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ESP32-C5 Mini USB-C Board Supports Dual-Band WiFi 6 and Up to 14 GPIO Pins for IoT Projects

ESP32-C5 Mini board

ESP32-C5 Mini is a tiny development board with dual-band (2.4/5 GHz) WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.x LE, and an 802.15.4 radio for Zigbee, Thread, and Matter, as well as two 9-pin headers offering up to fourteen GPIOs for IoT and Smart Home projects. It reminds me of the XIAO ESP32-C5, but it’s slightly longer and features an ESP32-C5HF4 SoC instead of an ESP32-C5HR8 + 8MB SPI flash, meaning it lacks PSRAM, and only comes with 4MB flash on-chip instead of external flash. It also adds four GPIO pins and comes with a built-in antenna and an IPEX antenna connector. NiceMCU ESP32-C5 Mini specifications: Wireless MCU –  Espressif Systems ESP32-C5HF4 CPU Single-core 32-bit RISC-V processor @ up to 240 MHz Low-power RISC-V core @ 48 MHz acting as the main processor for power-sensitive applications Memory – 384 KB SRAM on-chip Storage – 320 KB ROM, 4MB SPI flash Wireless Dual-band (2.4/5 GHz) […]

The post ESP32-C5 Mini USB-C board supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi 6, up to 14x GPIO pins for IoT projects appeared first on CNX Software – Embedded Systems News.

Four Top-Rated Costco Devices Priced Below $200

There are numerous reasons to purchase your electronics from Costco. Although this warehouse chain may not boast the same extensive selection as Amazon or Best Buy, it compensates with discounts, extended warranties, longer return windows, and various membership advantages. Costco is also recognized for its affordable TVs, many of which are typically exclusive to them, and amid the surge in computer component costs, its pre-built PCs outperform do-it-yourself pricing.

More significantly, it’s an ideal spot to discover technology across all price ranges, and we have previously highlighted some of Costco’s top gadgets priced under $100. Today, we are concentrating on some of the most valuable gadgets available for under $200. We selected these gadgets after thoroughly browsing the warehouse club’s electronics catalog for the highest-rated gadgets within the $100 to $200 price range. Our suggestions are tailored to a diverse array of consumers and can be beneficial for nearly every type of user.

SanDisk Extreme Go Portable SSD 1TB

The SanDisk Extreme Go Portable SSD represents an outstanding storage option to acquire from Costco, as it is not only highly regarded by the warehouse’s customers but also by professionals. It boasts a solid average rating of 4.5 on Costco, which is offering its 1TB variant at $150. While this price is considerably elevated due to the soaring SSD costs, Costco continues to sell it

Why Opting for a Budget Office Chair Instead of a Gaming Chair is a Wise Financial Choice

**Gaming Chairs vs. Office Chairs: Making the Intelligent Decision**

In the world of seating options for extended desk work or gaming marathons, the discourse between gaming chairs and office chairs is quite common. Although both fulfill the primary function of providing a comfortable seat, they vary considerably in design, features, and intended applications.

**Design and Appearance**

Gaming chairs are frequently distinguished by their vibrant, race-inspired aesthetics, featuring multi-colored patterns and bucket-style seats. These chairs might offer functions such as reclining features and retractable footrests, appealing to gamers who value visual style and additional options. Conversely, office chairs usually present a more understated and businesslike look, emphasizing practicality and ergonomic design.

**Ergonomics and Comfort**

Regarding ergonomics, both chair varieties provide distinct advantages. Gaming chairs frequently include modular accessories like neck and lumbar cushions, offering customizable support. However, office chairs are typically designed with inherent ergonomic elements, such as contoured shapes and adjustable lumbar systems, delivering enhanced spinal support without relying on extra accessories.

**Functionality and Features**

Office chairs are crafted with a focus on productivity, often incorporating thoughtful adjustments and materials such as PVC, mesh, or advanced textiles. They usually avoid superfluous additions like RGB lighting or integrated speakers, which are prevalent in gaming chairs. This emphasis on essential characteristics helps maintain reasonable pricing for office chairs, making them accessible to a diverse range of budgets.

**When to Select a Gaming Chair**

If you spend considerable time gaming or streaming, a gaming chair could be the ideal option. The visual allure and technology-oriented features, such as RGB lighting and sporty aesthetics, may enrich the gaming experience. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that office chairs can also showcase stylish designs, especially from premium brands like Herman Miller.

**When to Choose an Office Chair**

If your main focus is on work-related tasks, an ergonomic office chair might be the more suitable choice. These chairs are built to promote posture and spine health during extended work periods, minimizing the chances of discomfort or injury. Even with minimalist designs, office chairs can be combined with desk accessories and gadgets to further ease back pain and boost comfort.

**Conclusion**

In the end, the decision between a gaming chair and an office chair rests on personal preference and intended purpose. Both categories have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should be based on the specific features and support you need for your activities. Whether you value aesthetics, ergonomics, or functionality, there is a chair available to fit your requirements.

Apple’s Key Takeaways from ICLR 2026: Significant Innovations Revealed at the Prominent AI Conference

The fourteenth International Conference on Learning Representation (ICLR) is wrapping up today in Rio de Janeiro, signaling the conclusion of nearly a week filled with presentations, debates, and research exhibits from leading AI researchers in both academia and the tech sector, including Apple.

### Apple Presented Multiple Studies at ICLR 2026

While ICLR might not be well-known to the general audience, it has been acknowledged for over ten years as one of the most respected conferences in machine learning. This year’s event was held from April 23 to 27 at the Riocentro Convention Center, attracting machine learning and artificial intelligence specialists from all over the world, including prominent figures like Yann LeCun from AMI Labs.

The conference featured major tech corporations as sponsors and exhibitors, including Amazon, Tencent, Google, Microsoft, and Apple, among others. Apple had announced before the event that it would operate a booth highlighting an impressive open-source model capable of transforming 2D images into 3D environments in just seconds, along with LLM inference on MLX, Apple’s open-source framework designed for machine learning tasks optimized for Apple Silicon.

Apple’s booth also functioned as a recruitment center, featuring iPads for attendees to scan QR codes and apply for machine learning jobs on-site, a common practice among numerous companies at the conference.

ICLR offered extensive poster sessions where researchers displayed their work and interacted with attendees. Apple exhibited a variety of papers throughout the conference, all of which are available on their dedicated webpage.

Besides presenting research, Apple led presentations and workshops on various studies that were accepted for the conference. Highlights included “ParaRNN: Unlocking Parallel Training of Nonlinear RNNs for Large Language Models,” showcased by Federico Danieli, and “Cram Less to Fit More: Training Data Pruning Improves Memorization of Facts,” presented by Kunal Talwar.

For further details on the studies showcased by Apple at ICLR 2026, visit their official page.

9to5Mac Daily: April 27, 2026 – News on iOS 26.4.2 and Perspectives on Ternus and Cook

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest developments is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily provides an easy way to get up to speed on the most significant news surrounding Apple and its ecosystem. This educational podcast is tailored for those who wish to remain updated on the newest happenings in the Apple realm.

### What is 9to5Mac Daily?

9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that offers a summary of the day’s leading stories, centering on Apple news, product launches, software updates, and market trends. The podcast can be found on various platforms, including [iTunes](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 through a dedicated [RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for those who prefer alternative podcast applications.

### Why Listen to 9to5Mac Daily?

1. **Daily Updates**: New episodes are produced each weekday, ensuring listeners receive prompt information regarding Apple-related topics.

2. **Expert Insights**: The podcast includes conversations about notable stories, offering listeners expert commentary and insights into the consequences of the news.

3. **Convenience**: With episodes accessible on various platforms, listeners can effortlessly tune into the podcast from their chosen devices.

4. **Ad-Free Experience**: Members of 9to5Mac Daily Plus can relish ad-free episodes and additional content, improving their listening journey.

### How to Subscribe

Subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily is straightforward. You can sign up directly via [this link](https://9to5mac.com/join/) to support the podcast and gain access to exclusive material. Furthermore, listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to assist others in discovering the show.

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Listeners are encouraged to share their opinions and comments by contacting via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Engaging with the community not only enhances the podcast experience but also nurtures a sense of connection among Apple enthusiasts.

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For anyone keen on Apple news and technology, 9to5Mac Daily is an essential resource. With its daily updates, expert insights, and community involvement, it distinguishes itself as a premier podcast for staying informed about the constantly changing Apple landscape. Whether you are a casual user or a devoted supporter, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily will ensure you stay in the loop within the Apple ecosystem.

“The Flashlight of the Galaxy S26 Can Melt Plastic, Adding to the List of Devices with Comparable Features”

A viral TikTok video seems to depict the flashlight feature of the Samsung Galaxy S26 producing enough heat to burn through a black trash bag. In contrast, the clip also showcases a comparable test performed on the iPhone 17 Pro, which seemingly has no impact on the bag. It’s worth noting that the torch’s burn hole is quite small, whereas the bag appears notably thin. Nonetheless, it raises concerns that the feature generates such significant heat. For instance, what occurs if the light is positioned close to your skin? What is really happening here?

Of course, a strong light like a flashlight will emit some heat the longer it remains on. This is concerning enough that we have witnessed similar incidents with other smartphones. Users have reported that the LED flashlight on the Pixel 10 Pro might harm the phone, as they observed artifacts in photos after keeping the light on for prolonged durations. This issue is not limited to smartphone flashlights alone; conventional flashlights can also produce heat when operated for extended times.

Additional findings from Tom’s Guide indicate that it’s feasible to burn through a garbage bag with Samsung’s newest flagship device. Tests carried out by the site revealed that the flashlight of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, at full brightness, swiftly burned a black trash bag. However, both the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Google Pixel 10 Pro also melted the plastic. Thicker areas of the trash bag were not spared from the impact, but no visible melting occurred when a white trash bag was tested. This is likely due to the black color’s ability to absorb more light and heat. We attempted to replicate these findings using a Galaxy S25 Ultra and a Galaxy S26 Ultra, but observed no significant damage. It is possible that the devices might turn off the light to avoid overheating their internals, but that doesn’t completely eliminate the heating issue.

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Costco’s Battery-Operated Heated Socks Present Hazard of Second-Degree Burns

The recall page from CPSC does indicate that incidents may take place during “high-intensity” activities. Priced generally between $30 and $46, the socks are available in black, featuring the phrase “32-degrees HEAT” on the retail packaging, user manual, battery pack casing, and battery pack packaging.

Consumers are requested to return the socks either at Costco locations or online. Remember, you can always go to CPSC.gov for recall updates on various products. Additionally, there are some electronic policies at Costco that every customer should be aware of.

Reasons behind the recall of 32 Degrees Heated Socks

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has officially announced the recall of the 32 Degrees Heated Socks as of April 23, 2026. The report specifies that these socks were sold in the U.S., the UK, Iceland, and Sweden from August 2025 to March 2026. This includes any socks corresponding to item numbers 1872150, 1913659, 1913660, and 1913661. As per the CPSC report, the socks were sold in three