Apple’s ninth visionOS 2 developer beta arrives early

Apple Vision Pro, used to run visionOS. Apple has unusually issued one of its ninth-round developer betas earlier than the rest, with a new build of visionOS 2 now testable. Apple's beta-testing process typically involves a batch of updates being tested at the same time. However, this time Apple has made one beta available before…

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The most convenient and lightest laptop power bank we’ve tested

At a glanceExpert's Rating ProsLarge battery capacityIntegrated retractable USB-C cableLightweightConsOnly one spare USB-C portOur VerdictThis 20K laptop power bank is plain looking but performed excellently in our charging tests and comes with a super-convenient retractable cable. Price When Reviewed$79.99 Best Prices Today: Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank with Retractable USB-C Cable 65W $69.99 The Baseus Free2Pull…

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Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) review

At a glanceExpert's Rating ProsDual 4K monitor support for M1/M2/M3 Macs13 ports100W PD to laptopFast SD card readerConsNot for fast data transferSlow MicroSD card readerOur VerdictThis is a good-looking and flexible DisplayLink docking station with numerous (if rather underpowered) USB ports, Ethernet and card readers. M1, M2 and M3 MacBook owners will appreciate the DisplayLink…

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When will tech companies start solving problems people actually have?

Hey, everyone. Huddle up. Come in close. Closer. Carl, put that pudding away. Okay, look, keep this between us, but the Macalope thinks if we pretend to be a startup making another AI pin no one wants, we might just be able to walk off with a mess of cash before the venture capital firms…

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Samsung M8 Smart Monitor (M80D, 2024) review

At a glanceExpert's Rating ProsCompetitive price32-inch display with 4K resolutionBuilt-in Wi-Fi with support for AirPlayConsNo EthernetSome features require a Samsung accountNo support for DCI-P3Our VerdictThe low price means that the M8 has a few rough edges, but it’s a great option for home users who want a high-quality display that doesn’t break the bank. Price…

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Heybike Hauler review: A hefty yet comfortable e-bike

The Heybike Hauler is a premium e-bike that offers a comfortable ride and ample cargo options, if you can stomach the price tag. If you live in a busy metropolitan area, chances are good you've seen your share of people tooling around on e-bikes. They seem to be everywhere. e-bikes are now a part of…

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Understanding secure contactless transactions in iOS 18

With the release of iOS 18.1, Apple will finally open its secure contactless payments system to third-party developers. Here's how Apple's implementation functions. This system combines the on-device Secure Enclave, Secure Element, and NFC hardware to allow secure payments using NFC-based contact terminal devices which are used both for payment and verification. Apple calls this…

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