The article traces the evolution of the iPad Pro over a decade, highlighting how it has gradually transformed from a larger tablet into a near-laptop device with powerful hardware and software updates, yet still faces limitations that prevent it from fully replacing a traditional computer. The author argues that the iPad Pro is now capable of being the best computer Apple makes, provided it is allowed to operate without artificial restrictions.
Anker's new C1000 Gen 2 portable power station can recharge to 100% in just 49 minutes thanks to HyperFlash technology, making it faster than many competitors. It features a 1024Wh capacity, supports various electronic devices, and is smaller and lighter than previous models, priced at $429 during launch.
The new Raspberry Pi 500 has been released, featuring a BCM2712 SoC and 8 GB RAM, but lacks a populated M.2 slot despite having the PCB footprint for it. This omission, explained as a design choice for future flexibility, leaves users without an NVMe slot option. The RP500 is priced at $90, up from the RP400's $70. Additionally, a new 15.6" Raspberry Pi Monitor is available for $100, but its VESA mount design blocks access to ports.
The Wahoo ACE Cycling GPS, priced at $599, offers a large color touchscreen, a bike bell, and a wind sensor, but falls short on features and battery life. Despite its promising design, it lacks many functionalities found in previous Wahoo models and those advertised, such as live tracking and Strava Live Segments, which are expected in future updates. The device's battery life is significantly less than the claimed 30 hours, and its size and weight may be cumbersome for some users. Overall, the ACE feels unfinished and overpriced compared to competitors.
Amazon is offering the iPhone 16 Pro for just 1 cent with a Boost Mobile Unlimited plan as part of a Cyber Monday deal. The plan costs $65/month, with an additional $5.55 for the 256GB model, making it a highly attractive offer for a phone valued at $1,200. The iPhone 16 Pro features a larger 6.3-inch display, a 5x tetraprism zoom lens, and new features like Camera Control and Visual Intelligence. This deal is expected to sell out quickly.
The new Mac mini M4 has received positive reviews, but its internal storage options are criticized for being overpriced compared to market alternatives. Starting at 256GB, upgrading to higher capacities significantly increases the cost, prompting users to consider external SSDs for better value. Despite claims of superior speed, the Mac mini M4's SSD performance is slower than expected, especially compared to Thunderbolt 4 options. While the device's storage chips are theoretically upgradeable, practical challenges and Apple's proprietary designs complicate DIY upgrades. Users are calling for more affordable and flexible storage solutions, like M.2 slots.
The AAWireless Two is a reliable and affordable wireless Android Auto adapter priced at $65, offering a superior pairing process and the ability to switch between multiple devices. It connects via USB-A and features a multifunctional button with an LED indicator. While it doesn't support Apple CarPlay, a future version is expected to include this feature. The adapter maintains a stable connection and provides a seamless Android Auto experience, though it lacks the convenience of charging the phone while in use.
The new iPad Mini has rekindled the author's interest in photo editing, thanks to its compact form factor and improved features like the A17 Pro chipset and faster USB-C data transfer. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as reduced battery life and iPadOS quirks, the device's portability and Apple Pencil Pro support make it ideal for reading and editing photos on the go.
The PlayStation 5 Pro, priced at $700, offers significant upgrades over the original PS5, including enhanced graphics, performance, and storage, making it the most powerful console on the market. While it impresses with features like ray-tracing and AI-upscaling, its appeal is primarily to enthusiast gamers rather than casual players. The Pro's improvements are notable but not transformative enough to justify the cost for mainstream users, though it remains a compelling option for those seeking the latest gaming technology.
Philips has expanded its smart home offerings with the Philips Hue Secure wired camera, designed to integrate with the Hue lighting system. The camera features a 1080p resolution, a wide field of view, and reliable motion notifications, but requires a Hue Bridge and a subscription for full functionality. Despite its solid design and easy setup, the camera's need for a subscription and lack of local storage may deter some users, especially when considering more affordable alternatives in the market. The camera's seamless integration with Hue lights and the ability to trigger various actions make it a potentially attractive option for existing Philips Hue users.
The Google Pixel 6, once a promising smartphone, has significantly deteriorated in performance and reliability within just two years of use. Despite being a heavy user, the author expected the phone to maintain its functionality, especially with Google's promise of three major Android updates and five years of security updates. However, issues like an unresponsive fingerprint sensor, poor battery life, malfunctioning Bluetooth, and touchscreen problems have persisted even after Google's attempts to fix them. This experience has led the author to consider skipping future Pixel models and raises concerns about the longevity and environmental impact of such devices. Google risks losing loyal customers if the durability of their phones does not improve.
The ASUS ExpertBook CX54 Chromebook Plus is a new high-end Chromebook with a robust build quality, featuring a powder-coated aluminum alloy chassis, a plethora of ports, and a bright QHD display. It's the first to house the Intel Core Ultra 5-125U chip, promising snappy performance and a realistic 8-10 hours of battery life. Although it's an early hands-on review, the device impresses with its premium feel, including a backlit keyboard and a large trackpad, and could compete with other high-end Chromebooks like the HP Dragonfly Pro if the price and availability are right. More detailed testing and information on retail availability will follow in the coming weeks.
The author, previously averse to owning a TV, explores the world of projectors and reviews the Anker Nebula Capsule 3. This compact and portable projector, likened to the size of a soda can, offers a 120-inch projection, built-in Bluetooth speaker, and Chromecast for $800. Despite its need for a dark room and some calibration, the author finds it a compelling television replacement, especially for those considering a home projector that's easy to use and relatively affordable.
The Apple Watch Series 9, after three months of use, offers incremental updates with its S9 SiP, brighter display, and features like Double Tap and on-device Siri. However, these new features don't significantly change the user experience compared to the Series 8, making it a non-essential upgrade for those with recent models. The watch maintains its design and durability, with the promise of longer support for watchOS updates. While Double Tap and on-device Siri have potential, they currently lack broad utility and awareness among users. The Apple Watch Series 9 is recommended for those with older models or new users, but those with Series 7 or newer may want to wait for future models.
