Gadgets

Smartphones, laptops, wearables, AR/VR, audio and the accessories that tie it all together — every device that matters, curated daily.

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All Gadgets

Googlebook’s app situation is a mess, and not just because things are missing
9to5google.com

Googlebook’s app situation is a mess, and not just because things are missing

Googlebook’s launch has exposed significant app compatibility issues, particularly with desktop‑class software. The Android‑based platform lacks key productivity suites like Adobe and offers limited alternatives, forcing users to rely on the Google Play Store’s fragmented quality labeling system. Popular apps such as Telegram, Slack, and Spotify perform poorly, with broken interfaces and inconsistent functionality. Critics argue that Google’s early release, priced competitively, fails to meet expectations for a full‑featured laptop, prompting many to consider established Windows or [...]
9to5Mac Daily: October 9, 2026 – Apple’s ‘Welcome home’ launch announced, more
9to5mac.com

9to5Mac Daily: October 9, 2026 – Apple’s ‘Welcome home’ launch announced, more

9to5Mac Daily released a podcast recap on October 9, 2026, highlighting Apple’s “Welcome Home” launch event. The episode, available on iTunes, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, and RSS, covered the keynote’s key announcements, including new HomePod models, updated HomeKit features, and a refreshed Apple TV+ lineup. The show also mentioned sponsorships from Stuff and Roborock’s Prime Day deals, and reminded listeners to subscribe for daily episodes and support the podcast through 9to5Mac Daily Plus. [...]
Get your Galaxy S26: Samsung rolls out an October patch for lingering security issues
androidcentral.com

Get your Galaxy S26: Samsung rolls out an October patch for lingering security issues

Samsung has begun distributing its October 2026 security patch to Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra users in the U.S. and Canada. The ~530 MB update contains 62 fixes, including 13 from Samsung and 49 from Google, targeting vulnerabilities that could allow arbitrary code execution or unauthorized privilege escalation. The patch follows the One UI 9 (Android 17) rollout and is available globally, with the Galaxy S25 series expected to receive a similar update shortly.
At just 5.2mm, Apple’s iPhone Air 2 might miss the point
appleinsider.com

At just 5.2mm, Apple’s iPhone Air 2 might miss the point

Apple is rumored to release an iPhone Air 2 that would be thinner than the current 5.6 mm model, potentially matching the 5.2 mm thickness of the upcoming iPhone Duo when unfolded. The new device is said to feature higher‑density battery technology, promising longer life in a slimmer form. Critics argue that further reducing thickness may compromise battery capacity and overall usability, potentially deterring buyers who previously cited battery and camera limitations. The move reflects Apple’s focus on design over [...]
Apple’s Welcome Home Event: Everything Leaked! Apple TV 4K, HomePods and a New Hub | One More Thing
iblnews.org

Apple’s Welcome Home Event: Everything Leaked! Apple TV 4K, HomePods and a New Hub | One More Thing

Apple held its “Welcome Home” event, unveiling a refreshed Apple TV 4K with a slimmer design, upgraded A15 processor, and support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. The company also introduced a new line of HomePod speakers, featuring spatial audio, a built‑in temperature sensor, and integration with the upcoming Home hub. The Home hub, positioned as a central control point for Apple’s smart‑home ecosystem, runs iOS 17, supports Thread and Matter standards, and promises faster device pairing. Demonstrations highlighted seamless hand‑off [...]
Next-gen Google TV Streamer in the works with microphones, presence sensing, & new remote
9to5google.com

Next-gen Google TV Streamer in the works with microphones, presence sensing, & new remote

Development is under way on a next‑generation Google TV Streamer that keeps the familiar pill‑shaped design but narrows its width for a smaller footprint. The device will add built‑in microphones with cutouts to accept “Hey Google” voice commands and incorporate presence‑sensing hardware that can trigger ambient information displays when a user approaches. To compete with the upcoming Apple TV, the new streamer is expected to ship with 6 GB of RAM, Wi‑Fi 7, a faster 64‑bit processor and increased [...]
Microsoft offers MacBook owners up to $1,000 to ditch Apple for a Surface Laptop Ultra
windowscentral.com

Microsoft offers MacBook owners up to $1,000 to ditch Apple for a Surface Laptop Ultra

Microsoft has launched a limited‑time incentive program targeting current MacBook users, offering up to $1,000 in credit toward the purchase of a Surface Laptop Ultra. The promotion, announced in early October, is available to customers who trade in eligible MacBook models through Microsoft’s online portal or participating retail partners. The credit amount varies based on the MacBook’s age and configuration, with newer, higher‑spec devices qualifying for the maximum rebate. The Surface Laptop Ultra, featuring a 13.5‑inch PixelSense Flow display, [...]
iPhone Duo will greet some owners by name on its first boot
appleinsider.com

iPhone Duo will greet some owners by name on its first boot

Apple will let customers who buy the new iPhone Duo in its U.S. retail stores personalize the device’s first‑boot screen with a spoken greeting that includes their name. The feature, reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, will be available when the phone is activated for the first time after purchase, displaying “Hello, [Name]” in English or Spanish. Apple’s in‑store system, likely using the Presto software‑update platform, will modify the boot process of unopened inventory before hand‑off. The iPhone Duo [...]