June 12, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

The article discusses the differences between Apple Music and Spotify, highlighting areas such as music discovery, device compatibility, social features, interface design, library management, audio quality, and subscription pricing. Spotify's music discovery capabilities are driven by sophisticated algorithms, providing a personalized listening experience. The platform also excels in cross-platform compatibility, social features, and interface design. In contrast, Apple Music is optimized for Apple's ecosystem and offers limited social functionality. While both platforms deliver high-quality audio, Apple Music provides lossless audio and spatial audio with Dolby Atmos. Spotify offers a free, ad-supported tier, allowing users to explore the platform without committing to a paid plan. Overall, Spotify's adaptability and focus on user experience make it a compelling choice for many, offering greater flexibility and convenience. The article concludes that switching from Apple Music to Spotify may provide a fresh and engaging way to enjoy music, with Spotify's features catering to a wide range of user needs and preferences.

June 12, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

Apple's iOS 26 introduces significant updates to its Shortcuts app, utilizing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity. The app streamlines task management, automates workflows, and personalizes the user experience. With predictive functionality, the app anticipates user needs, offering tailored suggestions and automating repetitive tasks. The integration of AI enables dynamic workflows that adapt to variables such as location and time of day. The updated Shortcuts app integrates deeply with native Apple tools and third-party applications, allowing for consolidated task management and reduced distractions. Personalization is a key feature, with the AI learning from user interactions and refining suggestions over time. The app's ability to handle routine tasks frees up mental bandwidth, allowing users to focus on high-priority activities. iOS 26 emphasizes usability, with a refined interface and natural language processing, making automation accessible to users of all technical skill levels. The advancements in iOS 26 represent a significant leap forward in digital productivity, enabling users to work more efficiently and stay ahead.

June 12, 2025 • By ANNE D'INNOCENZIO AP retail writer

US business owners claim that President Donald Trump's unpredictable trade policies are stifling American innovation. Companies such as Learning Resources, Made Plus, and Dorai Home have put research and development on the backseat to focus on recalculating budgets, negotiating with vendors, and tracking shipments due to the shifting tariff environment. This has led to delayed product launches, layoffs, and reduced investments in new products. Experts warn that the on-again-off-again tariffs may have more enduring consequences, rewiring markets and upending business strategies. Small companies, which drive innovation and create jobs, are under strain, spending more time on cutting costs and less time on thinking of their next big ideas. In contrast, big companies like Google parent Alphabet are forging on with their innovation plans, with a planned $75 billion spend on capital expenditures this year.

June 12, 2025 • By Julian Horsey

The o3 Pro, a cutting-edge device, has successfully passed Apple's Illusion of Thinking test, demonstrating its ability to think faster and adapt to complex scenarios in real-time. This achievement showcases the device's advanced cognitive performance, setting new benchmarks in high-performance technology. The o3 Pro's success highlights its ability to handle nuanced, resource-intensive tasks with precision, bridging the gap between human cognition and machine intelligence. Its state-of-the-art hardware and intelligent software enable seamless multitasking, making it an ideal choice for professionals and researchers. The device's focus on efficiency also ensures sustainable and environmentally conscious technology, reducing energy consumption and extending its lifespan. Overall, the o3 Pro's exceptional performance signifies a shift in technological innovation, prioritizing both performance and efficiency, and setting a precedent for future devices.

June 12, 2025 • By BrieAnna J. Frank, USA TODAY

Brian Zidian Jr. stayed up until 2 a.m. drafting an email to PBS, asking how he could help the network amid threats to its federal funding. "I want PBS to be around forever, the 21-year-old wrote. …

June 12, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

Apple's iPhone Contact Poster feature allows users to customize their contact information with a personalized poster. A video from Apple guides users through the setup process, which is designed to be intuitive. The feature offers various customization options, including design elements, to create a unique and stylish poster. To create an effective poster, users should consider making it visually appealing, functional, and consistent with their personality. The Contact Poster integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, and is available on iPhones running iOS 17 or later. However, compatibility with non-Apple platforms may be limited.

June 12, 2025 • By Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report

T-Apex has introduced Tenniix, an AI-powered tennis robot that provides professional training to players of all levels. Weighing 15 pounds, Tenniix serves balls at speeds of up to 75 mph and spins reaching 5,000 RPM. It has been trained on 8,000 hours of professional tennis data, allowing it to adjust shots based on a player's position and style. Tenniix offers various training modes, over 1,000 drills, and three skill levels, making it a flexible and engaging way to train. The robot can be controlled using voice commands, gestures, or a smartphone app, and it provides instant feedback on shots. Tenniix is available in three models, priced at $699, $999, and $1,499, and comes with a one-year warranty and reliable customer service.

June 12, 2025 • By Ajay Kumar

The Dash Mini Waffle Maker is a compact and affordable kitchen appliance that can be used to make keto waffles, also known as "chaffles." It is available for $10 at Amazon and Target. The device is easy to use, clean, and store, making it a great option for those with limited countertop space. It can produce perfectly sized, round 4-inch waffles in minutes and comes in a variety of color options. The Dash Mini Waffle Maker is a great gift idea for Father's Day or graduation, and it's also a useful tool for home chefs looking to make keto or traditional waffles.

June 12, 2025 • By Julian Horsey

Here's a concise summary of the article: You can build a gaming PC that outperforms the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 for around $450, using AMD's budget-friendly Ryzen CPUs and Radeon GPUs. This custom-built PC offers flexibility, upgradeability, and access to a vast library of PC games. With AMD components, you can achieve a balance between affordability and capability. A basic AMD gaming PC build, including a Ryzen 5 processor, entry-level Radeon GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 500GB SSD, can be assembled for approximately $450, matching the price of the Switch 2. This setup provides several key advantages, including adaptability to your needs and a more personalized experience. By following a straightforward assembly process and considering practical tips, you can build a gaming PC that maximizes performance while staying within your budget.

June 12, 2025 • By Julian Horsey

Here's a concise summary of the article: Thorium, a naturally occurring metal, could be the key to solving the world's energy crisis. It's abundant, efficient, and safer than traditional nuclear power. Thorium reactors are designed with safety in mind, operating at atmospheric pressure and incorporating passive safety mechanisms. They also produce less nuclear waste with a shorter half-life, making them a more sustainable option. A single ton of thorium can produce as much energy as 200 tons of uranium or 3.5 million tons of coal. Additionally, thorium is not directly weaponizable, reducing the risk of nuclear proliferation. While there are challenges to widespread adoption, thorium holds immense promise as a cornerstone of sustainable and secure energy production. With international collaboration and supportive policies, thorium could transform the way we power the world, offering a reliable and environmentally responsible solution to energy demands.

June 12, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

The OnePlus Pad 3 has a sleek design, premium materials, and a high-resolution display with vibrant colors. It delivers consistent performance, seamless multitasking, and a long-lasting battery life. The device features an intuitive interface, split-screen multitasking, and customizable shortcuts, making it suitable for productivity and entertainment. With a balance of premium features and affordability, the OnePlus Pad 3 is a strong contender in its category, offering a well-rounded experience for users seeking a reliable and versatile tablet.

June 12, 2025 • By roadcc staff

Here's a concise summary of the article: This week's cycling deals include discounts on various products such as helmets, clothing, shoes, and accessories. Some notable deals include: * Ribble's Ultra Aero SL R bike, now £6,499 (saving £1,500) * 100% sunglasses, starting at £67.99 * Cycliq's Ultimate Bundle, with a £234 saving * Pirelli P Zero Race TLR SL tires, now £39.99 (down from £74.99) * Magicshine Seemee R300 radar rear light, with a 35% discount * Sidi Genius 10 shoes, now £173.90 (down from £259.99) * Ale's Reflective Guscio Jacket, now £59.99 (down from £124.99) * Bell XR Spherical helmet, now £79.99 (over £100 off) * Insta360 X4 action camera bundles, with savings of up to £100 * DT Swiss wheelsets, with discounts of up to 50% off * Boardman ADV 8.9E Adventure Electric Bike, now £1,959.30 (discounted from £2,799) These deals offer significant savings on high-quality cycling products, making it a great time to upgrade or purchase new gear.

June 12, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

Apple's 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) showcased the company's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and user-focused design. The event featured announcements on hardware, software, artificial intelligence, and environmental responsibility. Key highlights include: * The unveiling of Apple's next-generation Apple Silicon chip, which offers significant improvements in computing power and energy efficiency. * Updates to macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS, emphasizing seamless integration across devices. * The introduction of a new AI-powered assistant that provides real-time, context-aware suggestions tailored to individual user behavior. * The use of machine learning algorithms to optimize app performance and resource management. * A suite of tools for developers to simplify app creation and enhance efficiency. * A focus on sustainability, with products made from recycled materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. * New features to enhance user privacy and security, such as on-device data processing and app tracking transparency. * Updates to tools like Universal Control and Continuity Camera to enhance cross-device compatibility. Overall, WWDC 2025 demonstrated Apple's ability to lead the tech industry through innovation and vision, setting a new standard for what technology can achieve.

June 12, 2025 • By zac.kelly@futurenet.com (Zachariah Kelly) , Zachariah Kelly

The author of the article discusses their experience with the Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting its unique features and advantages. They note that the Switch 2 is not just a powerful console, but also a social one, perfect for playing with friends and family. The author's niece, who is 5 years old, was easily entertained by the console, and the author themselves enjoyed playing games with friends using the removable controllers. The Switch 2's portability, tactile controls, and seamless gameplay make it an ideal console for casual and dedicated gamers alike. However, the author also mentions some drawbacks, including the high price, uncomfortable design for adult hands, and limited wireless mouse functionality. They also criticize the dock, which they find too large and cumbersome. Despite these issues, the author concludes that the Nintendo Switch 2 is the ultimate social console, offering a unique gaming experience that sets it apart from other handheld consoles like the Steam Deck and PlayStation Portal. They recommend the Switch 2 for those who can afford it, but also suggest considering the original Switch or Switch OLED for a more budget-friendly option.

June 12, 2025 • By Julian Horsey

Here's a concise summary of the article: The article discusses the importance of understanding Excel formula symbols to unlock the full potential of the software. It highlights 10 essential symbols, including the equals sign, plus and minus signs, asterisk, forward slash, caret, ampersand, colon, and parentheses. These symbols can simplify tasks, reduce errors, and improve efficiency. The article explains how each symbol serves a unique purpose, such as the equals sign initiating formulas, the ampersand simplifying text manipulation, and the colon defining cell ranges. Mastering these symbols and understanding formula syntax can help users work smarter, reduce errors, and streamline processes. By incorporating these symbols into daily Excel tasks, users can improve productivity, manage complex tasks with confidence, and achieve greater accuracy.

June 12, 2025 • By estewart@insider.com (Emily Stewart)

The article discusses the perpetual quest for shortcuts in fitness, with each generation having its own version of quick-fix products. The author tries out an electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) suit, which promises to give the same results as a 4-hour workout in just 25 minutes. However, experts say that the research on such products is limited and often conducted by the companies selling them. Many of these products have marginal benefits at best and are not a substitute for regular physical activity. The article highlights the human desire for shortcuts and the willingness to try new products, even if they don't work. Experts note that the science behind these products is often weak, and the effects are not impressive. For example, electromagnetic body sculpting treatments like Emsculpt have been shown to decrease measurements by only 2.9 millimeters on average. The article also discusses the psychological aspect of fitness, with people often looking for motivation and a sense of accomplishment. However, this motivation often fades quickly, and people are left with a "fitness graveyard" of unused equipment and gadgets. The rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has also led to a desire for miracles in fitness, with people looking for quick fixes rather than adopting healthy habits. Experts warn that these drugs should be accompanied by a healthy diet and exercise routine, as they can lead to muscle loss and other negative effects. Ultimately, the article concludes that fitness cannot be hacked, and that the benefits of exercise require time and effort. The simplest and most effective ways to get fit are often cheap or free, such as going for a walk or lifting weights, but they require a commitment to regular physical activity.