Ikea has long been known for its impressive array of smart home products, which includes everything from smart blinds to light switches and air purifiers. The introduction of the Dirigera Hub significantly enhances the offering, especially with its recent addition of complete Matter support.
As of September 11, all devices linked to the Dirigera Hub can utilize the Matter interoperability standard. This is a notable advancement for Ikea, enabling its devices to seamlessly communicate with products from competing platforms such as Apple Home and Google Home. The Dirigera Hub is being transformed into a Matter Bridge, facilitating compatibility with all Matter-certified devices.
Ikea has stated that various product categories, including lighting, audio, air purifiers, and sensors, will now integrate with the Matter update. “With the implementation of Matter support on Dirigera, we are making significant progress toward a more cohesive and interoperable smart home environment,” explained Damir Smrkovic, Ikea’s Platform and Technology leader in Sweden. “Users can now enjoy the convenience of compatibility without concern — everything will operate together effortlessly.”
As a member of the Connectivity Standards Alliance, which oversees the Matter initiative, Ikea’s move to support this standard is a welcome development. This effectively provides users with a straightforward way to connect their devices within their homes. Users can manage their connected devices through the Ikea mobile app, remote controls, programmable buttons, or even voice and motion commands.
The Matter standard is steadily expanding its presence in the smart home ecosystem, attracting more manufacturers each year. As Ikea rolls out support for Matter, the platform itself continues to evolve, adding capabilities for new device types and making it simpler for households to implement Matter into their environments. As more innovative products are unveiled at IFA 2024, it’s clear that this technology will keep advancing.
Critics have rightly pointed out that Apple tends to recycle its iPhone designs, offering little change from year to year. The iPhone 16 Pro, for example, still showcases the aesthetic introduced with the iPhone 11 Pro, a design that has remained unchanged for five years. Meanwhile, it appears that Samsung is following a similar approach with its upcoming Galaxy S25 series.
According to insights from Android Headlines and @OnLeaks, leaked images of the standard Galaxy S25 reveal a design that closely resembles that of the Galaxy S23 and even several mid-range models in the Galaxy A and M lines.
The general layout appears to remain unchanged, featuring the vertically aligned camera array on the back and a centrally placed front-facing camera. The most significant alteration is the thinner bezels, mirroring the leaked images of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
OnLeaks / Android Headlines
The most recent leaks suggest that the Galaxy S25 will feature a 6.17-inch display and a more compact design along the edges. Surprisingly, Samsung is expected to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor instead of its own Exynos chips for this iteration.
While rumors indicate an increase to 12GB of RAM, the battery size continues to be underwhelming at just 4,000mAh. Historically, Samsung unveils its Galaxy S series early in the year, with 2025 likely seeing the introduction of this device in the first quarter.
A notable concern
OnLeaks / Android Headlines
While the design itself isn’t inherently bad, the prospect of a smaller chassis raises some concerns. A tighter internal structure could complicate heat management, particularly with more powerful hardware and a chipset purportedly designed to rival Apple's A-series processors.
In recent generations, I've encountered persistent heating issues with the compact models in the Galaxy S lineup. Although Samsung has continually sought to improve thermal management, most efforts appear focused on the high-end Ultra variants.
My consistent frustration with entry-level Galaxy S devices involves frequent overheating notifications that appear during demanding tasks, such as recording high-res videos outside. Not only does the device heat up uncomfortably, but it also reduces screen brightness to dissipate heat, detracting from the overall experience.
OnLeaks / Android Headlines
I have a preference for smaller phones, which is one reason I have appreciated the Google Pixel series. However, persistent thermal issues have been a disheartening trend.
If Samsung is opting not to refresh its design this year, I sincerely hope that the Galaxy S25 will at least optimize its thermal management to effectively harness its advanced hardware within its sleek glass-and-metal body.
Sonos is reportedly collaborating with online advertising firm The Trade Desk on a soon-to-be-announced video streaming device, which has likely faced delays. This information comes from Janko Roettgers in his September 12 Lowpass newsletter, where he referenced multiple sources familiar with the partnership.
The Trade Desk, a publicly traded company valued at over $50 billion, positions itself as an omnichannel advertising platform for the open internet. In a previous report from August, Roettgers revealed that The Trade Desk has been developing its own smart TV operating system since 2019, aiming to compete with established players like Roku, Amazon, and Google. However, this has been disputed by The Trade Desk’s CEO, as reported by Digiday.
While discussions have circulated about Sonos possibly venturing into the video streaming sector—sparked by a 2023 report from Bloomberg—there has been little clarity regarding the software Sonos intends to use. Sonos primarily focuses on music streaming and has experienced significant challenges since a troublesome app update in May. Although the company produces soundbars akin to those from Amazon Fire TV and Roku, these devices are limited to audio playback and do not feature a comprehensive operating system like typical streaming devices. Although Sonos has developed apps for various platforms, it has not directly engaged with the streaming ecosystem occupied by Roku, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple’s tvOS. The recent introduction of the Sonos Ace headphones marked the company’s initial step beyond traditional speakers. CEO Patrick Spence mentioned that two new products set for launch this year have been postponed until improvements are made to their app and platform.
Roettgers indicates that teaming up with a third-party like The Trade Desk could address several challenges at once. By licensing a pre-existing platform, Sonos could sidestep the need to create one from the ground up. Given the company’s ongoing struggles with its app—along with considerable expenditures aimed at rectifying these issues and recent staff reductions intended for sustainability—resources for new software projects are limited.
Building relationships with major streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO is notoriously difficult. However, The Trade Desk reportedly has established connections with these platforms. According to Roettgers, the company has recently begun selling advertisements for Netflix and collaborates with significant media entities like NBCUniversal, Fox, and CBS. Sources suggest that The Trade Desk has secured agreements with various well-known streaming services for participation on its platform.
Moreover, The Trade Desk appears willing to allow Sonos significant influence over the design and feel of the software. This is likely an attractive aspect of their partnership, as streaming platforms operated by Roku, Google, and Amazon maintain strict licensing requirements that can affect the interface, branding, and even remote control layout of the devices they license.
Google has announced that its Gemini Live feature, which initially launched exclusively for subscribers, is now available to a broader audience at no cost, starting from Thursday.
We’re excited to announce the rollout of Gemini Live in English to more users of the Android app for free. Go Live to engage in discussions with Gemini, dive into new topics, or brainstorm ideas! Keep an eye out for Gemini Live in the Gemini app 👀 pic.twitter.com/0VL0c7E6Gw
Gemini Live serves as Google’s response to OpenAI’s Advanced Voice Mode for ChatGPT. This feature empowers users to interact with the chatbot in real-time using spoken language, rather than typing text inputs.
To access Gemini Live, simply launch the Gemini app and tap the Sparkle icon located at the bottom right corner of the screen. After your conversation with the AI, you have the option to end the session by pressing the Stop button or by saying, “stop.” Following this, a transcript of your conversation will be generated and saved for future reference in your chat history.
However, it’s important to note that there are some restrictions. Currently, Gemini Live is available only to users who speak English and use the Android version of the app. It is not compatible with iOS devices or other Workspace applications like YouTube Music and Gmail, though support for these platforms is anticipated in the future.
In contrast, OpenAI’s Advanced Voice Mode is still in beta testing and has only been made accessible to a limited group of ChatGPT Plus subscribers. While OpenAI plans to extend this feature to all its subscribers, no specific timeline has been provided. Users interested in this feature will need to subscribe for $20 per month without guaranteed access to the rollout.
Both Google and OpenAI are exploring ways to integrate mobile device cameras into their voice chat functionalities, potentially allowing for enhanced multimodal interaction when responding to spoken queries. However, no exact release dates for these features have been announced by either company.
Interested in trying out Gemini Live? You can download the Gemini App from the Google Play Store.
The latest preview for Venom: The Last Dance shows Tom Hardy’s Eddie Brock facing a formidable new adversary: Knull.
Knull, a prominent antagonist, is known as the architect of the symbiote that shares a bond with Eddie. Dr. Payne, played by Juno Temple, uncovers that the symbiotes fled to Earth to escape Knull’s tyranny. The character of Knull is depicted as daunting, seated on his throne and plotting against Eddie and Venom. The pair possess something Knull desperately wants, and they’ll need to make profound sacrifices to keep it out of the wrong hands.
“Eddie, I’m with you to the end,” the symbiote reassures Eddie as they gear up for a decisive showdown.
Alongside Hardy and Temple, Venom: The Last Dance features an impressive cast that includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rhys Ifans, Alanna Ubach, and Clark Backo. Additionally, Stephen Graham and Peggy Lu reprise their roles from earlier films, with Graham portraying Patrick Mulligan/Toxin and Lu as Mrs. Chen.
VENOM: THE LAST DANCE – Final Trailer (HD)
Kelly Marcel, who wrote the screenplays for the previous two installments, is making her directorial debut with Venom: The Last Dance. She teams up with Hardy to co-write the script. The production team includes Marcel, Hardy, Matt Tolmach, Hutch Parker, Amy Pascal, and Avi Arad.
This film marks the conclusion of Hardy’s Venom trilogy. Collectively known within Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU), the three films—Venom, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, and Venom: The Last Dance—have achieved significant commercial success, amassing over $1.3 billion globally.
Venom: The Last Dance is set to premiere in theaters on October 25, 2024.
At this week’s “It’s Glowtime” event, Apple introduced the iPhone 16 series, showcasing an array of exciting features. However, they did not unveil every detail regarding the new devices.
According to reports from ShrimpApplePro, certification documents indicate that the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max will support wired fast charging up to 45W. This represents a significant upgrade from earlier iPhone models, which had charging capabilities capped at 27-29W. This new information has been confirmed by the China Quality Certification Centre.
While Apple hasn’t explicitly mentioned the 45W charging capacity on its website, it does state that the new models can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes when using a 20W adapter or higher with a USB-C charging cable. Alternatively, they can achieve similar performance with a MagSafe charger rated at 30W or more. It’s worth noting that these charging adapters must be purchased separately.
Apple
Prior to the iPhone 16 series announcement, there were whispers about enhancements in battery performance, particularly for the Pro models, with speculation of 40W wired charging capabilities.
Despite the move to 45W charging being a positive advancement, it still falls short compared to competitors like the OnePlus 12, which boasts an impressive 80W wired charging capability.
The iPhone 16 series is set to hit the market starting September 13, with the first shipments scheduled for September 20. The new phones will feature a variety of innovations, including upgraded processors, a new Camera Control feature, fresh color options, and enhanced camera capabilities across all models.
Additionally, the event revealed the AirPods 4, an updated version of the AirPods Max, and new features for the AirPods Pro.
Solutions for the challenges faced in Hollywood’s visual effects are on the horizon. Today, Chaos unveiled Ray Tracing FTW, a short film that offers insight into the world of VFX and filmmaking through the lens of artists. This comedic piece introduces Project Arena, a cutting-edge virtual production toolkit.
Drawing inspiration from classic Westerns such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and Once Upon a Time in the West, Ray Tracing FTW serves as a platform to demonstrate the capabilities of Project Arena, which promises a quicker and more streamlined experience with game engines. These ready-made tools empower artists, directors, and cinematographers to focus on the performance captured in-camera, minimizing distractions. With Project Arena, there’s no need for virtual art departments; users can reposition V-Ray assets and choose animations for LED screens in as little as 10 minutes. Additionally, the same high-quality assets can be utilized from pre-production through to post-production without any degradation in quality.
“In filmmaking, technology often becomes a distraction. It can crash, lag, or require too many specialized personnel to operate effectively,” stated Christopher Nichols, director of special projects at the Chaos Innovation Lab and VFX supervisor/producer of Ray Tracing FTW. “Project Arena is designed to change this dynamic, allowing everyone—from artists to directors of photography—to set aside technology worries and immerse themselves in the filmmaking process.”
Ray Tracing FTW | The Short Film
The creation of Ray Tracing FTW involved cinematographer Richard Crudo, James Blevins, and other VFX professionals who have contributed to major projects such as The Mandalorian and Dune: Part Two. This short film acts as a tribute to both cinema and visual effects, illustrating how the film industry is often hindered by the absence of real-time tools. The film is packed with Easter eggs, and enthusiasts can refer to a checklist to catch every reference and joke hidden within.
At its core, Project Arena aims to expedite the production process. Remarkably, Ray Tracing FTW was completed in just three days, in stark contrast to the usual four-day timeline required for standard virtual production shoots.
“Utilizing an LED volume for filming, I was continually impressed by the authenticity of the results—visible even to the naked eye. The effectiveness of Project Arena significantly expedited the compositing process, fostering a more creative environment for the photography,” remarked Richard Crudo, a six-term former president of the American Society of Cinematographers and director of photography on Ray Tracing FTW.
For further details, reach out to the Chaos Innovation Lab via the form available on the Project Arena page.
Denis Villeneuve has charted his course for leaving the world of Arrakis behind. The director is gearing up to create a third and concluding installment titled Dune Messiah. Although often referred to in tandem with Dune 3, Villeneuve resists labeling his adaptations as part of a trilogy.
“It’s crucial for people to realize that, for me, this has been more of a diptych,” Villeneuve expressed in a recent chat with Vanity Fair. “It truly represents a pair of films that together adapt the first book. That part is over and complete. If I do venture into a third film, which is currently in the writing stages, it won’t be a typical trilogy. It’s an odd statement, but returning to this universe would mean creating something distinct with its unique essence.”
He has been quite candid about his desire to bring Dune Messiah to life. This novel, penned by Frank Herbert, takes place a dozen years after the story of Dune. It follows Emperor Paul “Muad’Dib” Atreides grappling with the repercussions of a jihad that has claimed 61 million lives. How does Villeneuve plan to address the significant time leap with the actors?
“That’s my challenge,” Villeneuve remarked. “But I have a plan for it.”
Dune: Part Two | Official Trailer 3
Beyond Dune Messiah, there are additional novels in the Dune series, such as Children of Dune and God Emperor of Dune. However, Villeneuve has no intentions of adapting these subsequent stories for cinema. He does feel that another director might expand upon Herbert’s intricate universe.
“If Dune Messiah comes to fruition, it will mark many years on Arrakis for me, and I would appreciate the opportunity to explore new projects,” Villeneuve said. “It might be wise for me to plant seeds in Messiah that could inspire someone else to carry the story forward. These are wonderful books that can be challenging to adapt due to their increasingly esoteric nature. While I’m not planning to do it myself, I won’t shut the door on the possibility for someone else.”
The films Dune and Dune: Part Two are currently available to stream on Max.
The conclusion boss battle in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has undergone some adjustments—whether these are warranted is still up for debate among fans.
FromSoftware has rolled out update 1.14 across all platforms (PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC). This patch includes the standard bug fixes but primarily aims for balance improvements concerning weapons and enemies throughout the game. Among these changes, the most significant impact will be felt in the battle against the final boss in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion: Promised Consort Radahn.
The balance adjustments are as follows:
The battle’s initial action pattern has been modified
Some attack animations have been refined
Reduced damage for certain attacks
Lowered stamina depletion from specific moves
Shortened the range of several non-weapon-based attacks
Enhanced clarity for some attack effects
Radahn is known for being a colossal, swift enemy who delivers heavy damage—an expected challenge for any Elden Ring player. His notorious attack speed and visually overwhelming particle effects during his second phase, particularly the Miquella attacks, left many players scrambling to evade. The combination of these factors has led to an exceptionally punishing encounter.
The adjustments in update 1.14 include a noticeable slowdown in a variety of his attacks. A prime example is his cross-slash, which involves him swinging his swords in quick succession—now, it’s easier to predict and dodge. The update also provides more opportunities for players to land hits. One improvement that stands out is the reduction of on-screen particle effects, making it simpler to track Radahn’s movement in the arena.
For context, Radahn has now experienced two nerfs from FromSoftware; he is the same boss featured in the original game as Starscourge Radahn, who was unintentionally weakened in Patch 1.03.3 (though this was subsequently corrected).
The Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, released in June, received widespread acclaim from both players and critics. Nonetheless, many were surprised by how much tougher the DLC seemed compared to the already challenging base game. In response to the initial outcry regarding the increased difficulty, FromSoftware offered guidance to players during the DLC launch week, advising them to utilize Scadutree Blessing. Moreover, the developers introduced the option to summon Torrent during the climactic battle in the base game, providing a little relief in that final confrontation.
In an exciting milestone, two private astronauts are set to embark on a groundbreaking spacewalk from a Crew Dragon spacecraft, marking both the first commercial spacewalk and the initial external excursion from such a vehicle.
This eagerly awaited event is part of the Polaris Dawn mission, which lifted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida early on Tuesday morning.
The spacewalk will involve two of the four crew members — Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis — exiting the Crew Dragon in specially designed SpaceX spacesuits that may one day be utilized for lunar and Martian missions.
Contrary to the International Space Station, the Crew Dragon lacks an airlock; therefore, the remaining crew members, Scott Poteet and Anna Menon, will also don the new spacesuits to shield themselves from the harshness of outer space.
SpaceX shared on social media, “After liftoff, the crew began a two-day pre-breathe protocol in preparation for the upcoming spacewalk on Thursday. During this phase, the pressure inside the Dragon is gradually reduced while oxygen levels rise, helping to eliminate nitrogen from the crew’s bloodstream and reducing the risk of decompression sickness during the spacewalk.”
Isaacman and Gillis are expected to spend up to 20 minutes each outside the spacecraft, with Isaacman slated to exit first, followed by Gillis.
Throughout the five-day mission, the crew will also conduct various scientific experiments, having already pushed human exploration further from Earth than any missions in the last five decades.
How to watch
The historic spacewalk of the Polaris Dawn mission is scheduled to commence at 2:23 a.m. ET on Thursday, September 12 (11:23 p.m. PT on Wednesday night).
You can catch the live stream of the spacewalk on SpaceX’s social media channels, including this link.
SpaceX has unveiled breathtaking photographs alongside a short video, capturing an orbital sunset from the Polaris Dawn Crew Dragon spacecraft soaring high above our planet. Take a look at the stunning visuals below:
From its vantage point at over three times the altitude of the International Space Station, the Earth appears rounder and more remote. After their launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Crew Dragon and its four crew members achieved an impressive apogee of more than 870 miles (1,400 kilometers), marking the farthest any humans have ventured into space since the Apollo missions over fifty years ago.
On Thursday, September 13, at early morning ET, crew members Jared Isaacson and Sarah Gillis are set to perform a historic spacewalk from the Crew Dragon, approximately 435 miles (700 kilometers) above the Earth. This mission will be the first commercial spacewalk, featuring a newly developed spacesuit designed to enhance mobility and comfort compared to existing models. This upgraded suit is expected to be integral for future crewed expeditions to the Moon and possibly Mars.
An update posted on Polaris Dawn’s X account on Wednesday mentioned that the crew, including Scott Poteet and Anna Menon, has been diligently preparing for the upcoming spacewalk while engaging in various scientific and research activities. They have also participated in several video calls back to Earth, connecting with family through SpaceX’s Starlink.
Funded by billionaire businessman Jared Isaacson, who launched Shift4 Payments when he was just sixteen, the Polaris Dawn mission marks his second space journey, following the Inspiration4 mission in 2021, which included a crew of non-professional astronauts.
The Polaris Dawn team is expected to return to Earth this weekend after spending approximately five days in orbit.
Capturing the beauty of the sky is a beloved hobby for many people on Earth, but the allure of atmospheric phenomena extends to other planets as well. Recently, scientists unveiled a remarkable “cloud atlas” for Mars, a comprehensive database featuring two decades’ worth of imagery showcasing clouds and storms on the red planet.
This cloud atlas is now accessible online, allowing users to explore a variety of Martian weather images captured by the Mars Express spacecraft. This mission by the European Space Agency has been orbiting Mars since 2005, utilizing its High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) to document numerous cloud formations.
The image illustrates two atmospheric phenomena: the white curved lines depict gravity wave clouds, while the brown areas indicate dust being lifted from the ground by the wind. The observable color change in the lifting event may suggest extremely high winds, a subject currently being explored by the research team. ESA/DLR/FU Berlin
“The clouds we observe on Mars are as varied and intriguing as those found in Earth’s atmosphere, including some that are entirely unique to the Martian environment,” stated Daniela Tirsch from the German aerospace center DLR, who shared this research at the recent Europlanet Science Congress.
“One of my favorite phenomena is the spectacular ‘cloud streets’—linear formations of fluffy clouds that form around the massive Tharsis volcano and the northern lowlands during Mars’ spring and summer months. Although they resemble Earth’s cumulus clouds, they form under distinct atmospheric conditions and we also observe vast dust clouds that can span hundreds of kilometers—an occurrence we are fortunate not to experience on Earth.”
Here we see an example of ‘cloud streets’ above Vastitas Borealis, a large and crater-free expanse near the Martian North Pole. ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/A. Cowart
Beyond cloud streets, the images document dust-lifting events, where high winds and low gravity work together to raise particulate matter from the surface into the atmosphere. These dust storms can grow immensely large, occasionally enveloping the entire planet.
ESA/DLR/FU Berlin
Other observed phenomena include Lee waves, which occur as clouds ripple in response to wind interacting with geological barriers like ridges and mountains, creating patterns similar to those observed on Earth.
Lee waves form as a result of wind encountering obstacles, accumulating on the ‘leeward’ side. The shapes of these waves vary based on the contours of the landscape. ESA/DLR/FU Berlin
Investigation of Martian clouds contributes vital knowledge about the planet’s atmosphere, weather patterns, and the regolith—dusty material that carpets its surface. This understanding is crucial not only for comprehending Mars’ current state and history, but also for future exploration efforts, including safely landing larger spacecraft on its surface.
Researchers are leveraging the cloud atlas to produce global cloud maps and analyze seasonal and regional variations, with ambitions to expand this database further. As Tirsch noted, “With the ESA extending the Mars Express mission at least until 2026, we can continue to update this invaluable database and deepen our understanding of the Martian atmosphere.”
The highly anticipated Apple AirPods 4 have officially launched. Apple unveiled these latest iterations of their beloved wireless earbuds on September 9, alongside the iPhone 16, the newest Apple Watch, and some updates regarding the AirPods Pro 2.
Here’s what you need to know about them.
New Models: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC
Apple has introduced not one but two new models of AirPods. The standard AirPods 4 are replacing the second and third-generation models, which were available until the announcement of this new version. Additionally, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) serves as the brand’s mid-tier option.
Both models share the same physical design, featuring a shape that Apple claims offers the most comfortable fit yet. The AirPods 4 with ANC incorporates noise cancellation technology without requiring silicone ear tips, which are exclusive to the AirPods Pro 2.
Gone are the tap controls from the second generation; the AirPods 4 now feature squeezable force-sensing controls positioned on the stems, similar to those found in the third generation and the AirPods Pro. Moreover, both models boast an IP54 rating for dust resistance.
The charging case has also been redesigned, now 10% smaller than that of the AirPods 3.
Cost and Availability
Apple
The AirPods 4 are priced at $129, matching the cost of the now-retired second-generation AirPods. The AirPods 4 with ANC, on the other hand, retails for $179, the same price as the discontinued third-generation model.
Preorders for both variants began on September 9, with retail availability set to commence on September 20. While Apple has ceased selling the second and third generations in its stores, other retailers might offer discounts, making it a great time to buy those older models if you’re not after the latest features.
Features and Technologies
Caleb Denison / Digital Trends
The fourth-generation AirPods are equipped with Apple’s H2 chip, which is also found in the AirPods Pro 2. This enables a host of advanced features such as audio sharing, personalized spatial audio with head tracking, voice isolation during calls, and the option to respond to Siri commands through head gestures—branded by Apple as Siri Interactions.
Charging is possible through USB-C for both models, aligning the entire AirPods lineup with this new port. Interestingly, Apple has decided not to include a USB-C charging cable with the AirPods 4, marking a departure from their previous practice. This trend was also seen with Beats earlier this year, suggesting a shift towards selling earbuds without accompanying cables.
The AirPods 4 with ANC include an active noise cancellation feature, and their case is compatible with any Qi wireless charging pad or the MagSafe charger used for Apple Watch. According to Apple, this case ranks as the smallest in the world capable of wireless charging.
Similar to the AirPods Pro 2, the case for the AirPods 4 with ANC is equipped with a built-in speaker for easy tracking via Apple’s Find My app, although it lacks the lanyard loop found on the Pro’s case.
Both models feature a new acoustic architecture with a low-distortion driver and a high dynamic range amplifier, delivering superior audio with rich bass and crystal-clear highs.
New to the fourth generation is enhanced voice call quality during FaceTime sessions, achieved with the AAC-ELD codec for improved fidelity and minimal latency. This feature supports high-quality audio up to 16-bit/48kHz, making it suitable for multiplayer gaming too.
Active Noise Cancellation without Eartips
Caleb Denison / Digital Trends
While some brands have attempted active noise cancellation with semi-open earbuds in the past, results have often been underwhelming. Products like Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Live and Galaxy Buds 3 have struggled to provide effective noise reduction without eartips.
However, early impressions of the AirPods 4 with ANC suggest they are more successful in this area. A detailed review is forthcoming, but initial feedback from a demo during Apple’s launch event has been positive.
This ANC-equipped model also features a transparency mode and adaptive audio that adjusts ANC and transparency based on your environment. The conversational awareness feature seamlessly transitions to transparency mode when you start speaking, lowering the volume of your music so you can engage in conversations.
Battery Life
Battery life remains one of the few unchanged aspects in the fourth generation of AirPods. In fact, it may have slightly diminished. Apple states you can expect up to five hours of listening time on a single charge (or up to four hours with ANC activated), with a total of 30 hours when factoring in the charging case. While the previous generation also offered 30 hours of total listening time, it provided six hours of use per charge.
Just five minutes in the charging case can offer around an additional hour of listening time.
Should You Upgrade from ANC to Pro?
Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends
Considering the new design and comfort level with the ANC feature, one might wonder whether the AirPods Pro 2 are still worth the extra investment. Although a direct comparison is yet to be conducted, we expect the Pro variant to maintain superior ANC and sound quality due to their fully-sealed design with silicone tips.
Additionally, Apple has indicated that the AirPods Pro 2 will incorporate unique hearing-related features including hearing aid capabilities, a hearing assessment, and protection features. Currently, there’s no indication that similar functionalities will be made available for the AirPods 4.
After the discontinuation of cached results at the beginning of the year, Google has now begun incorporating links to the Internet Archive in search outcomes, as detailed by The Verge. This allows users to access older versions of websites more easily.
To find the new Wayback Machine links, simply click on the three dots next to a search result and select “More about this page.” At the bottom of the subsequent menu, you’ll see the option to “See previous versions on Internet Archive.” As with any changes in search features, it might take a little time for everyone to notice the update, so if you don’t see it immediately, keep checking back.
When Danny Sullivan, Google’s Search liaison, confirmed the removal of cached links in February, he expressed a desire to see them replaced by links to the Internet Archive.
The Internet Archive, a nonprofit organization established in 1996, has been diligently working to archive more than 150 billion web pages, ensuring access for researchers and the general public. Thanks to a recent partnership with Google, users can now access archived webpage versions with much greater ease during their online activities.
While these new Wayback Machine links provide a fascinating alternative, they don’t completely replace the functionality of the now-removed cached links. The cached links allowed users to view a webpage as Google does, revealing all edits and changes made. They served various purposes, from debugging to news gathering and even as a workaround for accessing content when pages wouldn’t load.
Though many of these tasks can be accomplished through other means these days, and the original need for cached pages has diminished, the integration of Internet Archive links is a valuable addition to the search experience.
Michael B. Jordan is set to take the reins for a fresh version of The Thomas Crown Affair, marking his next project as a director. According to Deadline, he will both direct and feature in this new adaptation being developed by Amazon MGM Studios, which is slated for a global theatrical release.
This film represents a longstanding interest for Jordan, who has been attached to star in a remake since 2016. The Creed actor will also serve as a producer through his Outlier Society production company, teaming up with Elizabeth Raposo.
The upcoming project will be the third iteration of The Thomas Crown Affair. The original film, released in 1968, stars Steve McQueen as the wealthy Thomas Crown, who executes a high-stakes heist and subsequently develops a romantic relationship with an insurance investigator portrayed by Faye Dunaway. The 1999 remake, meanwhile, features Pierce Brosnan in the role of Crown and Rene Russo as Catherine Banning, the investigator. This version has been celebrated for its captivating style, earning acclaim for its seductive take on the heist genre.
For his direction, Jordan will work from a screenplay by Drew Pearce, known for his work on The Fall Guy. While detailed plot points are still under wraps, it follows that previous drafts were crafted by Wes Tooke and Justin Britt-Gibson. Production duties will be overseen by Patrick McCormick and Marc Toberoff, with Alan Trustman, the writer behind the original film, attached as an executive producer.
As development progresses, one of the critical next steps will be to cast the female lead alongside Jordan, a role that is expected to attract significant interest from renowned actresses in Hollywood.
This adaptation will mark Jordan’s second venture into feature film directing, following his successful debut with Creed III, which impressive box office earnings exceeded $276 million, making it the franchise’s top-grossing installment.
With the unveiling of its latest Xbox Game Pass Standard tier, gamers are diving into what the subscription service has to offer. As they explore, many have noted the absence of several significant titles, including some that were previously available before the pricing restructure.
On Tuesday, Xbox shared a blog post detailing the transition and explaining its new Game Pass options. Gamers who want to focus on multiplayer can choose Game Pass Core, while those looking for PC games can opt for PC Game Pass. The newly introduced Game Pass Standard is designed for console gamers seeking an enhanced gaming experience at a competitive price, costing $15 monthly, compared to the Ultimate tier’s $20 per month (an increase from $17).
Along with the new tier, a refreshed online catalog has been introduced, allowing users to identify what’s not available on Standard (source: Kotaku). By visiting the Xbox site, players can filter games by membership type. Presently, Game Pass Standard contains 370 titles, a stark contrast to the 508 games offered with Ultimate.
This outcome was anticipated since Xbox had previously mentioned that day-one releases would be exclusive to the Ultimate tier—such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, set to launch in November. Yet, some first-party games currently missing from Standard include recent hits like Starfield, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Diablo 4, Forza Motorsport, Valorant, and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2. Nevertheless, there are still notable first-party titles available on Standard, including Minecraft, its spinoffs, Pentiment, Prey, the Dishonored series, and the Psychonauts games.
Additionally, several third-party games that were recently added to the catalog are absent from Standard, including Age of Mythology: Retold, Still Wakes the Deep, Star Trucker, and Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn. A comprehensive list of the missing games can be found on a Reddit thread, although it may not capture every title.
Xbox has yet to clarify when day-one games may join the Standard tier, only indicating they might arrive “up to 12 months or later.” Players should also take note that cloud gaming remains exclusive to the Ultimate subscription.
AMD has unveiled a new driver for its Ryzen AI 300 processors, which brings a powerful feature potentially enhancing gaming performance significantly. This innovation, known as Variable Graphics Memory (VGM), enables the integrated graphics to convert up to 75% of a system’s memory into dedicated graphics memory. AMD claims that this feature not only enhances gaming performance but also allows certain otherwise unplayable games to run smoothly.
The Ryzen AI 300 series is primarily designed for slim, portable laptops, including models like the Zenbook S 16, which are not specifically aimed at gamers. Alongside VGM, the latest driver has activated AMD’s Fluid Motion Frames 2 (AFMF 2) feature for these processors. Together, these functionalities could lead to noticeable performance gains, as illustrated in benchmarks for the Zenbook S 16 shown below.
AMD
One notable example is Guardians of the Galaxy, which AMD states requires VGM to even function. This is due to certain games having strict memory requirements hard-coded within them. Typically, the integrated graphics on a Ryzen AI 300 processor are allocated just 512MB of dedicated memory, which may lead to issues or crashes in titles that need more. VGM resolves this limitation effectively.
AMD
However, it appears that most performance gains stem from AFMF 2. In less demanding scenarios for integrated graphics, testing showed that the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 could achieve nearly 100 frames per second (fps) or even exceed that in various gameplay tests at 1080p resolution.
The advancements in AFMF 2 represent a significant leap from its predecessor. The frame generation feature now accommodates nearly any game and delivers much better image quality and stability. Additionally, support has been extended to OpenGL and Vulkan, making it compatible with a wide range of PC games.
Both AFMF 2 and VGM are accessible through a technical preview driver. This update also includes enhancements for the newly launched Warhammer 40K: Space Marines 2. As with any preview driver, users might encounter minor bugs, and AMD encourages feedback on any issues that arise during use.
