Preferred Attributes for Apple CarPlay in 2026
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CarPlay has achieved significant progress since its debut ten years ago. Over the last few years, Apple has enhanced this experience with new additions and CarPlay Ultra, ultimately revamping both iterations with the launch of iOS 26.
With the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has provided a fresh look to CarPlay featuring Liquid Glass, reorganized notifications and calls to prevent them from dominating the entire display, enhancing driver focus on the road. The novel CarPlay Ultra experience utilizes all vehicle displays to deliver optimal synergy between the car and Apple’s software.
Nonetheless, several features remain absent from CarPlay that users would eagerly welcome in 2026, whether via forthcoming iOS 26 updates or the next significant release, iOS 27. While details regarding the features arriving with iOS 27 are limited, there are a few consistent requests from drivers regarding CarPlay. Here are some of those wishes.
Apple should introduce video applications
Samsung’s Affordable Collection Progresses with Galaxy A17 5G and Tab A11 Plus
Samsung’s newest budget offerings, the Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy Tab A11 Plus, are creating a buzz by featuring specifications usually associated with high-end devices. The Galaxy A17 5G, following in the footsteps of 2025’s best-selling Android smartphone, presents a single variant with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, straying from the multiple configurations of its predecessor. Nonetheless, Samsung assures users of six years of Android updates and security patches, a considerable benefit for those looking for longevity.
The A17 5G flaunts a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, driven by the Exynos 1330 chipset and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging. It is equipped with a 50MP primary camera featuring Optical Image Stabilization for improved low-light shots, along with a 5MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro camera.
On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab A11 Plus features an 11-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, quad speakers enhanced by Dolby Atmos, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It is available in 6GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB configurations, powered by a MediaTek MT8775 processor, coupled with a 7,040mAh battery and the option for 5G connectivity.
Both gadgets come equipped with sophisticated AI functionalities such as Circle to Search and Google’s Gemini assistant, enabling users to execute tasks like product identification or email drafting without the necessity for a top-tier device. The Galaxy A17 5G is priced at $200 and will be available in black, blue, and gray starting January 7, while the Galaxy Tab A11 Plus begins at $250, offered in gray and silver from January 8.
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Thieaudio’s Valhalla: A $1,999 IEM Featuring 19 Drivers Per Ear Delivering Outstanding Sound Quality
This $1,999 universal IEM is in a league of its own.
It’s not often that I get to try out a $1,999 IEM, and Thieaudio has undoubtedly succeeded with the Valhalla. I’d argue that it targets enthusiasts, though there are many other models that provide excellent sound without the hefty price tag of the Valhalla. If you’re simply looking for well-made IEMs that sound great and are comfortable, there are plenty of fantastic options available for under $100.
But what if you desire the very best? The finest design, the highest sound quality, and the top drivers on the market today. This is where Thieaudio sets itself apart; the brand has been thriving over the past two years, and IEMs like the Monarch MKIII have gained popularity due to their sound tuning and design.
And now we have the Valhalla. Priced at $1,999 on Linsoul Audio, these IEMs are Thieaudio’s priciest by a significant margin, and they are truly remarkable. Each earbud features 19 balanced armature drivers, which is almost excessive. It’s essential to discuss the drivers, as each earbud contains four Sonion 38D1XJ007 subwoofer drivers for precise bass, ten Sonion E50DT0005 low-midrange and mid-range drivers, four Knowles RDE 33729 treble drivers, and a Knowles WBFK 30095 tweeter that offers a level of treble extension that most IEMs cannot match.
As expected from a product of this caliber, there are numerous innovations. Noteworthy is the Precision Bass System, Thieaudio’s answer to providing a “subwoofer-like” experience in an IEM. It features a distinctive resonance chamber optimized to create vibrant sub-bass; essentially, the Valhalla boasts one of the finest bass extensions of any flagship IEM.
Additionally, it employs custom tubing to ensure “smooth transitions” throughout the entire frequency spectrum, and it’s evident that Thieaudio has meticulously attended to every detail with the Valhalla. This becomes immediately apparent once you start using the IEMs; their design is striking, and it’s clear these are premium IEMs.
The Valhalla’s shell is constructed from titanium, making it durable; I’ve been using these IEMs for nearly four months now, and they remain in pristine condition. I have every confidence in their durability, and while the shells are somewhat larger — presumably to fit all the drivers — they do not apply excessive pressure and are relatively lightweight. Surprisingly, these IEMs are quite comfortable to wear.
What truly sets these IEMs apart is the faceplate design; Thieaudio offers a total of 15 designs, allowing you to customize the shell to your taste. I received the standard model, and I quite like its aesthetic; it features a bright etched pattern that catches the eye without appearing gaudy.
Thieaudio’s logo is accentuated at the base, and the overall design effectively underscores the premium quality of the IEMs. I also appreciate the matte finish on the shells, which resist smudges much better. You receive the typical mix of silicone and foam ear tips, though I would have preferred a broader selection in this area. While other brands include additional pairs in the package, Thieaudio provides the same set that comes with the Monarch MKIII.
Fortunately, the included tips offer good isolation and a snug fit. The sound nozzle is quite large and angled, and due to the design of the IEMs, the Valhalla extends out from your ears. However, once you achieve a proper fit, you won’t even feel that you’re wearing the IEMs, and the lightweight construction makes a significant difference.
Thieaudio has excelled with the included EliteNoir cable; this silver-plated cable features a braided design, is pretty flexible, and comes with a modular system that includes 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm plugs. It connects to the Valhalla using the standard 2-pin connector. To complete the package, you also receive a hard shell case with a suede lining to securely hold the Valhalla, the cable, and all the extras.
Truthfully, the sound quality is outstanding — that’s a given when you consider the extensive engineering behind the Valhalla and the number of drivers involved. The IEMs deliver a deliciously rich and detailed low-end, with impressive sub-bass vibrancy that enhances the listening experience. Overall, the bass is well-controlled while still providing a solid
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Choosing the Perfect HDMI Cable for Your Smart Television
Selecting the appropriate HDMI cable for your smart TV or devices linked to your television should be a simple task. While there are various types of standard HDMI cables, with the most recent being HDMI 2.2 unveiled at CES 2025, you don’t need to stress too much about them.
In fact, as long as you don’t have a very outdated device at home, all your devices should feature the same HDMI port. Additionally, there typically isn’t a significant price difference among the different versions, which allows you to indulge in the latest technologies without excessive costs.
That said, even though the general recommendation is to opt for the latest HDMI cable version available, it ultimately depends on the technologies supported by your TV. You can determine this by checking the manual or searching for your TV model online. Once you have this information, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which cable to choose. Nonetheless, here are a few more tips before you rush to your Amazon cart to purchase your new HDMI cable.
Up-to-date is advantageous, but perhaps you don’t need much more
Upcoming Apple Product Launches for 2025
# Apple Introduced 16+ New Products in 2025: Here’s the Complete List
Apple has once again captured attention with the release of an impressive range of new hardware in 2025. From iPhones to Macs, the tech behemoth has launched over 16 new products this year. Here’s a thorough summary of the thrilling new offerings.
## February
### iPhone 16e
Apple presented the iPhone 16e, which takes over from the iPhone SE as the entry-level choice. It boasts a 6.1-inch OLED screen, Face ID, and is powered by the A18 chip with Apple Intelligence capabilities. The device begins at $599 for the 128GB variant and includes a 48MP Fusion camera along with a USB-C port, departing from the conventional Lightning port.
## March
### MacBook Air
The updated MacBook Air models, available in 13-inch and 15-inch configurations, are now equipped with the M4 chip. The starting price has been reduced to $999, and the models support two external displays, come with a 12MP Center Stage camera, and offer up to 18 hours of battery performance.
### Mac Studio
The Mac Studio has been refreshed with the M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips. It features Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, which allows transfer speeds of 120Gb/s, and starts at $1,999 for the M4 Max version.
### iPad
The 11th-generation iPad has received an upgrade to the A16 Bionic chip while keeping its starting price at $349. It now provides double the base storage, increasing from 64GB to 128GB.
### iPad Air
The iPad Air has been enhanced with the M3 chip, improving performance with hardware-accelerated ray tracing. A newly designed Magic Keyboard is also available at a reduced price of $269.
## September
### iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 features a 6.3-inch display, ProMotion technology, and enhanced battery life, starting at $799. It is powered by the A19 chip and comes with upgraded dual cameras.
### iPhone Air
The iPhone Air, Apple’s slimmest iPhone at 5.6mm, boasts a 6.5-inch display and operates on the A19 Pro chip. Priced at $999, it features a titanium frame and a single 48MP camera.
### iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 Pro begins at $1,099 with doubled base storage, while the Pro Max retains its $1,199 price point. Both versions are equipped with the A19 Pro chip, enhanced thermal design, and a new camera bar layout.
### Apple Watch SE 3
The third-generation Apple Watch SE offers a larger display and improved durability, maintaining a starting price of $249. It comes with features like an Always-On display and rapid charging.
### Apple Watch Series 11
The Apple Watch Series 11 introduces 5G connectivity and hypertension detection, featuring the S10 chip and enhanced battery life.
### Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 provides substantial battery enhancements and 5G support, priced at $799. It includes blood pressure monitoring and advanced fitness functionalities.
### AirPods Pro 3
The AirPods Pro 3 feature enhanced Active Noise Cancellation and introduce a heart rate sensor for tracking workouts, priced at $249.
## October
### Vision Pro
The Vision Pro has been upgraded with the M5 chip, delivering improved performance and a starting price of $3,499.
### iPad Pro
The iPad Pro now features the M5 chip in both 11-inch and 13-inch models, boosting AI performance and connectivity options.
### MacBook Pro
The refreshed 14-inch MacBook Pro, starting at $1,599, features the M5 chip, delivering enhanced graphics performance and battery longevity.
## Wrap Up
Apple’s 2025 product lineup highlights considerable advancements across its devices, catering to a diverse range of users. What was your favorite release this year? As we look forward to 2026, anticipation builds for even more groundbreaking products from Apple.
VSCO Capture Unveils Video Recording Functionality in Anticipation of New Year’s Festivities
### Live Video Camera Filters: An Innovative Addition to VSCO Capture
VSCO has recently rolled out an update for its VSCO Capture app, introducing an exhilarating feature that enables users to film videos alongside taking photographs. This enhancement broadens the app’s creative potential, allowing users to utilize and modify over 50 iconic VSCO filter presets in real-time while they record their videos.
#### Improved Creative Control
The newly added video functionality in VSCO Capture is tailored for photographers and videographers who wish to convey their artistic vision during shooting. Users can now set up their scenes with the app’s celebrated presets, guaranteeing that the aesthetic they intend reflects in their creations. As VSCO emphasizes, this feature gives users the ability to realize their creative concepts instantly, facilitating easy style adjustments on the go.
#### Live Camera Filters
With the launch of live camera filters, users can now capture both images and videos with a diverse range of presets. Ranging from timeless film aesthetics to contemporary, creator-driven styles, these filters permit real-time modifications, allowing users to craft and hone their visual style as they document moments.
#### New Film Grain Filter
Besides the video recording capability, VSCO Capture has also introduced a new photo filter known as Film Grain. This filter grants users dynamic control over texture, enabling adjustments in settings such as Strength, Size, and Colors. The Film Grain filter is aimed at producing a vintage look that can vary from subtle to bold, enhancing the genuineness of the captured photos.
#### Merging Filters for Distinctive Styles
VSCO members can amplify their creative expression by blending the Film Grain texture tool with over 40 Film X preset filters. These filters draw inspiration from legendary films that have influenced the evolution of photography. Users can personalize their appearances and save these customized combinations as film Recipes, providing a distinctive way to achieve their preferred aesthetic.
For further details regarding the VSCO Capture app and its features, you can check out the official
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9to5Mac Daily: December 31, 2025 – Upcoming Innovations for Apple Fitness+
**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple News and Insights**
In the rapid-paced realm of technology, keeping abreast of the latest news and trends is crucial, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily acts as an indispensable resource, delivering daily summaries of the most important stories in the Apple ecosystem. This podcast is tailored for listeners aiming to remain informed while on the move, making it an ideal addition to your daily schedule.
**Podcast Access**
Listeners can conveniently tune into 9to5Mac Daily across a variety of platforms, including [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), and via a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications. New episodes are produced every weekday, guaranteeing that subscribers receive the freshest updates swiftly.
**Key Content**
Each episode of 9to5Mac Daily includes discussions on the most urgent topics concerning Apple, such as product launches, software updates, and market trends. The podcast strives to furnish listeners with thoughtful commentary and analysis, facilitating a better understanding of the news’s implications.
**Advantages of Subscription**
For individuals seeking to amplify their listening experience, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus provides several benefits. Subscribers enjoy ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus content, enhancing their experience without interruptions.
**Listener Engagement**
Listeners are invited to express their opinions and feedback. They can get in touch via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or rate the podcast on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and
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Amazon’s Proposed Modifications for 2026: Important Updates to Observe
Prime, with its remarkable benefits accessible to users, has experienced significant growth since its launch. Amazon holds the largest U.S. market share in e-commerce, surpassing rivals like eBay and Walmart. Its earnings have surged year-over-year, generating billions of dollars in sales annually. This remarkable growth and achievement have allowed it to look forward to 2026 with a visionary perspective. Its objectives for the upcoming year focus on broadening its services, enhancing customer options, and consistently attracting consumers in the e-commerce landscape.
Grocery delivery and robotaxis
iOS 26.2 Brings Two Improvements to CarPlay: Important Updates Clarified
iOS 26.2 represents the newest iPhone upgrade, unveiling numerous exciting functionalities, especially for the Reminders, Podcasts, and Apple Music applications. Furthermore, there are significant improvements in CarPlay, marking it as a pivotal update for users who depend on this feature during their driving experience.
A highlight of CarPlay in iOS 26.2 is the increase in widget stacks. In the past, users were limited to viewing two widget stacks on their displays, but now, certain vehicles accommodate three stacks, enhancing the ability to swiftly access information. This modification has been well-received, with users such as Tom Warren from The Verge noting the upgrade, which facilitates a more tailored and informative interface while driving.
However, not every user has noted this enhancement in widget stacks, and Apple has not disclosed precise criteria regarding which vehicles will gain from this modification. User feedback shows a diverse range of experiences, with some observing an enhancement while others encounter their widget selections remaining the same. This inconsistency implies that the feature’s availability may rely on particular vehicle models or settings.
Another major update in iOS 26.2 includes the introduction of a new setting for the Messages app within CarPlay. This update enables users to disable the ‘Pinned Conversations’ option, which was introduced in the last version. This feature is especially useful for users with smaller displays, as it restores the Messages app to show the latest conversations first, instead of displaying pinned threads that could clutter the interface.
To turn off pinned conversations, users can go to the Settings app in CarPlay and switch the ‘Pinned Conversations’ option off. This minor yet significant modification enhances usability for drivers who appreciate a more streamlined overview of their messages.
In summary, iOS 26.2 delivers valuable upgrades to CarPlay, particularly with the introduction of additional widget stacks and the ability to customize the Messages app interface. These enhancements are designed to enhance the driving experience by offering easier information access and minimizing distractions. As users continue to explore these features, feedback will likely influence forthcoming updates and enhancements.
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Crucial Westerns for Those Not Fond of the Genre
Static Media
Don’t be misled, casual movie enthusiast. Not every film needs to feature colossal explosions, superhero landings, or computer-generated imagery that could ignite server farms. In the past, Hollywood thrived on intense close-ups and confrontations between heroes and villains firing from the hip. Indeed, there’s no denying the Western genre is filled with timeless classics that passionate fans would certainly advocate, but you’re not one of those dedicated fans, are you? Well, we suspect that’s why you found yourself here. Right, partner?
If you’re interested in heading out west and discovering the marvelous film offerings within the Western genre, we’ve assembled a splendid assortment of starting points to assist you. Narratives of vengeance, fairness, and alliances that garnered applause well before even the Avengers united. Here’s our meticulously selected list of Westerns for those who may not be enthusiasts of the genre but are bound to appreciate it after sampling these films. Let’s kick off with one of the finest Westerns ever made, featuring a harmonica melody that will be etched in your memory by the time you finish.