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Tag: future of ai

  • iPhone SE 4 Rumors: Apple’s New Phone Could Adopt iPhone 14’s Modern Aesthetic

    iPhone SE 4 Rumors: Apple’s New Phone Could Adopt iPhone 14’s Modern Aesthetic


    A new iPhone in February? Apple could release a new version of the iPhone SE as early as next week, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Rumors suggest the new iPhone SE will inherit the iPhone 14’s design, signaling the end of the home button and a shift away from smaller screens. At $429, the iPhone SE is Apple’s most affordable phone before discounts and could make a big comeback in 2025.

    Unlike with Apple’s flagship iPhone family, the iPhone SE’s launch timing is somewhat irregular. The first generation SE launched in 2016, followed by the second version in 2020 and the third in March 2022. Apple also hasn’t mentioned whether it plans to release new iPhone SE models moving forward, as it rarely speaks about future products.

    Read more: I’ve Been Using the iPhone 16 For a Month. Here’s What Stands Out

    There’s plenty of room for Apple to further improve its cheaper iPhone. While my colleague Patrick Holland praised the 2022 iPhone SE for its accessible price and familiar home button, he criticized it for its lack of night mode photos and dated design. Android competitors like Samsung and Google have also improved their similarly priced budget phones in recent years. The Google Pixel 8A and Samsung Galaxy A55 5G both offer features once reserved for premium devices, like high refresh rates and multiple cameras. 

    It’s impossible to know exactly what to expect from Apple until the company makes an announcement. Based on predictions and reports from Bloomberg, MacRumors and the plugged-in TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, along with other leaks and Apple’s product launch history, here’s what we’d expect from Apple’s next budget iPhone.

    Apple didn’t respond to a request for comment regarding a future iPhone SE when this story was originally published. 

    Watch this: The iPhone SE Is Back! Apple Expected To Launch a New Version Soon

    iPhone SE 4 may launch in early 2025

    There has been a lot of back-and-forth about the iPhone SE 4’s launch timing in recent years. But an August report from the often-accurate Mark Gurman of Bloomberg suggests that a new iPhone SE could debut in the beginning of 2025. That suggests it may arrive in the first quarter, which would line up with Apple’s previous iPhone SE release dates. The first and third generation models, for example, both launched in March. 

    The analyst Kuo also reported in October that mass production of the new iPhone SE would begin in December 2024, further indication that an early 2025 release may be in store for Apple’s next tiny phone. 

    The reports come after rumors and speculation about the iPhone SE’s existence have been uncertain over the last several years.  In 2019, Kuo said Apple was working on an iPhone SE with a full-screen design similar to the iPhone XR, as MacRumors reported at the time. Apple has released two versions of the iPhone SE since then that retain the old iPhone 8-inspired design, which raised questions about whether the model Kuo was referring to has been canceled or postponed.

    Kuo’s 2023 predictions regarding the iPhone SE 4 have also been mixed. He reported last January that an iPhone SE originally planned for 2024 was canceled but followed up to say the project had been revived. He changed his prediction again in April 2023 to say that the model he previously referred to might just be an engineering prototype for an Apple in-house 5G baseband chip. His previous comments also suggested the iPhone SE 4 would include this 5G chip. 

    Read more: Inside the Apple Watch Series 10’s New Sleep Apnea Detection Feature

    But newer reports, including one from MacRumors, indicate Apple is indeed developing a new iPhone SE that reportedly includes some dramatic upgrades.

    It will likely have a new processor and Apple Intelligence

    apple-intelligence.png

    Apple/ Zooey Liao/ CNET

    The iPhone SE typically has the same processor as Apple’s most recent flagship iPhone. For example, the 2022 iPhone SE has the same chip as the iPhone 13, which launched in September 2021. Since Apple’s newest mobile chip is usually the iPhone SE’s standout feature, it’s hard to imagine Apple straying from that pattern.

    But that’s more important than ever now that Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of new AI features, is dependent on the company’s latest chips. The iPhone 16 family and last year’s Pro models are the only iPhones capable of running these features for now. But based on Apple’s history and Bloomberg’s report, which says the iPhone SE 4 will support Apple Intelligence, it looks like that could change in the coming months. 

    Apple Intelligence includes new AI-powered features such as the ability to rewrite, summarize and proofread text, a new version of Siri that’s better at understanding words even when you fumble, the ability to erase objects in photos, and notification and message summaries, among other features. The first wave of Apple Intelligence arrived in Apple’s iOS 18.1 update, while more features — such as the ability to generate custom emoji — will come later in iOS 18.2. 

    Otherwise, the next iPhone SE could have an Apple-made 5G chip, according to Kuo. Still, it’s hard to know if that prediction still applies since he later revised his estimate to say this device was likely an engineering prototype to test that 5G chip. MacRumors also reports that the iPhone SE 4 will have an Apple-made 5G modem. 

    An iPhone 14-like design with an OLED screen

    The iPhone 14 sits on a red and blue background, with a blue, orange, green and yellow wallpaper lit up on the screen of the phone.

    The iPhone 14

    James Martin/CNET

    If the company is working on another iPhone SE, it will likely have a 6.1-inch screen similar to Apple’s modern flagship phones. The current iPhone SE, by comparison, has a 4.7-inch screen with thick borders at the top and chin, much like the iPhone 8. 

    In particular, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to look a lot like the iPhone 14, which Apple launched in 2022. A MacRumors article reported in September 2023 that the iPhone SE 4 will have a modified version of the iPhone 14’s chassis and reiterated that point again in November.  Bloomberg’s report also suggests the iPhone SE 4 will resemble Apple’s two-year-old flagship. 

    It’s not just the design that’s expected to get an upgrade; the display will see improvements too. Multiple reports, including those from Kuo, MacRumors, Bloomberg, The Elec and Nikkei Asia, suggest the next iPhone SE will have an OLED screen instead of LCD. That’s a big deal because OLED typically displays richer contrast and deeper blacks, and these types of screens are consistent across the rest of Apple’s iPhone lineup.

    Read more: Thinking About Buying a Foldable Phone? Here’s How to Decide

    The iPhone SE will likely have a larger battery

    The next iPhone SE could inherit the iPhone 14’s battery as well, according to MacRumors. If the blog’s previous reports about the iPhone SE 4 following in the iPhone 14’s footsteps prove to be accurate, a larger battery would be necessary to power its larger screen. Apple doesn’t disclose the battery capacities for its phones, but it says the iPhone 14 should get five extra hours of video playback compared to the third-generation iPhone SE. Between the new chip and bigger battery that we’re expecting to find in the next iPhone SE, it sounds like Apple’s next affordable iPhone could see some pretty significant gains in battery life. 

    Goodbye Touch ID, hello Face ID

    Fans of Apple’s Touch ID fingerprint sensor may be out of luck. MacRumors reports that the next iPhone SE will have Face ID, like other modern iPhones, instead of Apple’s fingerprint sensor. That conflicts with Kuo’s report from 2019, which indicated that the next iPhone SE would have a smaller notch area without Face ID and Touch ID embedded in the power button. But since Kuo’s report is about five years old, that information may be outdated. 

    It may get a 48MP camera, USB-C and Action button

    A close up shot of the iPhone SE 2022 charging port, the black phone is laying flat on a red background.

    Kevin Heinz/CNET

    Apple’s next wallet-friendly iPhone may have a few things in common with Apple’s newer iPhones. Since Apple switched to USB-C starting with the iPhone 15 lineup to comply with new European rules, it seems likely that the iPhone SE 4 could ditch the Lightning connector as well. MacRumors also claims the iPhone SE 4 will have USB-C. 

    The more surprising note in MacRumors’ story is that the iPhone SE 4 could gain the Action button, which is a new key for programming shortcuts that’s currently exclusive to the iPhone 16 family, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. If true, it would be another sign that Apple wants to make the Action button standard across the iPhone lineup, coming after it brought the Action button to the standard models this year. 

    MacRumors also reports that a 48-megapixel single camera could be in store for the next iPhone SE. That would signal another similarity it could share with the iPhone 15 and 16, which also have 48-megapixel main cameras. If the report is accurate, the iPhone SE will only have one rear camera, unlike Apple’s more expensive phones. The regular iPhone 15 has wide and ultra-wide cameras, while the Pro versions have wide, ultra-wide and telephoto cameras. 

    But Apple introduced the “Fusion” camera on this year’s regular iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, which it says enables a 2x optical quality zoom despite lacking a dedicated telephoto lens. While reports don’t specify whether the iPhone SE 4 will have this camera, it wouldn’t be surprising if Apple implemented it to compensate for the iPhone SE’s single camera setup. 

    If the rumors are true, the fourth-generation iPhone SE could bring Apple’s tiny, budget iPhone up to date with the rest of Apple’s lineup. Depending on the price, it could end up being a solid choice for people in need of a more modern iPhone that don’t care about the iPhone 16’s extra flourishes, like the Camera Control button. 

    Apple’s iPhone 16, 16 Plus Show Off Bolder Colors and Buttons

    See all photos

    Patrick Holland contributed to this report.




  • Spin Class Gear to Level Up Your Ride, WIRED-Tested (2025)

    Spin Class Gear to Level Up Your Ride, WIRED-Tested (2025)


    Spin class is not for the faint of heart—or the unprepared. Among the heart-pounding playlists, the flashing neon lights, and the hyperactive choreography, you’ll want gear that keeps you comfortable and locked in. From cycling shoes that can keep pace with your power intervals to reusable water bottles that won’t slow you down, I’ve rounded up everything you need to crush your next spin class—whether you’re new to the saddle or a seasoned rider.

    For more fitness tips, check out our guides to the Top Fitness Apps, Best Leggings, and Everything You Need for Yoga.

    Image may contain Spin Class Person Clothing Footwear Shoe Working Out Exercise Bike Fitness Gym and Sport

    Husam Cakaloglu/Getty Images

    Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting that’s too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today.

    Table of Contents

    First, Shoes

    Soul Cycle and Peal Izumi Legend 2.0 Cycling Shoes in black with yellow laces and yellow trim

    Photograph: SoulCycle

    The knit material and ventilated toe area give these shoes a socklike fit that hugs your feet while remaining breathable. Thanks to the BOA lacing system, you can make micro-adjustments, even while on the bike—a perk you don’t get with a Velcro system. The one-button release also makes it quick and easy to get in and out of these shoes, which is a major perk if you tend to run late to class. They’re compatible with both Delta and SPD cleats, and they come with Delta cleats, saving you from the extra purchase.

    Care Instructions: After your ride, wipe them down with a damp sponge or cloth. Stuff the insides with paper to maintain their shape. If the outsole gets dirty, a quick scrub with a soft brush should do the trick. Let them air dry.

    Delta cleats are the best for beginners, and they’re my go-to too. Designed with a three-hole arrangement, this set is meant for optimal stability. They keep your feet secure so you don’t have to worry about falling off your bike during some of those questionable choreography moves instructors love to throw in. To unlock, these cleats require a rotational foot movement, twisting your heel inward or outward, for safe disengagement. The built-in memory positioning is another handy feature, letting you save your cleat alignment when it’s time to snap in a new pair.

    These cleats pair with most Shimano SPD pedals, making them a reliable choice for most spin classes. Built from heat-treated forged steel, they’re tough enough to handle the grind of daily sessions. You can adjust the spring tension to find your ideal resistance. But the standout feature here is the 13-degree release angle that lets you easily unclip after class—and without needing to over-rotate your heel to free yourself.

    Heart Rate Monitors

    Here are some of the best for indoor cycling, pulled from our guides to the Best Heart Rate Monitors and Best Fitness Trackers.

    Black chest strap with label that reads Polar. Background green purple and pink smoke.

    Photograph: Amazon; Getty Images

    The Polar H10 is our favorite heart rate monitor for a couple of reasons. Chest straps, which place EKG sensors nearest to your heart, beat wrist-based monitors when it comes to precision. Contributor Michael Sawh especially loves the Polar H10 because of its buckle-style strap, which is way less irritating than the standard loop-and-hook connector. It’s also designed with grippy silicone dots on the strap to keep it firmly in place no matter how much you sweat. Other features include built-in memory to store workout data and ANT+ connectivity to sync with stationary bikes. It’s also waterproof, and the battery lasts for about a year.

    The Fitbit Charge 6 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) strikes a balance between affordability and accessibility. The redesigned app offers features like skin temperature readings, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and YouTube Music compatibility—if you have a premium subscription. Editor Adrienne So says the heart rate tracking is more accurate with the improved algorithm, and the battery lasts over a week. Many of its features are locked behind the $10-per-month Fitbit Premium subscription, but you can take advantage of its basic functionality without it. For more options, check out our guide to the Best Fitbits.

    The 4iiii Viiiiva chest strap is our budget-friendly pick for heart rate monitors. At just $56, it delivers EKG-level accuracy and versatility for riders who may switch up their spin bike or studio. Its Bluetooth connectivity and ANT+ bridge let it send data from ANT+ devices, like indoor trainers, to your phone (iPhone or Android)—a major perk for Zwift users. The IPX7 rating means it can handle a post-spin soak in water (up to one meter for 30 minutes), but you’ll still need to hand-wash it.

    Gym Bags and Towels

    Front view of Lululemon 3in1 Gym Duffle Bag in pink with one handle sticking upwards

    Photograph: Lululemon

    Don’t be underestimated by the Lululemon 3-in-1 Gym Bag Duffle’s compact design; it’s deceptively spacious with thoughtful compartments to keep your gear tidy. It features a separate shoe compartment to stash your cycling cleats (or sneakers), a drawstring pouch for sweaty clothes, and a side zippered pocket that holds a 34-ounce water bottle. Carry it by the handles, sling it crossbody with the detachable strap, or repurpose the strap to haul a yoga mat if you’re mixing workouts.

    Carry this duffle as a handbag, backpack, or crossbody bag, depending on how you commute to your studio. It’s packed with compartments: a front zippered pocket for essentials, a shoe section, a wet/dry pocket for sweaty towels or wet toiletries, and a mesh bag for post-workout clothes. There’s also a main compartment if you’re commuting straight from work, plus zippered sections for tech essentials like an iPad and headphones. The AirFit Hyperbag is waterproof, dust-resistant, and easy to clean with a simple wipe-down.

    Spin class might not be hot yoga, but you’ll still break a sweat. A workout towel is essential to keep the handlebars from getting slippery, your palms dry for a better grip, and sweat from streaming into your eyes mid-sprint. The Alo Yoga Performance No Sweat Hand Towel is soft and gentle on the skin, and it’s quick-drying, too. It’s a compact towel that I would normally wish to be larger, but it’s the perfect size to tuck into your bike’s storage slot.

    Reusable Water Bottles

    For spin class, I like bottles I can easily pop open and close during five-second breaks. I’ve highlighted a couple of favorites below, but our Best Reusable Water Bottles guide has more recommendations.

    Owala FreeSip water bottles

    Photograph: Owala

    The Owala FreeSip makes water breaks efficient; you can sip or swig with its dual-action spout, so no fumbling with the cap mid-ride. The built-in straw minimizes the chances of spilling water all over yourself while you’re pedaling out of the saddle (been there). My one gripe with this particular model is that the push button can occasionally get stuck, but it’s a minor flaw in an otherwise ideal design.

    The 25-ounce Yeti Yonder (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is another perfect bottle for spin class. It’s lightweight—made from 50 percent recycled plastic—and drop-resistant. Also, if you somehow drop it mid-ride, it won’t startle the entire class the way a heavy-duty stainless steel bottle would. BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, and it’s covered by a five-year warranty.

    Hydro Flask’s customizability makes it a top contender for any activity, including spin class. Pair yours with the Standard Mouth Flex Straw Cap ($15) for quick sips. You’ll definitely hear it hit the ground if you drop it, but at least you can count on it to survive the fall. Hydro Flask offers several types of bottles and caps, including a tumbler, but it will most likely not fit into the bike’s bottle holder.

    Other Helpful Gadgets

    Closeup of a person wearing a light purple pair of Nike ZEnvy Women's High Waisted 8Inch Biker Shorts and white sneakers...

    Photograph: Nike

    I have owned variations of these biker shorts for five years now, and they’re still among my favorites for cycling. They’re buttery soft and lightweight yet squat-proof, so you don’t have to worry about any see-through mishaps. The high-rise waistband doesn’t roll whatsoever, and Nike’s Dri-Fit tech is sweat-wicking. Available in sizes XXS to 3XL (tall options in select colors).

    Your spin shoes will stink—it’s inevitable. This multipurpose spray is a lifesaver for more than just shoes, though; it works on spin bikes (if you’ve got one at home), gym bags, and other gym equipment. It masks odors and helps extend the life of your gear. Plus, it’s nontoxic, non-irritating, and free of harsh chemicals like ammonium compounds, chlorine, and artificial fragrances.

    Sometimes, the music is too loud. For more earplugs recommendations, check out our guide to the Best Earplugs for Concerts, Bedtime, and Anytime.


  • 6 things to consider when buying RGB hardware for your PC

    6 things to consider when buying RGB hardware for your PC


    If you want your PC to glow like it’s radioactive, the good news is that almost every component in your computer can be found with some level of RGB lighting. That extends to peripherals like keyboards and mice, and also monitors, mousepads, and more. The bad news is that when you prefer form to function, the number of different RGB solutions on the market makes it tricky to plan out your build. You’ll want to check a few things before you start piecing together your parts and building that PC.

    Closeup of a gaming PC with RTX 3080 FE

    Related

    6 mistakes to avoid when picking parts for your gaming PC

    Selecting the right components for your PC build is always a daunting task. Here are some mistakes to avoid when picking parts for your gaming PC.

    6

    Compatibility

    You’ll need to check for motherboard headers and make sure every cable will fit

    While both RGB and ARGB seem to use the same cables and connectors, electrically they are very different. You don’t want to plug them into the wrong header or push two cables in the wrong orientation because you could burn out the LEDs or otherwise damage your components. The differences are as follows:

    • RGB: 4-pin header, with all four pins present and uses 12V to power the LEDs. Pins are for power, red, blue, and green.
    • ARGB: 4-pin header with one pin blanked out, or sometimes a three-pin header with all three pins present, and uses 5V to power the LEDs. Pins are for power, data, and ground.

    It’s not just the headers on the motherboard that you need to consider. Many systems, like those from Corsair, use a hub to link all the RGB or ARGB components together. Then it’s a matter of plugging that hub into power, a USB header, and often a fan header for controlling the PWM signal for speed. The thing to pay attention to here is whether the different hubs will be compatible if you buy a particular manufacturer’s system, as the hubs have changed over the years.

    Some companies like Aquacomputer have RGB and ARGB hubs that aren’t manufacturer-specific, but it’s worth checking if the fans you want to use are compatible because some of the components and hubs use proprietary connectors that will only work with that manufacturer’s hardware.

    Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX Ice fan headers

    Related

    Motherboard headers explained: What they are and how you can use them

    Turning you into a motherboard expert

    5

    Brand consistency

    It’s far easier to stick to one brand’s RGB offerings, and the look will be more coherent

    The current state of PC RGB is such that proprietary connectors abound, as do control hubs and fans that won’t connect to other systems. But those are only part of the considerations for why it’s just easier to pick components from the same manufacturer’s ecosystem to get a coherent look.

    The design language around the lighting will be consistent. You’ll not have to worry about connector issues, and the lighting levels will be similar. Plus, different brands use a different number of LEDs on each component, with the more premium brands using far more LEDs, leading to a better glow. The more budget offerings might only use RGB LEDs, or have few of them on each fan and other component, meaning your desired effect is harder to accomplish.

    A close up of the Razer Leviathan V2 Pro with RGB

    Related

    Proprietary RGB continues to make PC building a mess for beginners and it needs to change

    When shopping around for RGB hardware, just what should you buy for your PC?

    4

    RGB vs ARGB

    Do you want colored glow or fine-tuned control over lighting and effects?

    PC lighting comes in two varieties these days, since we moved away from cold cathode tubes. While they’re both provided by LEDs that can display multiple colors, they differ in how much control you have over each individual LED in the chain. Those two types are:

    • RGB provides Red, Green, and Blue lighting from a single LED, but every light has to be the same color when it’s linked together.
    • ARGB provides Addressable Red, Green, and Blue lighting, meaning that every LED can be controlled individually.

    The version of ARGB that most people will immediately be familiar with is keyboards with per-key lighting. That’s different to any solid backlit keyboard, as you can change the color behind each key. But the majority of RGB hardware on the market now is ARGB, because companies have decided that more control is better. That is true enough, but it does mean that ARGB components are more expensive because of the added circuitry that’s needed.

    an image of radeon rx 6800 gpu in case with RGB lights

    Related

    ARGB VS RGB: How to choose the right lighting for your PC

    While the differences between ARGB and RGB may not seem massive, ARGB can offer a lot more functionality

    3

    How to control it

    Manufacturer software only goes so far, and you have third-party options

    To control the lighting in your new glowing PC, you’ll need some software. Very basic effects can be handled by your motherboard’s BIOS firmware, but these are limited to things like breathing and color cycle effects. The BIOS is also handy if you want to turn off all RGB, but that’s another discussion. To get fine-grained controls, you’ll most likely want to stick with the software package that matches the components manufacturer you picked. For example, Corsair has iCUE, and Razer has Synapse.

    You’re not limited to first-party software control though. Windows 11 has Dynamic Lighting, which gives you some control, depending on if the fans and other hardware are compatible. Third-party software like SignalRGB can control multiple manufacturer ecosystems but will serve you ads and lock some features unless you sign up for a subscription. And OpenRGB is free works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, but it might not be able to control every device you might want to add.

    Screenshot of the Dynamic Lighting page in Windows 11 with the desktop background visible

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    How to use Dynamic Lighting on Windows 11

    Windows 11 has a new feature called Dynamic Lighting to change RGB effects on compatible devices. Here’s how to use it.

    2

    How it will mesh with your other components

    RGB shines when it’s matched with accentuating components and cases

    My take on adding RGB lighting is that it’s often harder to figure out which components will look best together than it is to figure out how to control them. Keeping a coherent design language is easier when you stick to one manufacturer’s system, but that’s not always possible or what you feel is the best look.

    Things to consider include if you want the lighting to be accent pieces, like on dark components, or if you want your PC awash in color, in which case you want as many white components as possible to provide a backdrop to reflect the light. Some of this also depends on which components you are able to source, since things like graphics cards are often in short supply, and the best looking motherboards might not have all the features you crave.

    NZXT H5 Flow RGB

    Related

    NZXT H5 Flow RGB (2024) review: Still one of the cleanest mid-tower PC cases

    An evolution of one of the greats.

    1

    Cable routing

    RGB and ARGB components double the number of cables you need to hide

    While modern motherboards often have headers for both 5V ARGB and 12V RGB, you might only get one or two of each type, or they could be in positions that make it tricky to route cables. Plus, you might run into limitations on how many LEDs each header can support. To get around this, many manufacturers have RGB or ARGB hubs to plug all their cables into, and then one cable to the motherboard for fan control and another cable to a USB header for lighting control.

    But even with that solution, adding RGB or ARGB means additional cables between components. For example, you’ll need one signal and power cable for fan control, and another power plus lighting control for the LEDs. This means you’re going to have to route twice as many cables to the control hub, even if you only need to worry about one or two to the motherboard. This can be cramped in smaller cases, or in those that don’t have enough space in the cable management channels on the back of the motherboard tray.

    To simplify things somewhat, several brands now have daisy-chainable fans, which either use magnets and pogo pins to connect or very short standard connectors. This makes routing the fans in your build easier, as you only have to worry about one power and one control cable from the line of fans, which can then go to an ARGB hub for easy routing and control.

    image of PC in a white case with a white AIO

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    Treat your PC to a new look.

    RGB lighting can be beautiful with a little bit of planning

    Whether you want full-on ARGB glow or a few accent pieces to bring attention to parts of your build, RGB lighting is a popular choice for many PC builders. It’s also one that’s fairly easy to run into issues with, as different manufacturers use competing standards and can run into compatibility issues. But if you keep to individual ecosystems, you can make your PC glow with brilliant light.


  • ShiftCam SnapSeries roundup: a MagSafe ecosystem

    ShiftCam SnapSeries roundup: a MagSafe ecosystem


    The ShiftCam SnapSeries lineup has evolved to include a more powerful battery pack, a larger studio light, and a much taller tripod — all connected via MagSafe. Here’s how it all fits together.

    ShiftCam offers an increasingly varied range of equipment for content creators and photographers that work from iPhone. When I reviewed the original SnapGrip, I was excited by the prospect of an evolving MagSafe accessory ecosystem, and ShiftCam continues to deliver with the latest SnapSeries products.

    ShiftCam also offers a lens set for iPhone called LensUltra, which I found to be a strong competitor to other attachable lens options. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is compatible with this set via a new case, so I’ll discuss the set alongside SnapSeries here in this roundup.

    There’s a lot going on with ShiftCam and it seems the company is paying close attention to how people use their iPhone to create. The company has also introduced MagSafe SSDs that can snap into place alongside any SnapSeries accessory.

    Everything snaps together with magnets, but you may not need or want everything, so here’s how each accessory works and fits in with the rest.

    SnapGrip Pro

    The SnapGrip Pro is a big update to the original model with a 5,000mAh capacity and Qi2. It’s much more efficient and lets you capture photos and record video much longer.

    White, L-shaped device with a cylindrical grip and circular pad, featuring a smiling face and two buttons, on a black background.
    SnapGrip Pro is a MagSafe battery pack and shutter control for iPhone

    Connect directly to the USB-C port for 20W PD charging. It’s much faster than Qi2 and handy when recording high-resolution video that’s draining the battery quickly.

    The SnapGrip Pro isn’t just a MagSafe battery though, it’s a Bluetooth shutter that can control the iPhone’s camera. The grip is shaped like a traditional camera grip too, so it helps steady shots.

    The iPhone 16 lineup has a dedicated button called Camera Control, but it’s not quite the same as using SnapGrip Pro’s shutter button. There are a lot of swiping and pressing gestures with Camera Control, which can be useful in some situations, but there’s nothing better than an easy-to-press shutter.

    Smartphone with attached camera lens and grip stands on a table facing a small vinyl toy figure with brown hair and red shoes.
    Get a better grip while shooting photos and capture with less shake with SnapGrip Pro

    I really like Camera Control, but I tend to use it while holding the iPhone with two hands. It’s a bit fiddly too, so pressing the shutter can sometimes lead to accidentally zooming.

    With SnapGrip Pro, you can easily hold the iPhone steady with one hand and press the shutter. It’s really about what function you need, as I find both can exist and have their separate uses.

    Get the SnapGrip Pro for $89 from ShiftCam’s website.

    SnapStand Max

    The 70-inch SnapStand Max is a great portable tripod that collapses to just 11 inches long and uses MagSafe to attach an iPhone. There is a built-in rechargeable shutter button that can be removed from the handle too.

    A white electronic device with a circular dial next to a silver ruler on a black surface.
    SnapStand Max folds up to fit in your bag

    The MagSafe mount head can swivel 200 degrees for whatever angle you need. It’s sturdy enough to hold your iPhone aloft without worrying about sag.

    The stand opens with a button at the base of the handle when it’s closed. It telescopes smoothly upwards and can be left at any length securely.

    The mount still feels plenty sturdy even if you load it up with accessories like the SnapStudio Light, SnapGrip Pro, and an iPhone. However, be aware of how much weight there is as you extend the tripod, as an uneven surface could cause the entire device to tilt and fall.

    Smartphone mounted on a stand facing downward, with wooden floor background.
    The full 70-inch height can get wobbly, especially with other accessories attached

    When extending the SnapStand Max to its tallest setting, it may be best to limit it to the iPhone and SnapLight. It remains its sturdiest to about 48 inches in length — any taller with more accessories attached, perhaps keep a person holding it steady.

    I’m happy that the SnapStand Max can extend to such a tall height. It’s handy for capturing a quick photo or video in some situations. However, that extra length comes at a tradeoff to stability and a slight bump can cause everything to fall over.

    Even just setting it to 55 inches increased my confidence in its ability to stand without a wobble by a lot. Like any tall stand like this, it’s important to understand its limits.

    White three-legged tripod stand on a black surface.
    The collapsible feet don’t do much to prevent tilting

    The SnapStand Max isn’t like a traditional tripod that has three legs that extend. Instead, it’s got three feet that stay the same size while a neck is extended, which is automatically not as sturdy by design, but you do get a much smaller product when folded up.

    All that said, I wouldn’t ask for the stand to be shorter. Users just need to be careful and use their best judgement when setting up.

    Get the SnapStand Max for $71.10 from ShiftCam, currently discounted from $79.

    SnapStudio Light

    The SnapStudio Light is another battery-powered accessory from ShiftCam. It has 10 steps of brightness adjustment up to 440 lumens while on battery or 600 lumens when connected to a power source.

    A digital tripod with a sleek design features a ring light surrounding a camera lens, set against a blurred background.
    SnapStudio Light offers great lighting options for photos and video

    Users can also control temperature 10 steps between 2,500K and 6,000K. Buttons on the side of the light provide easy access to controls.

    The MagSafe mount in the center can be rotated 180 degrees for easy switching between front and back cameras. Attach it to the SnapStand Max for a studio setup, or connect it to the SnapGrip Pro for a portable selfie or vlogging tool.

    Like with any ring light, reflections are going to be a problem, especially at a close proximity. You’re going to see the square light in your glasses or even reflected in your eyes unless you’re at a certain distance or angle from the light.

    White handheld magnifying device with rectangular frame, circular handle, and control buttons, set against a black background.
    The SnapStudio Light has a center MagSafe mount that can be rotated

    The nice thing about the ShiftCam ecosystem is all of the options for mounting devices. There’s a screw mount on each side that can attach to the included stand or any standard tripod mount.

    The internal battery can last about 40 minutes at max brightness. Connect the SnapGrip Pro and wire it to the light to extend its time and available brightness.

    Get the SnapStudio Light for $89 from ShiftCam.

    ProMic Shotgun and Cold Shoe Mount

    If you’re looking to add a little more versatility and universal compatibility, ShiftCam has a cold shoe mount called the SnapShoe. It’s only $29.99 from ShiftCam.

    Close-up of a smartphone mounted with a microphone and camera lens attachment, connected by cables, on a light background.
    The ProMic Shotgun attaches to the MagSafe SnapShoe mount

    If you buy the ShiftCam ProMic Shotgun, it can be set into the SnapShoe. Buy them as a bundle for $109.98 or get the mic alone for $79.99.

    The SnapShoe is a great addition because it attaches via MagSafe but allows other accessories outside of the ShiftCam ecosystem to be attached. It’s just a standard cold shoe mount, so bring whatever light or mic you’d like.

    The ProMic Shotgun does a great job picking up your voice, and it’s going to be better than your iPhone mic in some situations. That’s especially true since you have the options for different wind filters.

    It’s a Super-cardioid mic with a 20Hz to 18kHz frequency response. It works over a standard audio jack and has a second port for connecting headphones.

    Close-up of a mounted black microphone accessory with circular component and two visible connection ports on a blurred white background.
    ProMic Shotgun relies on audio jacks for interfacing

    You’re going to need a USB-C to headphone jack adapter to use this mic, so it’s probably not the best choice for modern iPhones. Though, if that’s not an issue, then it’s a good mic.

    Perhaps ShiftCam can work on releasing a new version with USB-C connectivity.

    SnapMount Camera Case

    ShiftCam let me try out its SnapMount Camera Case in addition to its SnapSeries accessories. It’s part of a complete photography or media production package, so I had to put it all together with the LensUltra set.

    Gray textured smartphone case with three detachable camera lenses and two small attachment rings arranged on a dark surface.
    SnapMount Camera Case with adapters bring LensUltra to iPhone 16 Pro Max

    The new case is made from a really nice textured fabric that’s actually machine washable. It has a cutout for Camera Control and tactile covers for the other buttons.

    The lens mounting system changed to something ShiftCam calls an S-mount. It was previously a 12mm thread, so this change is a bit odd considering the LensUltra system still uses that older thread style.

    I assume it’s due to a shift in how they want to make lenses in the future. The 12mm mount requires a couple of turns to secure the lens completely, while the S-mount is just a simple twist mechanism that feels secure with a half turn.

    Smartphone with detachable camera lens attachments, one is a 60mm telephoto lens, on a dark surface.
    The SnapMount Camera Case comes with two S-Mount adapters

    The SnapMount Camera Case ships with two of the S-mount adapters, so that should be enough for users to get by. However, for someone like me that owns the full lens set, I wish I could order more S-mount adapters separately just so I didn’t have to swap the mount between lenses.

    The case supports MagSafe charging and works with all the SnapSeries accessories without issue. I like that the case has a nice design and isn’t too bulky, so it can be used as a case regularly without feeling like I need to take it off when not using the lenses.

    Get the SnapMount Camera Case for $49.99 from ShiftCam. Be sure to choose your iPhone model from the list.

    Using SnapSeries

    If you get the SnapSeries Professional Kit and the other accessories mentioned above, they can fit together in interesting ways to accomplish different tasks. Of course, you can snap them all together into a kind of monster MagSafe tower, but it’s likely not very practical.

    Square light frame with a smartphone, lens attachment, and microphone against a brick wall backdrop.
    ShiftCam SnapSeries can be used together for a modular setup

    Set up to record a video with the stand, light, and microphone, and since you’re likely stationary, use an external power source instead of attaching the MagSafe battery to the already wobbly stack. Use the battery pack when you’re looking to go handheld rather than relying on the stand.

    That isn’t to say you can’t connect everything together, but it’s just a little unwieldy. As I’ve said previously, use your best judgement.

    I do think it’s really cool that you can pick and choose accessories to snap together for whatever you need at that moment. However, there may be some trial and error in figuring out exactly which order the pieces should go in.

    The only way the SnapGrip Pro charges the iPhone is if it is directly attached, but there are situations where you’d want it anyway. For example, place the iPhone in the SnapStudio Light then attach the SnapGrip Pro so you have a grip with a shutter button for taking well-lit selfies.

    A hand holds a smartphone mounted on a gimbal stabilizer, showing a camera with multiple lenses, with a blurred background.
    Take better selfies with SnapGrip Pro and SnapStudio Light

    Take that setup even further by using a USB-C cable to provide power and increase the SnapStudio Light brightness, or charge the iPhone over cable at 20W.

    There are lots of ways to use the SnapSeries magnetic accessories. The kits are the best way to get everything you need, but be warned, you’ll likely keep coming back for more from ShiftCam to improve the versatility of the setup.

    Get the SnapSeries Professional Kit with the SnapStudio Light, SnapStand Max, and SnapGrip Pro for $231.30 from ShiftCam, a 10% discount available at publication. The SnapSeries Professional Kit Pro includes everything plus the ProMic Shotgun and SnapShoe for $311.93, also discounted by 10%.


  • Garmin Instinct 3 vs. 2X vs. 2: Every key upgrade

    Garmin Instinct 3 vs. 2X vs. 2: Every key upgrade


    A render of the 50mm Black Garmin Instinct 3 Solar with Charcoal band.

    For

    • Instinct 3 Solar beats 2 Solar by over 200 GPS hours
    • Instinct 3 AMOLED only model with full-color, high-res display
    • Adds highly accurate multi-band GPS, flashlight
    • New training tools, sleep coaching, and dozens of sports modes
    • Stylish aluminum bezel

    Against

    • No upgrade to health sensors (aka no ECG, skin temp)
    • Instinct 2X Solar already had some of the new upgrades
    • No offline maps or new software unique to Instinct lineup

    Garmin Instinct 2 Solar product render

    For

    • Both Instinct 2 and 2X have more than enough battery life for most people
    • Same military-grade ruggedness
    • Same display resolution, health sensors and 90% of same training tools

    Against

    • Solar recharge on older models isn’t nearly as efficient
    • Minimal memory restricts future feature updates
    • No AMOLED option
    • No flashlight, gyroscope
    • Only offers GPS tracking on 2, no SatIQ on 2X

    Comparing the Garmin Instinct 3 vs. 2 is more complicated than you’d think. The Garmin Instinct 3 has both AMOLED and MIP Solar versions in multiple sizes, each with a different battery life. The Garmin Instinct 2 and smaller 2S each have solar and non-solar options, and there’s an Instinct 2X that falls in the middle between these two generations.

    All three watches are almost unparalleled for battery life — not counting the expensive Garmin Fenix 8 or Enduro 3. The Instinct 3 Solar gives you a 5X boost in solar efficiency over the Instinct 2 Solar, but the gap is smaller for Instinct 2X Solar owners. And even though the Instinct 3 AMOLED has no solar recharge, it may last longer or shorter than the Instinct 2 Solar depending on your lifestyle.


  • I tried a Hi-Res Audio player for the first time – and it’s a game-changer

    I tried a Hi-Res Audio player for the first time – and it’s a game-changer



  • What is Starlink? How to get the satellite service for free on your phone with T-Mobile, plus everything you need to know

    What is Starlink? How to get the satellite service for free on your phone with T-Mobile, plus everything you need to know


    There’s never a good time to find yourself with no mobile reception. Whether you want to look up directions on Google Maps, send someone a WhatsApp message, or just want to post a beautiful view on Instagram: zero bars on your smartphone won’t get you very far. That’s where satellite services like Starlink come in – and this week T-Mobile started offering it for free (ahead of a paid rollout) in the US on compatible smartphones.

    The network operator has teamed up with SpaceX to launch the “first and only space-based mobile network” in the US, bringing cell phone service to remote areas via satellite. Powered by Starlink, it’s set to change the game for mobile users in rural locations. Those users won’t have to wait long to access it, either: the beta trial is already underway and a full rollout is scheduled for July this year.


  • Windows 10 Insider Previews: A guide to the builds

    Windows 10 Insider Previews: A guide to the builds



    Microsoft never sleeps. In addition to its steady releases of major and minor updates to the current version of Windows 10, the company frequently rolls out public preview builds to members of its Windows Insider Program, allowing them to test out — and even help shape — upcoming features.

    Although Windows Insiders can choose to receive Windows 11 preview builds in one of four channels — the Canary, Dev, Beta, or Release Preview Channel — Microsoft currently offers Windows 10 Insider previews in the Beta and Release Preview Channels only.

    The Release Preview Channel typically doesn’t see action until shortly before a new feature update is rolled out; it’s meant for final testing of an upcoming release and is best for those who want the most stable builds. The Beta Channel previews features that are a little further out.

    Below you’ll find information about recent Windows 10 preview builds. For each build, we’ve included the date of its release, which Insider channel it was released to, a summary of what’s in the build, and a link to Microsoft’s announcement about it.

    Note: If you’re looking for information about updates being rolled out to all Windows 10 users, not previews for Windows Insiders, see “Windows 10: A guide to the updates.”

    Releases for Windows 10 version 22H2

    Windows 10 Build 19045.5552 (KB5052077)

    Release date: February 13, 2025

    Released to: Release Preview Channel

    This build fixes a variety of bugs, including one in which Open Secure Shell (OpenSSH) refused to start, stopping SSH connections.

    (Get more info about Build 19045.5552.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.5435 (KB5050081)

    Release date: January 17, 2025

    Released to: Release Preview Channel

    This update introduces a new calendar and the new Outlook app. It also fixes a variety of bugs, including one that depleted virtual memory, causing some apps to fail, and another in which the Capture Service and Snipping Tool stopped responding you pressed Windows key + Shift + S several times while Narrator was on.

    (Get more info about Build 19045.5435.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.5194 (KB5046714)

    Release date: November 14, 2024

    Released to: Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel

    For Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel, the recommended section of the Start menu will show some Microsoft Store apps from a small set of curated developers. If you want to turn this off, go to Settings > Personalization > Start. Turn off the toggle for Show suggestions occasionally in Start. Note that this feature is being rolled out gradually.

    Windows Insiders in the Beta and Release Preview Channels get several bug fixes, including for a bug in which when you dragged and dropped files from a cloud files provider folder, it might have resulted in a move instead of a copy.

    (Get more info about Build 19045.5194.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.5070 (KB5045594)

    Release date: October 14, 2024

    Released to: Beta and Release Preview Channels

    In this build, those in the Beta Channel who have chosen to get features as soon as they are rolled out get new top cards that highlight key hardware specifications of their devices.

    Insiders in both the Beta and Release Preview Channels get a new account manager on the Start menu. The new design makes it easy to view your account and access account settings. Those in the Beta and Release Preview Channels also get fixes for a variety of bugs, including one in which a scanner driver failed to install when you used a USB cable to connect to a multifunction printer.

    (Get more info about Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.5070.)

    Windows 10 22H2 19045.4955 (KB5043131)

    Release date: September 16, 2024

    Released to: Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel

    This build fixes several bugs, including one in which playback of some media could have stopped when you used certain surround sound technology, and another in which Windows Server stopped responding when you used apps like File Explorer and the taskbar.

    (Get more info about Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4955.)

    Windows 10 22H2 19045.4842 (KB5041582)

    Release date: August 22, 2024

    Released to: Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel

    This build fixes several bugs, including one in which when a combo box had input focus, a memory leak sometimes occurred when you closed that window, and another in which some Bluetooth apps stopped responding because of a memory leak in a device.

    (Get more info about Windows 10 22H2 19045.4842.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4713 (KB5040525)

    Release date: July 11, 2024

    Released to: Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel

    In this build, Insiders in the Beta Channel get a fix in which they will see a search box on their secondary monitors when the setting for search on the taskbar is set to “Search box.”

    Insiders in the Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel get fixes for a variety of bugs, including one in which the TCP send code often causes a system to stop responding during routine tasks, such as file transfers. This issue leads to an extended send loop.

    (Get more info about  Windows 10 22H2 19045.4713.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4593

    Release date: June 13, 2024

    Released to: Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel

    In this build, Insiders in the Beta Channel get bug fixes for Windows Backup. Insiders in both the Beta and Release Preview Channels get a new feature for mobile device management in which when you enroll a device, the MDM client sends more details about the device. The MDM service uses those details to identify the device model and the company that made it.

    Insiders in the Beta Channel and Release Preview Channel also get a variety of bug fixes, including for a bug that could have stopped systems from resuming from hibernation after BitLocker was turned on.

    (Get more info about  Windows 10 22H2 19045.4593.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4472 (KB5037849)

    Release date: May 20, 2024

    Released to: Release Preview ChannelThis build fixes a variety of bugs, including one in which TWAIN drivers stopped responding when you used them in a virtual environment, and another in which the Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) app stopped responding.

    (Get more info about  Windows 10 22H2 19045.4472.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4353 (KB5036979)

    Release date: April 15, 2024

    Released to: Release Preview Channel

    This build introduces account-related notifications for Microsoft accounts in Settings > Home. A Microsoft account connects Windows to your Microsoft apps. This feature displays notifications across the Start menu and Settings. You can manage your Settings notifications in Settings > Privacy & security > General.

    A wide variety of bugs have been fixed, including one in which when your device resumed from Modern Standby you might have gotten the stop error, “0x9f DRIVER_POWER_STATE_FAILURE, and another in which the Windows Local Administrator Password Solution’s (LAPS) Post Authentication Actions (PAA) did not happen at the end of the grace period. Instead, they occurred at restart.

    (Get more info about  Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4353.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4233 (KB5035941)

    Release date: March 14, 2024

    Released to: Release Preview Channel

    This build adds Windows Spotlight, which displays new images as your desktop wallpaper. If you want to know more about an image, click or tap the Learn More button, which takes you to Bing. To turn on this feature, go to Settings > Personalization > Background > Personalize your background and choose Windows spotlight. The update also adds sports, traffic, and finance content to the lock screen. To turn it on, go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. Note that these two features will roll out to users gradually.

    In addition, in Windows Hello for Business IT admins can now use mobile device management (MDM) to turn off the prompt that appears when users sign in to an Entra-joined machine. To do it, turn on the “DisablePostLogonProvisioning” policy setting. After a user signs in, provisioning is off for Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices.

    A wide variety of bugs have been fixed, including one in which some applications that depend on COM+ component had stopped responding. Also fixed was a deadlock issue in CloudAP that occurred when different users signed in and signed out at the same time on virtual machines.

    (Get more info about Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4233.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4116 (KB5034843)

    Release date: February 15, 2024

    Released to: Release Preview Channel

    In this build, using Windows share, you can now directly share URLs to apps like WhatsApp, Gmail, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Sharing to X (formerly Twitter) is coming soon.

    The build fixes several bugs, including one in which you weren’t able to use Windows Hello for Business to authenticate to Microsoft Entra ID on certain apps when using Web Access Management (WAM).

    (Get more info about  Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.4116.)

    Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.3992 (KB5034203)

    Release date: January 11, 2024

    Released to: Release Preview Channel

    This update adds eye control system settings. You can back up these settings from the former device while you set up a new device. Then those settings will install automatically on the new device so you can use them when you reach the desktop.

    The build fixes a wide variety of bugs, including one in which an MDM service such as Microsoft Intune might not get the right data from BitLocker data-only encryption, and another in which some single-function printers are installed as scanners.

    (Get more info about  Windows 10 22H2 Build 19045.3992 (KB5034203).)


  • Best laptops for video editing 2025: Reviewed and ranked

    Best laptops for video editing 2025: Reviewed and ranked


    If you do any video editing work, you probably know how taxing it can be on your laptop. So, when browsing for a laptop for video editing, you’ll want to make sure your rig is suited up with the proper hardware.

    Depending on your work load, you may not need a top-tier machine to get the job done. That said, a gaming laptop may not be the right choice, especially one with a lower resolution display. A powerful processor and graphics are a given, but you’ll need to take other factors into consideration such as the quality of the display and port selection.

    Why you should trust us: PCWorld has been covering PCs since 1983, and reviews more than 70 notebooks a year in our never-ending quest to find the best laptops. Our expert reviewers evaluate every machine using a combination of performance benchmarks and rigorous usability standards, with an eye toward identifying the best laptops for specific needs and at various price points. We also edit lots of videos ourselves, with the results appearing on PCWorld’s YouTube channel. Take a look at our top picks for video editing below, followed by buying advice and more details about our testing process.

    If you’re on a budget or just looking to save some money, you may also want to check out our daily roundup of the best laptop deals to scope out any discounts on content creation notebooks.

    The best laptops for video editing

    Asus ProArt P16 – Best laptop for video editing

    Asus ProArt P16 - Best laptop for video editing

    Pros

    • Big touchpad with virtual scroll wheel
    • Gorgeous 4K OLED display
    • More connectivity than the competition
    • Good battery life

    Cons

    • Chassis is light, but doesn’t look remarkable
    • CPU performance falls behind the best
    • Can get hot under load

    Price When Reviewed:

    $2,299.99

    Why we like the Asus ProArt P16

    The Asus ProArt P16 is a phenomenal choice for creative professionals and prosumers because of its stunning 4K OLED display, diverse selection of connectivity options, and long battery life. The 16-inch 3840×2400 display “boasts an incredible color gamut and deep contrast,” according to our review. It also has a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, which is great for multitasking and productivity tasks alike.

    You’ll find the following ports on this machine: two USB-C, two USB-A, one HDMI, a crucial SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio combo jack. One of the USB-C ports even supports USB 4.0, which is capable of transmitting up to 40 Gbps. This machine also lasted over nine hours on a single charge. That’s a pretty good result given the powerful hardware inside.

    Who should buy the Asus ProArt P16

    Serious content creators! The display alone is an “excellent choice for a laptop aimed at professional creatives and consumers,” according to our review (which was written by a content creator). The resolution is great when editing high resolution photos. Although it can run hot under heavier loads and the overall look is on the boring side, it’s still worth your consideration, especially if you need the sharpness of a 4K display.

    Read our full

    Asus ProArt P16 review

    Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra – Best laptop for video editing (if you don’t need 4K)

    Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra - Best laptop for video editing (if you don't need 4K)

    Pros

    • Fantastic battery life
    • Solid GPU performance
    • Gorgeous OLED screen that can be used outdoors
    • Great audio
    • AI-powered Core Ultra inside

    Cons

    • Chargers keep getting bigger
    • Still not a great keyboard

    Price When Reviewed:

    $2999.99

    Why we like the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra

    The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra offers powerful performance as well as a gorgeous OLED display. Thanks to the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, it’s well equipped to handle any video editing task you throw at it. Plus, the 16-inch OLED display has a resolution of 2880×1800 and a refresh rate of 120Hz–so you can expect a crisp-looking picture with rich colors. Sure, it’s not 4K, but it’s still a fantastic screen for content creation. Battery life is absolutely absurd, too. This machine lasted a whopping 18 hours and 54 minutes on a single charge. Wall outlet? Who is she?

    Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra

    Anyone looking for a powerful, long-lasting laptop and doesn’t need to edit 4K videos. In addition to the stunning OLED display and the long battery life, the audio is also quite punchy, sounding great up and down the audio range. If you switch on the Dolby Atmos feature, you’ll hear even richer sound. Though content creators may not necessarily need good audio (or likely use dedicated headphones), it’s still a nice perk.

    Alternative option: The Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i ($1,699.99) is another great laptop to consider. It comes decked out with a 16-inch 3200×2000 165Hz refresh rate display, 32GB of RAM, and tons of ports (including an SD card reader). Compared to our current pick, the Yoga Pro 9i has a sharper screen with a faster refresh rate. That said, it only managed nine hours on a single charge. It’s an acceptable result, but it’s nothing like the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra’s 18 hours and 54 minutes.

    Read our full

    Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra review

    Asus ProArt PX13 – Best ultraportable laptop for video editing

    Asus ProArt PX13 - Best ultraportable laptop for video editing

    Pros

    • Excellent multithreaded CPU performance
    • Beautiful OLED display
    • Discrete Nvidia GPU for creative tasks
    • Weighs just 3.04 pounds

    Cons

    • Lower battery life than a Snapdragon X laptop
    • Fans can be loud
    • No Copilot+ PC AI features at launch

    Price When Reviewed:

    $1,699

    Why we like the Asus ProArt PX13

    The Asus ProArt PX13 is a creators laptop, full stop. It comes with the latest AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage — in other words, it’s powerful with a capital P. In addition to the impressive internal components, it also has a 13.4-inch 1880p OLED display with touchscreen and stylus support as well as a lightweight form factor. In fact, it weighs just 3.04 pounds, making it a fantastic option for those who are always on-the-go. Other cool features include Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and a 1080p webcam.

    Who should buy the Asus ProArt PX13

    Anyone that needs a portable powerhouse for creative work, and doesn’t need a 4K display (or is willing to connect the laptop to a 4K monitor). If you commute into the office, you can easily toss this laptop into a bag and be on your merry way. It also has a lot of connectivity options, which is useful for video editors that need to offload their work. The port selection includes two USB Type-C, one USB Type-A, one combo audio jack, one HDMI 2.1, one microSD reader, and one power in. The ProArt PX13 also has a 360-degree hinge, which allows you to use it like a tent or lie it flat on a surface.

    Read our full

    Asus ProArt PX13 review

    Acer Nitro V 16 – Best budget laptop for video editing

    Acer Nitro V 16 - Best budget laptop for video editing

    Pros

    • Solid performance
    • Competitive price
    • Dedicated button for quick performance mode switching
    • Fast 165Hz display with good colors

    Cons

    • Fully plastic build
    • Mushy keyboard
    • Weak battery life

    Price When Reviewed:

    $1,099.99

    Why we like the Acer Nitro V 16

    The Acer Nitro V 16 is an affordable gaming laptop with competitive hardware and a big, fast display. The 1920×1200 IPS display measures 16 inches with a refresh rate of 165Hz, which means you can expect smooth-looking visuals. It also comes with an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, so it definitely has enough horsepower to handle more demanding editing tasks. The battery life isn’t the best (four hours on a single charge), but that’s not surprising given that this is a gaming laptop and they’re known for their power-sucking components. If you don’t mind staying parked at your desk, then the Acer Nitro V 16 is a good pick for video editors looking to save some cash.

    Who should buy the Acer Nitro V 16

    Video editors looking for an affordable laptop with discrete graphics. It’s a good value, full stop. For just under a grand, you’re getting powerful hardware as well as a high refresh rate display. The battery life is shorter than we like to see, but this may not be a deal-breaker for you, so long as you stay parked at a desk. The gamer aesthetic is on the flashier side, too. If you can live with those trade-offs, then you can’t really beat the price-to-performance value.

    Alternative option: The Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition ($1,099.99), which was our previous Best Budget Laptop for Video Editing pick, is still a good option to consider. For about a grand, you’re getting reliable graphics performance, a spacious keyboard, and long battery life.

    Read our full

    Acer Nitro V 16 review

    Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro) – Best MacBook for video editing

    Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro) - Best MacBook for video editing

    Pros

    • Good performance
    • 18GB of RAM
    • Runs quiet

    Cons

    • Low performance advantage over M2 Pro

    Price When Reviewed:

    $1,999 – discontinued

    Why we like the Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro)

    The Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro) will kick you in the teeth with its power (in the best way possible). Inside, you’ll find a 14-core GPU as well as 18GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. That amount of RAM will keep things running nice and smooth while the beefy GPU will chew right through any intense edits, though intense video editors will want to upgrade to a model with more storage or invest in an external SSD for added capacity. The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display also has a ridiculously high resolution of 3024×1964, so editing should be a delightful experience. It even comes with three Thunderbolt 4 ports for speedy data transfers.

    Who should buy the Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro)

    Anyone who prefers Apple’s ecosystem. This configuration shows a 44 percent increase in performance (according to Geekbench’s Compute Metal test) compared to the M3 (sans Pro) model. You’ll also be able to see every detail of your photo or video editing work thanks to the gorgeous Liquid Retina XDR display. Battery life isn’t too shabby, either. The M3 Pro MacBook Pro will last you over ten hours on a single charge, which is more than a full work day.

    Alternative option: If you’re looking for a bigger screen, then you should check out the MacBook Pro, M2 Pro. The Liquid Retina XDR display measures 16.2-inches and has a resolution of 3456×2234, so visuals should be sharp as knives. The M2 Pro also comes loaded with a powerful 19-core GPU.

    Read our full

    Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M3 Pro, 2023) review

    Recent laptop reviews

    • Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro: The Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro delivers incredible battery life, a beautiful display, and solid desktop performance. But for an extra $50, you could have this as a 2-in-1 machine with a bundled S Pen.
    • Acer Swift 16 AI: The Acer Swift 16 AI is a capable machine with a big, beautiful screen, but its AI chops are still unproven.
    • Lenovo Legion 5i: The Lenovo Legion 5i is a great value — a 16-inch gaming laptop with a screaming-fast CPU that also squeezes a surprising amount of performance from its GPU.
    • Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition has elegance and feels great to use. But Lenovo should have stepped up its game, as the system lags behind in performance and battery next to a bunch of cheaper competitors, and Lenovo’s not the only brand making great-feeling systems.
    • Lenovo LOQ 15: The Lenovo LOQ15 has better build quality than the average gaming laptop in this price range, but its performance is still on the low side.

    How we tested

    The PCWorld team puts each and every Windows laptop through a series of benchmarks that test GPU and CPU performance, battery life, and so on. The idea is to push the laptop to its limits and then compare it against others we’ve tested. Chromebooks, on the other hand, go through a series of web-based tests. It wouldn’t be fair or possible to run the same kinds of tests on a Chromebook, as they’re Chrome OS-based machines.

    Below, you’ll find a breakdown of each test and the reasons why we run them. For a much deeper look at our review methodology, check out how PCWorld tests laptops.

    Windows laptops

    • PCMark 10: PCMark 10 is how we determine how well the laptop handles lighter tasks like web browsing, word processing, spreadsheets, and so on.
    • HandBrake: HandBrake is more intensive than PCMark 10. It basically measures how long a laptop’s CPU takes to encode a beefy 30GB file.
    • Cinebench: Cinebench is a brief stress test of the CPU cores. It does this by rendering a 2D scene over a short period of time.
    • 3DMark: 3DMark checks if 3D performance remains consistent over time by running graphic-intensive clips.
    • Video rundown test: To gauge battery life, we loop a 4K video using Windows 10’s Movies & TV app until the laptop dies.

    FAQ

    1.

    What should I look for in a laptop for video editing?

    The first thing to look for in a laptop for video editing is its CPU and GPU. The faster your hardware, the faster your edits.

    If your workload is primarily CPU-driven, we’d recommend springing for the Intel Core i7 or the Intel Core i9. HX is designed for raw horsepower, which id deal for gaming and content creation, and the Ultra is built around power efficiency. For a more in-depth look at the difference between the two processors, we’ve done a thorough compare and contrast piece that really lays it all out. For those on a strict budget, you can get by with an Intel Core i5, but it’s going to be slower.

    You probably won’t need a dedicated graphics card everyday video editing, but if you work on motion graphics, then the extra firepower really comes in handy. For most video editing projects, we’d suggest the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 or higher, though having any RTX GPU onboard can help accelerate some specific workloads. For those who prefer AMD over Nvidia, we’d recommend the AMD Radeon RX 7600S or higher. Unless you’re looking to play AAA games on the side, you don’t really need the best graphics card out there. A mid-range GPU will serve most people.

    Another thing to consider is storage size. A 4K video, for example, will require more storage space than a 1080p video. In other words, you’re going to need quite a bit of storage, otherwise your laptop might get too bogged down. For those who work with 4K resolution, you should go for at least 1TB of SSD or higher. You could probably get by with just 512GB of SSD storage, but you’ll probably need to keep offloading files onto an external storage device.

    RAM is important too, as it determines how fast your laptop will generally run. Video editors tend to work with large files, which can cause your laptop to slow down. That’s why we’d recommend at least 16GB of RAM. However, if you’re editing 4K video, you’ll definitely want 32GB of RAM or more. More RAM reduces the likelihood of bottlenecks, which can be a real pain in the neck when you’re in the middle of an important edit.

    2.

    What kind of display should I get?

    You’re going to want a display that’s both bright and color accurate. For example, a display that’s close to 100 percent of the sRGB spectrum is ideal. While a 4K display isn’t necessary, we’d strongly recommend it for serious video editing. A high resolution display will produce sharper images, which helps reduce eye strain, and allow you to edit 4K video at full resolution. A larger screen like a 15- or 17-inch is preferable as well, as it provides better visibility for editing.

    3.

    What do the experts recommend?

    PCWorld video director Adam Patrick Murray stresses that an ideal laptop for video editing includes an SD card reader for grabbing video off of a camera. He also recommends opting for a notebook with a 4K, 60Hz panel over the ultra-fast 1080p panels often found on gaming laptops that would otherwise be ideal for video editing. You need a 4K panel to edit 4K videos well and blazing-fast refresh rates don’t mean anything for video editing like they do for gaming. If color accuracy matters to you—it might not if you’re only creating casual videos for your personal YouTube channel, for example—then support for the full DCI-P3 color gamut is also a must along with Delta E < 2 color accuracy.

    You won’t often find those sorts of specs listed for (or supported by) gaming laptops, but dedicated content creation laptops should include that information. That said, if you want the fastest possible laptop for video editing that can also satisfy your gaming proclivities, you can always pair that burly gaming laptop with a color-accurate external monitor for creation tasks.


  • 3 easy side hustles OpenAI’s Operator just made possible – plus how you can get started

    3 easy side hustles OpenAI’s Operator just made possible – plus how you can get started


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    Mensent Photography/Getty Images

    OpenAI recently announced Operator, an AI agent designed to perform tasks on the web.

    After testing it (yes, I paid the $200 bucks, but, more importantly, I kept the subscription🤯), this is a game-changer, but not for the reason you think.

    This article will probably get me in trouble with my business partner.

    Also: Will AI kill creativity and destroy human innovation? Here’s the unsettling truth

    I’m about to snitch on myself for your benefit. 😩

    I’m going to tell you the secret sauce behind how our ecom business generates millions in revenue and how Operator can help.

    In this article, I’ll break down:

    • What Operator is and why it matters
    • The good, the bad, and the ugly of using it
    • Three ways you can turn Operator into a side hustle

    Grab a pen and paper if you’re into this kind of stuff. You’ll want to take notes. 🧐

    Quick intro

    To understand why this is a game changer, first, you must understand who I am and what I do for a living.

    If you are new to my work, my name is Lester, but feel free to call me Les.

    I’m a founder with a successful exit under my belt. These days, I’m the exec chair for a group of ecom brands, but at my core, I’m an award-winning performance marketer. 🤓☝️

    Also: From zero to millions? How regular people are cashing in on AI

    Needless to say, data and insights are my jam. We operate more like a data company than an ecom brand. Our secret sauce? Pairing data and insights with ideas that generate revenue.

    If you are into leveraging AI or emerging tech to help your workflow or generate revenue, check out my free newsletter, No Fluff Just Facts. I break down what is working in the world of AI along with actionable insights to implement… no fluff, just facts (see what I did there).

    But enough about me. I have to tell you why Operator is a game changer! 🤫

    What is Operator and why it’s a game changer

    Operator helps US-based PRO users perform browser activities like filling out forms and ordering groceries; apparently, it can even help you create memes. 💃

    It interacts with web pages by clicking, typing, and scrolling like a human.

    A new AI model powers Operator called Computer Using Agent (CUA), combined with GPT-4’s vision and capabilities for advanced reasoning. This is what allows it to understand what is happening on a website.

    Now that you’re all caught up, let me share the opportunities. 🤗

    Also: The billion-dollar AI company no one is talking about – and why you should care

    Price is the biggest complaint among users. At $200 per month, it’s a significant jump from the $20 plan, and many don’t see enough value to make the upgrade worthwhile, which is a valid point.

    But instead of comparing it to the cheaper plan, I look at it in terms of the time and resources it can save.

    A big part of my day job is validating ideas, visiting different websites, looking at trends, and documenting them. While this is not the best use of time, it is still necessary and has a cost, whether I do it myself or hire an assistant to do it for me.

    $200 is a lot of bread, especially in this economy, but the alternative could cost thousands of dollars per month and tens of thousands per year. 🤧

    Operator allows small business owners and professionals to automate without hiring or paying a developer to create an internal tool.

    Sure, there are online tools that can perform similar functions, but that is yet another tool to learn. OpenAI is already part of my workflow, so having everything in one place is beneficial.

    Also: Have a genealogy mystery? How I used AI to solve a family puzzle

    Operator is a great tool to handle the mundane, time-consuming tasks I don’t want to do.

    And for $200 bucks? 🤔

    Pffft. Have at it, Operator.

    Let me know when you’re done or if you need me.

    The biggest limitation may not be Operator itself, but our imagination when using it.

    How I use Operator

    Ah yes, the reason why my biz partner may beat my you-know-what.

    First, I need to explain the core of any business. ☝️

    Most businesses operate on some form of arbitrage, whether it’s sourcing a product at a lower cost and selling it at a higher price, or offering a service where the cost to deliver is lower than the price charged.

    Whether you are selling a product or service, the core of what is happening is the same.

    The key is creating value while managing cost differences between markets.

    Also: Don’t want to pay for ChatGPT Deep Research? Try this free open-source alternative

    Now that we understand that, let’s dig into how we build businesses. 🧐

    Everyone sees Amazon as a place to buy, but we consider it a place to validate product ideas.

    Let’s say we have an idea for a funny candle. We go to Amazon first to see if the concept already exists. If it does, we document things like:

    • Product name
    • Price
    • Sales rank
    lm-operator-project

    Lester Mapp

    This information is critical. The arbitrage is then sourcing that product and introducing it to our audience.

    Bonus tip: We do not just copy. We look at how a product can be improved and offer our audience the new and improved version on our website.

    Make sense?

    Now that we have that out of the way, let me explain how we used Operator. 😎

    As I mentioned, part of the job is endless scrolling — looking and looking. I instructed Operator to do my product research for me.

    Here is the exact prompt I used:

    “I need you to go to www.amazon.com and search ‘funny candles.’ I then need you to tell me the price and name of each listing. Then, I need you to tell me the sales rank for the first 48 product listings.”

    After a CAPTCHA and a little finessing with the prompt, I got the exact output I needed.

    Operator was able to handle the most critical role in our business, which is product research.

    Also: Are ChatGPT Plus or Pro worth it? Here’s how they compare to the free version

    It freed up my time and allowed me to focus on things like talking to customers. 👨‍💻

    Nobody likes doing these types of tasks as they are monotonous and tedious. It’s all the “ous-es” you can think of.

    But it is vital for staying ahead.

    Operator did it autonomously for the most part.

    Like I said, it’s a game changer.

    The good, the bad, and the kind of ugly

    The good 👍

    • I like the fact that I can operate independently without having to wait for a coworker or a developer to help. If you are anything like me, you know exactly what I mean by that. I would rather wash my eyes with bleach than wait for someone.
    • I also love that I can speak, and it appears. I do not have to write a fancy brief or send ten gazillion emails to get what I want.
    • I love the fact that it is centralized. I don’t need ten apps and integrations to do one thing. I allow it to log into things like Google Sheets and copy the info.

    The bad 👎

    • It’s not all the way there. It is AI. It does weird AI stuff, like hallucinating and providing incorrect and nonsensical information. I stay patient and keep it pushing.
    • It’s slow, but still faster than me at getting the job done. Honestly, I can’t even call that a real complaint.
    • It was asking me for confirmation way too much. This meant Operator would stop and sit there waiting for my input while I was off living my best life. Time wasted. To combat this, I turned on notifications to see if that improves the time between confirmations. I will let you know how it goes.

    The kinda ugly 🥴

    Sure, there are flaws and things that could be better, but at this moment, the real issue is me. I wish I could think of even more creative ways to use it.

    To be clear, I’m not talking about everyday stuff like grocery shopping. That’s table stakes.

    I mean, how do I get this thing to 10x my business while I am on vacation? 🙃

    How to make money with OpenAI Operator

    With any emerging technology, there will always be a group of people who:

    • Need help implementing
    • Do not have the time to do it themselves

    There’s potential to build a business around either of these scenarios. 🤑

    Also: ChatGPT’s Deep Research just identified 20 jobs it will replace. Is yours on the list?

    In my humble opinion, this is a great place to start, especially if you are an early mover, as it could position you as the go-to resource.

    That said, here are a few more ideas on how you can use Operator to generate income.

    1. AI automation as a service

    Offer automation services to businesses that want to streamline repetitive tasks like data entry, email responses, or customer support.

    2. AI-powered lead generation and sales automation

    Use Operator to send personalized messages to potential leads on LinkedIn about your product or service.

    3. AI-powered e-commerce

    Use Operator to automatically list, update, and optimize product listings on eBay, Amazon, or Shopify.

    These are just a few ideas, but the biggest opportunity is using Operator to enhance what we are already doing.

    Rather than looking for some magical new opportunity, the best move is to integrate it into your current workflow.

    Operator is a tool that makes us more efficient and provides an opportunity to win back some of our time.

    The real opportunity is looking within and asking yourself, what can AI help me do? 🤔

    As I mentioned earlier, it really comes down to your imagination and how you use it in your existing workflow or even how you create a new one.

    The critics aren’t wrong about its limitations, but the tool is still incredibly powerful. Unlocking its full potential just requires a bit of creativity and a willingness to work around its constraints.

    Writing the technology off entirely because it is not there yet is unwise. 😞

    My two cents 

    So, is Operator worth it?

    Like most things in life, it depends. 🫤

    The price of $200 is relative and depends on how you use it.

    If you are using it to book your Airbnb or something like that, I am hard-pressed to find any reason to justify paying $200 for the luxury of not doing it yourself (unless this is your job).

    I can see a future where Operator, when used effectively, becomes one of the best business assets in your toolkit by automating repetitive tasks.

    However, it’s not a magic fix. You still need to build a strong business by solving real problems and maintaining solid unit economics.

    Also: The work tasks people use Claude AI for most, according to Anthropic

    We are not at a place where AI can do everything for us. A do-it-with-me approach would be the better way to look at it.

    All that said, I am bullish on Operator as a business tool and look forward to seeing where it goes.

    😇 Hope this helps; I am rooting for you.

    By the way, if you want to learn more about leveraging AI or emerging tech to optimize your workflow or generate revenue, check out my free newsletter, No Fluff Just Facts. I break down what is working in the world of AI, along with actionable insights you can implement and the occasional pep talk. If this sounds like your jam and you wanna be besties forever, click here to sign up. It’s totally free. 🤗