Apple has reportedly shelved its plans for an iPhone hardware subscription service Apple is no longer pursuing its iPhone subscription service, according to sources familiar with the matter.
First rumored in 2022, the service was expected to allow customers to pay a fixed monthly fee to rent an iPhone. Subscribers would also have had the option to upgrade to the latest model when new iPhones were released.
The iPhone subscription service was allegedly leaked in the same year but faced delays due to software and legal complications. Now, it appears that the project has been abandoned altogether.
Apple is reportedly encountering challenges with battery sizes as well.
Apple iPhone (Photo: Getty Images)
Similarities to the iPhone Upgrade Program
From the limited information available, Apple’s proposed subscription service seemed reminiscent of the iPhone Upgrade Program.
Launched in 2015, the iPhone Upgrade Program allows customers to sign up for a two-year monthly payment plan for their device, with current prices starting at €39.50 per month for the 128 GB iPhone 16. After making 12 payments, participants can upgrade to the newest iPhone model by initiating a new loan.
Unlike the Upgrade Program, which enables customers to own their iPhone outright after completing the payment plan, the now-shelved subscription service appeared to function more like a rental. Customers would likely have been required to return their device if they chose to cancel their subscription.
A crossover between Helldivers 2 and the Killzone franchise has seemingly been leaked, potentially featuring new armor and weapons.
According to Twitter user Iron\_S1ghts, the crossover is reportedly called Righteous Revenants Warbond.
The user has been datamining the game for months on end, and has previously leaked the designs of the new enemy faction, the Illuminate.
There are two screenshots floating around showing some of the alleged armors. They have Killzone’s iconic gas masks and red eyes that give them their signature sinister look.
One of them is called AC-1 Dutiful and its passive ability provides 50% resistance to fire, gas, acid, and electrical damage.
Helldivers 2 and Killzone Crossover
The other one is called AC-2 Obedient, which has the same passive ability, but offers less protectional in exchange for more speed and stamina recovery. Sony has not made any official announcement yet.
Arrowhead Studios said earlier this year that it’d be open to crossovers but “only if they make sense.” Given that Helldivers 2 and Killzone both have fascist themes, this particular crossover seems like a great match.
Another potential match could be between Helldivers 2 and Halo, but Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt said that it would probably never happen.
Helldivers 2 recently added a new faction called the Illuminate, and players have crushed them in under a week.
A limited-edition Helldivers 2 DualSense controller will also be available for preorder starting December 20. The game won Best Ongoing Game and Best Multiplayer at The Game Awards 2024.
Intel’s renewed attempt to break into the graphics card duopoly shows potential, but the journey to this point has been a long one.
The PC graphics card market has long been dominated by a lopsided duopoly, with Nvidia reigning supreme and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) consistently trailing behind.
In late 2022, Intel (INTC -1.87%) entered the fray with its Arc Alchemist graphics cards, offering much-needed options for consumers seeking alternatives.
However, Intel’s initial foray into the market was rocky. Despite the A750 and A770 graphics cards being solid pieces of hardware, the software drivers were riddled with issues.
Some older games were unplayable or experienced inconsistent performance, and numerous bugs rendered the cards an impractical choice for many PC gamers. As a result, Intel failed to secure significant market share or disrupt the status quo.
Over the past few years, Intel has significantly improved its software through consistent updates, providing a more stable foundation for its graphics card business.
While some doubted Intel’s commitment to the market, particularly following a tough year that culminated in the CEO’s departure, the company is returning with its second act: Battlemage, the codename for its B-series Arc graphics cards.
Earlier this month, Intel revealed two new graphics cards targeting the high-volume midrange segment of the market. The B570, set to launch in January at $219, and the more powerful B580, already available at $249, mark Intel’s reentry. These cards feature significant architectural advancements designed to boost both performance and efficiency.
Early reviews of the B580 have been encouraging. Tom’s Hardware, for instance, dubbed it “the new $249 GPU champion.” The B580 outperforms Nvidia’s RTX 4060 and AMD’s 7600 XT in both rasterization and ray tracing while being more affordable than its competitors.
Intel’s Arc A580 Graphics Card
While some minor software issues were noted during Tom’s Hardware’s testing, there were no critical game-crashing bugs, and the overall software experience has improved markedly. The review concluded on a positive note: “The good news is that Battlemage looks more promising than its predecessor.”
Becoming a major contender in the gaming GPU market could open a valuable revenue stream for Intel and bolster its CPU sales as it competes with AMD. With Intel facing multiple challenges, a win in this area would be a much-needed boost.
Late to the Party
Despite the improvements, Intel’s timing poses a challenge. It took the company over two years to launch a follow-up to its initial release.
While the B580 stands out against current offerings from Nvidia and AMD, these competitors’ products have already been on the market for some time. Both Nvidia and AMD are expected to introduce next-generation graphics cards in the near future, which could diminish Intel’s competitive edge.
Nvidia is rumored to be preparing an announcement for its RTX 5000 series, and AMD is likely to reveal its RX 8000 series early next year.
Intel might gain some breathing room if these companies prioritize high-end cards first or adopt less aggressive pricing strategies for the midrange market. Nevertheless, the B570 and B580 are expected to face new competition within the next year.
Intel’s second attempt at establishing itself in the graphics card market appears promising, but the company must convince consumers of its long-term commitment and address lingering concerns about software reliability. Whether Intel can achieve this remains to be seen.
President-elect Trump’s transition team is advocating for federal funds currently allocated to President Biden’s green energy initiatives to be redirected toward national defense.
The transition team for the Republican president-elect is reportedly advising the incoming administration to end federal support for electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure once Trump takes office.
This recommendation, if implemented, would significantly undermine Biden’s longstanding effort to shift American consumers toward EV adoption.
Additionally, Trump is said to be weighing the introduction of a global tariff on all battery materials, allowing negotiation exceptions for allied nations. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing components, as detailed in a document outlining the transition team’s plans.
The reallocated funds, according to the report, would shift from backing Biden’s green energy agenda to bolstering national defense initiatives.
The transition team’s document highlights that while minerals and components essential for EVs are deemed “critical to defense production,” EVs themselves and their charging infrastructure are not classified as such.
The Biden administration has heavily invested federal resources into its climate-focused agenda, particularly for EV production. In July, it announced $1.7 billion in funding for EV manufacturing.
Elected President Donald Trump
Additionally, Biden’s administration offers a tax credit of up to $7,500 for EV purchases, a policy Trump reportedly plans to rescind upon assuming office.
The president-elect is expected to prioritize dismantling Biden’s green energy policies during the early months of his term. His administration’s plans include targeting EV-related measures immediately after taking office.
Trump previously stated that, if elected, he would revoke federal EV mandates and any waivers granted to California by the Biden administration.
Incoming White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed this stance, asserting that Trump would take these actions on “day one” of his presidency.
The Trump campaign has also criticized Biden’s support for California’s proposed EV mandate regulations.
Leavitt, serving as Trump’s campaign national press secretary at the time, told Fox News Digital: “Fresh off imposing his insane, job-killing electric vehicle mandate at the federal level, Crooked Joe Biden is preparing to slaughter the remnants of the U.S. auto industry by approving California’s waiver request outlawing the sale of all gasoline-powered automobiles.”
A credible insider has suggested that Xbox may be moving away from permanent console exclusivity as a core strategy.
The year 2024 marked a significant shift in this approach, with Microsoft starting to release its first-party games on rival platforms, including PlayStation and Nintendo. It appears that this multiplatform strategy is set to expand further in the future.
Earlier in the year, Xbox leadership announced that four of its first-party titles—Pentiment, Sea of Thieves, Grounded, and Hi-Fi Rush—would be coming to PlayStation and Nintendo consoles.
This shift surprised many Xbox fans and was reportedly driven by Microsoft’s internal efforts to recover the $68.7 billion spent acquiring Activision Blizzard.
Over the course of 2024, additional Xbox first-party games were confirmed for the PlayStation 5, such as Doom: The Dark Ages and Indiana Jones and The Great Circle.
Xbox Game Pass and Indiana Jones
Indiana Jones and The Great Circle, in particular, has been highlighted as a major win for Xbox Game Pass, which had a strong showing throughout 2024. The game’s inclusion in the service added significant value to the platform.
At The Game Awards 2024, Obsidian Entertainment revealed that its upcoming title, The Outer Worlds 2, will launch simultaneously on PS5 next year.
This announcement has further fueled speculation about the end of Xbox’s console exclusivity model.
Xbox and Playstation
Addressing the situation, reliable Microsoft insider Jez Corden recently stated on Twitter that the “era” of permanent Xbox console exclusives is effectively “over.”
He claimed that existing and upcoming exclusives like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, Avowed, and South of Midnight will eventually be available on PS5 and other competing platforms.
Every Xbox First-Party Game Reportedly Heading to PS5
“It’s cuz they don’t want to just mandate it on teams that aren’t set up yet for multiplatform simultaneous development. But the era of Xbox having permanent console exclusives is over.” — Jez (@JezCorden), December 13, 2024
According to Corden, the reason Xbox hasn’t yet announced remaining console exclusives for PS5 is that it doesn’t want to impose a “mandate” on first-party studios that aren’t yet prepared for “multiplatform simultaneous development.”
This indicates that all Xbox first-party studios are likely working on PS5—and possibly Nintendo Switch 2—versions of their current and upcoming Series X/S exclusives.
The inclusion of “simultaneous” in his remarks suggests that future Xbox first-party titles might launch on PS5, Series X/S, and PC on the same day.
Iconic Xbox Franchises Could Expand to PlayStation
Corden’s comments open the door to the possibility of iconic Xbox franchises like Halo, Gears of War, and Forza appearing on PlayStation in the future.
Supporting this perspective, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has previously stated that the company has no “red lines” for which Xbox titles could come to PlayStation, even leaving the door open for a PS5 release of the next Halo game.
As Microsoft moves forward with this approach, the company will likely need to craft careful messaging about the evolving nature of Xbox console exclusivity to avoid alienating its core audience.
The HDMI Forum, the organization responsible for the HDMI standard, has announced plans to reveal a new specification during a press conference on January 6th.
This upcoming release promises to support “a wide range of higher resolutions and refresh rates.” According to an email from the HDMI Forum, these enhanced capabilities will require “a new cable.”
As VideoCardz suggests, this new specification is likely to be HDMI 2.2. The HDMI Forum’s email hints at this as well, stating that two of the event’s scheduled speakers represent the HDMI Licensing Administrator, which is responsible for licensing “Version 2.2 of the HDMI specification.”
HDMI 2.1, first introduced in 2017 and subsequently updated with minor lettered revisions, currently supports up to 48Gbps bandwidth, 120Hz variable refresh rates, and resolutions as high as 10240 x 4320.
HDMI 2.2
VideoCardz speculates that the new specification might push these limits further, potentially achieving higher resolutions and frame rates without relying on Display Stream Compression.
The mention of a new cable serves as a timely reminder that, much like USB-C, not all HDMI cables are created equal.
It seems improbable that the HDMI Forum would alter the port itself, so existing cables will likely remain compatible with the updated specification.
Some older cables might even support its higher bandwidth requirements. However, there’s always a possibility that new cables will be necessary to fully utilize the enhanced features when they arrive.
Nintendo may want to consider hiring a few famous Italian plumbers, given that it seems like leaks are popping up everywhere these days.
Another Chinese manufacturer has shared images of an upcoming accessory for the Nintendo Switch 2, and once again, we’re looking at a familiar design that has already made the rounds.
The latest images were shared by Towkay Vortex on Facebook, who posted: “Switch accessories company has just sent me an email that they will have 3 models of Switch 2 Accessories. Do you want to order case, first?”
Nintendo Switch 2 Silicone Case Leak
The console design closely resembles the Nintendo Switch 2 mockup sent to YouTuber SwitchUp by a Chinese manufacturer. The new images show key features that align with those leaks.
What stands out includes the same eight-inch display, slightly larger Joy-Con controllers that feature the new rear buttons, and a USB-C port located on the top next to the headphone jack and game card slot.
The design shown in these images corresponds with previous Nintendo Switch 2 leaks, which have included photos of the redesigned Joy-Con controllers.
Given that manufacturers typically wouldn’t produce accessories unless they were confident about the dimensions and features of the console, the evidence strongly suggests that these images and prior leaks are indeed representative of the Nintendo Switch 2 design
Nintendo’s choice to maintain a similar design to the Switch OLED is perhaps unsurprising.
Aside from a larger screen, a few subtle design tweaks like improved ventilation and the addition of mysterious back buttons on the Joy-Con controllers, the design hasn’t changed drastically.
What’s Inside Matters the Most
While the design may not seem revolutionary, it’s what’s under the hood that makes the Nintendo Switch 2 exciting.
Nintendo has yet to share specific details about the console’s power and performance, but the company has promised to provide an official announcement for its next console by March 31, 2025.
Given the increasing presence of leaks and images like these, it might make sense for Nintendo to accelerate its timeline. Many had expected the Switch 2 to be announced back in September, but now it seems increasingly likely that January will mark the official reveal.
A More Competitive Handheld Market
Nintendo will likely want to ensure its new console is well-positioned in the market, especially as competition is heating up.
Microsoft has essentially confirmed that it is developing its own Xbox handheld, while Sony is also rumored to be working on a new PlayStation Portable, or PSP 2.
On top of that, portable gaming PCs like the Steam Deck and the Asus ROG Ally X have introduced additional competition, making the handheld gaming space more crowded and competitive than it was in 2017 when the Nintendo Switch first launched.
Nintendo’s strategy moving forward will involve ensuring that the Switch 2 can carve out a strong foothold in this competitive market, whether by revealing its capabilities sooner rather than later or by leveraging its proven formula with Switch fans and gamers worldwide.
Microsoft has revealed the latest addition to its Phi series of generative AI models, known as Phi-4.
According to Microsoft, Phi-4 demonstrates significant advancements over its predecessors, particularly in solving mathematical problems. This improvement is attributed in part to the enhanced quality of its training data.
As of Thursday night, Phi-4 is available on a very limited basis, accessible exclusively through Microsoft’s newly launched Azure AI Foundry development platform. Access is restricted to research purposes under a Microsoft research license agreement.
Phi-4 represents Microsoft’s latest small language model, with a parameter size of 14 billion. It enters a competitive field alongside other small models such as GPT-4o mini, Gemini 2.0 Flash, and Claude 3.5 Haiku.
Small AI models like these are valued for their faster performance and lower operational costs, with consistent improvements seen in recent years.
Phi 4
Microsoft attributes Phi-4’s performance leap to the integration of “high-quality synthetic datasets” and high-quality human-generated content, combined with unspecified post-training optimizations.
The use of synthetic data and post-training improvements has become a focal point for many AI research labs.
Scale AI’s CEO, Alexandr Wang, highlighted this trend in a tweet on Thursday, stating, “we have reached a pre-training data wall,” which aligns with several recent industry reports.
Phi-4 also marks a milestone for Microsoft’s Phi series as the first model released since the departure of Sébastien Bubeck.
Previously a vice president of AI at Microsoft and instrumental in developing the Phi models, Bubeck left the company in October to join OpenAI.
Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18.2, introducing the first major Apple Intelligence features alongside 21 critical security updates that users are urged to apply immediately.
This update is expected to prompt many iPhone users to transition to iOS 18, given the significant security enhancements it brings.
The iOS 18.2 release addresses critical vulnerabilities in the iPhone Kernel and WebKit, the underlying engine of the Safari browser, among other issues. These patches fix flaws that could allow attackers to execute malicious code on a device.
Additionally, Apple has discontinued the option to remain on iOS 17 for devices compatible with iOS 18. For older devices, Apple released iOS 17.7.3, which addresses 14 vulnerabilities.
However, the compatibility for this update is limited to specific models, including the iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, and iPad 6th generation.
This change highlights Apple’s push for users with newer devices to adopt iOS 18, as staying on iOS 17 leaves devices vulnerable.
What’s Fixed in iOS 18.2?
Apple has kept details about the iOS 18.2 security patches limited to allow users ample time to update before malicious actors can exploit the vulnerabilities.
Among the key fixes are three Kernel flaws (CVE-2024-54494, CVE-2024-54510, and CVE-2024-44245), with one potentially allowing apps to cause system crashes or corrupt Kernel memory.
A particularly concerning issue in libexpat (CVE-2024-45490) could enable remote attackers to terminate apps unexpectedly or execute code.
Apple iOS 18.2
Similarly, two libxpc vulnerabilities were patched, one of which allowed apps to gain elevated privileges.
WebKit, which powers Safari, received updates to address four flaws that could lead to memory corruption when interacting with malicious web content.
Another critical vulnerability in the Passwords app (CVE-2024-54492) was patched to resolve a risk where attackers in privileged network positions could alter traffic due to the use of unencrypted HTTP for downloading icons.
The issue was resolved by switching to HTTPS, a secure protocol. Researchers from Mysk flagged this vulnerability, noting the potential risk since iOS 18’s launch.
Sean Wright, head of application security at Featurespace, emphasized the importance of addressing the issue promptly, urging users to update as soon as possible.
Other Updates Released Alongside iOS 18.2
In addition to iOS 18.2 and iOS 17.7.3, Apple released updates across its ecosystem, including Safari 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, macOS Sonoma 14.7.2, macOS Ventura 13.7.2, watchOS 11.2, tvOS 18.2, and visionOS 2.2. These updates fix various vulnerabilities, particularly in WebKit and Safari.
Why Update to iOS 18.2 Now?
The sheer number of security fixes and the fact that users cannot remain secure on iOS 17 make updating to iOS 18.2 crucial. Beyond security, the update introduces exciting new features, including the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT with Siri for the first time.
iOS 18.2 is available for iPhone XS and newer models, as well as various iPad generations, including iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd generation, iPad Air 3rd generation, iPad 7th generation, and iPad mini 5th generation.
To update, go to Settings > General > Software Update and install iOS 18.2 today to ensure your device remains secure and up-to-date with Apple’s latest innovations.
As a child, my first vision for the future of technology was shaped by an aspect of Star Trek that’s different from most people’s: the absolute ubiquity of touchscreens and tablets (PADDs).
I was enamored with the idea of interacting with information via touch and being able to do so anywhere instead of in a fixed place. All that became reality with the iPhone and Android, and I live it every day.
My next vision of the future came with a 2:30 minute concept video. It ingrained in me that what comes after the smartphone is information overlaid with your line of sight as it’s contextually needed.
Something appearing where you’re already looking without having to do anything — like take out your phone or raise your wrist — makes information feel instantaneous.
On the contextual front, the defining moment of that concept for me is nearing a transit station and being told that service is down, with a suggestion for walking directions that are then given in real-time.
That was 2012, and using everything that has come since – even tech introduced earlier in 2024 – made it seem like we were still 5+ years away.
Last week, for 20 mins, I lived that future through Google’s prototype Android XR glasses. It was glorious and shockingly realized.
The first thing that Google realized is the physical size. This device, with a “monocular” (or single) in-lens display and camera, was indistinguishable in size and weight from today’s Meta Ray-Bans. That absolutely cannot be said of the smart glasses with in-lens screens that I’ve used in the past.
The difference here is that this display is primarily for delivering glanceable information and not being a full computer, which is what others in the glasses space are showing off. In the short-term, I do not want to browse the web on my glasses.
(Their approach is almost like how pre-iPhone smartphones tried to jam the desktop paradigm into a significantly smaller screen and failed. It’s a somewhat understandable overcompensation for not having a computing platform.)
Unfortunately, Google did not allow any pictures or videos to be taken of the prototypes, which amusingly had full USB-C ports, including clear plastic ones that showed all the components.
With today’s announcement, the company shared several first person POV clips, and I affirm that the depicted display matches what I experienced.
What you see in Google’s glasses do not take up your entire vision, but it is more than enough for delivering rich, graphical information, including crisp text.
The screen output is simply good. I saw reality with information augmented over it, with no obvious boundary between where the display starts and stops.
I also used a second “binocular” prototype that has two displays, with the bulk a bit more pronounced but not absurdly so.
The frames don’t make you look like a raccoon, and it allowed me to watch a video about the size of a phone held maybe an arm’s length away.
This was more a technologically demonstration of what’s possible rather than an expected behavior.
The more realistic use case is previewing an image after taking a picture, which I tried out, to help gauge framing.
Google’s Android XR Platform
It’s using the Raxium microLED tech that Google acquired in 2022. Still in the R&D phase, Google says this is a “highly unique monolithic RGB microLED technology using a wafer level process to achieve all colors on a single panel without the need for color conversion.”
The next things Google realized are the interaction method and feature set.
There’s a touchpad on the right stem, with one button on the top edge and another below. The top button takes pictures, while the second activates Gemini (specifically, Project Astra powered by Gemini 2.0).
This Gemini performed incredibly well as a control method and excelled at contextual awareness. Once Gemini is turned on, it stays active. (You can tap the trackpad to pause the assistant and have it stop listening/seeing).
I picked up a book and just asked “who wrote this” without having to preface anything. Then I flipped to a random page and asked for a summary, which it successfully did.
I got a live translation demo — in a callback to Google I/O 2022 — and it was perfect. It could also translate signs.
While looking at a vinyl sleeve, I asked Gemini to play a song from the album and YouTube Music, which was explicitly referenced, started the playback session.
A Google Maps navigation demo showed the next direction in my line of sight, and a full map appeared when I looked down in a very delightful design touch.
The fidelity was fantastic and the dream of Live View AR. Notably, these two navigation concepts were part of the Glass vision. I also got a Google Chat notification and was able to reply.
When I was demoing all these capabilities, it was back-to-back. There were no resets. The original Gemini session I began continued. It was exactly like what Gemini Live is capable of today, but with the addition of vision.
What was phenomenal about Astra was that Googlers were prompting me on what to say as I went to different tables set up with objects for me to pick up.
However, the glasses never interpreted their voices or my side conversations with them as a command. It only responded when I intended to speak to Gemini, and I didn’t go through any Voice Match training ahead of time.
These features are useful and reveal how Google is building for a here and now where the smartphone isn’t going away anytime soon, with Android XR offloading things to its paired device just like other wearables.
(I’ve long believed that the 2012 concept video hit all the feature marks for what successful consumer smart glasses look like.) This is incredibly promising and reveals how these prototypes are beyond the tech demo stage.
Compared to playing ping pong, I’d use these navigation and notification capabilities every day. There are clear use cases that I’d argue compete with smartwatches, and beat it.
If Google did Project Glass Explorer for this hardware and priced them, at say, $3,499, I’d buy them and integrate them into my day-to-day. The utility and quality was that apparent to me after 20 minutes.
From what has leaked about Google’s AR work, you’d think the company was scrambling, and that the effort was suffering from the worst of Google’s restart and pivot tendencies.
Having actually used what Google has ready — admittedly still in R&D — I’m blown away. A prototype in the lab is of course different from something that’s ready for mass production, but the future is bright.
Google is already realizing the target hardware sizes, use cases, and Gemini as the input and output methods.
Less than a week after Microsoft reiterated that requiring a TPM 2.0 chip for Windows 11 was “non-negotiable,” the company has unexpectedly published a support page detailing how to install the OS on devices that don’t meet its minimum system requirements. However, this option comes with several caveats.
The support page is laden with disclaimers, starting with a strong recommendation against installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware.
Microsoft warns users that proceeding with this action could result in compatibility issues, and those attempting it should be prepared to accept the associated risks.
Additionally, the company states that devices with ineligible hardware may not receive updates, including critical security patches. Moreover, any damage resulting from a lack of hardware compatibility will not be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
While specific upgrade instructions aren’t included in the document, the process will likely rely on familiar tools like Windows Update in Settings, the Installation Assistant, or installation media.
Microsoft also notes that unsupported systems running Windows 11 will display a desktop watermark and a notification in the Settings app indicating that system requirements aren’t met. Although these indicators can be removed by modifying the system registry, such alterations may carry their own risks.
The document does provide detailed instructions for rolling back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 for users who encounter problems on unsupported hardware.
Windows 11 (Photo: Microsoft)
Microsoft emphasizes that the “Go Back” feature in the Recovery options is only available for ten days after installing Windows 11.
This announcement follows last week’s comments from Microsoft Senior Product Manager Steven Hosking, who reaffirmed the importance of the TPM 2.0 requirement.
The TPM 2.0 chip, he explained, plays a crucial role in securing sensitive data by generating and storing encryption keys, performing cryptographic operations, and shielding passwords.
Microsoft’s shift in approach to Windows 11 requirements is surprising, considering its previous hardline stance.
The change may be influenced by market trends, as Windows 10’s global market share increased last month while Windows 11 saw a slight decline.
However, Windows 11 continues to perform well in the Steam survey, where it maintains its position as the most popular OS among gamers.
Support for Windows 10 is set to end in October 2025, but Microsoft will offer businesses and consumers the option to pay for extended security updates.
The Raspberry Pi 5, launched in October 2023, garnered attention for being fast and capable enough to serve as a general-purpose desktop PC, albeit not an exceptionally powerful one.
For enthusiasts of Pi-as-desktop setups, the Raspberry Pi Foundation has revealed two new pre-holiday additions to its lineup, with the most notable being the Raspberry Pi 500.
This $90 device integrates the components of an 8GB Pi 5 into a compact, keyboard-shaped case, offering a more streamlined desktop experience.
The Pi 500 builds on the concept of the earlier Raspberry Pi 400. Like its predecessor, it reconfigures the Pi 5’s components onto a new PCB, aligning all ports in a single row at the back for better accessibility.
The port selection includes one USB 2.0 port, two USB 3.0 ports, a microSD slot, two micro HDMI ports, the 40-pin GPIO header, and a gigabit Ethernet port.
In addition to the standalone version, priced at $90, the Pi 500 is also available as part of a $120 Desktop Kit. This kit includes a mouse, power supply, HDMI cable, and a printed Beginner’s Guide, making it a convenient all-in-one package for new users.
From the front, the Pi 500 resembles a slightly bulky desktop keyboard. However, its redesigned PCB ensures all ports are neatly arranged in a single row across the back.
While this design improves organization, it introduces a significant limitation: there is no easy way to add an M.2 slot for faster storage.
Current M.2 HATs designed for the standard Pi 5 cannot be connected to the Pi 500.
Raspberry Pi 500
According to a teardown by Pi enthusiast and YouTuber Jeff Geerling, the Pi 500’s board includes a space seemingly designated for an M.2 slot and NVMe SSDs.
However, this slot is not populated, and soldering one in place won’t enable M.2 support. A future version of the Pi 500 may address this limitation, but for now, users are restricted to microSD storage or external drives connected via USB.
The second addition to the Raspberry Pi lineup is the official Raspberry Pi Monitor. Priced at $100, this 15.6-inch 1080p IPS display features built-in speakers and a white-and-red color scheme that complements both the Pi 500 and the official Pi 5 enclosure.
The monitor includes a foldable kickstand for portability, as well as VESA mounting holes for those seeking a more permanent setup.
While the monitor is powered via USB-C, it requires a separate HDMI input for video, as it doesn’t support combined power and video over a single cable—a feature not currently supported by the Pi.
If the monitor is powered through one of the Pi’s USB ports, brightness is limited to 60% and speaker volume to 50%. To unlock full brightness and volume, a dedicated USB-C power supply is necessary.
Meanwhile, the older Raspberry Pi 400 isn’t being phased out. Raspberry Pi CEO Eben Upton announced a price drop for the device, reducing its cost from $70 to $60.
The accompanying kit, which includes a mouse, power supply, HDMI cable, SD card, and printed manual, is also seeing a price cut from $100 to $80.
For users seeking more power, RAM, and versatility, the Pi 500 justifies its higher price. However, the Pi 400 remains a compelling ultra-budget option for simpler projects that don’t require the enhanced capabilities of the Pi 5.
The upcoming iPhone lineup is expected to feature significant changes, with predictions suggesting exciting developments in the months ahead.
Among these, a redesigned iPhone SE with Face ID and a slimmer model nicknamed the “iPhone 17 Air” are anticipated. A new report sheds light on the design innovations, which are said to hinge on the introduction of an in-house modem system.
According to Mark Gurman, “Apple’s in-house modem system will debut next spring,” marking its initial rollout with the iPhone SE, expected around that time. However, it will make its way to the iPhone 17 Air at a later stage. The modem’s integration is a critical aspect of the phone’s design, playing a key role in enabling the slimmer form factor.
The new in-house modem, code-named “Sinope,” represents a technological breakthrough, though it reportedly faced challenges during development. Early prototypes were criticized for being too large, inefficient, and prone to overheating.
Gurman notes that Apple addressed these issues through revamped development practices, hiring engineers from Qualcomm, and reorganizing its management structure. These measures have bolstered the company’s confidence in the modem’s viability.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be approximately 2 millimeters thinner than the current iPhone 16 Pro, which measures 8.25mm thick.
This reduction suggests the Air could measure just 6.25mm in thickness, making it the slimmest iPhone to date.
iPhone 17 Air Rumored
Additionally, the model will include a 6.6-inch display and a single rear camera, reinforcing its emphasis on a design-focused aesthetic.
Gurman elaborates on the modem’s advantages, explaining that it will be “more tightly integrated with other in-house components,” requiring less space and battery power.
This integration allows Apple to craft a thinner smartphone while accommodating the necessary battery, display, and camera system. Over time, the modem’s efficiency could enable Apple to explore other design innovations, including foldable devices, a concept the company continues to research.
Despite its design focus, the new modem may not match the performance of current Qualcomm counterparts. Gurman reports that in lab tests, the Apple modem achieves download speeds of up to 4 gigabits per second—lower than the peak speeds of non-mmWave Qualcomm modems.
However, real-world usage often sees significantly lower speeds for both types, meaning users are unlikely to notice a difference in everyday performance.
The new modem is set to debut in Apple’s mid-tier offerings, including a model code-named “D23” slated for late next year, which will feature a significantly thinner design. Additionally, it will appear in lower-end iPads beginning in 2025.
While the iPhone 17 Air will prioritize design, it does not appear to sacrifice functionality. If the reports prove accurate, this model will represent a fusion of aesthetic appeal and technological innovation, with the new modem system at the heart of its advancements.
In his Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman revealed that Apple plans to introduce support for traditional VR game controllers on the Apple Vision Pro and has reportedly approached Sony to help advance this initiative.
The goal is to enhance the Vision Pro’s gaming capabilities, an area where the device has struggled to stand out.
Gurman reports that a future version of visionOS will incorporate support for third-party hand controllers, though no specific timeline has been disclosed:
Apple is now working on a major effort to support third-party hand controllers in the device’s visionOS software and has teamed up with Sony Group Corp. to make it happen.
As part of this collaboration, Apple is said to be exploring the integration of Sony’s PlayStation VR2 controllers. Progress has reportedly been made, with both companies working together toward this goal:
Apple approached Sony earlier this year, and the duo agreed to work together on launching support for the PlayStation VR2’s hand controllers on the Vision Pro.
Playstation VR2
Inside Sony, the work has been a monthslong undertaking, I’m told. And Apple has discussed the plan with third-party developers, asking them if they’d integrate support into their games.
However, not everything has gone as planned. Apple and Sony initially intended to announce this feature last month, but it has been delayed. According to Gurman, the announcement is still expected unless unforeseen circumstances lead to its cancellation.
In addition to working with Sony, Apple has reportedly prototyped a “wand” device for the Vision Pro, resembling an Apple Pencil, to enable more precise control.
Currently, the Apple Vision Pro supports traditional gaming controllers from Xbox and PlayStation for Apple Arcade titles. However, it lacks compatibility with standard VR controllers, limiting its ability to run most VR games.
Gurman’s report also notes that Apple has sold fewer than 500,000 units of the Vision Pro, with user engagement levels falling short of expectations. The introduction of proper VR gaming support could potentially improve sales and broaden the device’s appeal.
Despite these challenges, Apple remains committed to the Vision Pro product line. While bulky headsets may not be a permanent fixture in the tech landscape, Apple’s investment in the Vision Pro indicates no plans for discontinuation in the near future.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai revealed that the company’s search engine is set to undergo significant changes in 2025, stating, “I think we are going to be able to tackle more complex questions than ever before.”
Speaking at the NYT DealBook Summit on Wednesday, Pichai emphasized the scale of the transformation: “I think you’ll be surprised, even early in ‘25, by the kind of newer things Search can do compared to where it is today.”
Pichai also addressed remarks made earlier this year by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, who suggested that Google should have been the “default winner” in the AI race.
In response, Pichai remarked, “I would love to do a side-by-side comparison of Microsoft’s own models and our models,” highlighting that Microsoft relies on models developed by its partner, OpenAI.
Google Search Incorporating AI
“When I look at what’s coming ahead, we are in the earliest stages of a profound shift,” Pichai said, underscoring Google’s commitment to staying at the forefront of AI innovation.
“I just think there’s so much innovation ahead. We are committed to being at the state of the art in this field, and I think we are.”
This year, Google initiated a sweeping AI overhaul of its search platform, introducing features such as AI-generated search summaries and an upgraded Lens tool that allows users to search the web using video.
Additionally, the company is preparing to roll out a major update to its Gemini AI model as it seeks to compete with Microsoft, OpenAI, and the AI-powered search engine Perplexity.
Apple is reportedly developing three different versions of its custom 5G modems, which it plans to integrate into iPhone and iPad models over the next three years. If Apple can successfully mass-produce these chips, the company will position itself ahead of competitors.
However, Apple’s ambitions extend beyond the iPhone and iPad, as it is actively “investigating” the idea of introducing cellular connectivity to the Mac lineup for the first time.
Apple Aims to Introduce Cellular Connectivity to Macs as Its Custom 5G Modems Approach Launch
Apple’s goal is to outpace Qualcomm by introducing its custom 5G modem within the next three years. Gurman also reported that the company is considering the introduction of Macs with cellular connectivity, although it is still uncertain if this vision will become reality.
Even if Apple moves forward with this idea, it is unlikely that cellular-enabled Macs will be available until 2026 at the very earliest.
Understanding Apple’s Modem Transition
The transition from Qualcomm’s modems to Apple’s custom-designed modems follows a straightforward strategy, as detailed in recent reports. Apple is reportedly developing three distinct 5G modem variants, each designed for a different purpose.
The Entry-Level 5G Modem (Launching in 2024)
This initial modem will feature low power consumption and will include the ability to connect to satellite service, although it won’t be the fastest modem available. It will have theoretical speeds of up to 4 Gbps.
Designed as an entry-level solution, this modem is expected to find its way into the budget iPhone SE 4 and lower-end iPad models. There’s also speculation that this modem could feature in the iPhone 17 ‘Air’ model.
Apple Macbook Pro
The Mid-Tier 5G Modem (Expected in 2026)
This version will debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models and will offer performance levels comparable to Qualcomm’s current 5G modems.
The High-Performance 5G Modem (Expected by 2027)
Apple is aiming for a performance and efficiency breakthrough with its 2027 modem, which would seek to outmatch Qualcomm’s modem technology on both fronts.
Apple’s Vision for Cellular-Enabled Macs
Apple is considering integrating cellular connectivity into its Mac lineup using the same approach seen in the iPhone and iPad. There’s no inherent technical hurdle to this plan, though Apple likely waited for the development of its own custom modems to replace Qualcomm’s technology.
Experts believe Apple will charge a premium for this feature, though its added utility would make it valuable to professionals and travelers.
In a report from Gurman last year, it was speculated that Apple might introduce cellular-enabled Macs as early as 2028. This suggests that Apple will likely wait until the technology matures and is fully optimized before implementing it.
The next generation of MacBook Pros could potentially support these new custom modems as part of Apple Silicon integration, with built-in modem support expected to streamline performance and connectivity.
Apple’s strategy with custom 5G modems positions it for both improved performance on iPhones and iPads as well as the potential launch of cellular-enabled Macs within the coming years. However, we are still a few years away from seeing this ambition come to full fruition.
Google Photos is introducing a new way to relive your favorite moments from the past year with the rollout of its “2024 Recap” feature.
Announced today, this enhanced experience blends a curated collection of photos and personalized insights with dynamic graphics and cinematic effects, creating a year-in-review presentation that captures what users have been up to over the last 12 months.
While Google Photos has offered annual review features in previous years, this updated version bears a closer resemblance to Spotify Wrapped, offering deeper insights into your year’s activities.
The 2024 Recap provides detailed statistics, such as the total number of photos taken, the length of your longest photo streak, the colors you photographed most frequently, your most-photographed individuals, and the people you smiled with the most.
Google Photos
For select U.S. users with the Gemini feature enabled in the Photos app, there’s an optional version of Recap that includes personalized captions highlighting the “two biggest moments from your year.”
The Recap will initially be featured in the Google Photos Memories carousel throughout December and then move to the photo grid in January. It also supports sharing across messaging and social media platforms, making it easy to spread your year-in-review highlights.
However, there are a few limitations. The Recap feature is only accessible to users with the Face Groups setting enabled, which relies on facial recognition to identify and cluster similar faces.
Due to regional restrictions, this setting—and by extension, the Recap feature—is not available worldwide, meaning some users may not have access to these end-of-year highlights.
Over the past year, electric vehicle manufacturers have shown a growing willingness to cooperate, particularly when it comes to their charging networks.
Many automakers are now adopting Tesla’s North American Charging System (NACS), which is quickly becoming the new industry standard. Now Rivian is taking a major step by allowing drivers of other brands’ EVs to use its charging locations.
For the first time ever, non-Rivian EV drivers will be able to charge their vehicles at Rivian’s next-generation charging locations.
The first of these new Rivian Adventure Network stations opens today at the Joshua Tree Charging Outpost in California.
Before the end of the year, Rivian has plans to open additional locations in Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Montana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New York.
Rivian EV Charging System
These new stations are equipped for rapid charging up to 900 volts and feature CCS connectors, which are compatible with NACS-equipped EVs when paired with the appropriate adapter. Rivian has also indicated that support for native NACS connectors will be introduced in the near future.
While Rivian’s move is beneficial to other EV drivers, it’s not entirely about charity. This decision is also a strategic business move to generate revenue.
The charging stations include a tap-to-pay feature, meaning drivers can use them without needing to download the Rivian app.
Rivian has ambitious plans to expand its Adventure Network with over 3,500 DC fast chargers in total.
The company already has 91 Adventure Network sites in the United States, with plans to add 12 more. Additionally, Rivian drivers still have access to Tesla Superchargers, which provides added convenience.
After the unfortunate closure of AlphaDream, the long-time developer behind the Mario & Luigi series, many fans believed the beloved franchise might never see another installment.
However, a recent Ask the Developer feature reveals that even Nintendo came close to shelving the series before partnering with Acquire to co-develop Mario & Luigi: Brothership.
The interview includes insights from Akira Otani and Tomoki Fukushima of Nintendo EPD, along with Acquire’s director Haruyuki Ohashi and designer Hitomi Furuta, who discussed the game’s conception and development prior to its release earlier this year.
When asked about fan reactions to the revival after such a long hiatus, Otani shared:
“For a long time, we held numerous internal discussions about creating a new installment after Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam. Our goal was to innovate with hardware advancements while preserving the charm of the classic Mario & Luigi games.
Balancing these objectives was challenging, and there was a point when we thought continuing the series might be impossible. We even considered giving up.
Mario & Luigi Series (Photo: Nintendo)
“Eventually, after much deliberation, we decided to approach Acquire. After multiple conversations with Ohashi-san, I became confident that Acquire could help us realize our vision of bringing Mario & Luigi into 3D. That’s when we agreed to begin joint development.
“It was equally important to retain the ‘Mario & Luigi-like’ essence of the series. To ensure this, we also brought in some former AlphaDream staff members who had worked on previous titles.”
This collaboration resulted in a triumphant return for the series, but the future of Nintendo’s partnership with Acquire remains uncertain.
Recent reports suggest Sony’s potential acquisition of Kadokawa Corporation, Acquire’s parent company, which could complicate future collaborations. For now, though, fans can celebrate the successful revival of Mario & Luigi on the Nintendo Switch.
The full interview offers additional fascinating details about the game’s development. Designer Hitomi Furuta mentioned that early designs initially gave Mario a “more rugged, edgier” look, but Nintendo recommended revising the visuals to align with the series’ established aesthetic, ensuring it remained recognizable to long-time fans.
We’re thrilled to see Mario & Luigi back in action and can only hope this marks the start of a new era for the cherished franchise.
Tesla is bringing a host of exciting features to its Holiday Update this year, including Apple Watch compatibility with a digital phone key, the ability to view Sentry Mode security footage directly from your phone, a reverse cross-traffic alert for added safety, a fun “Santa Mode” for the Cybertruck, and much more.
The update, set to roll out next week, introduces native Apple Watch support to the Tesla app, enabling users to access their cars using the watch as a digital key. This feature allows Tesla owners to leave their smartphones behind for quick errands or unplanned trips outdoors.
Now, you can pop the trunk or frunk (front trunk), check charge levels, and remotely warm up your car—all from your wrist. While third-party apps like “Watch for Tesla” previously offered similar functionality, Tesla’s official solution now surpasses them, effectively “Sherlocking” the competition.
Remote Access to Sentry and Dashcam Footage
Another major addition is the ability to view Dashcam and Sentry Mode recordings directly on your phone. Users can save clips to their devices, making it easier to share critical footage with insurance providers or law enforcement after an incident.
Holiday Fun: Light Shows, Santa Mode, and More
In keeping with tradition, Tesla’s light show returns, syncing vehicle lights and sounds for a synchronized spectacle across multiple cars. This year’s update adds two new light shows and a whimsical Santa Mode for Cybertrucks.
Santa Mode transforms the vehicle’s 3D model on the screen into a Tesla Bot riding a cyber sleigh pulled by reindeer. Additionally, users can customize their on-screen Cybertruck with wraps and vanity plates. Cybertruck owners will also enjoy new Arcade games on the rear seat screen and an upgraded rear camera feed with pinch-to-zoom functionality.
Tesla Making App For Apple Watch
Reverse Cross-Traffic Alert and Other Safety Enhancements
Tesla is addressing safety with the addition of a rear cross-traffic alert. This feature provides an audible warning and a red bar on the rearview camera feed when detecting vehicles or pedestrians approaching from behind while in reverse. Music volume automatically reduces when reversing, a convenience already common in many vehicles.
Tesla is also extending the Model S and X auto-shift feature to stalk-free Model 3 vehicles, which predicts whether you intend to shift to drive or reverse. While this design decision was initially a controversial cost-cutting measure, its expansion reflects Tesla’s commitment to refining customer experiences.
Improved Navigation and Energy Management
A new feature allows users to set a target “arrival energy at destination,” ensuring enough charge remains at the end of a trip—ideal for scenarios where charging isn’t immediately available. The update also includes the ability to search for destinations along a route with detour time estimates and adds weather and precipitation data to the navigation map.
Entertainment, Comfort, and Miscellaneous Updates
The update brings a new Sirius XM app for Model 3, Y, and Cybertruck, enhancements to the TuneIn app, and a party game called Boomerang Fu. For convenience, drivers can now adjust unoccupied passenger seats via the touchscreen, view in-vehicle maintenance summaries, and receive notifications for unlatched door handles.
In a lighter addition, Tesla’s infamous “fart app” can now activate automatically when someone sits on a seat. Whoopee indeed!
A Robust Package of Updates
This year’s Holiday Update combines practical safety improvements, enhanced convenience features, and playful additions, underscoring Tesla’s unique approach to merging technology with fun. Whether you’re focused on improved functionality or enjoying some lighthearted updates, this rollout has something for everyone.
