TechCapsules

Sonos released version 90.1 of its app (Sonos 27.2) to support Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone Duo in both folded and unfolded modes. The update is available immediately through the App Store and can be installed manually. It follows the broader Sonos 27 software release, which introduced a redesigned app interface and new speaker features. The move positions Sonos to accommodate the Duo’s unique form factor ahead of its launch later this month.

The Washington Post reports that Apple contributed $25 million to a $330 million White House demolition and ballroom renovation, alongside Nvidia, Microsoft, and Lockheed Martin. Apple’s donation is part of a larger, controversial federal project that has attracted scrutiny over its cost and purpose. The White House has declined to comment on individual donors, leaving the public to question the influence of major tech and defense firms in federal spending.

Microsoft announced a November 2026 Windows 11 update that includes new Photos and Search features, expanded phone integration, and gaming performance boosts. As part of the rollout, eligible Windows 11 PC buyers will receive 25 free Xbox PC games, worth over $500, to claim via the Microsoft Store app. The offer applies to select U.S. retail PCs purchased between November 2 and December 31, 2026, with activation required by December 2, 2027. The bundle features titles such as Skyrim Special Edition, [...]

Apple unveiled its HomeView wall‑mounted display on October 13, revealing a seven‑inch screen that integrates Siri AI, smart‑home controls, and media management. Demonstrations highlighted how the device streams live security camera feeds, displays shared photo albums, and organizes recipes. The launch also showed how HomeView can be mounted where a light switch once stood, offering a seamless home‑automation experience. The event underscored Apple’s push to embed its ecosystem deeper into everyday living spaces.

Apple unveiled its HomeView smart display, a new Apple TV 4K (fourth generation) priced at $799, and a refreshed HomePod mini at $49. The HomeView features a 10‑inch touchscreen, integrated HomeKit controls, and a camera for FaceTime. The Apple TV 4K adds a 4K HDR processor, Dolby Vision support, and a redesigned remote. The HomePod mini receives a new speaker design and improved spatial audio. Apple also previewed a new iOS beta with an updated Apple Music

Apple’s new iPad mini has undergone a two‑year development cycle during which the company tested both a standard 60Hz OLED panel and a ProMotion 120Hz display. Mark Gurman reported on thePower On podcast that Apple explored both refresh rates but has not yet confirmed which will appear in the upcoming release. The decision will influence the device’s performance, battery life, and user experience, but the final choice remains undisclosed.

TechCrunch’s Founder Summit in Boston on November 4 offers founders and investors a chance to discuss fundraising, hiring, product-market fit, and AI integration. The event features roundtables, breakout sessions, and 1:1 networking, with speakers such as Kent Bennett (Bessemer Venture Partners), Lior Divo (7AI), and Vineet Edupuganti (Cogent Security). Passes are discounted by up to $200 until October 16, after which the savings expire. The summit aims to help participants refine strategies and make decisive business moves.

Apple has publicly rebutted OpenAI’s claim that a former employee transferred confidential files to Apple after leaving for the AI firm. The company asserts it has strict policies preventing the use of prior employer data and found no evidence supporting OpenAI’s allegations. Apple’s response, filed in court, details its investigation, challenges the specificity of the alleged files, and notes that the new claims are unrelated to its existing trade‑secret lawsuit against OpenAI and former employees. Apple remains [...]