Author: Eternity Lab

The Apple Watch is the most popular smartwatch around, as reported by Counterpoint. It perfectly integrates with the iPhone and AirPods and has three different lineups that serve different audiences. Still, runners, hikers, and swimmers sometimes prefer to have a Garmin watch. Part of the reason is the things a Garmin watch can do that an Apple Watch can’t, such as offering solar charging, a full button navigation, and even measuring more specific health metrics.

Truth be told, the Garmin experience has been available for more than two decades, while the Apple Watch recently hit its first 10-year anniversary, so the former is more established in the market. The first Garmin smartwatch, the Forerunner 201 was released in 2003. Since then, the company released more than 40 versions of the watch, with some of the latest versions including an OLED display, light titanium bezels, and a battery as durable as the product as a whole.

A Garmin watch can offer athletes much more than an Apple Watch, and it might be one of the reasons why these smartwatches are still so popular among sports enthusiasts. These features are what make some users ignore that Apple has been responsible for making smartwatches a lot more mainstream thanks to the Apple Watch design, different band customizations, and Watch Faces.

Solar charging

Garmin offers 10 watch models with solar charging capabilities, like the Fenix, Forerunner, Instinct, Edge, and Enduro. While the battery in Garmin watches is already known for lasting a long time, you can extend its duration by months with solar charging — or even never have to use its USB charging cable.

These smartwatches have a semitransparent layer of solar cells on the display that converts direct sunlight into electricity to power your watch. With that, you can take more out of outdoor activities like running and cycling while seeing your watch gain charge instead of losing it.

Select Garmin watches feature a solar intensity widget, which shows the amount of sunlight it received. They’re made with panels that are easy to read in direct sunlight without a backlight. The company even claims that leaving a watch with a dead battery in the sun can make it turn back on. Models like the Garmin Edge 840 Solar also show new metrics for cycling called “ride gained,” which show you can get 20 extra minutes of battery life for every hour of riding with solar charging.

Measure specific health metrics

kovop/Shutterstock

Data nerds have gotten a lot of new health metrics with the Apple Watch in the past few years, especially with the latest watchOS 26 software update. However, Apple Watch users need apps like Gentler Streak to get a balanced, visual understanding of their health data, or use The Outsiders to learn more about their readiness for the day.

Garmin, on the other hand, is an all-in-one solution for athletes with features like Training Readiness, Body Battery, HRV Status, Load Reports, and Structured Workout Modes. For example, Training Readiness brings a single score calculated every morning that synthesizes sleep, recovery time, training load, HRV, and stress to tell if you should go for a Personal Best or just rest and recovery. Body Battery, on the other hand, is a real-time fuel gauge for your body, and it shows the hidden costs of stressful meetings, an evening glass of wine, or a tough workout.

HRV Status compares your overnight Heart Rate Variability against your two-week baseline. For the Apple Watch, users need once again to rely on third-party apps to analyze that information. In contrast, the Load Reports feature measures your last seven days of effort, categorizing activities between base, tempo, and sprints. Apple’s Training Load is more focused on helping you prevent injury, ignoring the type of physiological stress.

Impressive battery life

Nguyenducquang/Getty Images

Apple promises an all-day battery life for Apple Watches. The latest models have improved a lot, with the battery on the Series 11 lasting up to 24 hours and on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 lasting a maximum of 42 hours. In Low Power Mode, that time is extended to 38 hours and 72 hours, respectively. Garmin watches, however, last for several days, with some models lasting weeks or more thanks to solar charging.

For example, lifestyle Garmin models like the Venu 5 or Epix 3 feature AMOLED displays. Garmin says these watches can last from 10 to 16 days, while Always-On Display can make them last for up to a week. With GPS Tracking, however, this time window is limited between 15 and 30 hours. The standard models like the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 975 have more generous batteries thanks to the microLED display; they can last from 14 to 28 days, while solar models can push to over 40 days if you spend a few hours outside every day.

The ultra tier, which includes the Enduro 2 or Instinct 2X Solar, is perfect for ultramarathons or expeditions, as they can last up to 46 days or longer if you get enough sun daily. Some features drain more battery and can decrease that duration significantly, like multi-band GPS, music streaming, or nonstop blood oxygen tracking rather than limiting it to bedtime.

Full button navigation

KaterynaSypailova/Shutterstock

How Garmin prioritizes physical button navigation compared to Apple’s touch-control focus is another big difference between brands. While some of the latest Garmin watches, like the Fenix 8 or Forerunner 975, feature touchscreen capabilities, they’re made with physical buttons in mind, especially if you practice a sport that might leave your hands wet or covered in chalk, affecting touchscreen responsiveness.

All Garmins feature a five-button layout that allows users to go for a zero-look navigation through muscle memory. Most of them perform one action if you press them and another when you hold the button. For example, the top left button is the backlight or flashlight, while the secondary action, when held, is Controls Menu. The center button on the left is used to scroll up, while holding that button opens Main Settings and Watch Face options.

With that, during a high-intensity run or cycling course, these physical buttons can provide a click confirmation a touchscreen can’t match. For example, if you stop at a red light while cycling, you just have to press a button to pause, while Apple Watch users will have to swipe right and then tap the pause button — don’t ask me how many times I accidentally ended up a workout by doing that.

Built-in LED flashlight

Some Garmin watches come with a flashlight. While its competitor Apple Watch models can light up their display to be used as a flashlight, it’s not as fancy (or dedicated) as Garmin’s LED flashlight, which you can find on models like Descent, Enduro, and Fenix.

Garmin says the built-in flashlight is ideal for outdoor night activities or just lighting up low-light environments at home. Since the flashlight features actual LED lights on the front of the watch, it’s a more straightforward experience than having your Apple Watch lighting up on the side of your wrist.

Some other watches offer red or green light as well to be less disruptive to your eyes at night. The flashlight can also be used in different brightness levels. That said, this is yet another useful feature you never knew you needed until going for a really early run, stumbling on a dark room, or, god forbid, hiking a mountain after sunset.

Source

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Launching rockets into space is no easy task. Engineers and scientists need to ensure the vessels have enough thrust and fuel to escape Earth’s gravity. To achieve this feat, rockets launch at curved trajectories to take advantage of the Earth’s gravitational pull. Rolling is another trick rockets use to stay on course.

A rolling motion, alternatively known as a roll program, stems from the rotational movements all flying vessels, including rockets and airplanes, use to navigate. Every movement involves curving one of three axes, and these movements are known as the roll, yaw, and pitch. In airplane terms, a roll occurs when the lift in one wing is higher than the other and makes the plane, well, roll. The rear horizontal tail rudder controls the pitch and uses it to adjust elevation. Meanwhile, the vertical rudder controls the yaw, turning the plane horizontally. While rockets lack wings and rudders, their roll, yaw, and pitch still determine their trajectories, which is where the rolling motion comes into play.

Rockets perform a slow, controlled roll while in flight because it technically removes the roll from the navigation equation. If and when pilots need to change the horizontal angle of their trajectory relative to north (the azimuth), they only need to worry about the rocket’s pitch after rolling. This also saves on fuel, as having to make any mid-flight corrections would use more.

How do rockets perform a roll maneuver?

As previously stated, pilots can control the roll, yaw, and pitch of an airplane with its wings and rudders. However, rockets don’t have any of these components. So, how do astronauts start a rocket rolling to begin with? How can they control pitch to change azimuth? It all comes down to fins and thrusters.

One way rockets generate and control roll movement is through auxiliary thrusters. These boosters are placed on the sides of the rocket and don’t face the same direction. Because their thrusts aren’t parallel (sometimes they even oppose one another), the net force of the auxiliary engines produces a roll. More advanced rockets secure engines to gimbals, which are pivoted support mechanisms that let attached objects rotate around an axis. You often see gimbals used to stabilize cameras — the DJI RS 4 Mini is one such gimbal. When rocket engines are gimbaled, they can rotate on their own to produce a roll.

Many rockets also have specialized rear fins that are hinged to “deflect” relative to the natural airflow, which produces their own lift. Since this lift is perpendicular to the rocket’s trajectory, it makes the fins, and thus the rocket, roll. To maximize this passive roll movement, all rear rocket fins are deflected in the same direction. While advances in stabilization technology have diminished the importance of these fins, they were a critical part of early rocket designs.

Source

The Bold Bureau/Shutterstock

If you’re a big Android Auto user, you’ll be happy to know Google has announced that the platform is getting a huge update with a host of feature changes and a complete visual overhaul. Google Maps is a part of that refresh, with some more stylish and user-friendly app upgrades — it’s the biggest Maps update in a long time. That’s big news, because Google Maps is easily one of the most essential Android Auto apps.

The change you’ll notice most is Google’s Material 3 Expressive design, which itself is an update to the company’s Material Design 3 or “Material You” design philosophy. The biggest difference with Google’s latest design initiative is an emphasis on animations, which the company says fosters “more usable and engaging products with emotion-driven UX (user experience).” For Android Auto, that means new, visually-appealing fonts, snappier animations with added flair, and updated visual components like wallpapers from the Android phone experience.

Another major visual change comes with how the updated Android Auto adapts to the shape of your vehicle’s screen. The platform has supported landscape, portrait, ultrawide, and even circular screen layouts for years, but the experience wasn’t always perfect. Now, Android Auto uses more of the available display area across irregular screen shapes. 

Home screen widgets have also arrived and work like Android widgets, giving you important information at a glance and quick access to your most used apps. On Auto, that includes your favorite contacts, garage door controls, traffic and weather information, and more. It’s part of a concerted effort to make Android Auto better — several EV car brands saw a hugely helpful Android Auto upgrade before this. While the meatier development of this latest update is tied to the visual improvements and enhanced user experience, it’s not the only major change.

What else does this Android Auto update add?

Beyond the visual overhaul, there are several other enhancements to explore in this update. Google says these new features will roll out in batches, with some of the features coming “soon” and others not being available until “later this year.”

HD video playback through Android Auto will begin rolling out later this year in the YouTube app. When parked, you’ll be able to watch YouTube videos at 60 fps on compatible vehicle displays. If you put your car in drive, videos will automatically swap to audio-only so you can listen safely. Alongside that, Dolby Atmos support is coming soon along with visual updates to the Spotify and YouTube Music apps. Immersive maps for Google Maps will also start showing up, with details like 3D buildings and highlights for lanes, traffic lights, stop signs, and more.

For those who use Gemini, you’ll be happy to hear Google is adding improved Gemini Intelligence to Android Auto with this update, too. Sure, there are already some clever ways to use Gemini on Android Auto, but this update expands its capabilities. It “doesn’t just look and sound great,” but also “has a more helpful Gemini” to get stuff done, according to Google.

If your friends or family send a text that asks a question or requires specific info, Gemini’s new “Magic Cue” feature will be able to find relevant information in other text messages, emails, or calendar events and then offer to send a reply. That way, you keep your focus on the road while taking advantage of a smarter, more contextually aware assistant to do other tasks. Lastly, you’ll even be able to use Gemini to order dinner on the ride home or perform other tasks within select apps thanks to improved agentic capabilities.

Source

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

E-reader maker Onyx Boox is at it again with the Boox Tappy, an e-reader remote control that lets users turn pages and scroll content over Bluetooth, rather than interacting with the device’s touchscreen or page-turn buttons. Tappy can work with a variety of devices, including several Boox e-readers, but it won’t support Kindles regardless of how recent the model is. That’s because the Kindles that support Bluetooth connectivity can only use the wireless connection for audio features.

Announced in early May, the Boox Tappy can be purchased for $25.99 from Boox or $29.99 on Amazon. Boox says the page turner works with Note Air5 C, Palma 2 Pro, and other Boox devices running Firmware V4.2 and supporting Bluetooth connectivity. The Tappy also includes a pair of spare buttons, allowing its appearance to be somewhat customized, but it’s unclear whether spare buttons are sold separately.

While Bluetooth page-turn devices like Tappy can’t pair with Kindles, there is one exception that Kindle users can take advantage of. Tappy can connect with smartphones and tablets that support Amazon’s Kindle app for iOS/iPadOS and Android. That’s how users can get the Tappy clicker to work when consuming Kindle content without touching the e-reader. Tappy may work with other non-Boox devices that support Bluetooth remote controls, though consumers should ensure device compatibility before purchase.

How Tappy helps you read books

The Tappy accessory may appeal to e-book readers who don’t hold the e-reader in their hands while consuming content. Maybe they use a stand on a desk or a bedside mount to hold the device in place, so reaching for it to turn pages isn’t convenient. Boox says the Tappy also comes in handy for staying warm under the covers when reading. You won’t have to move your arm to turn the page once Tappy is connected to the reading device. Tappy is easy to use with one hand, weighing about 29 g and measuring 43 by 37 by 25 mm. 

A simple button press will turn pages when the gadget is in Reading Mode. Tappy supports additional modes, and holding both buttons for about five seconds lets the user switch between Reading Mode, Browsing Mode, and Multimedia Mode. In Browsing Mode, the remote lets users scroll up and down through vertical content that may extend over multiple pages, while Multimedia Mode lets users control music and audiobook playback. Boox notes that users will be able to customize controls on Boox devices. For example, double-click or long-press gestures are available and can be assigned to other tasks, such as refreshing the content, taking screenshots, and adjusting the light.

The device features long battery life, offering weeks of use on a single charge, and recharges via USB-C. The gadget also features an indicator light that shows whether the device is paired with the e-reader and whether the battery is running low.

Are there any page-turn devices for Kindles?

Tappy is a similar accessory to the Kobo Remote, a Bluetooth page turner launched in late 2025 for Kobo e-readers and other devices, but it also does not work with Kindle readers. The SK SYUKUYU is an alternative for Kindle users: a Bluetooth remote that comes with an accessory to attach to the Kindle screen to turn pages. The remote doesn’t connect directly to the Kindle, even though the e-reader supports Bluetooth. That product costs $23.99 on Amazon as of this writing. That said, some buyers may prefer the Boox Tappy’s design to these alternatives.

While Amazon added Bluetooth functionality to Kindle devices in 2016, the company limits its use to audio, including accessibility features. Accessories like Tappy can’t connect to any Kindle model that supports Bluetooth unless Amazon releases a software update to enable this functionality. Kindle users who want to use the Tappy gadget can pair the device with an iPhone, iPad, or Android device and run the Kindle app, which supports Bluetooth remotes.

Source

Google hosted The Android Show: I/O Edition 2026 on Tuesday, a livestream on YouTube where the company unveiled some of the new features coming to Android 17 this year ahead of next week’s big Google I/O 2026 event. Google also announced a few major AI features coming to Android 17, including Gemini Intelligence, Gemini in Chrome support for Android, and a Rambler feature for Gboard that uses AI to turn conversational speech into a clear message. Gboard is also the home of emojis, a critical part of modern communication. But Google decided the emojis in Android 17 needed a visual refresh and unveiled an interesting redesign.

Android 17 will introduce a new emoji design language called Noto 3D. As the name implies, emojis will get a 3D upgrade. The new emojis should look better than the previous Noto versions, based on the examples Google showed during the livestream and online. Google said in a press release the 3D emojis will bring “a touch of physicality” to chats, suggesting it sees the redesign as more expressive. “It’s the difference between a message received and a presence felt,” Google explained.

The images above and below show the same set of emojis, as shared by Google, allowing users to compare the current designs (image above) to the Noto 3D upgrade (image below). You can easily notice more vibrant colors that pop in the following screenshot, as well as the depth effect thanks to the use of light and shadows. 

When will 3D emojis be available?

Google said that it has refined nearly 4,000 emojis by hand “to be richer, more delightful, and more true to how you can actually express yourself.” However, Android users will have to wait use them. Google said during the event the new emojis are coming later this year, starting with Pixel devices. That suggests Google will roll out the new design once the first stable version of Android 17 is released. The software should be available later this summer.

It’s likely the Pixel 11 series, also expected this summer, will support the new emojis, as well as several older Pixel generations that will get the Android 17 update. Other vendors may support the new Google emojis inside specific Google apps. The company did say that the Gboard keyboard app, YouTube, and Gmail will support the Noto 3D emojis. However, some vendors may have their own emoji designs for new and existing smartphones. Also, non-Pixel devices won’t get the Android 17 update as the same time as Pixels. That means some Android users will have to wait longer for the Android 17 upgrade and the Noto 3D emojis.

Finally, when the Noto 3D emoji set rolls out, it may introduce several new emojis. The Emoji 17.0 set, which should roll out in early September, will contain 163 new emojis when accounting for all possible skin tone and gender combinations.

Source

Julia Beverly/Getty Images

As a longtime director, Michael Bay has one of the more impressive resumes you’ll find in Hollywood. From “Bad Boys” and “The Rock” to the entire “Transformers” cinematic franchise, Bay has had a hand in bringing some of the more exciting and action-packed films to the big screen. In fact, there’s even an ongoing debate about how much money the damage depicted in Michael Bay movies would cost in real life, and that figure is probably well into the trillions by now.

What’s less well-known, however, is that Bay had a pivotal role in launching one of the more iconic ad campaigns in history. Before making the jump to movies, Bay cut his teeth as a director of music videos and commercials. And back in 1993, Bay was the man who filmed the very first “Got Milk” TV ad. In doing so, Bay helped launch an award-winning ad campaign that lasted for over two decades.

In an interview with GQ a few years ago, Bay discussed how the iconic “Got Milk” ad came to be. Interestingly enough, Bay wasn’t entirely thrilled about the project when it was first offered to him. Looking back, Bay said that filming a commercial for milk, of all things, simply wasn’t that exciting. Bay, however, agreed to do the project. And impressively, Bay managed to make a commercial for milk engaging, funny, and more importantly, memorable. If you’re old enough to remember the commercial airing, you’ll likely recall it being a huge topic of conversation at the time.

A closer look at the iconic commercial

California Milk Processor Board

The ad is titled “Got Milk: Aaron Burr” and it’s basically a comedic piece. The commercial starts off with a man making a peanut butter sandwich while listening to the radio. Based on the decor in his room, it’s abundantly clear that he is a history buff. As he listens to the radio, we learn that there’s an on-air trivia contest. If a listener can say who shot Alexander Hamilton, they’ll win a $10,000 cash prize. As the camera pans around the room, we learn that the man has a painting of Hamilton getting shot by Aaron Burr. And while that piece of trivia may be well known today thanks to the success of the musical “Hamilton,” it wasn’t exactly common knowledge back in the early ’90s.

Anyhow, the man is eating his peanut butter sandwich when the phone rings. It’s the radio station. He now has the chance to win $10,000 cash. The problem, though, is that he’s mid-bite. His mouth is filled with peanut butter and is impossibly dry. He tries to shout “Aaron Burr,” but it’s all in vain as the radio host can’t make out what he’s saying. He tries to drink a glass of milk to wash down the peanut butter but his glass is essentially empty. He desperately needs more milk but there’s none to be found. Time runs out and he misses out on a chance to win the prize.

Then the screen cuts to the title card “Got Milk?” And from there, the era of the “Got Milk” ad campaign began. The original “Got Milk” ad directed by Bay won the Grand Prix Clio for Commercial of the Year.

Source

Skynesher/Getty Images

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Student life comes with a lot of expenses, so if you’re in college, you’re probably on the lookout for ways to save money. For those who are living on their own for the first time, college is an important time to learn about managing finances and living on a budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of deals offered exclusively to students, including many on subscriptions you may already have.

Some of these discounts only require a student email address (one that ends in “.edu”), while others require additional verification. That’s often done through SheerID, a platform that confirms whether you’re eligible for things like student, military, or senior discounts using sources like university registrar offices and, when necessary, document review.

If you’re looking for more student discounts, there are websites like Unidays, Student Beans, and ID.me that compile deals on things like clothes, travel, and tech. If you’re looking to save on subscriptions, here are five notable deals covering a range of categories from food to software.

Amazon Prime

Veja/Shutterstock

With over 200 million members, Amazon Prime is the second biggest subscription service in the world, surpassed only by Netflix. An Amazon Prime membership comes with hidden perks many users aren’t aware of, as well as the obvious benefits like free shipping and Prime Video. However, at $14.99/month ($139/year), it isn’t cheap. That’s why Amazon Prime for Young Adults (formerly called Amazon Prime Student) is such a great deal at $7.49/month (50% off). If you’re an older student, don’t be fooled by the name. While all young adults ages 18 to 24 can access the deal regardless of college enrollment status, it’s also open to students regardless of age who verify their status through Amazon.

An Amazon Prime for Young Adults membership starts with a six-month free trial. After that, you’ll be charged $7.49/month for as long as you’re eligible. For students, that’s until graduation or a maximum of four years (the trial period included); for those who join via age verification, the discount ends once you reach 25. Once your eligibility ends, your membership will transition to a standard one unless you cancel it.

Hulu

A lot of streaming services offer discounts for students, including Max, Spotify, and YouTube Premium, but of them, Hulu has easily the best deal. You can get Hulu (With Ads) for just $1.99/month for as long as you’re a student, which represents a whopping 83% discount. That student price has remained the same despite last year’s Disney+ and Hulu price increase, sweetening an already great deal that gives you access to shows like “The Bear” and “Only Murders in the Building.”

To get the student price, you’ll have to verify your enrollment through SheerID. From there, your status will be automatically re-verified annually, reverting to regular price once you’ve graduated or left school. You also don’t need to make a new account for this, as you can apply the deal to an existing one. The only downside is that you’ll have to watch ads, but that’s a small sacrifice for such a steep discount at a time when streaming services are getting more expensive.

Squarespace

ChristianLphoto/Shutterstock

As with streaming services, students can get some great discounts on software and online services, too. Microsoft even offers various perks to stop students from buying a MacBook Neo, as well as discounts on Microsoft 365 and hardware. Students can also get Adobe Creative Cloud at a steep discount. However, while these deals are good, there are smart money alternatives to Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office, and you may be able to get these through your school if they’re required for coursework or communication.

That’s why we’re highlighting Squarespace as the best software deal for students. The website-building platform offers 50% off your first year, which is verified through Student Beans and can be applied to any plan. That probably won’t last the entirety of your college experience, but consider when you’ll actually need it. Squarespace is ideal for recent and soon-to-be graduates who need to put together a website or portfolio to assist in their job search, so even just one year at half off is a solid deal.

DoorDash

Charles-McClintock Wilson/Shutterstock

Ordering food is a staple of student life, whether you’re sharing a pizza with new friends or shoveling lo mein into your mouth while you cram for exams. There are more options than ever, but delivery gets expensive fast. If you order out a lot, subscribing to DoorDash can help you save money with free delivery and other discounts. That’s usually $9.99/month ($96/year), but there’s also a Student DashPass Plan at $4.99/month ($48/year), a discount of 50%.

DashPass comes with benefits beyond $0 delivery and other discounts. Members who order through DoorDash but pick it up themselves can earn 5% back in credits, as well as up to four discounted Lyft rides a month. If you’re in the mood for something fancy, DashPass benefits also apply to Caviar, a DoorDash-owned service that positions itself as an upscale alternative to other delivery apps. If you frequently order delivery, DashPass will pay for itself in just a couple of orders a month, especially at that student price.

Headspace

While it isn’t a household name like the other subscriptions listed, Headspace addresses the serious subject of mental health. It’s far too easy to neglect your own wellbeing when juggling the demands of student life, which is why a mindfulness app like this one can be a huge help. Headspace is designed to help users relax, get better sleep, and practice mindfulness with resources like guided meditations, focus music, and expert advice on subjects like managing anxiety and improving personal relationships.

Headspace’s Student Plan is just $9.99/year, an 83% discount from its usual price of $69.99/year. As with other deals, this is verified through SheerID and checked annually. Making this offer even better is that the savings don’t end right after you leave school. If your enrollment can’t be re-verified and you don’t cancel, you’ll be given a special alumni subscription discount of 40% off one year of regular-priced membership.

Methodology

Daniel De La Hoz/Getty Images

The subscriptions listed here were selected based on the discount offered and relevance to the average student. For example, there are great deals from retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club, as well as meal kit boxes like HelloFresh, but many students have limited access to transportation and kitchens. Finally, we only considered deals without age restrictions and focused on ones that last for as long as you’re a student rather than free trials or short-term discounts, making an exception for Squarespace as explained in its entry.

Source

Backyardproduction/Getty Images

We live in a consumer tech era that favors cosmetic minimalism (generally speaking), which is part of the reason why remotes continue to feature fewer and fewer actual buttons. Fortunately, brands like Amazon considered this when designing its Fire TV stick, one of the 12 major streaming devices on the market. If you own one of these gadgets, Amazon hid an entire section of its user interface behind a single button — you’ll just need a long press to unearth it.

We’re referring to the Quick Settings menu, which you can pull up by pressing and holding the Home button on your Fire TV remote. After a few seconds, the Quick Settings interface should load on top of your current screen and automatically pause the movie or show you’re currently streaming. Menu options include the ability to move between user profiles, open downloaded apps, dip into device settings, use a sleep timer, and more.

It’s definitely one of the most useful Fire TV Stick remote shortcuts, especially if you’re the kind of person who likes to tweak picture settings to best support the media you’re watching. For those folks, you can press and hold the Up and Rewind buttons simultaneously to manually select a resolution.

Fewer buttons doesn’t necessarily mean fewer settings

Cristian Storto/Shutterstock

Hidden menus and tucked-away commands are par for the course when it comes to most streaming devices and smart TVs these days. For example, there are a handful of secret menus built into Roku OS (which can be accessed once developer mode is enabled), as well as a bunch of hidden features baked into Apple TV. The latter even has hidden button commands for its Siri remote, such as the ability to quickly toggle apps by pressing the TV/Control Center button twice.

Depending on the device, access to shortcuts may be well documented by the manufacturer or might require a deeper dive, like with Roku’s developer mode. Regardless of who has access and why, these hidden command centers can make adjusting settings simpler and more convenient. That said, if you end up investing in a universal remote, you’ll want to make sure it’s a model you can program unique commands to; otherwise, you may be locked out of Amazon’s Quick Settings interface.

Source

ashtheflashphotos/Shutterstock

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

For more than 20 years, the Apple Mac mini has been one of the best value Macs in the lineup. While mostly a consumer-minded Mac, it has held up well against its mini PC competition as well. It’s compact, powerful, and gives users access to the Apple software ecosystem without the premium pricing of a MacBook or iMac. Newer iterations have even incorporated Apple Silicon for better performance and efficiency.

But Apple hasn’t been able to keep up with demand, and it recently killed off the base model Mac mini. While it now includes better hardware, the entry-level option has jumped in price from $599 to $799. That’s a hefty price jump for many users, but you don’t need to pay this premium if you are open to other options. Apple isn’t the only brand making compact desktop computers, and many other mini PCs also come with better specs, better pricing, and more hardware configurations to choose from.

If you’ve been thinking of buying a Mac mini, or if you’re simply looking for the right compact desktop computing option for your needs, we’ve handpicked some mini PCs that compare favorably to Apple’s offering in one way or another. Some of them undercut the Mac mini’s new starting price significantly, others provide powerful hardware configurations that can outperform base model options, and some of them even manage to do both.

GMKtec M6 Ultra

GMKtec makes a number of different mini PC models. The GMKtec M6 Ultra is one of its mid-range options, with its cheapest configuration priced at $500. That build includes an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS processor that clocks at 4.3GHz with a turbo boost up to 5.0GHz. It’s configurable with a number of different processors, with build prices maxing out at $738. The base model also includes a 512GB solid state drive.

Some of the M6 Ultra’s specs outcompete what the entry-level Mac mini offers. For $799, Apple includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB solid state drive. For comparison, the M6 Ultra offers twice as much RAM at 32GB for a substantially lower price. With the versatility available among its hardware configuration options, the M6 Ultra can be built for a number of different uses that range from everyday productivity to moderate gaming.

The GMKtec M6 Ultra runs on Windows, so those deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem will have trouble integrating this mini PC with their other devices. But that will be the case with every mini PC without the Apple logo on it. Apple users ready to make a switch, or PC users in search of a small desktop PC, should find a lot of value in the M6 Ultra, as its high-end builds are far less expensive than those of the Mac mini.

Acemagician M1

Acemagician is another computer brand that has a full lineup of mini PC options. If you like the aesthetic style of Apple’s Mac mini computer, the Acemagician M1 is the model for you. The base model is priced at $439 and comes with an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor with a base clock speed of 3.2GHz and a turbo boost of up to 4.75GHz. The processor also comes with Radeon 680M integrated graphics that should handle basic tasks well.

The base model Acemagician M1 is significantly less expensive than the base model Mac mini, and it comes with 24GB of RAM, as opposed to the Mac mini’s 16GB. They each come with a 512GB solid state drive, but you don’t have to go up in price very much to start getting some serious hardware upgrades with the Acemagician M1. An upgrade to 1TB of internal storage goes for $489, and if you want to max out an M1 with 1TB of storage and 32GB of RAM, the price only jumps to $599.

Of course, lesser-known brands like these won’t stack up next to Apple when it comes to user base. That may cause some hesitation when it comes to actually purchasing the Acemagician M1, but it has more than 200 customer reviews at Amazon, and more than 80% of them rate the mini PC favorably. Overall, Amazon customers give the M1 a 4.4-out-of-5 star rating.

Asus NUC 13 Pro

One mini PC that can keep up with the Mac mini and also deliver some big-name brand recognition is the Asus NUC 13 Pro. ASUS is one of the most reliable laptop brands, and that reputation can extend to its PCs across the board. The base model NUC 13 Pro costs $600 and comes with an Intel Core i5-13420H processor with a base clock speed of 2.1GHz that reaches 4.6GHz with the turbo boost. The mini PC also includes two HDMI 2.1 and two Thunderbolt ports that allow for multi-monitor setups and connecting external SSDs and hard drives. You also get Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed networking.

With Apple pulling the original base model Mac mini from the market, there’s a gap for mini PC shoppers who just need entry-level specs. The base model NUC 13 Pro comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of solid state storage capacity, which matches the former base model Mac mini. For professional users, a number of mid-range configurations are available, and a maxed out version with 64GB of RAM and a 2TB solid state drive goes for $1,400.

The Asus NUC 13 Pro, however, is one of the more expensive mini PC options. While its entry-level specs match the original Mac mini’s, its $600 price point is higher than you’ll find among other mini PCs on the market. Moreover, many of the other options even include more RAM and more SSD capacity. But the NUC 13 Pro offers a number of configurations and price points and comes with the backing of a widely recognized brand.

Kamrui Pinova P2

The Kamrui Pinova P2 is a mini PC that has a somewhat industrial look to it, which may spark thoughts of it being intended for high-end professional use. But it’s one of the more affordable mini PCs on the market, with its entry-level configuration priced at $329. That includes an AMD Ryzen 4300U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB solid state drive.

The AMD Ryzen 4300U isn’t going to compete with the Apple M4 or M4 Pro chips that the Mac mini comes configured with, but the RAM and internal storage capacity match what you get with the $799 Mac mini. The Pinova P2 also comes in a number of different configurations, with the $660 model utilizing an Intel Core i5 processor with a turbo clock speed of 4.5GHz. 

Kamrui is another name that may not be recognized by the masses, but Amazon reviewers have plenty of positive feedback for the Pinova P2. It’s received 87% favorable reviews and an overall rating of 4.4-out-of-5 stars, and 76% of the reviews are 5-star reviews. Reliability and having a slow Wi-Fi receiver are recurring issues among those reviewing this mini PC unfavorably, though they are few and far between relative to its overall rating.

GMKtec Nucbox G10

We mentioned previously that the GMKtec M6 Ultra offers good performance per dollar, but the GMKtec Nucbox G10 is a mini PC that puts affordability front and center. It’s only available in one configuration, which consists of a 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB solid state drive. This is going to be plenty of hardware for most casual users, and at $320, it’s less than half the price of Apple’s base model Mac mini.

The Nucbox G10 utilizes an integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 GPU, which can handle the connection of up to three external displays simultaneously. The Nucbox G10 can also manage basic video editing and even casual gaming. While others offer more complex hardware configurations and high-end price points, this mini PC keeps everything simple.

But simplicity can often come with compromises, and the Nucbox G10 may not have the connectivity some users are looking for. It has two USB-C connections, but one of them cannot transfer data. Two USB-A ports are on the front of the machine, which may not be ideal for users who prefer an easy-to-access SD card slot or more USB-C ports.

How we selected these mini PCs

nik_yurginson/Shutterstock

We think the Apple Mac mini is a great overall device, but the mini PC market is competitive. There is a lot of overlap from one model to another, so here we looked for machines that presented a favorable case relative to what the Mac mini has to offer. That could be through lower pricing, more generous base configurations, or a combination of the two that presented solid value to users.

We also wanted to ensure as much reliability as possible in the mini PCs we’ve selected. Because the mini PC market is home to a lot of smaller computer brands, we turned to Amazon customer reviews and the hands-on experience of purchasers to better evaluate each product.

Source

i viewfinder/Shutterstock

No matter how much you may want to, it’s typically a bad idea to get physical with your tech. Though software glitches or companies randomly adding a 4GB AI model to your machine can make you feel like it’s time to grab the boxing gloves, most of the time hitting your devices is likely to just cause more problems. However, there’s one Apple Watch feature that may welcome your palm. Known as Cover to Mute, this feature silences notifications on an Apple Watch by covering the watch with your hand for up to three seconds. In a rush, this might look like someone is slapping their device, but in reality, it’s probably closer to a smothering motion. 

This feature is exclusive to Apple Watch, and it’s a quick and easy way to deal with the variety of notifications, such as calls, alerts, messages, and even activity reminders. Along with being able to quickly silence notifications, there are also Apple Watch safety features that can come in handy during an emergency. So put down the gloves and let us show you not only how to use the Cover to Mute feature but also how to enable and disable it.

How to use the Apple Watch Cover to Mute feature

Art_Volkusha/Shutterstock

Enabled by default, the Apple Watch’s Cover to Mute feature is a means of quickly silencing certain notifications. It’s good if you don’t want to be bothered while you’re doing something important, and using it is rather easy. All users need to do is cover the Watch’s display for three seconds using the palm of their hand, and notifications from things like an expired timer or messages will go silent. Your watch will give you a little tap to confirm the action.

If you want to enable or disable the feature, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to Settings on your Apple Watch.

2. Select Gestures.

3. Enable or disable Cover to Mute by clicking the toggle.

Additionally, if you have an Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Ultra 2, or an Apple Watch Series 9 or later, you can also use the Wrist Flick feature, which is also enabled by default (but can be found in the Gestures settings). Just flip the wrist with your watch on it over and return it back to its original position to stop a notification.

As a reminder, an Apple Limited Warranty doesn’t cover accidental damage, though AppleCare+ coverage does. Nonetheless, we still wouldn’t recommend slapping your device with too much force. However, there may be some additional under-the-radar Apple Watch features that you’ll want to check out if you’re looking to dive deeper into the capabilities of your smart wearable.

Source