Tech Geeks

Category: Technologies

  • Get These Big Discounts on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Before They Possibly Disappear From the Market

    Get These Big Discounts on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Before They Possibly Disappear From the Market

    Claiming the overall top spots on our list of the best smartwatches for 2023, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 — both new 2023 models — are among the most advanced on the market. But they both are about to get more challenging to buy: Due to an ongoing legal battle over patent infringement, Apple will be pausing US sales for both models starting on Dec. 24 (unless the company’s appeals push that deadline back).

    Here’s the good news: Both models are actually on sale ahead of that deadline:

    Right now, you can pick up the Apple Watch Ultra 2 for as little as $699 thanks to a discount with instant coupons at Amazon. The discounts vary by size and style, but you can get at least one model with the small band for under $700, while some models with the larger bands will cost you closer to $730. Both are nice discounts compared to the Apple Store price of $799.

    The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the latest and greatest wearable the company offers. It has a huge 49mm display and high-precision GPS for use when you’re out in the wilderness, or when just want reliable data for your workouts. The extra-long battery life ensures you get multiple days from a single charge, and the rugged titanium case is strong yet light, perfect for your next adventure. You also get access to all the usual features, including fitness and activity tracking, heart rate monitoring and more.

    Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 9 is being sold for $70 off the Apple Store price — $329 for the 41mm GPS model, $359 for the 45mm model. That model is smaller than the Ultra, lacks the Action Button and some of the extreme sports features of the Ultra, like the diving features, but is otherwise the state of the art when it comes to Apple wrist-based tech.

    Note that the 2022 Apple Watch SE will not be affected by the sales pause, so there’s no urgency there. The same goes for older Apple Watch models. But in the absence of a last-minute deal, the Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches may well disappear from store shelves by Christmas. That means you’ve got less than a week left to take advantage of this offer, and with the recent news, there’s a good chance that it will be selling fast. We’d definitely recommend you get your order in soon if you’re hoping to take advantage of these savings.

  • eSIM Revolution: Unleashing the Power of Connectivity

    eSIM Revolution: Unleashing the Power of Connectivity

    World E-SIM, 

    Verum E-SIM, 

    Türkiye E-SIM Revolution: Unleashing the Power of Connectivity

    In an era dominated by the relentless pace of technological innovation, one remarkable advancement stands out—the Electronic SIM card, or e-SIM. This revolutionary technology is reshaping the landscape of connectivity, offering a seamless and dynamic experience for users across a multitude of devices.

    Gone are the days of fumbling with physical SIM cards and navigating the intricacies of carrier lock-ins. The e-SIM, a compact and rewritable chip, has emerged as the cornerstone of a new era in telecommunications. Its impact extends beyond smartphones to encompass a diverse range of devices, including tablets, smartwatches, and even Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

    One of the key advantages of e-SIMs lies in their ability to store multiple operator profiles on a single chip. This flexibility empowers users to switch carriers effortlessly, fostering a competitive marketplace and placing control firmly in the hands of consumers. The days of being tethered to a specific carrier are becoming a relic of the past, as users can now adapt their connectivity choices to suit their evolving needs.

    Device activation has also been streamlined, offering a hassle-free onboarding experience. The traditional process of acquiring and inserting a physical SIM card often involved visits to carrier stores or waiting for mail deliveries. With e-SIMs, activation becomes a simple digital process, enabling users to get their devices up and running swiftly.

    The e-SIM’s impact on international travel is particularly noteworthy. Frequent travelers can bid farewell to the logistical challenges of acquiring and swapping physical SIM cards as they cross borders. The e-SIM facilitates a seamless transition between local carriers, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity wherever the journey takes them.

    As we delve deeper into the Internet of Things era, e-SIMs are playing a pivotal role in connecting a myriad of devices. From smart home devices to connected cars, the e-SIM’s adaptability and compact design make it an ideal solution for enabling communication between devices on a global scale.

  • Best Wireless Earbuds and Headphones for Samsung Phones

    Best Wireless Earbuds and Headphones for Samsung Phones

    Updated Dec. 18, 20232:00 p.m. PT

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    Written by David Carnoy
    Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission.Reviews ethics statement
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    David Carnoy Executive Editor / Reviews
    Executive Editor David Carnoy has been a leading member of CNET’s Reviews team since 2000. He covers the gamut of gadgets and is a notable reviewer of mobile accessories and portable audio products, including headphones and speakers. He’s also an e-reader and e-publishing expert as well as the author of the novels Knife Music, The Big Exit and Lucidity. All the titles are available as Kindle, iBooks, Nook e-books and audiobooks.
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    If you’re a Samsung user, Apple’s popular headphones and earbuds, like the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods Max and the Beats Fit Pro, will technically connect to and work with your Samsung devices. But you won’t get the best overall experience. Apple’s listening accessories have a proprietary chip that works seamlessly with Apple devices. When it comes to Samsung devices, though, there are limitations. Folks with Samsung devices can use Apple’s headphones and earbuds for audio listening and making calls, but some features — such as spatial audio and always-on Siri — are Apple-exclusive. So if you’re a Samsung devotee, you’ll want a set of earbuds or headphones that are either platform-agnostic or geared toward Galaxy devices (Samsung, like Apple, also plays the exclusive-features game).

    You may also want to get earbuds or headphones that feature support for the aptX or LDAC audio codecs, which may offer better audio quality when streaming via Bluetooth. Samsung and other Android phones support aptX and LDAC, but you have to enable support for those codecs by going into developer mode in the settings and activating the codec you want. It can be a little tricky.

    What are the best earbuds and headphones for Samsung smartphones right now?

    So what are the best earbuds for Samsung devices? If you’re looking for earbuds geared to your Galaxy smartphone or tablet, the answer is easy: The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are arguably the best earbuds you can get for your Galaxy device. They not only sound very good but offer good noise canceling and work well for making calls. They’re also equipped with some special extra features for users of Galaxy devices, including spatial audio and hands-free Bixby.

    As for full-size headphones that work well with Samsung mobile devices, we like the Sony WH-1000XM5, a previous CNET Editors’ Choice winner. But there’s a slew of other headphones geared toward Samsung users, several of which I’ve included on this list.

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    $170 at Samsung$160 at Walmart$160 at Amazon
    $170 at Samsung

    Best Samsung wireless earbuds

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

    The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer improved noise canceling along with very good sound and voice-calling performance, plus support for high-resolution wireless audio streaming if you’re a Galaxy device owner with the right setup. That said, their biggest upgrade may be their new design and smaller size, which make them a better fit for more ears. They’re also fully waterproof.

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    $80 at Amazon

    Pros

    • Relatively inexpensive
    • Good sound and overall performance for their price
    • Wireless charging and support for new Bluetooth LE Audio standar
    Cons

    • Voice calling performance is only OK
    Battery life Rated up to 7.5 hours
    Noise Canceling Yes
    Multipoint Yes
    Water-Resistant Yes (IPX5– splash-proof)
    Full Review Read full review
    $80 at Amazon

    Best budget noise-canceling wireless earbuds

    Earfun Air Pro 3

    Earfun has put out a series of wireless earbuds over the last couple of years with one important similarity: They’re all a very good value, made more so by frequent discounts. The company’s new-for-2023 Earfun Air Pro 3 earbuds feature the latest Qualcomm QCC3071 system-on-a-chip with aptX Adaptive for Android and other devices that support the new LE Audio standard and LC3 audio codec, which is superior to the SBC codec. They also support AAC for Apple devices.

    Lightweight and comfortable to wear — I got a good seal with the largest ear tip size — these aren’t a huge upgrade over the Earfun Air S, but they are better. They have slightly larger wool-composite drivers (11mm versus 10mm), slightly improved noise canceling and better battery life (up to seven hours with noise canceling on, according to Earfun).

    In short, the Earfun Air 3 deliver strong performance for their modest price, with robust bass, good clarity and a relatively wide soundstage. They also pack in a lot of features, including a wireless charging case and “multidevice” connectivity. (I could pair them to two devices simultaneously but had to pause the music on one device and hit play on the other for the audio to switch.) They’re IPX5 splash-proof and also work well (though not exceptionally well) as a headset for making calls.

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    $328 at Amazon$330 at Best Buy$328 at B&H Photo-Video

    Pros

    • More refined sound and even better noise canceling
    • Slightly more comfortable
    • Best-in-class voice call quality
    • Robust feature set
    Cons

    • Higher price tag than the previous model
    • Larger carrying case (headphones fold flat but not up)
    Battery Life Rated up to 32 hours
    Noise Canceling Yes (ANC)
    Multipoint Yes
    Headphone Type Over-ear wireless headphones
    Water-Resistant No IP rating
    Full Review Read full review
    $328 at Amazon

    Best noise-canceling headphones from Sony

    Sony WH-1000XM5

    When you have a product that a lot of people love, change is risky. Such is the case for Sony’s WH-1000XM5, the fifth generation of the 1000X series headphones, which were first released in 2016 as the MDR-1000X Wireless and have become increasingly popular as they’ve improved with each generation. Over the years, Sony has made some tweaks to the design, but nothing as dramatic as what it’s done with the WH-1000XM5. Other than the higher $400 price tag, most of those changes are good, and Sony’s made some dramatic improvements with voice-calling performance as well as even better noise canceling and more refined sound.

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    $110 at Amazon$110 at B&H Photo-Video$120 at Target
    $110 at Amazon

    Best budget Galaxy earbuds

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2

    If you can’t afford the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, the standard Galaxy Buds 2 are a good option. Released in 2021, they don’t sound as good as the newer Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or have quite as effective noise canceling. But they offer decent sound and noise canceling along with very good voice-calling performance, and they often are discounted to around $100.

    The Buds 2, like the earlier Buds Plus, are only IPX2 sweat-resistant. That means they should be fine for lighter workouts, but it’s probably best to avoid wearing them in a rain storm.

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    $100 at B&H Photo-Video$100 at Crutchfield
    $100 at B&H Photo-Video

    Best AirPods Pro alternative for less

    JBL Live Pro 2

    Over the years, JBL has put out some decent true-wireless earbuds, but nothing that really got me too excited. That’s finally changed with the arrival of the Samsung-owned brand’s new Live Pro 2 and Live Free 2 buds. Both sets of buds — the Live Pro 2 have stems while the Live Free 2 have a pill-shaped design — offer a comfortable fit along with strong noise canceling, very good sound quality and voice-calling performance. They also have a robust set of features, including multipoint Bluetooth pairing, an IPX5 splash-proof rating and wireless charging.

    The Live Pro 2 and Live Free 2 are equipped with the same 11mm drivers, six microphones, oval tubes and oval silicon tips. Aside from the design, the biggest difference between the two is battery life: The stemless Live Free 2 is rated for up to seven hours, while the Live Pro 2 is rated for 10 hours. The Live Pro 2 is available in four color options.

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    $248 at Walmart$248 at Amazon$250 at B&H Photo-Video
    $248 at Walmart

    Best Sennheiser noise-canceling headphones

    Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

    Sennheiser’s previous-generation Momentum Wireless headphones have always had a pretty distinct look that was part retro, part modern, and stood out for the exposed metal on the headband. For better or worse, that’s all gone now, and the new Momentum 4 Wireless, Sennheiser’s flagship noise-canceling headphones, look a bit more subdued and also a bit more like some of their competitors.

    The Momentum 4 Wireless outperform the Momentum 3 Wireless in every regard. The biggest gains are with noise canceling and voice-calling performance as well as battery life, which is outstanding — up to 60 hours at moderate volume levels. There’s also a transparency mode that allows in ambient sound, and users can create a custom sound profile in the Smart Control app for iOS and Android using the built-in EQ, sound modes and a new Sound Personalization feature that “assesses the user’s listening preferences and adjusts the listening experience according to their taste.”

    Sennheiser says the Momentum 4 Wireless, equipped with 42mm drivers, offer “best-in-class” sound, which is debatable. I’d say the sound quality is right there with other models in this price range. They sound excellent, with the requisite well-defined, punchy bass, wide soundstage (they sound pretty open) and smooth treble that brings out some of the finer details in well-recorded tracks. They’re a pleasure to listen to.

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    $98 at Amazon

    Pros

    • Lightweight and comfortable
    • Good sound with very good noise canceling
    • Good voice-calling performance
    • 35 hours of battery life
    Cons

    • No carrying case
    • No ear-detection sensors
    • No LDAC audio codec support
    Battery life Rated up to 35 hours
    Noise Cancelling Yes
    Multipoint Yes
    Headphone Type Over-ear wireless headphones
    Water-Resistant No IP rating
    Full Review Read full review
    $98 at Amazon

    Best midrange noise-canceling headphones

    Sony CH-720N

    Sony’s improved entry-level noise canceling headphones, the CH-720Ns, have a bit of a plastic-y, budget vibe, but they’re lightweight and comfortable. Part of me was expecting them to sound pretty mediocre, but I was pleasantly surprised. No, they don’t sound as good as the WH-1000XM5s. But they sound more premium than they look and feel, and their overall performance is a nice step up from their predecessor, the CH-710Ns. Are they worth $150? Maybe — or maybe not. But the good news is that, like the CH-710N and WH-XB910 before them, these should see some nice discounts in the not-so-distant future.

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    $329 at Bose$229 at Walmart$229 at Amazon
    $378 at Bose

    Latest Bose

    Bose QuietComfort 45

    The QuietComfort 45 has virtually the same design as its predecessor, the QuietComfort QC35 II, which many people considered one of the most comfortable over-ear headphones — if not the most comfortable. It has the same drivers, and the buttons are in the same place.

    However, there are small but notable changes. First, we’re pleased that these have a USB-C charging port instead of Micro-USB. Secondly, the microphone configuration is different. Not only have the mics been shifted, but there’s now an additional external microphone for voice pick-up, which means the QC45 has a total of six mics, four of which are beamforming and used for voice. By contrast, the QC35 II has four, two of which are used for voice. (The Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 also have six microphones total.)

    These headphones are excellent for making calls. They’re similar to the Bose Headphones 700 in that regard. They also include top-notch noise canceling and multipoint Bluetooth pairing, so you can connect them with a PC and your phone simultaneously. Read our full review of the QuietComfort 45.

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    $172 at Amazon

    $172 at Amazon

    New Sennheiser flagship earbuds

    Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3

    Featuring excellent sound, improved noise canceling and voice-calling, and a smaller, more refined design, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 were among the best new true-wireless earbuds of 2022. They’re also one of the best true-wireless earbuds overall, giving the Sony WF-1000XM4 a run for the money. They include stabilizing fins so the earbuds stay in your ears more securely.

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    $299 at Bose$199 at Amazon$199 at Best Buy

    Pros

    • Excellent sound and best-in-class noise canceling
    • Fit Kit ear tips and stabilizer system gets you a secure, comfortable fit
    • Improved voice calling with better noise reduction
    Cons

    • Pricey
    • No wireless charging
    Battery Life Rated Up to 6 Hours
    Noise Canceling Yes (ANC)
    Multipoint No
    Headphone Type Wireless Earbuds
    Water-Resistant Yes (IPX4 — Splash-Proof)
    Full Review Read full review
    $348 at Bose

    Best noise canceling with top-notch sound

    Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2

    Bose’s second-generation QuietComfort Earbuds 2 are not only about 30% smaller than their predecessors, but their case is about 40% smaller and truly pocketable. They feature best-in-class noise canceling and improved sound, thanks to Bose’s new CustomTune sound calibration system that customizes the sound for your ears. Voice-calling performance is also significantly better than that of the original QuietComfort Earbuds.

    The other big change is to the ear tips. Bose has ditched its one-piece StayEar wing tips for a two-piece Fit Kit system that features separate ear tips and “stability bands” in three size options. You’ll have more flexibility to get a secure fit and tight seal.

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    $96 at Amazon$90 at eBay

    Pros

    • Unique, eye-catching design
    • Comfortable ergonomic fit
    • Compact charging case with wireless charging
    • Open sound with good bass and detail
    • Good noise reduction when making calls
    • IPX2 water-resistant
    Cons

    • Noise canceling is comparatively mild
    • Open design lets some ambient sound in
    • Little bit of distortion at high volume
    Battery Life Rated up to 8 hours
    Noise Canceling Yes (ANC)
    Multipoint No
    Headphone Type Wireless earbuds
    Water-Resistant Yes (IPX2 — sweat-resistant and protection against light splashes)
    Full Review Read full review
    $96 at Amazon

    Best open earbuds for Samsung users

    Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

    Say what you will about the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live’s bean-shaped design, but it is innovative. Like the standard AirPods 3, they have an open design — you don’t jam an ear tip into your ear — and they’re quite comfortable, fitting my ears more securely than the AirPods. That said, they won’t fit everybody’s ears equally well. These wireless buds are discreet and sit flush with your ear without a little white pipe extending out from them.

    They deliver good sound and work well as a headset for making calls, with good background noise reduction so callers can hear you clearly even when you’re in noisier environments. While they feature active noise canceling, it’s mild compared with the noise canceling in earbuds that have a noise-isolating design. In other words, buy them for their design and sound, not their noise-canceling features. Now that they’ve been on the market for a few years, they can often be found at a nice discount.

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  • Apple to Halt Sales of Its Newest Apple Watches. Here’s What to Know

    Apple to Halt Sales of Its Newest Apple Watches. Here’s What to Know

    Apple will pause sales of its Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the US this month as the result of an ongoing legal battle with health tech company Masimo.

    The US International Trade Commission, the federal agency that handles trade-related mandates, previously issued an order that would prohibit Apple from importing the Series 9 and Ultra 2. The decision came after a US judge ruled in January that Apple infringed on Masimo patents related to the technology used in Apple’s blood oxygen sensing system. The order is currently under presidential review, but Apple is preemptively pausing sales in case the decision is upheld, the company said. The move was first reported by 9to5Mac on Monday, and Apple has since confirmed its decision to CNET.

    The Apple Watch is one of Apple’s most important products, helping push the company’s wearables, home and accessories business to be its second-largest product category behind the iPhone. Apple has previously said the size of its wearables unit alone equals that of a Fortune 150 company.

    Apple will stop selling the Series 9 and Ultra 2 through its website on Dec. 21, while Apple stores will stop selling the watches on Dec. 24.

    “Apple’s teams work tirelessly to create products and services that empower users with industry-leading health, wellness and safety features,” the company said in a statement to CNET. “Apple strongly disagrees with the order and is pursuing a range of legal and technical options to ensure that [the] Apple Watch is available to customers.”

    The company added that it will “continue to take all measures to return [the] Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the US as soon as possible,” if the order stands.

    Apple’s pause of Apple Watch sales comes during the critical holiday shopping season. Smartwatches were among the top products sold during the Black Friday period, according to holiday shopping data from Adobe.

    When the judge’s ruling was made in January, Masimo CEO Joe Kiani said the decision “should help restore fairness in the market.”

    Here’s what to know about Apple’s pause in sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2. This story will be updated as we receive more information.

    When will Apple stop selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2?

    Apple will stop selling the Series 9 and Ultra 2 online at noon PT (3 p.m. ET) on Dec. 21, according to Apple. The company says the last day for the pickup and delivery of online orders, as well as in-store sales, will be end of day Dec. 24.

    Can I still buy the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 from other retailers?

    The order affects sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 through Apple specifically. But 9to5Mac points out that the order prohibits Apple from importing these watches and selling them to resellers, which means they may only be available through other retailers for a limited time.

    However, the order only applies to sales in the US, meaning you should still be able to purchase the Series 9 and Ultra 2 abroad.

    Best Buy told CNET it will continue selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the US after Dec. 25 even if the order stands.

    Which Apple Watch models are affected?

    The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are the only models affected. Since the legal dispute involves the blood oxygen sensing tech used in the Apple Watch, the Apple Watch SE will continue to be sold as usual. The Apple Watch SE is the lower-end model in Apple’s lineup, meaning it’s missing some health tracking features like blood oxygen sensing and the ability to take an ECG.

    Current Apple Watches with blood oxygen monitoring, which includes any non-SE models starting with the Series 6, also won’t be affected.

    What is Masimo and why is Apple pausing sales?

    Masimo is a medical technology company that creates professional and consumer health products, including a smartwatch called the Masimo W1. The sales pause is the latest development in an ongoing legal dispute between Apple and Masimo, in which the latter accused Apple of infringing on its pulse oximeter patents.

    What happens next?

    The presidential review period ends on Dec. 25, so we’re expecting to learn more about whether the import ban will stand after that deadline. Apple also plans to appeal the ITC’s decision to the federal circuit, the company says.

    It’s rare for an order like this to be vetoed, says Rochelle Dreyfuss, professor of law emerita at the New York University School of Law. But it’s happened before, specifically in 2013 when the Obama administration vetoed a ban that would have blocked the sale of certain older iPhone and iPad models in the US after the ITC found that Apple had infringed on Samsung patents.

    The Apple Watch is a health product, which could work in Apple’s favor when it comes to the presidential review process, says Dreyfuss. But there are also plenty of other products that offer blood oxygen monitoring, which is the specific function at the heart of the legal dispute.

    “Are there other industries that provide exactly the same service? So can Americans actually get that product?” she said. “That’s something that the industry has already decided against Apple. … So this would be the president sort of interfering with that decision,” she added, referring to if the Biden administration were to veto the ITC decision.

    If I can’t buy an Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2, what are my alternatives?

    It’s worth waiting to see what happens after the presidential review process before making any decisions. Those with an iPhone who just want a smartwatch for tracking activity, workouts and sleep should consider the $249 Apple Watch SE. While that watch lacks ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, it can still provide notifications for high and low heart rates and irregular heart rhythms.

    The Apple Watch SE is the best choice for those who are most comfortable in Apple’s ecosystem, but there are also other options that work across iPhone and Android, like the Fitbit Versa 4 and Garmin Venu 3.

    Those who are looking to monitor blood oxygen levels from home specifically should consider buying a standalone pulse oximeter, says Jennifer Schrack, professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

    “Consumer wearables are a great supplemental way for people stay informed about their health, but they are subject to error,” Schrack said over email. “It is important to remember that they are measuring blood oxygen using PPG sensors, which can be affected by things like skin tone.”

    But again, if your heart is set on the Series 9 or Ultra 2 and you aren’t in a position to buy one right now, it’s worth waiting to see whether the ITC’s order stands before making a decision.

  • Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro Are Just $50 With This Bundle Deal

    Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro Are Just $50 With This Bundle Deal

    While most laptops or PCs come with Windows pre-installed, that’s not always the case, and buying a Windows license from Microsoft is a huge extra expense for those building or upgrading a computer. The same goes for essential Microsoft Office applications. Thankfully, you don’t have to pay full price with a bundle deal at StackSocial going on right now that will snag you both Windows 11 Pro and Office Pro Plus 2019 for just $50. That’s an 87% discount on the $408 combined retail price, and both are lifetime licenses (for a single device). There’s no expiration listed for this sale, so we recommend getting your order in sooner rather than later.

    Windows 11 Pro is the most advanced Microsoft OS out there at the moment, and includes some exclusive features that you don’t get with the base version. That includes Microsoft Remote Desktop, BitLocker device encryption, Windows Sandbox, Hyper-V, Azure Active Directory and more. This offer includes lifetime access for up to three devices, but not all PCs will be compatible, so be sure to check it yours meets the system requirements before you purchase.

    And this bundle also includes lifetime access to Office Pro Plus apps, which are used by schools and businesses around the world. The 2019 version is now a generation old and doesn’t include Microsoft Teams, but will still allow you to access popular programs like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and more. And this one-time purchase is a serious bargain compared with the usual subscription price for Microsoft 365, which starts at $7 per month or $70 for the year. Just note this deal includes lifetime access for only a single device, and Microsoft’s extended support for Office 2019 will end on Oct. 14, 2025.

    Even so, this is a solid way to upgrade a laptop that doesn’t come with Windows 11 Pro or to gain access to Microsoft’s apps without signing up for a monthly payment. And if you’re in the market for new hardware too, be sure to check out our list of the best laptop deals available right now.

  • Wrap Up Your Gift List at Best Buy’s Last-Minute Sale

    Wrap Up Your Gift List at Best Buy’s Last-Minute Sale

    Christmas is just around the corner, but you’ve still got a little time left to wrap up your gift shopping. But just because you’re cutting it a little close doesn’t mean you mean you have to overpay. This week, Best Buy is having a huge Last-Minute sales event where you can find great deals on tons of top tech, including TVs, headphones, smartwatches, consoles and much more. Some of these items will ship in time for you to have them under the tree by Dec. 24, while others will require you to pick them up in-person.

    These last-minute bargains will be available through Dec. 24, and to help you make the most of these offers while you’ve still got time, we’ve rounded up some of the best deals that you won’t want to miss here. Just remember that you’re not the only one doing some eleventh hour gift shopping this week, so some items may sell out before Sunday. We’d recommend getting your order in as soon as possible if you’re hoping to take advantage of these savings.

    No matter who you’re shopping for, you’re sure to find some great gift ideas that you can snag for less at this sale. If they’re an avid gamer looking to upgrade to a next-gen console, you can pick up the Xbox Series X for $400, which is $100 off the list price. Or, if they’re headphones are looking a little worse for wear, you could grab them the Beats Studio Pro. They’re one of our overall favorite pairs of headphones for 2023, and you can snag them for just $180 right now, a whopping $170 off. And if they’re an avid home cook, this Bella Pro Series 8-quart air fryer makes a great gift, and you can pick it up for just $50, which is an $80 discount.

    There are plenty of other excellent last-minute bargains to shop this week at Best Buy, and we’ve rounded up some of the best ones available:

  • Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Sales Are Being Paused in the US: What to Know

    Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Sales Are Being Paused in the US: What to Know

    Apple will pause sales of its Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the US this month as the result of an ongoing legal battle with health tech company Masimo.

    The International Trade Commission, the federal agency that handles trade-related mandates, previously issued an order that would prohibit Apple from importing the Series 9 and Ultra 2. The decision came after a US judge ruled in January that Apple infringed on Masimo patents related to the technology used in Apple’s blood oxygen sensing system. The order is currently under presidential review, but Apple is preemptively pausing sales in case the decision is upheld, the company said. The move was first reported by 9to5Mac on Monday, and Apple has since confirmed its decision to CNET.

    The Apple Watch is one of Apple’s most important products, helping push the company’s wearables, home and accessories business to be its second-largest product category behind the iPhone. Apple has previously said the size of its wearables unit alone equals that of a Fortune 150 company.

    Apple will stop selling the Series 9 and Ultra 2 through its website on Dec. 21, while Apple stores will stop selling the watches on Dec. 24.

    “Apple’s teams work tirelessly to create products and services that empower users with industry-leading health, wellness, and safety features,” the company said in a statement to CNET. “Apple strongly disagrees with the order and is pursuing a range of legal and technical options to ensure that [the] Apple Watch is available to customers.”

    The company added that it will “continue to take all measures to return [the] Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the U.S. as soon as possible,” if the order stands.

    Apple’s pause of Apple Watch sales comes during the critical holiday shopping season. Smartwatches were among the top products sold during the Black Friday period, according to holiday shopping data from Adobe.

    When the ruling was made in January, Masimo CEO Joe Kiani said the decision “should help restore fairness in the market.”

    Here’s what to know about Apple’s pause in sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2. This story will be updated as we receive more information.

    When will Apple stop selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2?

    Apple will stop selling the Series 9 and Ultra 2 online at noon PT (3 p.m. ET) on Dec. 21, according to Apple. The company says the last day for the pickup and delivery of online orders, as well as in-store sales, will be end of day Dec. 24.

    Can I still buy the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 from other retailers?

    The order affects sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 through Apple specifically. But 9to5Mac points out that the order prohibits Apple from importing these watches and selling them to resellers, which means they may only be available through other retailers for a limited time.

    However, the order only applies to sales in the US, meaning you should still be able to purchase the Series 9 and Ultra 2 abroad.

    Best Buy told CNET it will continue selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the US, although it has not yet responded to a follow-up question clarifying whether that will still be the case after Dec. 25, which is when the presidential review period ends.

    Which Apple Watch models are impacted?

    The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are the only models affected. Since the legal dispute involves the blood oxygen sensing tech used in the Apple Watch, the Apple Watch SE will continue to be sold as usual. The Apple Watch SE is the lower-end model in Apple’s lineup, meaning it’s missing some health tracking features like blood oxygen sensing and the ability to take an ECG.

    Current Apple Watches with blood oxygen monitoring, which includes any non-SE models starting with the Series 6, also won’t be affected.

    What is Masimo and why is Apple pausing sales?

    Masimo is a medical technology company that creates professional and consumer health products, including a smartwatch called the Masimo W1. The sales pause is the latest development in an ongoing legal dispute between Apple and Masimo, in which the latter accused Apple of infringing on its pulse oximeter patents.

    What happens next?

    The presidential review period ends on Dec. 25, so we’re expecting to learn more about whether the import ban will stand after that deadline. Apple also plans to appeal the ITC’s decision to the federal circuit, the company says.

    It’s rare for an order like this to be vetoed, says Rochelle Dreyfuss, Professor of Law Emerita at the New York University School of Law. But it’s happened before, specifically in 2013 when the Obama administration vetoed a ban that would have blocked the sale of certain older iPhone and iPad models in the US after the ITC found that Apple had infringed on Samsung patents.

    The Apple Watch is a health product, which could work in Apple’s favor when it comes to the presidential review process, says Dreyfuss. But there are also plenty of other products that offer blood oxygen monitoring, which is the specific function at the heart of the legal dispute.

    “Are there other industries that provide exactly the same service? So can Americans actually get that product?,” she said. “That’s something that the industry has already decided against Apple…So this would be the president sort of interfering with that decision.”

    If I can’t buy an Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2, what are my alternatives?

    It’s worth waiting to see what happens after the presidential review process before making any decisions. Those with an iPhone that just want a smartwatch for tracking activity, workouts and sleep should consider the $249 Apple Watch SE. While that watch lacks ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, it can still provide notifications for high and low heart rates and irregular heart rhythms.

    The Apple Watch SE is the best choice for those who are most comfortable in Apple’s ecosystem, but there are also other options that work across iPhone and Android, like the Fitbit Versa 4 and Garmin Venu 3.

    But again, if your heart is set on the Series 9 or Ultra 2 and you aren’t in a position to buy one right now, it’s worth waiting to see whether the ITC’s order stands before making a decision.

  • Best VPN for Travel

    Updated Dec. 18, 20235:05 a.m. PT

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    Written by Moe Long
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    Moe Long Senior Editor
    Moe enjoys making technical content digestible and fun. As a writer and editor for over a decade, he has bylines at MakeUseOf, WhistleOut, TechBeacon, DZone, Tech Up Your Life, and Electromaker. When he’s not hammering away at the keyboard, Moe enjoys spending time with his partner and dog, listening to vinyl, and watching film.
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    VPNs Tested

    We intensively test each VPN, making sure it meets our standards for privacy, speed and usability. How we test VPNs

    About VPNs for travel

    A virtual private network (VPN) masks your IP address, which, like a digital version of your home address, provides information about your physical location. VPNs fulfill various needs, including bolstering privacy, unblocking geographically protected content and circumventing bandwidth throttling. That suite of features makes them particularly useful services when traveling. Whether you want to stream region-restricted movies and shows while traveling, log into your online banking app from abroad without triggering a CAPTCHA or add an extra layer of protection on public Wi-Fi, a VPN is essential for travel.

    Here at CNET, we’ve thoroughly assessed dozens of VPNs, running speed tests, checking for DNS leaks, streaming videos and comparing prices to analyze value. When rounding up the top travel VPNs, we primarily focused on each provider’s server locations by number of countries and total options. However, we also heavily considered privacy features, device compatibility and general performance. Let’s dive into the best VPNs for travel to keep you connected wherever you roam.

    What is the best VPN for travel?

    ExpressVPN Surfshark PIA NordVPN IPVanish ProtonVPN
    Number of servers 3,000 3,200 35,000 5,000 2,200 2,700
    Number of countries 105 100 91 60 52 69

    ExpressVPN is the best VPN for travel overall, with over 3,000 servers in more than 105 countries. While some competitors include more connection locations, Express trounces its rivals with generous global options. Surfshark is an excellent value VPN provider, with a terrific feature set and 3,200 servers in over 100 countries. Private Internet Access (PIA) works well for security-minded users on a budget, with its whopping 35,000 servers peppered throughout 91 international spots.

    Other VPNs we tested

    CyberGhost

    With 10,322 servers spanning 100 countries, CyberGhost offers loads of choices for international travel. It’s decent for streaming from Netflix, BBC iPlayer and other sites. However, you’ll need to use specific servers optimized for streaming — ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark don’t require specialized servers for geo-unblocking. CyberGhost remains wallet-friendly at $13 per month, $42 every six months or $57 total for 26 months of service (you’re billed annually after 24 months of service on its two-year plan).

    But CyberGhost lacks advanced privacy features like obfuscation, which makes it more difficult to determine that you’re using a VPN. Obfuscated servers could be useful when running a VPN at school, work or in a country where virtual private networks are frowned upon. Moreover, its high internet speed loss isn’t ideal for demanding applications like 4K streaming or gaming. CyberGhost does provide some useful features, including a kill switch, which shuts off your internet if your VPN gets disconnected and split tunneling for selectively choosing some apps, but not all to route through your VPN. All told, CyberGhost is acceptable for casual use like streaming videos or web browsing, and its exhaustive server network is particularly well-suited to travel. However, its uneven speed loss and middle-of-the-road privacy features mean you’ve got better choices.

    Read our CyberGhost review.

    Hotspot Shield

    Sporting over 3,200 servers in 80-plus countries, Hotspot Shield works well enough for globe-trotting. We like its reasonable 26% average speed loss and excellent streaming support. Still, its lackluster pricing of $13 per month or $96 annually runs you more than faster, more secure VPNs such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN and Surfshark. Because Hotspot Shield is based in the US — part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance — it’s not great for privacy-concerned users. Likewise, its closed-source Hydra Catapult VPN protocol and unnecessary data collection give us pause in recommending it over other options, particularly when you can spend less money to get a faster VPN with better privacy.

    Read our Hotspot Shield Review.

    How we test VPNs for travel

    While I couldn’t use this article as an excuse to travel extensively, I have country-hopped regularly — with notable stints in the UK, Peru and Sierra Leone. On a trip to Rome in 2019, I downloaded a VPN on my laptop and Android phone before leaving so I could stream Netflix from the hotel and access my Gmail without triggering a security alert (at the time, I was using VPN Unlimited, although I’ve since switched to ExpressVPN). To select the best VPNs for travel, we rigorously assessed dozens of providers by running speed tests, checking for DNS leaks, poring over terms of service, using apps and streaming videos. We researched VPN provider server networks, factoring in the overall number and country locations, which dictate whether a virtual private network is suitable for globe-trotting.

    Why you should use a VPN for travel

    A VPN makes a great travel companion thanks to its privacy features and geographic unblocking. Since a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, it protects your data to a degree from others on a public Wi-Fi network seeking unencrypted data. Websites you visit don’t see your actual IP address and instead view an IP given to you by your VPN software, making it harder to view personal information such as your physical location or online activity. But you’re still susceptible to malware, viruses and phishing attacks, so keep in mind that a VPN isn’t an antivirus software replacement.

    VPNs can also spoof apps and internet-connected services like websites into thinking you’re located in a different region. For example, you might be on holiday in the UK but want to access your Gmail without triggering a security login. Or perhaps you’d like to stream a movie only available on US Netflix while in Canada. Using a VPN, you can make it appear like you’re in a different city or even country. Whether for entertainment purposes or bypassing CAPTCHAs, VPNs can circumvent location restrictions.

    Factors to consider in a VPN for travel

    There’s a lot to think about when selecting a VPN for travel. Leveraging our years of expertise in the VPN space coupled with what you’ll need when traveling, here’s what to look for:

    Server network

    Specifically for travel, you’ll want a large VPN server network. While more overall connectivity options are beneficial, you’ll also want plenty of countries if you plan on any international travel. Many servers in a smaller handful of countries might work if you only travel to one of those spots. But for regular international adventures, greater country choice comes in handy.

    Privacy

    VPNs add a layer of protection by encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address, making it harder for cyber attackers to access your browsing data. When traveling, you’ll likely use open wireless networks at an airport terminal, in the hotel lobby or at a coffee shop, but a VPN protects your data from eavesdropping, whether by cyber criminals or snooping ISPs.

    Device compatibility

    You’ll want a VPN that runs on the gadgets you’re bringing on your trip. Make a list of the devices you want to bring along with a VPN installed and ensure your provider has apps for those electronics. Luckily, most providers offer solid Windows, MacOS, Android and iPhone apps. While many offer Linux VPN apps, only a few feature a graphical user interface, which is more beginner-friendly than a command-line interface. If you want to tote your Linux laptop or a Steam Deck along, look for a VPN with a Linux GUI app. Although most folks don’t travel with streaming devices, you might tote along a Fire Stick, Android TV box or Apple TV for your hotel room.

    Speed

    All VPNs throttle your internet upload and download speeds somewhat, but the fastest options drop your connectivity by an average loss of only 10% to 20%. Especially if you’re performing internet-intensive tasks like streaming video in 4K, Zooming for work, gaming or uploading YouTube videos, you’ll want a fast VPN. Even if you aren’t, reliable internet speeds are great for a better experience checking your email and browsing the web.

    Streaming support

    Aside from privacy, many people use VPNs to unblock region-restricted content. For instance, you can use a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer — normally available only in the UK — from other countries, like the US. Similarly, a VPN is useful when traveling. If you’re on holiday in a foreign country but want to access Netflix libraries from your home country, a VPN makes that possible. Check which VPNs unblock the streaming services you want to watch from abroad.

    Price

    VPNs range from around $13 a month to about $90 annually. Generally, you’ll get a discount by paying for a year or more of service upfront. However, we don’t recommend shelling out for more than 12 months at a time. While the VPN you pick might initially be fast, secure and excellent for streaming, it could get acquired by a shady company, suffer a data breach or get slower during a year. Thus, we suggest sticking to an annual plan for the best value and the least risk.

    Best travel VPN FAQs

  • Bag This Last-Minute Apple Watch Ultra 2 Holiday Deal Before It’s Gone

    Bag This Last-Minute Apple Watch Ultra 2 Holiday Deal Before It’s Gone

    The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is easily one of the best smartwatches on the market — and it’s also one of the most costly. It might well be worth every penny, but that doesn’t mean that you have to actually pay all of them. Though the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has only been on the market for a few months, Amazon is already selling it at a deep, deep discount.

    Right now, you can slap the Apple Watch Ultra 2 on your wrist — or a lucky loved one’s — for just $699 so long as you remember to clip the onscreen coupon before you add it to your cart. The only catch? This price is only available on select band style and size configurations, such as the small/medium Trail Loop in blue/black and the small Alpine Loop in olive, so keep an eye on the price and coupon discount as you click through the options for the biggest discount.

    The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the latest and greatest wearable the company offers. It has a huge 49mm display and high-precision GPS for use when you’re out in the wilderness, or when just want reliable data for your workouts. The extra-long battery life ensures you get multiple days from a single charge, and the rugged titanium case is strong yet light, perfect for your next adventure. You also get access to all the usual features, including fitness and activity tracking, heart rate monitoring and more.

    Not sure whether an Apple Watch Ultra 2 is for you? Don’t worry if that big, rugged look doesn’t suit you: There are often plenty of Apple Watch Series 9 deals to be had, too.

  • You Can Easily Track Flights in iMessage on Your iPhone This Holiday Season. Here’s How

    You Can Easily Track Flights in iMessage on Your iPhone This Holiday Season. Here’s How

    More than 2.8 million people are expected to fly each day during the holidays this year, according to Airlines for America, the industry trade organization and lobbying group for popular US airlines. That’s a 16% increase from last year, and with so many people traveling, you can expect more traffic on the highways and longer lines at the airport.

    And that’s not to mention delays and cancellations you might have to deal with.

    Obviously, there’s no way to predict these things, but what you can do is better monitor your flight, or any flight really, as frequently as possible, to keep a close eye on delays, cancellations or gate changes.

    Read more: What to Do if Your Flight Is Canceled or Delayed

    Though you can get this flight information from airline apps on your phone or by looking at a flight information display at the airport, there’s an easier way, which doesn’t involve downloading anything or having to walk anywhere.

    All the information you need to track your flight status can be found right on your iPhone — inside your text messages.

    How to track your flight by text message on your iPhone

    Before we start, there are a few prerequisites you must meet:

    • Make sure iMessage is enabled (it doesn’t work with SMS/MMS).
    • You’ll need your flight number somewhere in your text messages, whether you’ve sent that information to someone (even yourself) or it’s been sent to you.
    • The flight number must be sent in this format: [Airline] [Flight number], for example, American Airlines 9707.

    Launch the native Messages texting app on your iPhone and open the text message thread that contains your flight information. You’ll know the flight tracker feature works when the text with the flight information appears underlined, which means it’s actionable and you can tap on it.

    However, if your flight is still several months away or it’s already passed, you might see a message that says, “Flight information unavailable.” You might also see another flight that’s not yours because airlines recycle flight numbers.

    Access the hidden flight tracker using these codes

    Although the airline name/flight number format highlighted above is the best way to go, there are other texting options that will lead you to the same result. So let’s say we stick with American Airlines 9707, other options that may bring up the flight tracker include:

    • AmericanAirlines9707 (no spaces)
    • AmericanAirlines 9707 (only one space)
    • AA9707 (airline name is abbreviated and no space)
    • AA 9707 (abbreviated and space)

    I would suggest you keep the airline name spelled out completely and add a space between the two pieces of information — like in the previous section — because for some airlines these alternative options may not work.

    Flight code in text message

    Track your flight in real time: View flight status, delays and baggage claim

    Once everything is set, tap on the flight information in your text messages. If the feature works correctly, you should see the following two options appear in a quick-action menu:

    • Preview Flight: View the flight’s details. Tap this if you want to view more information about the flight.
    • Copy Flight Code: Copy the flight code to your clipboard (in case you want to send your flight details to someone else via text or email).

    If you select Preview Flight, at the top of the window, you’ll see the best part of this feature: a real-time flight tracker map. A line will connect the two destinations, and a tiny airplane will move between them, indicating where the flight is at that exact moment.

    Underneath the map, you’ll see important flight information:

    • Airline name and flight number
    • Flight status (arriving on time, delayed, canceled, etc.)
    • Terminal and gate numbers (for arrival and departure)
    • Arrival and departure time
    • Flight duration
    • Baggage claim (the number of the baggage carousel)

    If you swipe left on the bottom half of the flight tracker, you can switch between flights, but only if there’s a return flight.

    Your iPhone comes with many hidden features, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Check out iOS 17 hidden features and tricks you didn’t know you needed and the hidden information in your iPhone photos that might be giving away your location.