traditional App Switcher is no longer available, making multitasking less convenient. The Series 12 also lacks the Ultra 4s satellite connectivity, 50-hour battery life and brighter, more rugged display. Who should buy the Apple Watch Series 12? The Series 12 is the best option for anyone who wants Apples latest health and smart features without the size or price of the Ultra 4. Its advanced heart-rate sensing, Readiness score, tougher display and relatively compact design make it particularly attractive to health-conscious users and anyone upgrading from a Series 9 or older. The new health features make Series 12 worth considering, but our review found variable battery life and charging, plus occasional sluggishness. Compare a discounted Series 11 if those health upgrades are not essential to you. Who shouldnt buy one? Series 10 and 11 owners probably wont gain enough to justify upgrading, especially because the quoted 24-hour battery life is unchanged. Outdoor adventurers who need satellite connectivity, extended workout tracking or maximum battery life should consider the Ultra 4 instead. Should I buy an older version of the Apple Watch Series? A discounted Series 10 or 11 could offer better value if you dont need the new health sensing or Audio Intelligence features. The Series 9 is also still compatible with watchOS 27. Avoid the Series 8 and older models unless they are exceptionally cheap, because they cannot run watchOS 27 and will miss out on future feature updates. Read our full Apple Watch Series 12 (42mm) review Apple Watch Ultra 4 Best Apple Watch for adventurers and endurance athletes Pros Exceptional 50-hour battery Advanced outdoor capabilities More frequent health measurements Cons Large and heavy Expensive for everyday users Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $699.99 View Deal $774 View Deal $799 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is Apples most rugged and capable smartwatch, designed for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. It retains the Ultra 3s 49mm titanium case, 3,000-nit display, Action button, dual-frequency GPS, satellite connectivity, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. Inside, the new S11 processor powers the redesigned heart-rate sensing system also found in the Series 12. It measures heart rate every five seconds throughout the day and enables Audio Intelligence features including Sound Recognition, Live Rewind and Siri Recap. Live Rewind and Siri Recap still pending are currently in the developer beta of watchOS 27.3. Key advantages and limitations Battery life is the Ultra 4s biggest improvement, increasing from 42 to 50 hours under normal use. Extended Workout mode provides up to 25 hours with full GPS and heart-rate measurements, while Max Extended Workout mode can track outdoor runs and walks for up to 45 hours. Charging is faster too, with a 15-minute charge providing up to 18 hours of use. Satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support and the bright display make it particularly well suited to demanding environments. However, its 49mm case is large and heavy, while charging to 80 percent takes around 45 minutes, compared with approximately 30 minutes for the Series 12. The external design is also largely unchanged. Pricing remains at $799, twice the Series 12s starting price. Who should buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4? Choose the Ultra 4 if you need the longest Apple Watch battery life, highly accurate GPS, satellite connectivity, diving support or extended workout tracking. It is particularly suited to runners, hikers, cyclists, divers and anyone who regularly spends more than a day away from a charger. Its extended battery life could also appeal to travelers and people working long shifts, even if they dont participate in extreme sports. Who shouldnt buy one? Most people will be better served by the smaller and less expensive Series 12. It provides the same S11 processor, redesigned heart-rate sensing and principal Audio Intelligence features without the Ultras bulk or $799 price. If you dont need satellite communication, precision GPS, diving support or exceptionally long workout tracking, you are unlikely to benefit from the additional expense. Should I buy an older Apple Watch Ultra? The Ultra 3 remains a strong alternative if substantially discounted, although its battery lasts up to 42 rather than 50 hours. The Ultra 2 is the oldest model compatible with watchOS 27 and may also be worth considering at the right price, but it lacks some newer connectivity and battery improvements. Avoid the original Ultra unless it is exceptionally inexpensive, because it cannot run watchOS 27. Apple Watch SE 3 Best budget Apple Watch Pros Excellent value for money Useful always-on display Fast, capable S10 chip Cons Missing advanced health sensors Shorter 18-hour battery life Price When Reviewed: $249 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $249 View Deal $249 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apples most affordable smartwatch and the best-value model in the current lineup. Introduced in September 2025, it brought substantial improvements over the SE 2, including an always-on display, the S10 processor used by the Series 11, temperature sensing, fast charging and 64GB of storage. It also supports Double Tap and Wrist Flick gestures, on-device Siri and media playback through its speaker. The aluminum case comes in Midnight or Starlight, but there is no longer a Silver option. Prices start at $249/219, although it can fall as low as $199 during sales. Key advantages and limitations The SE 3 provides the essential Apple Watch experience, including fitness and sleep tracking, Sleep Score, heart-rate alerts, temperature-based cycle tracking, sleep apnea notifications, Fall Detection and Crash Detection. Its Ion-X display glass is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2, while cellular versions add 5G connectivity. Battery life remains limited to 18 hours, although Low Power Mode extends this to 32 hours. Fast charging reaches approximately 80 percent in 45 minutes, and a 15-minute charge provides around eight hours of use. The SE 3 lacks ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications and the redesigned Health Sensing System found on the Series 12. Its 1,000-nit display, thicker bezels and limited material choices also make it feel less premium. Who should buy the Apple Watch SE 3? The SE 3 is ideal for first-time Apple Watch buyers and anyone who wants fitness tracking, notifications and safety features without paying for advanced health sensors. It is also a strong option for children when using the cellular model with Family Setup, and for older users who could benefit from Fall Detection, Emergency SOS and heart-rate monitoring. Who shouldnt buy one? Choose the Series 12 instead if you want ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, hypertension notifications, more advanced heart-rate sensing or a brighter, more premium display. Buyers who need multi-day battery life, satellite connectivity or specialist outdoor features should consider the Ultra 4. Should I buy an older Apple Watch SE? No. The SE 2 cannot run watchOS 27 and lacks the SE 3s always-on display, temperature sensing, faster charging, newer gestures and additional storage. Even at a substantial discount, its reduced software lifespan makes it difficult to recommend in 2026. Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) review watchOS 27 features: Whats new and what requires Series 12 or Ultra 4 Apple released a new version of the software that runs on the Apple Watch watchOS 27 on September 14, 2026, but not every new feature is available on every supported watch. Some improvements are software-led and work across compatible models, while others depend on the S11 chip and redesigned sensors in the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. The hardware-dependent health features unique to the 2026 Watches include background heart-rate measurements every five seconds and HRV (heart rate variability) measurements every five minutes . The Series 12 and Ultra 4 also gain the Readiness app , which analyzes recent activity, training load, sleep and health data to produce a daily recovery score. Other exclusives include daytime resting heart-rate and HRV data in Vitals, a real-time chart in the Heart Rate app, more accurate all-day step counting and a Steps complication that updates on the watch face. The S11 chip also enables Apples Audio Intelligence features . Automatic Music Recognition uses Shazam to identify nearby songs and display them in the Smart Stack, while Sound Recognition can detect doorbells, alarms, sirens and crying babies without relying on the iPhone. Live Rewind displays a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of conversation after a double-press of the Digital Crown; it does not save an audio recording. Siri Recap produces high-level summaries of conversations. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are available to test with the watchOS 27.3 and iOS 27.3 developer betas, released November 3, 2026. These features require an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone 16 or later, excluding iPhone 16e. They initially support English and are not yet available in the EU. Other watchOS 27 features are more widely available. These include the Dynamic App Grid , redesigned Find My app , menopause and perimenopause tracking, Call Context and Workout Buddy improvements. Apple has also introduced the Longevity section and Health Age . Compatibility is considerably more restricted than it was with watchOS 26. Series 9 and Ultra 2 are now the oldest supported models, while the SE 3 is the only compatible SE. The Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, SE 2 and original Ultra cannot install watchOS 27. Anyone considering a discounted older Apple Watch should therefore choose a Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, Ultra 2 or Ultra 3 if receiving current feature updates is important. See: These Apple Watches are now obsolete. Apple Watch comparison chart: Apple Watches specs compared Apple Watch SE 3 Apple Watch Series 12 Apple Watch Ultra 4 Price from $249/219 $399/369 $799/749 Screen size 40mm or 44mm 42mm or 46mm 49mm Display Always-on, up to 1,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 2,000 nits Always-on LTPO3, up to 3,000 nits Weight from 40mm: 26.3g; 44mm: 32.9g 42mm: 32.2g; 46mm: 39.5g 63g Materials Aluminum Aluminum, titanium or ceramic Grade 5 titanium Colors Midnight, Starlight Aluminum: Dark Bronze, Light Gold, Black, Space Gray; Titanium: Radiant Gold, Natural; Ceramic: Pearl White, Night Blue Natural, Black Processor S10 S11 S11 Battery life Up to 18 hours; 32 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Up to 24 hours; 38 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 30 minutes Up to 50 hours; 84 hours in Low Power Mode; 080% in about 45 minutes Extra features Double Tap and Wrist Flick; on-device Siri; speaker media playback; 64GB storage Single Tap, Double Tap and Wrist Flick; Siri AI; Audio Intelligence; Readiness; Precision Finding; depth gauge; water-temperature sensor; media playback Series 12 features plus Action button, precision dual-frequency GPS, satellite communication, Siren, dual speakers, three-microphone array and extended workout modes Health features Heart-rate monitoring; high, low and irregular rhythm notifications; temperature sensing; Cycle Tracking with ovulation estimates; sleep stages; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Health Sensing System; high-frequency heart-rate and HRV tracking; ECG; Blood Oxygen; hypertension notifications; Readiness; daytime Vitals; advanced Cycle Tracking; Sleep Score; sleep apnea notifications Same advanced health features as Series 12 Safety features Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection and Crash Detection Emergency SOS, international emergency calling, Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Check In and Backtrack Series 12 safety features plus Emergency SOS, Messages and Find My via satellite, and Siren Water features Water resistant to 50 meters; suitable for swimming Water resistant to 50 meters; depth gauge to 6 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming and snorkeling Water resistant to 100 meters; depth gauge and recreational diving to 40 meters; water-temperature sensor; suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and high-speed water sports Connectivity Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular Precision L1 GPS; optional 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband Precision dual-frequency GPS; 5G/LTE cellular; second-generation Ultra Wideband; satellite connectivity Which size Apple Watch should you choose? Choosing the right Apple Watch size depends on your wrist, how much display space you want and which model you prefer. Apples current lineup ranges from the compact 40mm Apple Watch SE 3 to the rugged 49mm Ultra 4. Model Available sizes Case dimensions Best for Apple Watch SE 3 40mm or 44mm 40mm: 40 34 10.7mm; 44mm: 44 38 10.7mm Smaller wrists, lighter watches and budget-conscious buyers. The 40mm version is the smallest current Apple Watch. Apple Watch Series 12 42mm or 46mm 42mm: 42 37 9.7mm; 46mm: 46 40 9.7mm The best balance of display size and wearability for most people. Apple Watch Ultra 4 49mm 49 44 12mm Athletes and adventurers who want the largest display, most durable construction and longest battery life. The Series 12 ceramic cases are slightly larger: approximately 43mm and 47mm rather than 42mm and 46mm. Apple Watch Series 12 (46mm) Price When Reviewed: $549 Best Prices Today: $539.99 at Amazon | $539.99 at Walmart | $549 at Apple United States Foundry Consider your wrist size and comfort The watch should feel secure without dominating your wrist or restricting movement. The 40mm SE 3 is the best option for particularly small wrists, while the 42mm Series 12 provides a larger display in a case that remains manageable for most people. If possible, try both sizes in an Apple Store before buying. Consider display size and readability A larger screen makes text, notifications and onscreen controls easier to see and use. The 49mm Ultra 4 has the largest display, but its 63g titanium case is substantially heavier than the aluminum Series 12 or SE 3. The 46mm Series 12 offers a spacious display without the Ultras additional bulk. Consider whether you need the Ultra Dont choose the Ultra 4 solely because it has the largest screen. Its size makes most sense if you also need its rugged titanium construction, satellite connectivity, precision dual-frequency GPS, diving support or 50-hour battery life. For everyday use, the Series 12 will generally be more comfortable. Check band compatibility Apple Watch bands arent universally interchangeable. Bands designed for smaller cases generally fit the 38mm, 40mm, 41mm and newer 42mm watches, while larger bands work with 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm models. However, the older 42mm case belongs to the larger band family, so check the compatibility information before reusing or ordering a band. Aluminum, titanium or ceramic: Which Apple Watch material is best? Foundry Another consideration when buying an Apple Watch is its case material, which affects its durability, weight, appearance and price. Apple currently offers aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, although the available materials depend on the model. Aluminum: Best for most people Aluminum is the lightest and most affordable choice. It is the only material available for the Apple Watch SE 3 and the entry-level option for the Series 12, helping to keep their starting prices at $249 and $399 respectively. It is a good choice for everyday wear, fitness and sleep tracking because it feels lighter on the wrist than the premium alternatives. The SE 3 uses Ion-X display glass, which Apple says is four times more crack-resistant than that of the SE 2. The aluminum Series 12 has the tougher Ceramic Shield 2 display, which Apple claims is 60 percent more durable than the Ion-X glass used by the aluminum Series 11. Titanium: Best for premium durability Titanium is available with the Series 12 and is the only case material offered with the Ultra 4. It provides a more premium finish and is paired with highly scratch-resistant sapphire crystal rather than the glass used on aluminum models. The Series 12 titanium case is available in Natural or Radiant Gold. It is a good option for anyone who wants a more luxurious and durable everyday watch without moving up to the much larger Ultra. The Ultra 4 uses a rugged Grade 5 titanium case in Natural or Black. It is designed for outdoor adventures, endurance sports and diving, with a 49mm case, 100-meter water resistance and recreational diving support. However, its size and 63g weight make it less comfortable for smaller wrists and sleep tracking. Ceramic: Best for distinctive styling Ceramic returns as a premium Series 12 option in Pearl White and Night Blue. It has a glossy, distinctive finish and uses a sapphire crystal display, but it is heavier and considerably more expensive than the aluminum version. The ceramic cases are also slightly larger than the other Series 12 configurations. Which material is best for Apple Watch? For most buyers, aluminum offers the best balance of price, durability and comfort. Choose titanium if you want a more premium finish, sapphire crystal or the Ultra 4s specialized outdoor capabilities. Ceramic is primarily a style-led luxury choice for buyers who want the most distinctive Series 12 and are prepared to pay more for it. Which Apple Watch strap should you choose? Eugen Wegmann The right Apple Watch strap depends on how you intend to use your watch. Apple offers options for everyday wear, sleep tracking, exercise, water sports and formal occasions, while third-party manufacturers provide an even wider range of styles and prices. Strap Best for Key characteristics Sport Band Everyday wear, workouts and swimming Durable rubber with a secure pin-and-tuck closure. Water and sweat resistant, but less breathable than fabric. Sport Loop Sleep tracking and all-day comfort Soft, lightweight and breathable nylon with an adjustable hook-and-loop fastener. Nike Sport Band Running and intense workouts Similar to the Sport Band but perforated for improved ventilation. Nike Sport Loop Running and everyday wear A breathable fabric alternative to the Nike Sport Band. Solo Loop Everyday wear and sleep Stretchable silicone with no clasp or buckle. Comfortable, but choosing the correct size is essential. Braided Solo Loop Comfort with a smarter finish A stretchable woven band that feels more premium than the standard Solo Loop. Alpine Loop Hiking and outdoor adventures Durable double-layer textile with a secure titanium G-hook. Designed for the Apple Watch Ultra. Trail Loop Running, hiking and all-day wear Apples lightest Ultra strap, with a pull tab for quick adjustments. Ocean Band Swimming, diving and water sports Water-resistant elastomer with a corrosion-resistant titanium buckle. Milanese Loop Work and formal occasions Metal mesh with a magnetic closure, offering a smart appearance and precise adjustment. Link Bracelet Formal and premium wear Apples premium metal bracelet, with removable links for adjusting the fit. Modern Buckle or Magnetic Link Smart everyday wear More formal alternatives to the sport-focused straps, available for selected case sizes. Herms straps Luxury and fashion Premium woven, rubber and metal designs made in collaboration with Herms. For most people, the Sport Loop is the best all-round choice because it is light, breathable and easy to adjust. Its softness also makes it particularly comfortable for sleep tracking. For workouts and swimming, choose a Sport Band or Nike Sport Band . The perforated Nike version provides better ventilation during intense exercise. Divers and regular swimmers should consider the Ocean Band , while runners and hikers may prefer the lighter Trail Loop or more rugged Alpine Loop . For work or formal occasions, the Milanese Loop , Link Bracelet , Modern Buckle and Magnetic Link provide a smarter appearance. Apples Herms collection offers the most luxuriousand most expensiveoptions. Before buying, check that the strap supports your Apple Watch case size and wrist measurement. Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop straps require particularly careful sizing because they cannot be adjusted with a clasp. Third-party straps can offer excellent value, but quality, fit and fastening security vary considerably. Do I need a cellular Apple Watch? Whether you need a cellular Apple Watch depends mainly on how often you plan to leave your iPhone behind. For most buyers, the answer is no: a GPS-only Apple Watch offers better value and can already do a great deal without an active connection to an iPhone. Away from your iPhone, a GPS Apple Watch can still track workouts, monitor health, record location data, use Apple Pay and play music or podcasts downloaded to the watch. When connected to a known Wi-Fi network, it can also send and receive messages, make calls and use many online services. See our guide to Everything an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . Cellular becomes useful when you regularly leave your iPhone at home but still want calls, messages, music streaming, navigation and notifications. This makes it particularly valuable for runners, cyclists, swimmers and gym users who dont want to carry a phone. It can also provide reassurance when you are walking alone or exercising away from Wi-Fi, because the watch can contact emergency services after a fall or crash using its own mobile connection. A cellular model is also the right choice when setting up an Apple Watch for a child or older relative who doesnt have an iPhone. Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup, allows a family members watch to be configured from another persons iPhone. A cellular plan enables calls, messages and location sharing when the watch is away from the managing iPhone. The drawbacks are cost and redundancy. A cellular Series or SE generally costs more than its GPS equivalent, and you must also pay your network provider a monthly fee. If your iPhone is nearly always in your pocket or bag, the watch will normally use its connection instead, leaving you paying for cellular service that you rarely need. See: I switched to a cellular Apple Watch to prove I didnt need one . Our recommendation : The Ultra 4 includes cellular as standard, so there is no GPS-only version. For the Series 12 and SE 3 , choose cellular only if you expect to leave your iPhone behind regularly or need Family Setup. Otherwise, save your money and buy the GPS model. For a more detailed comparison, see The pros and cons of a cellular Apple Watch . Can you use an Apple Watch without an iPhone? Yes, but with important caveats. An Apple Watch can do a surprising amount without an iPhone nearby, but an iPhone is required for the initial setup and to manage some settings. You cannot set up an Apple Watch using a Mac, iPad or Android phone. The exception is Apple Watch For Your Kids, previously called Family Setup. This allows a parent or guardian to use their iPhone to configure a cellular Apple Watch for a child or another family member who doesnt have an iPhone of their own. Once it has been set up, an Apple Watch can perform many tasks without its paired iPhone nearby and some dont require an internet connection at all. These include: Tracking workouts and activity: Record runs, walks and other exercises, close Activity rings and collect GPS data. The results sync with the iPhone when it reconnects. Monitoring health: Measure heart rate, track sleep, log medications and use other health features supported by the particular watch. Playing downloaded media: Listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks stored on the watch using Bluetooth headphones. Using Apple Pay: Make contactless payments without an iPhone or internet connection once Apple Pay has been configured. Using offline tools: Set alarms and timers, use the stopwatch and compass, and view photos that have been synced to the watch. Other features require either Wi-Fi or a cellular connection when the iPhone isnt nearby. With an internet connection, the watch can make and receive calls, send messages, check email, stream music and podcasts, use Maps and access online apps and services. Fall Detection and Crash Detection can recognize an incident without your iPhone nearby, but contacting emergency services requires a suitable connection. Most Apple Watches need cellular coverage or Wi-Fi calling with an internet connection. Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Ultra 4 also support Emergency SOS via satellite in supported countries and regions, including the U.S. and U.K. This allows emergency texting when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage are unavailable, and can relay automatic Fall Detection or Crash Detection alerts if you are unresponsive. Satellite connectivity requires being outdoors with a clear view of the sky and horizon. An Apple Watch therefore cannot completely replace an iPhone, but it doesnt need to remain beside it throughout the day. For a complete breakdown, read all the things an Apple Watch can do without an iPhone . How we choose the best Apple Watch Macworlds Apple Watch recommendations draw on more than a decade of hands-on experience. Our writers have tested and reviewed every generation since the original Apple Watch, comparing each new model with both its current rivals and previous generations before deciding whether it deserves a recommendation. Our assessment focuses on the factors that make a meaningful difference in everyday use: Real-world testing: We assess comfort, build quality, display visibility, performance, battery life, charging, health sensors, fitness tracking and software features. We also consider how well the watch performs during everyday activities, workouts and sleep trackingnot simply how its specifications compare on paper. Value and upgrade potential: A newer or more expensive Apple Watch is not automatically the best choice. We consider whether its improvements justify the price, whether owners of recent models would benefit from upgrading and whether a discounted previous-generation watch offers better value. Honest recommendations: We clearly identify compromises such as limited battery life, missing health sensors, a bulky design or features that most people are unlikely to use. We dont recommend a product simply because it has the most impressive specifications. Advice for different buyers: There is no single Apple Watch that suits everyone. We recommend the Series 12 for most buyers, the SE 3 for those seeking the best value, and the Ultra 4 for endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers who need its longer battery life, rugged construction and specialist capabilities. Our final recommendations therefore combine extensive testing, expert judgment, price analysis and practical buying advice. The aim is not merely to identify the Apple Watch with the longest feature list, but to help you find the model that provides the right balance of features, comfort and value for the way you will actually use it. FAQ 1. Is now a good time to buy an Apple Watch Now is a good time to buy an Apple Watch because the brand-new Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 went on sale on September 18, 2026. However, our recommendation is to wait for Black Friday sales towards the end of November for the best deals. See: Should I buy an Apple Watch now or wait? 2. What is the difference between the Series 12 and SE 3? The Apple Watch Series 12 offers a brighter, tougher display, premium aluminum, titanium and ceramic cases, and the newer S11 chip. It also includes advanced health features such as ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring, high-frequency heart-rate sensing and the Readiness app, plus exclusive Audio Intelligence features. Battery life is rated at 24 hours. The $249/219 SE 3 uses the S10 chip, lasts 18 hours and provides essential fitness, sleep and safety features, but lacks the Series 12s advanced sensors and premium materials. 3. Can you swim while wearing an Apple Watch? Yes, you can swim while wearing an Apple Watch, but the level of water resistance varies significantly depending on the model. The Apple Watch Ultra models are the most water-capable in the lineup. They are water-resistant to 100 meters and are suitable for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving (up to 40 meters), and high-speed water sports. The Ultra models also include a depth gauge (up to 40 meters) and a water temperature sensor, making them a genuine companion for divers and endurance swimmers. Apple Watch Series 12, Series 11 and Series 10 are water-resistant to 50 meters and suitable for shallow-water activities such as swimming. They also support snorkeling to 6 meters, but should not be used for scuba diving, waterskiing or other high-velocity water sports. Water resistance can diminish over time. The Apple Watch SE 3 is also water-resistant to 50 meters and is considered swimproof. Follow these steps to enable Water Lock: Before swimming, press the side button to open Control Center. Tap the water-drop icon to enable Water Lock. After swimming press and hold the Digital Crown to unlock the screen and eject water from the speaker. 4. Should I buy an old Apple Watch model? Buying an older Apple Watch can be a great way to save money, but in late 2026, you need to be much more careful than in previous years. The biggest factor is software support, as watchOS 27 dropped support for several relatively recent models. Apple made a significant change with watchOS 27. The update drops support for the Apple Watch SE 2, Series 6, Series 7, Series 8 and the original Apple Watch Ultra. If you want a watch that will continue to receive the latest features and security updates, you must buy a model with at least an S9 chip. This means the oldest supported models are now the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, both from 2023. If you are shopping for an older Apple Watch our recommendation is to buy refurbished watches from Apple. Read Should I buy a refurbished Apple Watch? for guidance. Another good option is to look for previous-generation Apple Watch models in major sales events, such as Black Friday. Take a look at the best prices right now in the boxes below. Apple Watch Series 11 Price When Reviewed: From $399 Best Prices Today: $379 at Walmart | $479.95 at Best Buy US Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: $255.16 at Walmart | $329 at Best Buy | $399 at Adorama Apple Watch Ultra 3 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 Best Prices Today: $649 at Best Buy US Apple Watch Ultra 2 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 (base) Best Prices Today: $471.49 at Walmart | $599.97 at Best Buy US | $761.11 at Amazon

Rare deal hits Star Fox Switch 2, last day to score Ocarina of Time pre-order discount

The reviews are in, and just as we thought, the new Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is brilliant. It releases tomorrow and today is your last chance to score the $10 pre-order discount before it is gone forever and back at full price starting tomorrow (it is now only live at Walmart and it might never go on sale again). However, for those who already secured a copy, we also wanted to point out the rare deal now live on the 2026 Nintendo Switch 2 Star Fox remake it will drop to the $42.99 Amazon all-time low in the cart. This is matching the lowest price we have tracked after it disappeared over the weekend a few days ago. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake $60 (Reg. $70) | Walmart With commemorative Textured Foil Cover Star Fox on Nintendo Switch 2 $43 (Reg. $50) Amazon low Zelda Ocarina of Time remake completely sold out at Amazon, but you can still score the pre-order deal right here more

Latest 10-foot Beats 240W USB-C Braided Cable in all four colors now just $18 (40% off launch price)

You will find some of the previous-ten 60W models starting in the $7 range , like this 2-pack of 5-footers at $14 Prime shipped , but Amazon is now offering all four colors of the latest 10-foot Beats 240W USB-C Braided Cable down at $18 lows . This is quite possibly a perfect stocking stuffer, and a great addition to any EDC if you ask me. more

Everyone is struggling (except Apple)

Macworld Last week, the Wall Street Journal ran a piece describing how memory and flash chip manufacturers were finally getting their revenge on Apple. The demand spike from AI-driven data centers has made it so Apple can no longer negotiate extremely low prices. Provocative language aside, its worth noting that while Apple may indeed be paying a lot more for components, it isnt exactly hurting here. The company just posted its biggest September quarter of all time. Yes, you would expect revenue to be up with price increases, but Apples profit broke records for both the 4th quarter ($30.7 billion) and full year ($132.2 billion) while prices on Macs and iPhones rose to fresh highs. In other words, everything is more expensive, but Apple is raking it in while you pay more. Fleecing you on RAM and storage upgrades The most interesting part of the WSJ story was the data on just how badly we have all been overpaying for Apples flash storage upgrades all these years. Weve noted for a long time that Apples prices for upgraded storage on all its products, and RAM on new Macs, are excessive. The WSJs research points out just how bad it has been. Its shocking how high the margins used to be for storage upgrades, but theyre still really high today. Wall Street Journal Last year, Apple charged users between 8 and 12 times more for storage upgrades on the iPhone than its own costs. Sure, the company has margins to protect, but over a thousand percent? This year, with the chip scarcity and higher prices, Apple is only charging you triple what it pays. A bargain! The article doesnt break down Apples costs and margins on RAM upgrades for Macs over the years, but its not much different than flash storage. Apple has charged $400 to increase a MacBook from 16GB to 32GB. Today that may cost Apple as much as $200, but a year ago it was as little as $40. The chip crunch has moved Apples margins from astronomical to merely high. Passing on the costs This quarter, Apples margins dropped from 50.1 percent last quarter to 47.9 percent (actually closer to 48 and 47, respectively, after adjusting for tariff refunds). Dont be fooled, Apples not really feeling the pinch of these higher component prices. Apples margins are actually up a tiny bit (from 47.2 percent) compared to the same quarter last year, and are way up over time. A decade ago, Apples margins were hovering around 38 percent. Theyve dipped down several times in the last few years, too, usually in the fourth quarter, just like this year. For a company that largely sells consumer hardware, Apples margins are very high and climbing. Dont let one quarter fool you. Six Colors In other words, Apple is making a higher profit on more revenue than ever before. While you pay more for every Apple product, the company is protecting its margins, not its profitability. Lower costs were rarely passed on, but higher costs almost always are. Its like Exxon making billions when the price of oil rises. To put it in perspective, other huge tech companies with even higher margins are all primarily software and service companies (Microsoft, Meta, Alphabet, and Amazon all enjoy higher margins than Apple). Selling consumer goods carries with it higher costs, so margins are tighter. Apple enjoys much higher margins than consumer tech hardware companies like Samsung (39 percent), Dell (20 percent), Lenovo (15 percent), or Sony (31 percent). Services revenue helps bring the number up (look at how the gross margin rose after Apple TV launched in 2019), but Apple also enjoys higher hardware margins than those other companies. Looking ahead, Apple expects a gross margin of 45-46 percent for the holiday quarter (Apples first quarter of fiscal 2027) and total company revenue to grow between 7 percent and 10 percent year-over-year despite constrained supply. That would give Apple revenue of around $154 billion, an all-time record. Granted, its not the 16 percent growth or the 48.2 percent gross margin it saw last year, but its hardly a hardship. The truth is, Apple is looking out for its real customersthe investors. It repurchased $86 billion in stock this fiscal year, including $24 billion last quarter, a practice that started in 2024 under Tim Cook and will almost certainly continue under Ternus. When Apple pays more for components, it raises your prices instead of cutting back on stock buybacks or lowering margins. The share price is king. So enjoy your $2,499 2TB iPhone.

Save a whopping $1,249 on Lenovo

We just spotted a deal at Lenovo that drops its Legion Tower 5i Gen 10 RTX 5070 Ti gaming PC down to $2,256.24 shipped , with promo codes LENOVODEAL and EXTRAFIVE during checkout. You are looking at a massive $1,249 discount on this tower that carries a $3,505 price tag, and it marks the lowest price we have tracked for it. Weve previously seen the AMD-powered Legion Tower 5 get some notable deals, but this is the first time were seeing this particular Intel-powered RTX 5070 Ti variant drop this low. Todays deal delivers some serious value, considering the same PC with an RTX 5070 itself is currently fetching over $2,400 at Best Buy . Head below for more details. more

Galaxy Z Fold 8 at $300 off also includes a giant $200 store credit today

Amazon is now offering a solid $300 price drop on all of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 configurations it sells. That is on par with the best cash discounts around right now in brand new condition, but the official Samsung site is now offering this same deal on all configs with some seriously notable bonus offers you can also add a set of Galaxy Buds 4 Pro at $25 , or one of the latest Galaxy Watches at $238+ off . more

iPhone Duo review: The best and worst iPhone in ages

Macworld At a glance Expert's Rating Pros Duo-optimized apps change how you use your iPhone The nano-texture display is great No real compromise on performance Cons Unoptimized apps are worse than on previous iPhones Battery life varies widely based on inner/outer display use Cameras are a step behind recent flagship iPhones Touch ID can be annoying Our Verdict Folding phones come with some inherent tradeoffs, but even so, the iPhone Duo is hard to recommend right now. It simply requires optimized apps to provide a good experience, and there arent nearly enough of those. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed $1999 Best Prices Today: Apple iPhone Duo Retailer Price $1999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide The iPhone Duo is very appropriately named, and not just because it has two screens, two rear cameras, two front cameras, and is shaped sort of like a capital D. This is a phone of dichotomies, where each facet of the experience delivers something wonderful and exciting while also delivering something frustrating and backwards. For every aspect of the iPhone Duo that you can say something good about, theres an on the other hand that cuts the other way. I find the iPhone Duo almost impossible to recommend to a casual buyer, and yet its the most fun Ive had exploring a new iPhone in over a decade. It is simultaneously delightful and frustrating, big and small, useful and hindering, inviting and off-putting. iPhone Duo: Performance and battery life This might be an off place to start, but the iPhone Duo is so unique and has so many interesting facets that its performance and battery life are almost boring by comparison. So lets get that out of the way first. Foundry The Duo has the same A20 Pro chip as the iPhone 18 Pro , which as I noted in that review, is crazy fast . This is far and away the fastest folding phone you can buy. Foundry You can generally look at any benchmark result for the iPhone 18 Pro and just consider that the iPhone Duo will perform the same, with a two small caveats. First, 3D graphics benchmarks tend to run just a little slower on the Duo. Its still faster than any prior iPhone and blows the doors off any other foldable, but the small difference was consistent in my testing. Foundry Second, heat is a little bit more of an issue than with the iPhone 18 Pro. Yes, the Duo gets pretty hot during extended video-taking, gaming, or other intensive applications, but not hot enough to cause serious issues. Its noticeable, though, and impacts performance a little bit more than when running the same tasks on an iPhone 18 Pro. Foundry Our standard battery benchmark relies on an old app that crashed on launch on the Duo, so I cant deliver strict comparison numbers. In a week of use, however, I can tell you that battery life is highly dependent on how often you use the big inner screen. Play games or edit video with the big inner screen a lot, and youll be looking for the charger by mid-afternoon. Spend a lot more time with the device folded, and youll wrap up the day with plenty of battery to spare. Its either one of the longest-lasting iPhones around, or a $2,000 phone that cant even make it to sunset on a charge, depending on how you use it. Theres that Duo thing. iPhone Duo: Cameras youll tolerate The most expensive and ostensibly best iPhone in the world does not have the best cameras. For a start, its missing the telephoto camera you get on the Pro iPhones, but the camera issues go deeper than that. The main rear camera is good, but not as good as Apples latest on the iPhone 18 Proits about on par with an iPhone 17. The Ultra-wide camera is the same 48MP camera Apple has used since the iPhone 16 Pro, which is fine. The selfie camera on the outside display is a 12MP camera that resembles the one on the iPhone 17e or earlier, but it has Center Stage and can zoom and rotate without rotating the iPhone, features that were previously only available on the superior 18MP selfie camera that was introduced with the iPhone 17. The camera software experience isnt what you get on Pro iPhones either. You cant shoot ProRAW images or ProRes video, theres no Log 2 gamma, no shutter speed or histogram. That seems like a ripoff in a $2,000 iPhone. But you do get the new Photographic Styles that give you control over grain and texture, and focus peaking, and white balance. The Duo cameras are serviceable, but missing Pro features youd expect at this price. Britta OBoyle Then theres the inside FaceTime camera, which sits under the display behind a small circle you can easily spot because it doesnt have the antireflective nano-texture over it. I quickly ignored this anomaly and soon hardly even noticed its there, but the atrocious quality of that camera is impossible to ignore. Its got poor resolution, terrible clarity, and awful dynamic range, takes paltry 4MP images, and is saddled with all sorts of over-processing artifacts. Its meant for video calling apps such as FameTime or Zoom, where it does an okay job since your streaming video is low-res and highly compressed anyway. But that does little to make me feel better about it. The main camera (left) takes decent selfies, while the under-display inside camera (right) is a mess. Thankfully, the outside display has a much better camera. Its position in the corner is a fine solution, and the Dynamic Islands move to a vertical orientation there is actually quite delightful. Ive dont know what engineering challenge prevented Apple from simply using a similar cutout camera with Dynamic Island on the inside display, but it would have provided for much better quality and would exactly mirror the outer display. The camera can do some neat tricks with the outside display. Britta OBoyle Because its a folding phone, there are a few neat tricks up the Duos sleeve. A mode called Smart Take will watch the viewfinder for you and take a photo whenever the people in view are holding still and facing the camera, so you can easily take multiple shots where everyone is ready. Its a good idea that should come to every iPhone. You can also flip the viewfinder around to the outside screen even when the Duo is open, which will let you take a selfie with the 48MP main or ultra-wide camera. This gives you better selfie quality than any iPhone ever before, and when taking photos with the phone opened up, you can mirror the viewfinder to the outside screen so your subject can see themselves and strike a pose theyre happy with. If youre trying to get a kid to look at the camera, Kid Cue plays a Snoopy animation on that screen to attract your childs attention. These are all impressive and delightful features that show off how special this phone is. Theres that Duo thing again. The camera hardware is frustratingly backward in some cases, and Pro features are missing, but there are some unique new capabilities you cant get on any other iPhone that are genuinely useful. Im okay with the cameras on the iPhone Duo, but Im just okay with them, and thats not what I want from a $2,000+ phone. iPhone Duo: Two very unequal iPhones I hear all the time from users who really wish Apple would make an iPhone mini again . Its not so much that they were in love with the tiny screen, but rather that they were in love with the tiny phone , and were willing to deal with a small screen and lesser battery life for something so light, pocketable, and easy to use with one hand. Thats why the Duo is so frustrating to use when its closed. The area of the outside screen occupied by apps is tiny, but the phone itself is thick, wide, fat, and heavy. Its all the drawbacks of the iPhone mini and none of the benefits. Open it up and youre in a whole new world. The phones weight seems more appropriate for its size, and its nice and thin. The expansive screen looks wonderful. Apples nano-texture screen layer saps away a bit of contrast and pop, as with any matte display, but its still a beautiful screen. Plus that matte finish makes it much nicer to use outside where reflections are distracting. The crease is visible in the right light, but when the screen is on, the matte texture really hides it remarkably well. Jason Cross / Foundry The the main purpose of a n inside matte display may have been to hide the crease, which it does very well, but it also hides any minor smudges, scrapes, or other imperfections. Yes, a flexible screen with a nano-texture covering is not nearly as scratch-proof as a typical iPhone display, but its folded away and protected when the phone is in your pocket or bag. The speakers are surprisingly good, with decent stereo separation and clarity. The bass is as poor as it is on any other iPhone, but this is a surprisingly good device to watch a TV show on. One of the tradeoffs Apple had to make with the Duo is the removal of Face ID in favor of Touch ID, which is located in the side power button like non-Pro iPads. I still miss Face ID every day. Touch ID on old iPhones was always in the same place, so you built a muscle memory around tapping on the sensor. The same is true of Touch ID on a MacBook. However, since the iPhone Duo is meant to be used in four or five different postures, the side buttons location moves as you change the phones orientation. You can unlock your iPhone automatically if youre wearing an Apple Watch, but that doesnt help with the many times you authenticate with Touch ID to input a password or approve a purchase or download. I can live with Touch ID on this thing, but I dont like it. For $2,000, the iPhone Duo gives you two iPhones. One is a thick, heavy, wide, uncomfortable iPhone with a tiny glossy display. The other is a big, expansive, thin, beautiful iPhone with a nano-texture display. Its that Duo thing all over again. Your enjoyment of the Duo is in direct proportion to how often you use it in the unfolded state, and to do that, you need the right apps. iPhone Duo: The apps that make the phone Developers are having a blast with the Duo, making fun little apps that dont serve much purpose other than to make use of the unique capabilities of the hardware, just as they did in the early days of iPhone. Back then it was apps that make it look like you were drinking a beer or holding a flickering lighter , today its a faux-Walkman or digital panini press . These are silly gimmick apps that will be forgotten in time, but they recapture the fun of the first few years of iPhone, when developers were just making cool little toys and experiments for a buck just because they could. Of course, apps that arent just gimmicks or toys can make great use of the larger inside screen, but they have to be updated for the Duo to do so. These Duo-optimized apps look and function differently. They show two views at once, or a persistent sidebar, an expansive map with an info overlay, or other wouldnt fit on a normal iPhone layouts that truly make them better. They gracefully lsupport landscape or portrait views, and some even change layouts if the Duo is folded slightly like a book or folded over like a tent to show the outside screen proppep up on your desk. From Slack to Netflix to Yelp and more, these apps built with the iOS 27.1 SDK or later, and optimized for the Duo, are so nice to use, with interface elements along the right edge when you use the outside screen and thoughtful use of the expansive inside screen no matter how you hold your phone. Of course, nearly all of Apples apps have been Duo-optimized like this, though the Apple Store is curiously unoptimized, and Safari could use some interface tweaks to make it a little easier to use on the inside screen. Apps like Outlook make great use of the expansive inside display and are so much more productive than on a regular iPhone. Foundry Unfortunately, he majority of popular apps are not yet updated for the Duo, even more than a week after launch. Some, such as Gmail, TikTok, Reddit, or Google Maps, are built using the iOS 27.0 SDK and can therefore resize to mostly fill the inside display. But they dont understand the size of the device theyre on so they dont make practical use of the Duo. For example, my Gmail inbox is just stretched across the whole screen instead of showing folders and a reading panel, for example. Its better than an app that doesnt use the space at all, but next to other apps that treat the Duo properly, its still not great. Worse, there are just scores of everyday apps that havent updated to the iOS 27 SDK yet, and just appear in an iPhone-shaped window in the middle of the screen with huge black bars around it. Turn the Duo to portrait orientation and itll float in the middle with black bars all around and a return of the old iPad expand button to double-size the app to fill the screen. But this is actually worse, because the interfaces are designed around a smaller-size device and become really cumbersome and hard to reach on an open iPhone Duo. Its an awful experience, and it stings all the more because you paid over $2,000 for it. And there are so many popular and oft-used apps in this category: Google Home, Ring, Uber, Teams, Snapchat, Hulu, nearly every popular mobile game, Venmo, Google Docs, Audible, almost all the credit card and banking apps the list of black-bar apps goes on and on and includes scores of the top names. Using the Ring app as a tiny strip surrounded by black bars is a miserable experience. Foundry You can always run two apps side by side, wether theyre optimized for the Duo or not, and you can drag and drop content between them. Its a simple and intuitive multitasking experience that requires absolutely no learning curve; its just like running two iPhones side by side. It makes me wish Apple would actually pare back the iPad multitasking experience to match. Sometimes less is more. Running two apps side-by-side on the Duo is intuitive and useful. Foundry The situation is changing rapidly, and apps are being updated all the time. Works on Duo is my favorite crowdsourced database to keep informed. The sites readiness report currently shows just 34 percent of the top 100 apps are either optimized specifically for the Duo or at least run full screen on the inside display. That could double and you would still run into black bars every day! The gaming situation is even worse at only 14 percent of the top 100 games properly running full screen. The Duo principle strikes again: Optimized apps gives you exciting new ways to work and play but every other app is actually worse on the Duo than on any other iPhone. iPhone Duo: Durability and reliability Durability is a top concern for buyers of Apples first folding phone, especially considering the price. At this point, you should not be surprised to hear its another good news/bad news situation. The good news is that the iPhone Duo is IP68 rated for dust and water ingress, while nearly all other folding phones are IP48 and more sensitive to dust and dirt. Apples matte nano-texture coating on the inside display also hides micro scratches an imperfections really well. Obviously any phone with a mechanical hinge and folding glass is going to be more sensitive to rough handling and strenuous environments than a standard iPhone. Clear any dirt away before you work the hinge, because you can absolutely ruin it if enough grit gets in there. Its far too soon to see if there are long-term problems, but early tests using machines to open and close the hinge tens of thousands of times show that it holds up just fine and the crease does not get meaningfully worse. Its impressive engineering. In many ways, the iPhone Duo is more durable than most other folding phones, though clearly must be handled more carefully than a typical modern iPhone. Thats just one of the tradeoffs inherent to folding phones. A disturbing number of Duo owners are reporting that their screens break, in the same place, under normal operation. Midnight_Slump / Reddit Then theres the other side. Users are reporting defects that cause the inner display to break thanks to a potential defect in the hinge design or manufacture, and its widespread enough to get comment from Apple. And no matter how good that inner display is, it definitely does scratch more easily than the outer display so youll want to keep it away from keys, coins, and the like. Apple will repair or replace iPhone Duos with the screen/hinge defect as you would expect, but in general, repair of the Duo is very expensive. For example, repairing the inner display will cost you $999, half the price of the whole phone. So I definitely recommend AppleCare+ ($20/month or $200/year) if youre spending all that money on a Duo, which will bring the cost of an inner display repair down to $99. The iPhone is new again Folding phones intrinsically carry with them some tradeoffs that some users would rather not make, and on top of those, Apple has made some design decisions that not everyone will be happy with. Add on a constantly changing app optimization situation and you have an iPhone that takes a certain amount of tolerance to enjoy. At the same time, its refreshingly new; perhaps the first truly new iPhone since the original. This is the first time since those very early days where apps truly behave differently; not just slightly taller or higher-res, but functionally different. My time with the iPhone Duo has been filled with discovery. Apps I hadnt considered before are worth a look simply because of how they have been Duo-fied, and some of my old mainstays feel fresh and new. On the other hand, this is the first iPhone Ive ever used where a great many of the apps I rely on every day just arent as good as they are on my old phone. Small and awkward on the outside screen, and centered (or stretched) on the inside screen with black bars and interface elements that are hard to reach. I cant imagine paying $2,000 or more for an iPhone that is worse than my old one, but there are times when that is definitely true. Even for those who are accepting of folding phone compromises, it feels like the iPhone Duo is not ready yet. Apple has a little bit of work to do on its own apps and OS, but more importantly, there are thousands of popular apps that need to be updated to provide a decent experience. And theres nothing they can do that will make that inside selifie camera good. The iPhone Duo is not for everyone, and not just because its price puts it out of reach. It just imposes a set of compromises around durability, cameras, and usability that some people wont want to make. Some people are just not folding phone people. It remains to be seen how quickly most of these issues will be worked out, and one cant review a device based on its unrealized potential and promise. Thats why, even though Im having more fun exploring the iPhone Duo than I have any new iPhone in over a decade, I cant really recommend anyone buy one. Yet.

Rare deal hits Apple

Deals on Apples MacBook Neo have ben very hard to come by, and it might be the only model in the lineup that actually has a chance to stay close to full price for Black Friday. That said, we are tracking a rare price on the most affordable Silver model today it is now at the best price in months on Amazon. more

Apple Music's upcoming feature will let you record yourself doing karaoke

Apple Music will launch 'Selfie Sing' with iOS 27.3.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time review: A masterpiece reborn

The magic of the original is fully intact while looking and playing better than ever.

Binance attackers used fake job interviews to pull off $6.3 billion crypto heist

Binance has revealed more details about the cyber attack that resulted in the loss of $6.34 billion in digital assets.

Valve just changed its Steam release rules amid a flood of AI games

Valve is updating its game release rules to try to unclog a backlog of approvals due to a recent flood of new game titles, many created with AI.

Own Office for Mac outright for $100 and skip the Microsoft 365 bill

Macworld TL;DR: Tired of renewing Microsoft 365 every year? Get Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 for Mac for $99.97 (reg. $219) and own the classic apps outright. If all you need from Office is to write, crunch numbers, and answer email, a subscription feels like overkill. This license is a single payment for one Mac, with no renewals. Grab Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 for Mac for $99.97 (reg. $219) while its still on sale. Whats on the install list You get Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook, which keeps email, calendar, and contacts in one place. A basic version of Microsoft Teams comes along too. Everything runs locally, and the license is redeemed to your Microsoft Account instead of your hardware. Know what youre buying, though. Office 2021 reached Microsofts end of support on October 13, 2026, so this is the final build, with no new security or feature updates. Theres no OneDrive storage or Copilot, and it wont run in Parallels or other virtual machines. It supports current macOS releases, including Sequoia and Tahoe, and codes must be redeemed within seven days. More than 4,200 verified buyers rate it 4.8 out of 5. Get Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 for Mac for $99.97 (reg. $219). Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021: Lifetime License See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.

iPad mini OLED vs. iPad mini: What's new?

Apple's newest iPad mini is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, with hardware updates that extend far beyond the fancy new OLED display.

Your phone's apps could have more permissions than they need here's how to check

Most smartphone apps need permissions to function properly, but some may have more access than they should. Thankfully, it's pretty easy to check.

Your desktop's front USB ports may be slowing down every device you plug into them

The front USB ports of your computer are useful, but they often can't compete with the rear ports.

Arkane and its Blade game may end up at Ubisoft as Xbox considers offers

At least two other companies have also pitched themselves as the studio's possible new owners.

NVIDIA's controversial DLSS 5 is coming to RTX Remix to 'enhance' older games

The NVIDIA modding platform lets you remaster classic games with modern graphics, and now DLSS 5 is included.

Meta's Quest 2 and Quest Pro reach 'end of feature development'

The app stores will stay open for both devices after support ends next year.

Apple Watch Activity badges: Veteran

Macworld Achievement badges are a funny thing. You know theyre just a simple little bit of visual flair, they dont even do anything, and yet for some reason you just have to collect them. Gamification can be a great motivator, and the achievement badges for the activity tracking on the Apple Watch have inspired many users to get more exercise. If you want to maximize your badge count, youre going to want to chase down as many activity achievements as you can. Most are available year-round, but there are also some time-limited special events to grab, too. Heres a list of all the activity achievements for the Apple Watch and how to unlock them. Updated November 3, 2026: Apples yearly Veterans Day challenge is coming up on November 11, 2026. Apple Watch Series 11 Price When Reviewed: From $399 Best Prices Today: $379 at Walmart | $429.99 at Best Buy US Standard achievements Most of the achievements can be earned year-round. If you open the Activity app on your iPhone, then head over to the Achievements tab, youll see some of them listed even before you earn them (in which case they will be represented by a grey outline). However, there are some achievements that are not shown until you earn them. Past and future monthly challenges, for example, wont show up, nor do all the various individual exercise workouts. Here is a list of all the standard badges you can get. First [exercise] Workout The first time you perform a new exercise for at least 5 minutes, youll get a achievement badge. Every workout type that does not fall under the Other category is eligible for this badge: from walking to yoga to HIIT to hiking and more. Activities with both indoor and outdoor variants, like Cycling and Walking, are bundled together; you can do either activity to get the badge, and can only get it once. [exercise] Workout Record Every time you beat your previous best record for calories burned in any of the exercises listed above, you get this badge. There is one caveat: You must complete five workouts of that type first. If you want to game the system, make sure your first four workouts of each type are short and easy, so it wont take much effort to beat them. You get a badge the first time you do each major exercise type, and when you break a record. 7-Workout Week Simply complete any workout of at least 15 minutes every day of the week. Note that the week is Monday-Sunday, and you have to do a workout on each of those days (you cant simply do any seven days in a row). If you start a walking workout whenever you walk outside, you can achieve this easily. New Move Record Any day that your Move ring goes further than ever before (meaning you burned more calories in a day), youll earn this award. Theres one catch: you have to use your Apple Watch for 10 days before you can complete this. New Exercise Record This is just like the Move Record achievement, only for the green ring. This one is based on minutes of exercise, not calories burned, so its really easy to get. Just like the Move Record achievement, you have to use your Apple Watch for 10 days first. Move Goal 200%, 300%, 400% You earn this when you exceed your calorie target (the red Move ring) by 2x, 3x, or 4x, respectively. In other words, its given for making the red activity ring go around two, three, or four times in a day. Its easy to get if you just set your Move goal very low. Double, triple, and quadruple your Move ring goal. Reduce your goal if youre having trouble. New Move Goal Every time you change your daily Move goal, and then exceed that new goal, you get this achievement. You can change your Move goal by opening the Activity app on your Apple Watch and force-pressing the screen. Longest Move Streak When you hit your Move goal (close the red ring) several days in a row, thats a streak. You get this award when your streak finally ends, if its longer than your previous best streak. Perfect Week This is given out for four categories: Move, Exercise, Stand, and All Activity. For the first three, simply close the rings (red, green, or blue) every day of the week. To get the Perfect Week (All Activity) badge, close all three rings every day for an entire week. You can earn this multiple times, though it only shows one badge. Remember, one week in the Activity app is from Monday-Sunday! Close those rings every day from Monday to Sunday to earn a handful of badges. Perfect Month Unlike Perfect Week, there are not multiple different Perfect Month badges for the different color rings. The lone Perfect Month achievement is for closing the red Move ring every day of the month. Theres a separate Perfect Month badge for every month and every year, though. So you can earn this in February and again in March, and again in February in the next year. Monthly Challenge Each month has its own unique fitness challenge. If you have notifications set for the Activity app on our Apple Watch, youll see the goal presented at the beginning of the month, but youll also see the current months challenge in the Achievements tab of the Activity app on your iPhone. It will be a grey outline before its completed, but you can tap on it to see what the challenge entails. The monthly challenge may task you with burning a specific number of calories, working out a number of times, or traveling a certain distance. Theres no telling what each new month will bring, you just have to look! Theres a different challenge every month, so check your Activity app. 100, 365, 500, 1,000 Move Goals When you hit your daily Move goal (close the red ring) 100 times, you get an achievement badge. You get another for hitting it 365 times, 500 times, and 1,000 times. These do not need to be in a row; its just the total number of times youve ever hit the goal. Close the Move ring often to unlock a series of badges. Set the Move goal low if you want to make it easier. Apple Watch Ultra 2 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 (base) Best Prices Today: $471.49 at Walmart | $549.95 at Best Buy US | $761.11 at Amazon Limited Achievements Apple offers multiple one-off challenges per year that are only available for a limited time. Often, theyre only around for one day or one weekend. Some are limited to the U.S. because theyre based on U.S. holidays. Youll get a notification on your Apple Watch when one of them is coming up (make sure you have notifications enabled for the Activity app, using the Watch app on your iPhone). Veterans Day Challenge (November 11, 2026) Foundry Earn this award on November 11 by doing any workout for 11 minutes or more. Record your time with the Workout app or any app that adds workouts to Health. World Mental Health Day Challenge (October 10, 2026) Foundry National Parks Challenge (August 23, 2026) Apple The anniversary of the founding of the U.S. National Park Service is on August 25. Every year, Apple celebrates this with a global National Parks badge (on the 23th this year). Earning this award is a walk in the park. Or a run. Or a hike. Or a wheelchair push. Just record one of these workouts for 20 minutes or more on August 23. Global Running Day (June 3, 2026) Foundry On June 3, the world runs as one. This Global Running Day, record a running workout of at least 5K (3.1 mi) to earn this award. Use the Workout app or any app that records workouts to Health. International Dance Day (April 29, 2026) Apple Show off your dance moves for International Dance Day. Earn this award by recording a Dance workout of 20 minutes or more on April 29. Record it with the Workout app or any app that adds workouts to Health. Earth Day (April 22, 2026) Apple This Earth Day, April 22, record any 30 minute workout with the Workout app or any app that records workouts to Health to earn this award. The earth will think the world of you. Heart Month challenge (February 14, 2026) Foundry Close your exercise ring on Valentines Day, February 14, to earn this award. Your heart will love you for it. New Year 2026 (January 2026) Foundry Start the year strong and stay active! Earn this award by closing all three Activity rings for seven days in a row in January. World Meditation Day (December 21, 2025) Foundry Time to celebrate World Meditation Day! On December 21, record five mindful minutes or more with the Mindfulness app or any app that adds mindful minutes to Health to earn this special badge. Record 10 minutes of mindfulness or meditation with any app that adds mindful minutes to Health to get this award.

What type of battery does the Slate Truck use?

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This 240W USB-C Cable with Display is down at $13.50 Prime shipped today

INIU 240W USB-C Cable with Display Buy for $13.50 (Reg. $17) What we love I have had good luck with INIUs affordable charging gear, and this deal nets you its latest 240W PD 3.1 USB-C cable with the onboard wattage display to verify charging output instantly. This is a 6-foot cable made of a soft touch silicone that coils easily, and stays neatly bundled with the reusable cable strap. more

Amazon Hanes sale, score up to 67% off men

Right now, Amazon has a wide selection of Hanes basics on sale for the whole family , with savings of up to 67% off. Hanes is one of those tried-and-true brands you can count on for quality, long-lasting essentials, from hoodies and T-shirts to socks and underwear. Theres something for everyone in this sale, making it a great time to stock up on the everyday basics you rely on without sacrificing quality. Weve rounded up a fresh list of Amazon deals to make it easy to browse, shop, and get on with your day. Highlights this time around include the Hanes Mens EcoSmart Quarter-Zip Pullover, Hanes Mens Comfort Flex Fit Briefs (3-Pack), and Hanes Mens Ultimate Full-Zip Hoodie, among plenty of other picks. You can browse the full Amazon roundup or keep scrolling to check out all of our top picks! Shop the Full Amazon Sale more

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Estella

Our favorite four-legged deal hunter is back! Estella, 9to5Toys resident Frenchie, has been busy sniffing out the best pet deals of the day, rounding up great savings on everything from heavy-duty cleaning products from Bissell and grooming essentials to fan-favorite automatic cat litter boxes, tasty treats, and everyday must-haves to make life a little easier for you and your furry friends. more

iOS 27.3 beta is out now with a new Health app, Siri AI expansion, and more

Macworld Apple has begun beta testing for iOS and iPadOS 27.3, along with the 27.3 versions of all its other operating systems. This release should bring early Apple Intelligence features to China, as well as the Audio Intelligence features of Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, the redesigned Health app, and new Siri AI features within apps. We expect the final public release will take place sometime near the end of November or early December. Whats new in the iOS 27.3 beta Here are some of the new features and changes discovered in the iOS 27.3 beta so far: New Health app: The newly-designed Health app is back, after a brief appearance in the 27.2 betas. Audio Intelligence: Together with an Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4, the Live Rewind and Siri Recap features are now available. Read more about privacy with these features here . Safari features: Safari gets vertical tabs, Siri AI actions, and adaptive dark mode. Read more about these feautres here . Siri AI languages: Siri AI expands to Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese, Turkish, and Norwegian. iPhone Duo Reachability: An accessibility feature made to shift content to the side on the iPhone Duo, so its easier to reach on the extra-wide phone. Apple Intelligence in China: China gets some basic Apple Intelligence features like Writing Tools, Visual Intelligence, Clean Up, Genmoji, and more. Siri AI is not available. Fitness+ Gym Strength: New features in Fitness+ to build a gym strength training plan including the ability to track reps and weight. StandBy updates: On regular iPhones, StandBy mode has more of the options and configurability found on iPhone Duo. It still only works when your iPhone is charging, unlike iPhone Duo. Siri actions in Apple apps: Siri gets a lot of new capabilites across Apple apps like Calendar, Music, Messages, Reminders, Weather, and more. You can ask Siri what it can do in each app. Siri actions in third-party apps: The 27.3 developer previews add App Intents for developers that allow them to integrate their content and actions into Siri. So data from third-party apps can be part of your personal context and you can use natural language to have Siri perform actions in those apps (once they are updated to do so). iOS 27.3: How to install If you want to test the iOS 27 beta releases but are not a registered developer, follow these steps: Click Sign Up on the Apple Beta page and register with your Apple ID. Log in to the Beta Software Program. Click Enroll your iOS device. Open the Settings app, tap General , then Software Update . In the Beta Updates section, select the iOS Public Beta . It may take a few moments after registering for the beta option to appear in Software Update. iOS 27.3: How to install the developer beta Youll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Heres how to do it via the Apple Developer app: Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store. Open the app. Tap on Account. Sign in using your usual Apple ID. Find out everything you need to know about iOS 27 in our iOS 27 superguide .

Razer unveils the Raiju V3 Pro Signature Edition PS5 controller

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Latest macOS beta: What

Macworld Apple released macOS 27 Golden Gate on September 14, 2026, but development hasnt stopped. The latest update, macOS 27.2, became publicly available on October 26, completing its beta cycle. The newest beta is macOS 27.3. The developer beta became available on November 3, 2026. The public beta will likely become available once beta 2 is ready. Beta releases give developers and testers early access to upcoming features, fixes and refinements. However, unfinished software can introduce bugs, compatibility problems and increased battery drain, so we recommend caution particularly if you rely on your Mac for work. This guide tracks developer and public beta availability, explains whats new, and helps you decide whether to participate. Youll also find installation instructions, advice on reducing the risks, and guidance on returning to a public release. Whats the latest macOS beta? Apple offers two beta streams: a developer beta and a public beta. The public beta allows enthusiasts and early adopters to test upcoming changes before they are released to everyone. You need to join Apples Beta Software Program to access it. Latest public release: macOS 27.3 beta 1, released November 3, 2026. Previous beta cycle: macOS 27.2 Release Candidate on October 19, 2026. Next developer or public beta: macOS 27.3 beta 2 release date to be determined, like a week after beta 1. macOS 26 Tahoe beta : Apple may continue updating macOS 26 Tahoe with security and maintenance releases, but macOS 27 is now the current operating system and the focus of Apples beta program. macOS 27 Beta timeline Release Date Beta 1 June 8, 2026 Beta 2 June 22, 2026 Beta 3 July 6, 2026 Beta 3 v.2 July 13, 2026 Beta 4 July 20, 2026 Beta 5 August 10, 2026 Beta 6 August 17, 2026 Beta 7 August 24, 2026 Beta 8 August 31, 2026 Release Candidate 1 September 9, 2026 Public Beta 1 July 13, 2026 Public Beta 2 July 22, 2026 Public Beta 3 August 11, 2026 Public Beta 4 August 17, 2026 Public Beta 5 August 24, 2026 Public Beta 6 August 31, 2026 Final Release September 14, 2026 macOS 27.2 developer beta 1 September 16, 2026 macOS 27.2 developer beta 2 September 21, 2026 macOS 27.2 developer beta 3 October 5, 2026 macOS 27.2 developer beta 4 October 13, 2026 macOS 27.2 Release Candidate 1 October 19, 2026 macOS 27.2 Final Release October 26, 2026 macOS 27.3 developer beta 1 November 3, 2026 Whats new in the latest beta? New features in macOS 27. Foundry Apple has not announced the next beta, but as we become aware of major consumer-facing additions in macOS 27.3 beta we will list them here. The following changes are expected, though: Safari : new features include vertical tabs, Adaptive Dark Mode, and Siri AI implementation. Learn more . Bug fixes and performance improvements : Addressing issues in macOS 27. Additional Siri AI languages : Apple has said the Siri AI will expand to Traditional Chinese, Norwegian, Turkish, and Vietnamese by the end of 2026. Automatic password changes : The promised feature that will identify weak or compromised credentials and direct users to the appropriate website to change them has not yet been implemented, but it could arrive in macOS 27.3. Well update this section as changes are discovered. See Apples developer website for more information about the beta. Should you install the macOS beta? Apple Installing the macOS beta lets you test Apples next round of features, fixes and refinements before their public release. Most Mac users should remain on the standard version of macOS 27, particularly if they rely on their Mac for work. Install if You need to test apps You want early access to new features You have a secondary Mac available Wait if This is your primary work machine You rely on niche or specialist software Stability is critical to your workflow Who are you Should you install? A developer testing apps Consider the developer beta An enthusiast with a spare Mac Consider the public beta General user with one Mac Stay on macOS 27 What are the risks of installing beta software? Installing pre-release software on a primary device carries several risks. System instability : Performance problems, freezes, crashes, and other unexpected behavior are common during beta testing. App failures : Third-party applications may crash, behave unpredictably, or stop working entirely. Hardware strain : Early beta builds can increase battery drain and cause Macs to run hotter than usual. Data loss : Software bugs may corrupt files, and downgrading to a stable version often requires a complete system reset. Safety precautions and best practices If you decide to install the beta, take the following precautions: Use a secondary device : Avoid installing beta software on your primary Mac or on any machine used for critical work. Create a full backup : Use Time Machine to create a complete backup before upgrading so you can restore your Mac if something goes wrong. Note that this needs to be a Time Machine backup from before the beta was installed and you will lose anything saved subsequently. Install on a separate volume : Consider installing the beta on a separate volume or external SSD rather than replacing your main operating system. Check storage space : Make sure you have at least 15GB of free storage available before beginning the installation. How to install the macOS beta Foundry The process for installing a macOS beta depends on whether you are seeking the Developer Beta or the Public Beta. Apple simplified this process a few years ago, removing the need for a paid developer account to access early builds. The first step is to join Apples beta testing program . We explain how to do that in a separate article. You will need to register your account either as a public beta tester or as a developer in order to enable beta updates on your Mac. To install the beta follow these steps: Back up your Mac: Before installing any pre-release software, it is critical to prepare your Mac to avoid data loss. Beta software is inherently unstable and can cause crashes or app compatibility issues. Register your account either as a public beta tester or as a developer in order to enable beta updates on your Mac: For the Public Beta : Visit the Apple Beta Software Program website , sign in with your Apple ID, and agree to the terms. For the Developer Beta : Register as an Apple Developer on Apples website, download the Apple Developer app from the App Store, sign in with your standard Apple ID, and complete the free registration process. On the Mac where you wish to install the beta, open System Settings and navigate to General > Software Update. Click the (i) info button next to Beta Updates. Enable Beta Updates. The beta will appear as an available upgrade. Select the macOS beta you want to install (e.g., macOS Public Beta or Developer Beta). Click Upgrade Now to begin the download and installation. As long as you are a registered developer or enrolled in the public beta program, when the relevant macOS Beta becomes available, it will also show up on your Mac. Once you are running the beta, the updates will come through to your Mac automatically; you just need to go to Software Update in System Settings and click to install. See How to install macOS. How to get a free Apple developer account If you just want a free Apple Developer account so you can access the beta, you can get this via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Heres how to do it via the Apple Developer app on an iPhone: Get the Apple Developer App from the App Store . Open the app on your iPhone. Tap on Account. Tap on Sign In. Sign in using your usual Apple ID. If you wish to actually publish applications to the App Store or receive support, youll need to pay $99/79 per year for a paid account. You can compare the free and paid accounts here . FAQ 1. Who can run the macOS beta? Anyone can run the macOS beta, but to do so, you do need to register for either the developer beta, the public beta, or both. Apple offers both developer and public beta programs for macOS, enabling all interested users to test pre-release versions of the operating system. While both betas provide early access to new features, they cater to different user profiles based on technical expertise and risk tolerance. Beta software tends to be buggy so the more stable public beta version may be preferable, but even that will not be bug-free. In the past, the developer beta was only available to developers who had paid to join Apples Developer Program (which costs $99/79). However, for a couple of years now, Apple has opened up the developer beta to registered developers with free developer accounts. We explain how to get a free developer account below. If you decide you no longer want to run the beta version of macOS read this: How to remove the macOS beta . 2. macOS public beta vs developer beta Since 2023, the Developer Beta has been available to anyone who registers as a developer, even if they arent a paid-up member of Apples Developer Program. As a result, people with a basic free developer account can download the new macOS developer beta (we show you how to register below). Whether you should download the developer beta if you arent a developer is another question. We dont recommend you install the developer beta if you arent a developer. Instead, our recommendation is to use the public beta (the first version of which usually arrives in July). There are a few differences between the public and developer betas. The public beta is not the same as the beta that is released through the developer program. The public beta typically launches after the developer beta has undergone initial testing and refinement Developers get updates to their beta first, and possibly more frequently. But you should keep in mind that betas are by nature not stable, and because the public beta comes after the developer beta it could be a little safer to install. The most significant difference is probably the motive of the testers: Developers usually have the aim of ensuring their apps work when the updated macOS is released to the general public, while public beta testers are essentially helping Apple detect bugs and offering feedback on the features. Because of this, developers may get to test new features not available in the public beta. If you want to get the public beta the first thing you need to do, if you havent already, is join Apples beta programs read this for more information: How to become an Apple beta tester. 3. Is the macOS beta stable? By its nature, a beta has the potential to be unstable. Therefore, its not advised that you install it on a Mac that you rely on. If you have a second Mac that isnt mission-critical, then install it there. We strongly recommend that you dont risk all by putting the macOS beta on your primary Mac, especially not in the early days of the beta development. If you dont have a second Mac, there are a couple of ways you could run macOS beta on your Mac without running the risk of losing data or finding your Mac stops working: We recommend installing it on a partition, which these days is really a volume (and is much easier to create than a partition was). Read about how to do that here: How to dual-boot Mac: Run two versions of macOS on a Mac . Alternatively, you could install the macOS beta on an external drive and run it on that. We discuss the safety of the macOS beta and the risks you might be taking in more detail in a separate article. 4. How to prepare your Mac for the beta Update your software : We recommend you have the latest full version of macOS installed, although Apple says that the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility requires macOS 10.8 or later. Make space: Wed recommend at least 25-30GB of available space because the macOS betas tend to be very large. If you end up requiring more space, read: How to free up space on Mac . Note that we always recommend that you have at least 10% space free on your Mac at any time, so if you dont have that, expect problems! Back up : Before you install a beta on your Mac, you should make a backup of your data and files. You can find out how to use Time Machine to back up your Mac . We also have a round-up of suitable backup solutions . 5. How to send feedback to Apple Should you come across an error or a bug, you should use the Feedback Assistant app to provide feedback to Apple. Launch the app and follow the appropriate steps, selecting the area about which youre providing feedback and then any specific sub-area. Then describe your issue in a single sentence, before providing a more detailed description, including any specific steps that reproduce the issue. Youll also be able to attach other files. Youll also have to give permission for the Feedback Assistant app to collect diagnostic information from your Mac. It wont always be obvious whether something is a bug or just not as easy to use as you might have hoped. Either way, if your feedback is that something appears to work in an illogical way, Apple will want to know that. If you are having trouble with a third-party app, you can let Apple know by reporting it through the 3rd-party Application Compatibility category in the Feedback Assistant. However, wed suggest that you also provide feedback to the apps developer, who will no doubt be grateful. 6. Will I be able to update from macOS beta to the final version? Beta users can move to the finished release once its build is newer than or equivalent to the beta installed. Read: How to leave the macOS beta . 7. Can I talk about the beta publicly? According to Apple and the license agreement all beta testers must agree to, the beta is Apple confidential information. By accepting those terms, you agree not to discuss your use of the software with anyone who isnt also in the Beta Software Program. That means you cant blog, post screenshots, tweet, or publicly post information about the public beta software. However, you can discuss any information that Apple has publicly disclosed; the company says that information is no longer considered confidential. 8. How to downgrade from the macOS beta You can always revert to an earlier version of macOS, though depending on how you back up, its not necessarily a painless process. Start by making sure the data on your drive is backed up, then erase the drive and install the latest public version of macOS. When you first start up your Mac, you can use the Migration Assistant to import your data from the backup. Heres a more detailed tutorial on downgrading from the macOS beta and we also have a tutorial on downgrading to an older version of the Mac OS . 9. Is the beta free to download? Yes, the macOS beta is free to download for both developers and the general public. Apple offers two distinct tracks for testing pre-release software: the Developer Beta and the Public Beta, both of which are now accessible without a paid subscription. 10. Can I go back to the stable version? Yes, you can go back to the stable version of macOS from a beta, but the complexity of the process depends on whether the final version of that software has been released yet. If you are running macOS 27.2 beta and want to return to the current public release of macOS 27, simply turning off Beta Updates will stop future beta installations, but it will not immediately downgrade the Mac. To return before Apple releases an equivalent public build, you may need to erase the Mac and reinstall macOS, then restore data from a backup made before installing the beta. 11. Should I install the beta on my main Mac? Installing a macOS beta on your primary computer is generally not recommended due to the inherent risks of using unfinished software. While beta programs offer early access to new features, they are designed for testing and often contain significant bugs that can disrupt your daily workflow. 12. Do I need an Apple Developer account to install the beta? You do not need a paid Apple Developer account to install the macOS beta. While access to developer betas was previously restricted to those paying a $99/79 annual fee, Apple changed this policy in 2023 to allow anyone with a free developer account to access these builds. Alternatively, you can join the Public Beta program, which is also free and accessible to anyone with a valid Apple ID. 13. How often are new beta versions released? New macOS beta versions are typically released every one to two weeks, with the frequency increasing as the final public release date approaches. The beta updates refine features and address bugs identified by testers. 14. Is the macOS beta safe to install? The beta is generally safe to test, but it may contain bugs that cause crashes, poor battery life, app compatibility issues, or data loss. Always back up your Mac before installing. 15. Will my apps work with the macOS beta? Many apps will work normally, but some third-party software may crash, perform poorly, or not launch at all until developers release updates.

Get ready for GTA 6 pre-load with Corsair

Over at Amazon, Corsairs MP600 Elite 1TB SSD with heatsink is now down to $249.99 shipped . Deals on PS5-compatible SSDs have been pretty hard to come by since the recent price hikes, and this particular model has been fetching around $305 in recent months. Todays offer takes $55 off that going rate and brings it back down to the lowest price weve tracked since the hikes, matching the $250 low it first hit in August. Adding a 1TB drive could be a pretty useful upgrade ahead of GTA 6 , especially now that its confirmed to require up to 212GB os free space. This is also one of the better prices were currently seeing on a 1TB PS5-compatible SSD with a heatsink, so its worth considering if youve been waiting to expand your PS5 storage. Head below for more details. more

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This affordable Nintendo Switch 2 travel case makes room for the dock, now $24

JSAUX Nintendo Switch 2 Travel Case Buy for $24 (Reg. $29) What we love Ive said it before, when I have headed to holiday family gatherings over the years, hauling a Nintendo Switch has proven worthwhile. It can help break the ice and loosen everyone up, especially if you dont have much in common. This sort of case makes it easy to haul everything you need and its only $24 right now. more

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Get this bendable MagSafe mount on your dashboard for $27 (Save 33%)

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Your entrance is a mess, tidy it up with this large 4-in-1 rack down at $27

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First price drop hits this new fluted 65-inch TV stand, now $126 shipped

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The next Elder Scrolls game is officially called Sentinel

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Here are 15 hand-picked adidas bags, jackets, and accessories on sale from just $13 (Up to 60% off)

Today we combed through the adidas sale page to find big discounts and low prices on eye-catching gear. Youll find a fresh list down below with highlights that include the adidas Puremotion Jacket, adidas VL Court Base Shoes, adidas Airliner Duffel Bag, and more. You can either dive into the full sale using the link below, or you can continue reading to see all of our top picks. Shop the Full adidas Sale more

All-black waffle knit hoodie returns to $15 Prime shipped

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Standout printed trim and $15 price headline this dress shirt (38% off)

Alex Vando Dress Shirt with Printed Trim Buy for $15 (Reg. $24) What we love A solid dress shirt can look great on its own, but I personally like that there is just a smidge of something extra going on. The printed trim makes this style fit the bill for me and at $15, it seems like a solid grab. more

Go foldable or go home: All the gadgets you can own that fold

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The rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4 is down to $700 in this rare deal

Macworld Apple Watch Ultra 4 View Deal (function () { document.querySelector(#sticky-promo-block a).addEventListener(click, function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest(#sticky-promo-block).querySelector(p.promo-title).textContent; const data = { event: stickyConversionUnitClick, eventCategory: Sticky Conversion, eventAction: Click, eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log(Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: , data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); Whether youre out on a hike in the middle of nowhere or running a marathon, the best companion to have with you is an Apple Watch Ultra 4. Not only will it track your vitals, but it will keep you on track even if your iPhone dies. You can grab one of these spectacular smartwatches for $700 right now , a savings of $100 and the best price weve seen so far. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 comes with both GPS and 5G built-in, so you can keep connected to the world even if you leave your phone at home or your battery dies. The watch will track your path, log your health metrics, and keep you connected to the world, even in an emergency. When youre out of cell range and away from Wi-Fi, built-in satellite communications let you text emergency services, so you can have peace of mind on the most remote of trails. And of course, it has impressive battery life. In Max Extended Workout Mode, it stays running for up to 45 hours, and a quick 15-minute recharge gives you another 18 hours of use. Even if youre not heading into the great unknown, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is great for training in whatever sport youre into, including those that involve water. In fact, it has a water resistance of up to 100m, making it a solid partner for snorkelers and regular swimmers. The watch itself is also going to live through all your tough training thanks to its titanium case and sapphire crystal display. Based on the history of the Apple Watch deals, $100 off is one of the best youre going to get for the Apple Watch Ultra 4, so its best to jump on this deal while its available.

The easiest way to turn your regular TV into a smart TV

If you have an older TV that doesn't have smart features, you might not need to upgrade. Here's how to turn your dumb TV into a smart one.

If you think MacBooks and iPhones are expensive now, just wait

Macworld Earlier this year, when other rival companies were slowly raising prices due to RAM and storage shortages, we praised Apple for keeping things steady, but when the price hikes arrived in June, they were brutal . Products released since then, including the iPhone 18 Pro and M6 Mac mini, have seen additional price hikes, and there are numerous clues that further price hikes are a distinct possibility. In an otherwise celebratory earnings call this week, for instance, hints were dropped about recent increases in component costs, and what they might mean for Apples pricing in the future. Over the course of the call (for ease of reference, Im working from Jason Snells transcript over on Six Colors ), Apple CFO Kevan Parekh used the phrase higher memory costs four times and memory impact twice; he also, as a bonus, said, We expect the memory costs to continue to be a challenge for us. New CEO John Ternus, meanwhile, spoke about the topic at some length, describing current memory pricing as unprecedented, then predicting even higher memory costs, partly offset by a few factors in the December quarter followed by still more increases in the quarters beyond. Given those predictions, and Apples citation of higher memory costs as the reason for the original price hikes, it seems logical to expect Apple products to continue to get more expensive in the short to medium term. But the company was reluctant to admit this in so many words. Wamsi Mohan, a representative of Bank of America, posed a question about this at the earnings call: Is Apple changing anything in the way that you are procuring memory? he asked. How do you think about the progression of memory over time? And if it continues to be a headwind, is pricing also going to remain dynamic [and] potentially move higher? This, Im afraid, is a classic journalistic mistake: the multi-part question which allows the respondent to answer only the parts they like. And cynical readers will be unsurprised to hear that Apple COO Sabih Khan chose to focus on the altogether less awkward first two parts and ignore the third. He talked about supplier relationships and purchase obligations and left it at that. But that wasnt the end of the matter. Perhaps Kevan Parekh figured that, if that was all the answer he received, Mohan would use his follow-up to drill down into the pricing issue some more and it would look like Apple had dodged the question. So he addressed it after a fashion. Wamsi, maybe Ill add here because you asked the question about pricing and how were managing it, he began. So look, were trying to manage this with a number of actions. You were just talking about the fact were continuing to pursue lower cost in non-memory components. John mentioned the fact that we have some benefit of carry-in inventory, and we did reluctantly make the decision to change pricing on a number of our products, starting with the iPad and Mac in the June timeframe and then iPhone more recently in September. I think what we try to do, in doing all that, we evaluate the units revenue and margin, and were really being thoughtful and deliberate at evaluating kind of the short-term and long-term considerations, and I believe were balancing this well. In other words, Apple looks at the revenue and margin of a product and then acts accordingly, trying to balance short- and long-term considerations. (Im putting words in Parekhs mouth here, but I take that to mean balancing the short-term harm of reduced profit against the long-term harm of lower sales and a smaller install base to sell services and accessories into.) Which is fairly obvious and doesnt offer a great deal of new information. So the official answer on the subject of Apple price rises is we will act in a thoughtful and deliberate way. But weve heard that before, and reading between the lines of all the complaints about memory costs in the rest of the earnings call, its looking increasingly likely that Apple will have to push up pricing again.

Expand the Worx Aerocart

Worx Aerocart Firewood Carrier Attachment Buy for $29.50 (Reg. $55) What we love If you have a Worx Aerocart, you can add to its 8-in-1 functionality using this handy attachment. It allows you to better collect firewood during the colder months ahead, attaching in a matter of seconds and requiring no additional tools. This is a heavy-duty steel frame with a dual-canvas that withstands wear and tear and can handle a load of up to 177 pounds. more

Early Black Friday Fire TV Stick deals now live: All-new model now at $25 all-time low (58% off)

While we are still awaiting details on the official Amazon Black Friday start date (although we more or less already know when it will be), the early deals on its in-house tech are already going live. We have the first discount on its all-new Alexa Android Tablet and its time to take a closer look at the Fire TV Stick deals the brand new model is now at the $25 all-time low. more

EcoFlow TITAN Series Whole-Home Backup Ecosystem launches with up to $2,199 savings starting from $2,374

EcoFlow has officially launched its new TITAN Series Whole-Home Backup Ecosystem that is comprised of three models and various bundle options for each plus, theres even bonus extra savings. The three base options are the TITAN Classic at $2,374.05 shipped , after using the code EFTITANAFF at checkout, while the TITAN 5000 is down at $3,039.05 shipped (using the same code), and the TITAN 5000 Plus is down at $3,514.05 shipped (also using the code). These new models will go for $3,299, $4,099, and $4,999 after these launch deals end, with the initial discounts dropping things to $2,499, $4,099, and $4,999 before the bonus extra savings code cuts more from the tags. All-in-all, youre getting up to $1,485 total savings off these three units and up to $2,199 savings with its bundle options available on each landing page (when using the above code). Likewise, folks who jumped on the $50 pre-order deal before today can log in to claim their extra savings there, too. Head below to learn more about the series. more

Elder Scrolls VI: Sentinel officially revealed today

You know that new Elder Scrolls game Bethesda said it was working on after we basically already knew it was already working on it about a million years ago? Well, as part of the companys 40th anniversary, it has finally revealed more on the game. more

LEGO officially reveals massive Ideas Godzilla set as its Black Friday headliner + GWP

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What's the meaning of the C on your USB-C ports?

USB Type-C cables are everywhere, especially now that Apple has gotten onboard with the port. But does the C in USB-C mean something in particular?

Samsung's Galaxy Ring gets FDA approval for advanced sleep apnea detection

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5 iPhone features you should be using after updating to iOS 27

iOS 27 brings several improvements to the iPhone, from useful quality-of-life changes to a range of new Apple Intelligence-powered features.

Zelda Ocarina of Time remake releases in 2 days: Score the pre-order discount now before it

Two of the biggest and most anticipated game releases of the last decade are set for launch this month. One of them is Grand Theft Auto VI , of course, and the other is Nintendos ground-up remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Amazon is already completely sold out on the new Zelda remake ahead of release on Thursday, but you can still lock in the $10 pre-order discount at Walmart if youre quick. We, perhaps, could have featured this deal one more time tomorrow as a last chance sort of thing, but we would rather not take the chance it sells out before then. You can pre-order the game elsewhere, but Walmart appears to be the only place left to score a deal on it with the special commemorative Textured Foil Cover. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake $60 (Reg. $70) | Walmart With commemorative Textured Foil Cover Zelda Ocarina of Time remake completely sold out at Amazon, but you can still score the pre-order deal right here The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake $60 (Reg. $70) | Walmart With commemorative Textured Foil Cover more

iPad mini (A20 Pro) review: Apple's tiny tablet gets a big update

Apple made significant improvements to the iPad mini this year, but they don't come cheap.

Peak Design launches premium charging accessories to complement its bags and tripods

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iPad mini (A20 Pro) review: Growing in leaps and bounds

Macworld At a glance Expert's Rating Pros More compact with a larger display Faster performance overall OLED improves display quality IP67 dust and water resistance Cons Display lacks ProMotion Our Verdict With this release, Apple finally does more with the iPad mini, giving it an overhaul that makes the device feel modern and worth its price. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed $699 Best Prices Today: Apple iPad mini (A20 Pro) Retailer Price $699 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Its been two years since the last iPad mini was released, which sported a design that was introduced in 2021. Over a short amount of time, the iPad mini (A17 Pro) became a package with a dated chip, display, and design. Enter the iPad mini (A20 Pro). With this update, Apple gave its smallest tablet a complete overhaul: its latest A-series chip, a sparkling new OLED display, and a more compact design. While it might look the same at a glance, spend a little time with it, and youll see just how different it is. Its an update that comes at the right time. With prices on the rise (and no ceiling in sight), the $699 iPad mini finds itself in an appealing spot, offering an impressive combination of features and performance for the price. A20 Pro iPad mini: Design A large part of Apples design philosophy is to make its products as compact as possible, especially with its portable devices. Even the new MacBook Pro with PROLED XDR Display is thinner than the previous model. That treatment is especially true if the product has mini in its name. Take, for example, the history of the Mac mini, particularly the recent 2024 Mac mini redesign . This time, its the iPad minis turn, and its now the most compact iPad mini Apple has made. Heres how the new iPad mini compares in size to the old one. Dimension iPad mini (A20 Pro) iPad mini (A17 Pro) Height 7.69 in (195.3 mm) 7.69 in (195.4 mm) Width 5.22 in (132.6 mm) 5.30 in (134.8 mm) Depth 0.21 in (5.4 mm) 0.25 in (6.3 mm) Weight (Wi-Fi) 0.56 lb (255 g) 0.65 lb (293 grams) Weight (Wi-Fi + Cellular) 0.58 lb (263 g) 0.66 lb (297 grams) The iPad mini (A20 Pro) is the same height as before, but its a bit narrower, thinner, and lighter. Its smaller all around, which makes it more comfortable to hold in one hand, and you might even forget its in your bag. The previous iPad mini was small enough for me to always have in my backpack, but it pushed the border of pocketability. The new iPad minis slight reduction in size is a better fit for cargo pants pockets and smaller carryalls. The new iPad mini is the first iPad to have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. In this case, its IP67 rating means it has a dust protection rating of 6, the highest rating, while the water resistance rating is 7 (out of 9), which means the iPad mini should survive being submerged in about 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. Besides individual consumer use outside, Ive often seen the iPad mini used at outdoor events by staff, so the IP67 construction is an excellent idea to protect their investment. With an upgrade to OLED, the iPad mini offers a brighter display. Roman Loyola/Foundry A20 Pro iPad mini: OLED Display The major upgraded component of the iPad mini (A20 Pro) is the display, which now has OLED (Super Retina XDR) that replaces the LED-backlit IPS (Liquid Retina) panel. Its not the tandem OLED thats in the iPad Pro, so its overall image quality doesnt compare to that particular device. But compared to the iPad mini (A17 Pro), the difference is noticeable and improved. The new iPad mini is rated at 600 nits for SDR and XDR brightness, 100 nits brighter than before. And the new iPad mini can hit a peak of 1,200 nits when viewing HDR content, something the old iPad mini couldnt do. Its a difference you can especially appreciate when, say, youre using the iPad mini in direct sunlightit made lounging in my backyard on a sunny Sunday afternoon much more pleasurable. OLED is a better technology than LED-backlit, so everything looks better: the Home screen, apps, text, graphics, even the surrounding white spaces in Photos. As for the photos themselves, the colors are more vivid, and the contrast is more discernible. The one disappointment about the display is its 60Hz refresh rate. Apples standard 60Hz dfisplays are better than most, but it wouldve been nice if the mini had ProMotion, Apples variable refresh rate feature that goes up to 120Hz. Faster refresh rates make videos and animations look smoother, and video games benefit greatly. ProMotion used to be a feature just for Pro devices until Apple added it to the iPhone 17 . With the new iPad mini (top), Apple took a new approach to the bezels, making them thinner and curvier than the previous iPad mini (bottom). Roman Loyola/Macworld ProMotion seems like a perfect fit for the iPad mini, often used as an entertainment device, where a faster rate makes videos and high-end games look smoother. Apple will probably add it to the next iPad mini, but its going to be a while before that model arrives, since the iPad mini is on a longer product cycle (2 to 3 years). Finally, the bezels on the new mini are also quite a bit thinner, and its striking how dated the A17 Pro iPad mini looks now. The thinner bezels help the new iPad mini eke out a larger 8.5-inch viewable area, compared to the previous 8.3 inches. Also, the bezels around the corners are more rounded and more in harmony with the outer corners of the iPad mini itself compared to the squarer A17 Pro iPad minis bezels. A20 Pro iPad mini: Speakers For the first time ever, Apple has made an iPad without speakers. Or rather, without speaker holes. The iPad minis new Acoustic Display is a sound system comprised of tweeters between the glass-and-aluminum enclosure, and woofers paired through the display. Essentially, the sound from the iPad mini A20 Pro feels like it emanates through the glasshold the iPad minis display to your ear, and you can hear the sound coming through. It makes a profound difference in the aural experience and gives the illusion that youre in the song rather than just listening to it. By comparison, the iPad mini with speaker grills projects sound outward instead of toward you, creating something of a disconnect between you and the device. To achieve IP67 dust and water resistance, Apple removed the speaker grills on the new iPad mini and replaced it with a new speaker system behind the glass. Roman Loyola/Foundry As for the actual sound quality, I had a difficult time hearing the difference between the old and new iPad minis. It sounds better and clearer than the iPhone 18 Pro Max speaker, though the sound is still tinny and missing depth. Bass is improved, but not by much; one of my favorite songs to play for bass is Public Enemys Shut Em Down, and its bassline is a shadow of whats heard through high-quality speakers. A20 Pro iPad mini: Processor upgrades Theres a three-year gap between the A20 Pro in the new iPad and the A17 Pro it replaces. That means the performance improvements are quite noticeable, at least from a benchmark standpoint. The single-core CPU result shows a 51 percent performance increase with the A20 Pro. This means that youll notice a difference with a majority of apps you use on the new iPad mini: productivity tasks, social media apps, communication tools, browsers, casual games, consumer-level creative software, and a lot more. In everyday, general usage, the iPad A20 Pro feels snappy, quick, and up to the task. Multi-core CPU results show a similar improvement of 50 percent. Thats also impressive, but since the iPad mini isnt usually used as a production tool like the iPad Pro (or even the iPad Air), most customers wont feel these benefits nearly as much. If you do happen to use the iPad mini to do a lot of graphical work or play a lot of high-end games, youll like what the A20 Pro has to offer. Its GPU performance is excellent and is leaps and bounds better than the A17 Pro, a 180 percent jump in performance. Thats a lot for the iPad mini, but to put it in perspective, Apple released the A18 Pro and A19 Pro in the meantime, so the A20 Pros result includes a cumulative effect from those chips. A20 Pro iPad mini: Battery life Rated at 18.9 watt-hours, the battery in the A20 Pro iPad mini is actually smaller than that of the 19.3 watt-hours of the A17 Pro iPad mini. However, the battery life rating is the same as its been for every iPad ever released:10 hours (Wi-Fi)/9 hours (Wi-Fi + Cellular) of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching video. To test battery life, I played a video saved to the iPad mini continuously on a loop, with the display at 200 nits of brightness (about halfway on the Brightness slider). After 10 hours and 10 minutes, the battery ran out, so almost exactly what Apple claims. When using the iPad mini as I regularly dochecking out social media, watching an occasional video, browsing the web, reading email, and playing Apple Arcade+ gamesbattery life was never an issue. The major change with the battery is that if you use a 35-watt or higher charger, the A20 Pro iPad mini adds 50 percent of charge in 30 minutes. Its a huge benefit over older iPad minis. The old A17 Pro iPad mini took 50 minutes to charge 50 percent with an Apple 70-watt charger. The new iPad mini (right) no longer has the iPad mini branding on the back. Roman Loyola/Foundry A20 Pro iPad mini: Cameras The iPad mini still has a pair of 12MP Wide cameras, one on the front and one on the back. Theyre the same ones youll find on the iPad mini A17 Pro, which shows how important the cameras are to this device. There arent many people using an iPad mini as their primary camera, but its fine for a quick shot in a pinch. The front camera is the most important on the iPad mini because the device is often used with FaceTime and other video conferencing apps. Thankfully, Apple finally moved the front camera from the top to the landscape side, so its in the proper position for landscape video calls. The front camera is also equipped with Center Stage to keep you in the center of the frame. Should you buy the A20 Pro iPad mini? If you have an older iPad mini, this is a refresh worth upgrading to. The A20 Pro iPad mini combines several compelling elements to make it an attractive small tablet. The speedy A20 Pro, gorgeous OLED with slimmer bezels, and thinner design make the iPad mini feel modernit even makes the model it replaces feel older than its three years. If you have an iPad mini thats a 6th generation model or older, you should upgrade to this one to take advantage of Apple Intelligence. If youre shopping for an iPad and the size of the tablet doesnt play into your decision, the $749 11-inch iPad Air has a stronger M4 chip, but the LED-backlit display, while bigger, isnt as nice as the iPad minis OLED. So, if your iPad is for CPU-intensive work apps, go with the iPad Air. If its an entertainment device, pick the iPad mini. Roman Loyola/Foundry The iPad mini was feeling like a dated device. Even when Apple released the A17 Pro model in 2023, it felt like Apple couldve done more. With this generation, Apple finally does more with the iPad mini, giving it an overhaul that makes the device feel modern and worth its price.