Bloomberg dropped the report on July 28, 2026, and MacRumors confirmed the details the same day: Apple is finally building a real smart home hub, one that pairs a HomePod-style speaker with a 7-inch display and puts Siri’s new AI backbone in charge of it. A refreshed HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV 4K box are reportedly launching alongside it, possibly as soon as October.

Great news for anyone who’s been waiting since the HomePod’s original 2018 debut for Apple to take the smart home category seriously. Less great news for your power strips.

Here’s the thing nobody’s talking about yet. A hub that lives in every room, always listening, always processing, is a different animal from a single speaker parked in the kitchen. MacRumors reports that Apple wants both tabletop and wall-mounted versions, which means most households are looking at three, four, maybe five of these things running continuously. That’s not a minor addition to your setup. That’s a rethink of every outlet in the house.

Most people plan their charging setup the way they plan a junk drawer: reactively. A cable here, a brick there, nothing coordinated. That works fine when you’re charging a phone overnight. It stops working when you’ve got always-on AI hardware drawing power in the living room, the bedroom, and the kitchen simultaneously, plus your existing phones, tablets, and laptops all still competing for the same three outlets behind the couch.

People already budget mental energy around downtime the way they budget money. You plan ahead for a big purchase. You plan ahead for a weekend trip. Someone driving through the middle of the country for a work trip might check https://www.newgamenetwork.com/casinos/oklahoma/ before they leave, not because they’re committing to anything, just because it’s smart to know what’s around before you’re already there. Same logic applies to your house. You don’t want to discover your power situation is inadequate after the hub is mounted on the wall.

What Siri AI Actually Changes About Power Draw

A standard HomePod mini idles at roughly 1-2 watts and spikes briefly during audio playback. That’s negligible. Nobody’s outlet strip has ever struggled with a HomePod mini.

An AI-driven hub is different math entirely. AppleInsider’s coverage of the same report notes Apple has been working through chip upgrades specifically to support on-device Siri AI processing across these new products. On-device inference isn’t free. It’s not going to draw laptop-charger levels of power, but continuous listening plus periodic AI processing pushes these units well past what a dumb speaker ever needed.

Multiply that by the number of rooms you’re planning to put one in. Three hubs at a slightly elevated draw, running 24/7, is a meaningfully different load than one HomePod mini that mostly idles. Add the refreshed Apple TV box, which reportedly gets its own hardware bump, and you’ve got four or five always-on devices instead of one.

None of this trips a breaker. Let’s be clear about that. This isn’t a fire hazard conversation. It’s a convenience and cable-management conversation, and those get ignored until the day you’re staring at an outlet with three things already plugged in and nowhere to put the fourth.

The Cabling Problem Is Worse Than the Wattage Problem

Wattage is the boring part. Cabling is where people actually get burned.

A wall-mounted hub, if that’s the form factor Apple ships, needs power run to wherever you’re mounting it. Kitchens and hallways rarely have outlets at eye level or above the counter, which is exactly where a display-equipped hub makes the most sense. You’re either running an extension cord (ugly, and a tripping hazard if it crosses a walkway) or you’re calling an electrician to add an outlet where one doesn’t exist.

9to5Mac’s reporting suggests Apple is close to finished on all three devices, which means this isn’t a hypothetical two years out. If the October window holds, people are going to be unboxing these before the holidays and immediately hitting the same wall: where does this actually go, and how does it get power there.

Compare this to how home networking gear evolved. Ten years ago, a single router in the living room was fine. Mesh systems changed that, and suddenly people needed outlets in three or four rooms they’d never planned for. We’re about to repeat that exact cycle with AI hubs, except mesh nodes don’t have microphones and 7-inch screens people expect to glance at from across the room, which means placement is far less flexible.

What To Actually Do About It

Skip the extension cord instinct. It’s the path of least resistance and also the thing that looks terrible and degrades fastest under continuous load.

A few things worth doing before the hub actually ships:

• Walk your house and identify the two or three rooms where a hub genuinely makes sense (kitchen, living room, primary bedroom), not every room just because you can.
• Check what’s already plugged into those outlets. If you’re already running a lamp, a phone charger, and a humidifier off one duplex outlet, you’re out of room before the hub even arrives.
• Consider a slim in-wall outlet extender or a properly rated multi-outlet unit with surge protection, not a bargain bin power strip.
• If you’re doing any renovation work this year regardless, this is the moment to ask an electrician about adding a dedicated low-draw outlet at counter height.

Gizmodo’s take on the announcement, after years of false starts on Apple’s home hub ambitions, is that this time feels different because the AI angle gives Apple an actual reason to ship hardware it’s been sitting on. I’d agree with that read. The company doesn’t need a smart display for the sake of a smart display. It needs a physical surface for Siri’s new AI to live on, and that changes the calculus from “nice to have” to “core product line.”

If you’re the kind of household that already has a HomePod mini in three rooms, you’re closer to ready than most. If you’ve got one speaker total and you’re thinking about expanding once the new hub drops, now’s the window to get ahead of the outlet problem instead of solving it in a panic in November.

The Real Lesson From the HomePod mini Refresh

Apple rarely ships hardware refreshes without a reason, and the timing here (alongside a new Apple TV box) suggests this is a genuine platform push, not a minor spec bump. For anyone who bought into the smart home ecosystem early and got burned by half-finished HomeKit support, this is the moment to actually plan a setup instead of bolting devices on as they arrive.

The households that get the most out of this rollout won’t be the ones who buy every device the day it ships. They’ll be the ones who spent twenty minutes this month figuring out where power actually needs to go, and made sure the outlets could handle it before the boxes showed up.

For more on how gaming and entertainment tech is evolving on Apple hardware, see our piece on browser-based gaming becoming more popular on Apple devices, and our breakdown of the rise of online gaming as a new era in entertainment.

No one will argue that macOS has an excellent reputation. Apple’s operating system is known for its tight restrictions and reliability. However, add-ons are in a gray area, potentially vulnerable to attack. Therefore, all Apple users should pay attention to browser extension security.

Add-ons run inside Safari, Firefox, or Chrome. They often access information you type, click, or copy. Mac devices are certainly well-protected. However, this means little if a new malicious program is surreptitiously reading the contents of your clipboard.

Our guide will show you what can actually impact browser extension security. You’ll learn which tools to trust and how to avoid mistakes in the future.

Why Add-ons Can Be a Hidden Security Threat

These are small programs. They get installed with a single click and rarely get a second look afterward. That’s also the problem. A calendar widget or coupon finder can request permission to read and change data on every website you visit. So, most users just hit accept without reading the fine print.

On Mac, Apple applies a strict Safari extension review process before those reach the App Store. However, Chrome and Firefox add-ons, by contrast, are far more open. Anyone can publish one, and the Chrome Web Store has had repeated waves of malicious listings slip through. Chrome extension permissions are easy to check, but few users actually check them. Firefox add-on privacy policies vary a lot from developer to developer. So it pays to read them rather than assume.

Good browser extension security starts with understanding these differences between Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome.

Check Permissions Before You Install Something Dangerous

A few habits go a long way here.

• Open Chrome extension permissions page before installing the program.
• Find the latest reviews that describe strange behaviors, pop-ups, or redirects.
• Ask whether the tool really needs access to all websites.
• Learn all the information about the developer, like name and history.
• Delete programs you don’t need.

Safari keeps things simpler than Chrome, through System Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Extensions. Also, match the permission to the function. A screenshot tool doesn’t need to read your browsing history.

Remember, this kind of check is the foundation of solid browser extension security on any Mac.

Browser Extension Security: What Add-ons Are Worth Using

You don’t have to panic or forget about programs you really need. Remember, not every addition to your Google Chrome or Mozilla is a threat. Many of them are useful and improve privacy and workflow. Also, a few categories stand out for Mac users who care about their setup.

Firstly, discover password manager extensions. There are cool tools like 1Password and Bitwarden. They integrate seamlessly with Safari and Chrome. Such add-ons reduce password reuse. Passwords are still a huge risk factor for account takeovers.

Secondly, tracking blocker efficacy varies more than most people assume. Some programs block obvious ad trackers but miss fingerprint scripts entirely. However, uBlock Origin has a solid reputation. It remains relatively lightweight compared to the privacy software packages included with existing systems. 

Browser sandboxing basics also matter more than people realize. Modern browsers isolate each tab and add-on process to some degree. However, that sandbox isn’t bulletproof. Programs with broad permissions can still cross that isolation. Therefore, it is better to use well-tested, actively supported tools that significantly reduce this risk.

Thirdly, for anyone auditing a longer list, browser extension audit tools can help. Built-in browser reports can also flag tools with unusually broad access. So you should develop the habit of conducting such an audit every few months. 

It’s a small habit, but it strengthens browser extension security that is good in general.

Some Common Risks You May Not Think About

Even though malicious extension detection becomes better, it still needs improvement. Stores typically pull bad products after users report problems, not before. So, there’s a window, sometimes weeks long, where a compromised product stays live.

The most common risks include:

1. Products that get sold to new owners who quietly inject ad trackers or malware.
2. Fake update prompts that request new, broader permissions.
3. Clipboard hijacks, especially in tools tied to crypto wallets.
4. Data collection disguised as usage analytics. 
5. Programs bundled with free software installers that nobody reads carefully.

Self-hosted extension alternatives gain traction for users who want more control. If you create or host your own script through something like Tampermonkey, this avoids third-party servers entirely. However, it does require more technical comfort than the average user has.

Please, weigh these risks as part of your browser extension security.

Proxy Browser Extension: Strengthen Network Security Outside the Browser

Usually, browser extension security covers what happens on your device. However, network-level protection matters just as much. This is where a proxy browser extension can add a useful layer. It masks your real IP address and makes cross-site tracking harder for advertisers.

Many users pair add-ons with a proxy for network protection to ensure they have more consistent coverage. A dedicated IP proxy service works alongside your existing add-ons rather than replacing them. It handles IP address protection at the network level. That complements whatever privacy tools you’re already running inside Mozilla or Google Chrome itself.

Combine both layers and give your browser extension security setup real depth.

Cybersecurity Tips for Home Users

A short checklist is often more useful than a long lecture. These cybersecurity tips for home users apply whether you’re on a MacBook, an iMac, or switching between both.

• Update macOS and your browser regularly, not just when prompted twice.
• Review installed add-ons quarterly and remove anything unused.
• Use a password manager instead of saved passwords alone.
• Avoid installing tools from unofficial sources or direct download links.
• Enable two factor authentication anywhere it’s offered.

None of this requires deep technical knowledge. It just requires a bit of routine maintenance. So, think of it like checking your car’s oil or clearing out old files.

Conclusions

Mac buyers often think their platform takes care of security on its own. However, this is the most common mistake Apple device owners make.

Yes, the system does handle most tasks. However, add-ons still pose a risk. To avoid being ensnared by unscrupulous developers, it’s worth doing a little research before you install anything. Also, regularly clean out apps and make smart privacy choices online.

The main thing is not to rely on anyone else. Security should be considered part of everyday life.

With a four-leg design, four powerful motors, a 660-pound weight capacity, and outstanding customization options, the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max delivers one of the most stable and capable standing desk experiences available.

FlexiSpot is a company that has been focused on ergonomic furniture since 2016. While they’re best known for their standing desks, they also make office chairs, desk converters, beds, recliners, and other products designed to create more comfortable workspaces. Their goal is to help people stay healthier and more productive by making it easy to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. Over the years, FlexiSpot has grown into a well-known brand with products sold in more than 80 countries, making it one of the more recognizable names in the ergonomic furniture market.

For this review, I have the E7 Plus Max Standing Desk with the 71″ x 30″ Rubberwood Espresso desktop, and it definitely makes a strong first impression. The 1.57-inch thick solid rubberwood top gives the desk a premium feel, while the dark Espresso finish adds a clean, modern look that fits well in just about any office or gaming setup. If Espresso isn’t your style, FlexiSpot also offers the Rubberwood top in Natural, Walnut, and Black finishes. Beyond Rubberwood, you can also choose from Laminate, Bamboo, Black Walnut Veneer, Black Walnut Wood, White Oak (Made in the EU), Solid Wood (Made in the USA), and even specialty options like Laminate Tabletops with Drawers, Ergo Series, and Gaming Series desktops.

The E7 Plus Max is designed for larger workstations and features a heavy-duty four-leg steel frame with a powerful four-motor lifting system and three-stage lifting columns. Together, they provide exceptional stability throughout the entire height range while also supporting heavier setups. The desk adjusts from 25.8 inches to 51.6 inches, making it suitable for a wide variety of sitting and standing positions. The frame is also adjustable in width from 43.3 to 74.8 inches and supports desktops ranging from 47.2 to 94.5 inches long and 24 to 35.4 inches wide, making it easy to build anything from a simple home office to a large workstation with multiple displays.

FlexiSpot also includes programmable height presets and anti-collision technology for added convenience and safety. The frame supports up to 660 pounds, making it one of the strongest standing desks currently available. Whether you’re running multiple monitors, studio speakers, a desktop PC, or other heavy equipment, this desk is built to handle it all while remaining impressively stable, even at its maximum height. One of the things I like is how customizable the desk is. Between the different desktop materials, finishes, and size options, it’s easy to configure a setup that fits your workspace and personal style.

Unboxing and Setup

The E7 Plus Max ships in three separate boxes. One contains the desktop itself, while the other two contain the frame, legs, motors, and other hardware. One thing I didn’t really appreciate until it arrived was just how substantial this desk is. The frame alone ships in two boxes weighing over 70 pounds each, so before you even add the desktop, you’re already dealing with a lot of weight. Because I chose the largest 71″ x 30″ desktop, everything was pretty heavy and a bit awkward to move around by myself. I definitely recommend having at least one other person help carry everything where it needs to go. Fortunately, my mom was able to help me move everything inside and get it into my office.

From start to finish, assembly took us around two hours. Overall, the instructions were mostly clear and easy to follow, although there were a few areas that could definitely be improved. One thing to note is that FlexiSpot doesn’t include every tool you’ll need. You’ll need to provide your own Phillips screwdriver, and the directions say to a drill on hand as well. While most of the holes are pre-drilled, many of the screws require a good amount of force to install.

For my setup, I used a Milwaukee hex bit drill with both Phillips and Allen bit attachments, and it made the installation process much faster. There are quite a few screws throughout the assembly, and several need to be installed, removed, and reinstalled as you progress through the instructions. Doing everything by hand would have taken considerably longer.

There were also a couple of spots in the instructions that caused some confusion. In Step 3, there’s a triangle icon next to the hardware that we initially thought meant installing additional screws. It actually refers to screws that were already pre-installed on the frame. It took us a while to figure that out, and I think that section could be explained much more clearly.

The other issue I ran into was during Step 7 when installing the control box. My desktop didn’t have the pre-drilled holes shown in the instructions, so I wasn’t comfortable drilling directly into the underside of the desktop myself, even though the top is fairly thick. Instead, I used some heavy-duty double-sided mounting tape that I already had. Once the magnetic cover was installed over everything, it felt very secure, and I haven’t had any concerns about it moving around.

Speaking of the magnetic cover, that was another area where the instructions could use some improvement. It took us a few minutes to figure out the correct orientation because the guide doesn’t clearly show how it should be positioned. We eventually figured it out, but I think adding a couple of arrows or orientation stickers would make installation much easier for first-time users.

Once everything was assembled, keep in mind that the desk becomes significantly heavier. Moving it into its final position is almost certainly going to be a two-person job, especially if you choose one of the larger solid wood desktops like I did.

Overall Use

After getting everything assembled and dialed in, here’s a look at my workspace before and after installing the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max. The larger desktop, improved stability, and clean design completely transformed my office. It gave me more room for both work and gaming while also making the entire setup feel much more organized. Going from my old desk to the E7 Plus Max has been one of the biggest upgrades I’ve made to my workspace.

Before installing the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max (left) and my completed setup after the upgrade (right).

I’ve now been using the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max every night for both work and gaming, and it’s quickly become the centerpiece of my office. My setup consists of two 32-inch curved monitors mounted on monitor arms, my MacBook Air, desktop speakers, a REDMAGIC ASTRA, and all of my other everyday accessories. Even with all of that weight on the desk, it never feels unstable. Whether I’m typing, gaming, adjusting my monitors, or docking my MacBook Air to get some work done, there is very little movement, which is impressive considering how much equipment I have sitting on it.

One of my favorite features is the programmable height presets. I have one preset saved for sitting and another for standing, so switching between the two only takes a single button press. The four motors are smooth, surprisingly quiet, and move the desk at a comfortable speed without feeling jerky. It’s one of those features that you don’t think much about until you start using it every day, and now I couldn’t imagine going back to manually adjusting a desk.

Another thing I really like is the amount of clearance underneath the desk. When it’s in my standing preset, my entire office chair slides completely underneath the desk without hitting the frame or getting in the way. It keeps my office looking much cleaner and gives me plenty of room to move around when I’m standing.

Cable management was another project I wanted to tackle during my setup. FlexiSpot does offer its own cable management accessories, but I didn’t have any for this review. Instead, I used a cable management basket from Amazon along with several zip ties to route everything neatly underneath the desk. With two monitors, monitor arms, speakers, my MacBook Air dock, and several other devices, there are a lot of cables to deal with. Taking the time to organize them made a huge difference and kept everything from looking like a mess of spaghetti wires hanging below the desk. I still think FlexiSpot’s cable management accessories would make a great addition for anyone buying this desk.

If I had one complaint, it would be the USB port built into the control panel. While it’s convenient to have a charging port there, it’s still a USB-A port. In 2026, I would have preferred to see FlexiSpot upgrade it to USB-C since that’s what most modern phones, tablets, and accessories use today. It’s a small complaint and certainly not a dealbreaker, but it would make the desk feel a little more future-proof.

Overall, I’ve been extremely happy with the E7 Plus Max. Between the exceptional stability, smooth lifting system, generous desktop space, and highly customizable design, it’s been a fantastic upgrade to my workspace. Whether I’m writing reviews for MacSources on my MacBook Air, working from my Mac Studio, or spending the evening playing Call of Duty: Mobile, this desk has handled everything I’ve thrown at it without any issues. It has easily become one of my favorite additions to my office.

Conclusion

After spending time with the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max, it’s easy to see why it has become one of the company’s flagship standing desks. The combination of outstanding stability, premium desktop options, a massive weight capacity, and smooth four-motor lifting system makes it feel like a desk that’s built to last for years. Once assembled, it inspires confidence whether you’re using it for work, gaming, or a combination of both.

While I do think the instructions could be improved in a few areas, and I would have liked to see the USB-A charging port replaced with a more modern USB-C port, neither issue takes away from the overall experience. Assembly is something you’ll only do once, and after that, you’re left with an incredibly solid desk that performs exactly as you’d expect.

If you’re looking for a standing desk that can easily support multiple monitors, heavier equipment, and a large desktop while remaining rock solid at any height, the E7 Plus Max is an excellent choice. It isn’t the cheapest standing desk on the market, but the build quality, customization options, and everyday usability help justify the premium price. After using it every day for both work and gaming, I can confidently say it’s one of the best standing desks I’ve had the opportunity to use.

For more information, visit Flexispot.com

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W combines high-speed GaN charging, a built-in retractable USB-C cable, smart monitoring, and multi-device support into a premium travel-friendly charger.

In the past few years, I’ve really enjoyed using high-powered, advanced power adapters. Many of them come with a display built-in that show you how much power output is occuring while you charge and I really like to monitor that activity. UGREEN has been one of my favorite charging device companies and now they are releasing the Nexode Pro 160W Charger…with a Retractable Cable! That is an accessory that makes the premium charger even more convenient.

About the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is a premium GaN charger designed for users who regularly carry multiple high-powered devices. Combining a compact form factor with up to 160W of total output, it can charge everything from laptops and tablets to smartphones and accessories from a single power adapter.

One of its standout features is the integrated retractable USB-C cable, which extends up to 27.6 inches and eliminates the need to carry an extra charging cable for many situations. The charger also includes three USB-C ports and one USB-A port, allowing up to four devices to be charged simultaneously.

Unlike traditional chargers, the Nexode Pro features a built-in smart display that provides real-time information including power output, charging protocols, voltage, current, and temperature. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity through the UgreenConnect app, enabling remote power management, safety controls, and over-the-air firmware updates.

Powered by UGREEN’s GaNInfinity™ technology and Thermal Guard™ safety system, the Nexode Pro is designed to deliver efficient, high-speed charging while continuously monitoring temperatures and intelligently distributing power between connected devices.

Features & Specs

• Up to 160W total power output
• Built-in 27.6-inch (70 cm) retractable USB-C cable with eight adjustable lengths
• Up to 140W output from the integrated USB-C cable
• Up to 140W output from the USB-C1 port
• Charge up to four devices simultaneously
• 3 × USB-C ports and 1 × USB-A port
• Built-in smart display with real-time charging information
• Displays total output, per-port wattage, voltage, current, charging protocol, temperature, and charger mode
• GaNInfinity™ technology for efficient, compact charging
• Thermal Guard™ temperature monitoring with checks up to 200 times per second
• Intelligent SmartCharge Power Distribution for optimized power allocation
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity through the UgreenConnect app
• Remote power management and safety shutdown controls
• Over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates
• Designed to charge laptops, tablets, smartphones, handheld gaming devices, and accessories from a single charger

Pricing & Availability

The list price of the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger is $149.99 from ugreen.com and Amazon.

User Experience

The first thing I noticed when I took the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger out of the box was just how premium it felt. UGREEN has consistently impressed me with the quality of its charging accessories, and this charger is no exception. Even though it can deliver up to 160W of power and charge multiple devices at once, it wasn’t as large or heavy as I expected. It’s a little heavier than a standard laptop charging brick, but that’s an easy tradeoff when it can replace several chargers in my bag. I wouldn’t hesitate to toss it into my laptop bag for everyday use or when I’m traveling.

The built-in retractable USB-C cable is easily one of my favorite features. It sounds like a small addition, but after using it for a while, I found myself appreciating it more and more. The cable extends smoothly, locks securely into the different length settings, and retracts evenly every time. It also feels sturdy enough that I don’t worry about it wearing out with normal use. While it’s obviously not meant to reach across a room, it’s more than long enough for charging devices on my desk, nightstand, or in a hotel room. Best of all, I never had to ask myself if I remembered to pack a USB-C cable because one is always built into the charger.

For my testing, I used the Nexode Pro with an iPhone 16 Pro, MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Microsoft Surface Pro. Across all of them, the charger delivered the performance I expected. To give a more measurable example, I charged my iPhone 16 Pro from 19% to 66% in just 30 minutes, a gain of 47% battery life, averaging about 1.57% per minute. That lines up well with what I’d expect from a high-performance USB-C charger and makes it a great option when you need to top off your battery before heading out.

One of the reasons I enjoy testing chargers like this is the built-in display. I love being able to see exactly what’s happening while my devices are charging. Instead of simply plugging something in and hoping it’s charging at full speed, I can quickly glance at the display to see the current wattage being delivered. The screen is bright, easy to read, and provides useful information without feeling cluttered. For me, this isn’t just a novelty feature. It’s something I actually use every time I charge my devices.

I also connected the charger to the UgreenConnect app to see what it offered. Setup was fairly straightforward, although the touch button used during pairing was a little temperamental and occasionally took a couple of tries. Once connected, though, the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection remained reliable. I mainly used the app for monitoring charging information and tracking data. The charger works perfectly well without the app, so it’s definitely not a requirement, but if you’re someone who enjoys keeping an eye on charging statistics or wants access to additional controls, it’s a nice bonus.

Finally, I was impressed with how cool and quiet the charger remained throughout my testing. Even while charging higher-powered devices, it never became excessively warm, and I never heard any fan or electrical noise. That’s exactly what I want from a charger I’m going to leave plugged in on my desk or pack in my travel bag. It simply did its job without drawing attention to itself, and that’s a good thing.

Conclusion

The UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is one of the most versatile charging solutions I have tested. It combines the convenience of a multi-port GaN charger with the added benefit of an integrated retractable USB-C cable, eliminating one more accessory that can be forgotten when traveling. For professionals, frequent travelers, and anyone who regularly carries multiple devices, the UGREEN Nexode Pro 160W Charger with Retractable Cable is an excellent investment. It reduces clutter, delivers reliable charging performance, and provides a level of convenience that traditional chargers cannot match.

For more information, visit UGREEN.com

Online entertainment has become part of everyday life. Whether you’re streaming live events, purchasing digital content, or enjoying interactive gaming experiences, you expect every part of the experience, including payments, to be quick, secure, and hassle-free.

While fast transactions remain important, you’re probably placing more value on something else as well: reliable customer support. If you have a question about a payment, need to verify your account, or want help resolving a transaction issue, getting timely assistance can make a big difference. 

That’s why responsive support is becoming an increasingly important factor when choosing digital payment services.

As online entertainment continues to evolve, payment providers are introducing stronger security features, easier account management tools, and expanded support resources that help you complete transactions with greater confidence.

Why Customer Support Matters More Than Ever

You probably don’t think much about your payment provider until you need help. A delayed transaction, an account verification request, or uncertainty about payment limits can quickly interrupt what should be an enjoyable online experience. When that happens, you want clear answers, not long wait times or confusing help pages.

Many payment providers now offer online knowledge centers, self-service tools, and improved customer support that make it easier to resolve common issues. 

Whether you need to check the status of a payment, update your account information, or understand how a transaction works, these resources can often provide answers quickly without requiring you to contact customer service. 

For example, you can access Skrill’s online support platform for guidance on account management, payment services, transaction inquiries, and other common questions.

As more of your everyday activities rely on digital payments, dependable support is no longer just a nice bonus. It’s becoming an essential part of the overall experience, helping you feel more confident whenever you make online transactions.

Security and Convenience Go Hand in Hand

When you pay online, you want to know your financial information is protected without making every purchase feel complicated.

Payment providers continue to invest in technologies such as encrypted connections, multi-factor authentication, identity verification, and real-time fraud monitoring to help keep your account secure. 

According to the PCI Security Standards, organizations are encouraged to follow globally recognized security requirements that help protect payment account data throughout the payment lifecycle, reflecting the industry’s ongoing focus on secure digital transactions.

These security measures work quietly in the background, helping detect unusual activity while allowing legitimate purchases to go through with minimal interruption.

Convenience is just as important. Since you’re likely using your smartphone or tablet for many online purchases, you expect your payment experience to work just as smoothly on mobile as it does on a desktop computer. 

You should be able to review your transaction history, manage your account settings, receive payment notifications, and complete purchases wherever you are.

Digital wallets have made online payments easier. Instead of entering your payment card details every time you make a purchase, you can often complete transactions more quickly while reducing how often your financial information is shared across different websites.

The Federal Trade Commission also recommends using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication whenever it’s available, and regularly monitoring your financial accounts to help reduce the risk of fraud and unauthorized transactions.

Together, these improvements help make paying online both safer and more convenient, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your favorite entertainment and less on managing the payment process.

How Better Payment Support Improves Your Experience

Good customer support isn’t just about solving problems. It’s about making your entire online experience feel more reliable.

When you know help is available if something goes wrong, you’re more likely to complete purchases with confidence. Whether you have questions about a payment, need help verifying your account, or want clarification about a transaction, having access to responsive support can save time and reduce frustration.

Many payment providers also continue improving their self-service tools, allowing you to resolve routine issues on your own whenever it’s most convenient. This means you can often find answers immediately instead of waiting for assistance.

As digital entertainment continues to expand, these support resources are becoming an important part of what makes a payment platform easy to use.

What’s Next for Digital Payments?

Digital payment technology continues to evolve, and future improvements are expected to make your online experience even smoother.

Artificial intelligence is likely to play a bigger role in fraud prevention by identifying suspicious activity more quickly while reducing unnecessary security alerts for legitimate transactions. AI-powered support tools may also help answer common questions faster, allowing you to resolve simple issues without lengthy wait times.

You can also expect payment experiences to become more personalized. Future platforms may provide smarter notifications, more detailed transaction tracking, and proactive alerts that help you spot potential issues before they become larger problems.

As online entertainment continues to grow, payment services are becoming much more than a way to complete transactions. They’re evolving into platforms that combine convenience, security, and dependable customer support throughout every step of your online journey.

For you, that means more than just faster payments. It means having the confidence that your information is protected, your transactions are easy to manage, and help is available whenever you need it. As digital entertainment continues to evolve, payment providers that deliver all of these benefits are likely to become the ones you trust most.

The HECATE G2000 Pro combines transparent RGB styling, multiple connectivity options, and surprisingly powerful audio to create an excellent desktop speaker system for gaming and everyday entertainment.

HECATE is the gaming-focused brand from Edifier, a company that has been making audio products for many years. While Edifier is known for producing speakers and other audio gear for everyday use, HECATE was created specifically with gamers in mind. The company offers a variety of gaming products, including speakers, headsets, and earbuds, with a focus on delivering great sound, eye-catching RGB lighting, and features that enhance the overall gaming experience. HECATE aims to offer products that strike a nice balance between performance, quality, and price, making them a solid option for gamers who want to upgrade their setup without breaking the bank.

Unboxing and Setup

Inside the box, you will find the speakers themselves, the power supply, a USB-C to USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter, a 3.5 mm auxiliary cable, and an instruction booklet. Everything is neatly packaged, and there is very little setup required before you can start using the speakers.

The speakers are made primarily of plastic, but they feature a transparent design that lets you see the driver along with the built-in RGB lighting. I have to say, these are some very attractive speakers. The clear housing helps them stand out from the typical desktop speaker, and they look especially nice on a gaming desk with the RGB lighting turned on.

There are several ways to connect the speakers, including Bluetooth, USB-C, and a 3.5 mm audio connection. For my setup, I opted to use Bluetooth. I prefer having as few cables on my desk as possible, and Bluetooth gave me the cleanest setup while still providing a reliable connection. Pairing was quick and straightforward, and I had the speakers connected within a couple of minutes.

I typically use a gaming headset when I’m playing games, but when I wanted the lowest possible latency, I connected the speakers directly to my gaming device using the included USB-C cable. This provided a stable, latency-free audio connection, making it a great option for gaming when you want to enjoy your audio through speakers instead of wearing a headset.

Features

The HECATE G2000 Pro packs in a nice selection of features for both gaming and everyday use. One of the first things you’ll notice is the transparent cabinet design, which gives you a clear view of the speaker driver while the built-in RGB lighting adds a stylish touch to any desk setup. The speakers also support virtual 7.1 surround sound, helping create a wider and more immersive soundstage whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or listening to music.

Connectivity is another strong point, with support for Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, USB-A, and a traditional 3.5 mm audio connection. This makes it easy to connect the speakers to just about any modern device without needing extra adapters. To further customize the listening experience, HECATE includes three dedicated sound modes for Music, Game, and Movie, allowing you to optimize the audio depending on what you’re doing.

Powering the speakers are 3-inch full-range drivers capable of delivering up to 64 watts of peak power. The speakers also feature a bottom-mounted inverted tube design that helps improve airflow, resulting in deeper, fuller bass and a more balanced overall sound than you might expect from speakers of this size.

Overall Use

For my day-to-day use, I primarily kept the HECATE G2000 Pro connected to my Mac over Bluetooth. Whenever I was watching YouTube, streaming a movie, or just listening to music, I found myself reaching for these instead of my headphones. I spend a lot of time wearing a gaming headset, so it was nice to be able to switch to a pair of desktop speakers and give my ears a break.

I was impressed with the overall sound quality. The audio is clear and detailed, whether I was watching videos, listening to music, or playing the occasional game. The bass is also surprisingly good for a compact set of desktop speakers. While it is not going to replace a dedicated subwoofer, it provides enough low-end punch to make music and movies sound more enjoyable without overpowering everything else. The speakers also get plenty loud, easily filling my office without noticeable distortion at higher volume levels.

Overall, the G2000 Pro fit nicely into my daily routine. The convenience of Bluetooth paired with solid sound quality made them an easy choice whenever I wanted to enjoy audio without putting on a headset.

Conclusion

Overall, I came away impressed with the HECATE G2000 Pro Desktop Speakers. They offer an attractive design that stands out on a desk, plenty of connection options, and sound quality that exceeded my expectations for a compact set of desktop speakers. Throughout my testing, I primarily used them over Bluetooth with my Mac, and they quickly became my go-to speakers whenever I was watching videos, listening to music, or just didn’t feel like wearing my headphones.

The audio is clear, the speakers get surprisingly loud, and the bass is better than I expected for their size. While they are clearly designed with gamers in mind, thanks to the RGB lighting and gaming-focused features, they also work exceptionally well for everyday use.

My biggest complaint is the lack of dedicated software for macOS. While the speakers work perfectly fine over Bluetooth and the other connection methods, Mac users do not have access to software for adjusting settings or customizing the experience the way Windows users do. It is not a deal breaker, but it is something worth keeping in mind if you primarily use a Mac like I do.

Aside from that minor drawback, I really enjoyed my time with the G2000 Pro. If you’re looking for a compact set of desktop speakers with a unique design, versatile connectivity, solid sound quality, and surprisingly good bass, these are an easy recommendation, especially considering their price.

For more information, visit edifier.com

The TCL K1 Smart Door Knob combines fingerprint access, app control, and multiple unlocking options at an affordable price, though a few reliability issues keep it from being a perfect budget smart lock.

TCL is a global electronics company best known for its televisions, but the brand also produces smartphones, tablets, audio products, appliances, and other smart home technology. The company has built a strong reputation for offering premium-style features and modern technology at more affordable prices than many competing brands. TCL has become especially popular in the TV market thanks to its focus on display innovation, including Mini-LED and QLED technology, while still keeping products budget friendly for everyday consumers. Over the years, the company has grown into one of the largest TV manufacturers in the world and continues expanding its presence across the consumer tech industry.

Features

This smart lock is designed for standard US doors and combines strong security with convenient keyless entry features. It offers fast fingerprint unlocking in just 0.3 seconds and supports four different access methods including fingerprint, passcode, app control, and a traditional key. The lock can store up to 100 fingerprints, making it great for families or shared spaces, while temporary passcodes provide easy guest access. Features like auto-lock, anti-peeping keypad protection, privacy mode, and passage mode add extra convenience and security for everyday use. The lock also keeps sensitive data stored locally instead of in the cloud for improved privacy protection. Built with a durable brushed aluminum finish, it runs on four AAA batteries with up to 12 months of battery life and installs easily using only a screwdriver.

Unboxing and Install

Inside the box you will find the smart lock itself, the striker plate and lock hardware, along with a small instruction booklet to help guide you through setup and installation. One thing to note is that batteries are not included, so you will need to have those ready before getting started.

Installation was very straightforward and only took a few minutes. After lining everything up with the existing door holes, it mostly came down to screwing the lock together and securing it in place. Once I installed the batteries, the lock powered on right away and was ready to go. From there, I downloaded the companion app and went through the setup process, which was simple and easy to follow.

Overall Use

In day-to-day use, the smart lock worked fairly well overall, but I did run into a few issues during testing. The fingerprint reader was probably my biggest complaint since it rarely worked on the first try. Most of the time I had to scan my finger two or three times before the lock would finally recognize it and unlock the door. It still worked eventually, but it definitely was not as quick or seamless as I expected from a fingerprint smart lock.

I also noticed an issue with the physical button on the lock itself. When I pressed it, the lock would make a sound like it was activating a feature, but nothing would actually happen. From what I can tell, I believe it is supposed to keep the door unlocked or activate passage mode, but it never worked properly during my testing. Oddly enough, that same feature worked completely fine through the app, which makes me think it could possibly be a software bug or firmware issue rather than a hardware problem.

Outside of those issues, the app experience itself was simple and easy to use. Setup was straightforward, and I liked being able to manage settings, unlock the door remotely, and control features directly from my phone. The lock also feels solid once installed, and features like auto-lock add some extra peace of mind for everyday use.

Conclusion

Overall, this smart lock offers a good mix of convenience, security features, and modern functionality at an affordable price. While I did run into some issues with the fingerprint reader reliability and the physical passage mode button not working correctly, the lock still handled basic day to day use fairly well. The app experience was simple, installation was easy, and I liked having multiple ways to unlock the door depending on the situation.

One feature I especially appreciated was the USB power option on the bottom of the lock. If the batteries die unexpectedly, you can quickly plug in a power source to temporarily power the lock and still get inside without being locked out. There is also an emergency backup key included, which adds another layer of reassurance in case of battery failure or app issues. Those small details make the lock feel more practical for real world use and help avoid one of the biggest concerns people usually have with smart locks.

For more information, visit tcl.com

• The Big Read: Silicon Valley looks to a new biotech frontier—Montana 

• Garry Tan’s political dreams require this 32-year-old’s ‘grunt’ force 

• Plus, Recommendations—our weekly pop culture picks: “Dead Rabbit,” “The Amateur” and “The Drama”

Here’s a thought that would’ve seemed startling not long ago: There’s a very good chance that someone secretly recorded you this week with the help of AI. If it didn’t happen this week, it will almost certainly happen sometime in the very near future—then continue to happen with greater and greater frequency. 

And if you weren’t the one unknowingly recorded, you might have been the one pushing the record button, and you probably didn’t think twice about it. Because here’s another thought that once would have seemed extraordinary: Despite what would seem like obvious privacy invasion concerns, no one seems all too bothered by the trend—and the AI note-taking apps fueling it.

Of those apps, one of the most popular is Granola, which records a meeting, autogenerates notes from it and suggests follow-up tasks. It can be used for in-person meetings, and it also syncs seamlessly with software like Zoom and Google Meet. And really, I think it’s a pretty clear comment on the app’s caliber that anyone would rather use Granola than rely on the note-taking features Zoom and Google Meet offer. (People like it for a variety of factors, including the fact that it records digital meetings unobtrusively: No one in a Google Meet would know you’re using it—it doesn’t join the meeting as a participant or put up a recording banner.) 

Granola is especially well liked especially in Silicon Valley, where the VC crowd has proselytized it. In a testament to Granola’s quality, the company accomplished a real feat a couple of days ago: It released a version of its app for the Apple Watch, and all of a sudden, people were  talking online about the Apple Watch as an honest-to-goodness must-have gadget. 

“We’ve had a lot of emails saying, ‘I’m gonna go out and buy a Watch because of this’ or ‘Time to pull my Watch out of the drawer,’” said Granola co-founder Sam Stephenson. 

When was the last time Apple managed to release an attention-grabbing AI feature—or make the Apple Watch seem cool? Certainly not anytime in recent memory. So here’s what I think should happen: Apple should buy Granola. 

Like the best Apple products, Granola is beloved by its fans—many bands would love to have such dedicated groupies—for its sleek, well-designed simplicity. And the startup has just proven it can breathe new life into an Apple product that has seemed dull for years. Apple needs people who can pull off such a task, having chosen to heavily rely on updates to a few core products in recent years. (Granted, maybe incoming CEO John Ternus will shift that mindset a bit; meanwhile, Apple is reportedly working on smart glasses, as well as a wearable AI pin.) 

Perhaps most importantly, Granola can be probably acquired for the type of price Apple likes to pay: The company does not do mega-acquisitions. Granola, founded in 2023, most recently got a $1.5 billion valuation in a March fundraising, which included Index Ventures, Kleiner Perkins and other investors. 

Granola’s attention-catching Apple Watch debut was something of a happy accident, Stephenson said. The app was originally a side project of Tom Humphrey, a Granola software engineer, that gained momentum within the company after he bolstered enthusiasm for it with a surprising revelation: The data Granola accessed about its iOS users showed that 40% of them also owned an Apple Watch. 

Among Granola staff, the Apple Watch app has quickly become much more popular than the iPhone one. “You just think to turn it on much more often than you do with the iPhone,” Stephenson said. “The worst thing about the iPhone app is that it’s in your pocket: out of sight, out of mind. You forget to use it.”

Granola has toyed with the thought of making its own hardware but has shied away from doing so. Whatever the startup released would face stiff competition from the growing number of already available devices dedicated to AI note-taking. Plaud, a five-year-old startup, makes one of the most popular ones. 

I first wrote about Granola and AI note-taking last year when it seemed like the dawn of a new always-on, always-recording world. It’s now something like sunshiny midmorning: Over the past year, Granola’s user growth has been a “smooth curve: upward and to the right,” said Stephenson. (He declined to give specifics.) Meanwhile, the startup has gone from two floors of a Shoreditch, London, office to occupying the entire building, roughly quintupling its staff to nearly 100.

Given Granola’s rising popularity, I asked Stephenson if he had met any unexpected users. “Well, Gwyneth Paltrow comes to mind,” he said.—Abram Brown (abe@theinformation.com)

Weekend’s Latest Stories

The Big Read

Silicon Valley Looks to a New Biotech Frontier: Montana

The state is now allowing anyone—not just the very sick—to access unapproved, experimental drugs. It’s a boon for biotech startups and an overt embrace of the tech world ethos for cutting back on rules that might limit innovation.

Garry Tan’s Political Dreams Require This 32-Year-Old’s ‘Grunt’ Force

Forrest Liu is tasked with an agenda that focuses on local Bay Area candidates, economic growth—and the death of the billionaire’s tax.

Listening: “Dead Rabbit” 

As a genre of fiction, folk horror has given us memorable entertainment such as “Midsommar” and “The Wicker Man.” “Dead Rabbit,” a podcast from BBC Radio 4, is the rare nonfiction version: Hosts Dan Ashby and Lucy Taylor, a husband-and-wife pair of investigative journalists, set off into the countryside to figure out why piles of mangled animals keep getting threateningly piled up around Awbridge, England, a well-heeled, 757-person community. It’s a place full of well-tended flower baskets and a chipper vicar, who tries to turn the first grisly mise-en-scène he encounters on his parish doorstep—a severed deer’s head—into a joke about venison sausages. Not everyone in the clergyman’s flock is as determinedly upbeat, and the carcasses have thoroughly disturbed much of the village, sparking WhatsApp groups replete with theories (devil worship, perhaps?) and recriminations. The series begins as a spotlight on what happens within the unnerved small town and then widens its focus to larger issues of conservation, animal cruelty and liberal-versus-conservative politics. Squished roadkill has never seemed more sinister.—Abram Brown

Reading: “The Amateur” by Chris Bohjalian 

After three decades and 24 novels, Chris Bohjalian has established himself as an ultrareliable source of highbrow potboilers. More often than not, he likes to get them going with a real bang. Or, as he described it in a 2018 conversation with The New York Times, he likes an opening moment of “cataclysmic disequilibrium.”

Just such a catastrophe unfolds in the first few pages of “The Amateur,” his latest and probably finest novel. On Aug. 3, 1978, Mira Wilston, a privileged teenage golf prodigy from a tony Westchester, N.Y., suburb, sends a well-struck drive straight through a practice net—and it zings right into the head of a nearby caddie: Kenny, a high school classmate. It kills him instantly. So who deserves the blame? Mira, who narrates the tale? The country club? The net’s manufacturer? Had Bohjalian been thinking less ambitiously, he would’ve kept his exploration of culpability and responsibility confined to the immediate damage from Mira’s errant shot (in a tale embellished by nice period-piece details, like the high school’s smoking lounge and the Miami Sound Machine records). But he wasn’t and he didn’t. In the accident’s aftermath, the disequilibrium intensifies—as Kenny’s demise inadvertently leads to the public revelation of a long-running sexual relationship between Mira, 18, and one of the country club dads. Yes, it should sound a little like “Lolita,” and therein lies the greater conceit of “The Amateur,” which appropriates and restyles Vladimir Nabokov’s classic, widening to an examination of power, control and fate. The connection between the two novels is an explicit one: Mira, who recounts all the events with a meta, tragicomic awareness, remarks on it several times.—A.B.

Watching: “The Drama”

An admission I make with no degree of hyperbole: I watched several parts of “The Drama,” an A24 film starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya as a pair of engaged lovebirds, with my mouth fully agape. And when the tension between them ratcheted up further, I watched through gaps between my fingers: I’d thrown a hand over my eyes. What can I say? Scenes of matrimonial Armageddon make me squirm, and “The Drama” (newly streaming on HBO Max) goes full-on scorched earth. 

To explain the plot in much detail would ruin the film, so to summarize it quickly: Shortly before their big day, a secret-telling drinking game goes horribly awry when Emma (Zendaya) reveals a dark moment from her past that shocks Charlie (Pattinson). I don’t blame him—it shocked me, too, and what’s more surprising is that the film does the reveal quite quickly. (Drew Barrymore survived only marginally longer in “Scream.”) Mostly, “The Drama” devotes itself to chronicling the subsequent fallout—with director Kristoffer Borgli twisting the usual rhythms of a screwball rom-com into devious knots.

As an unmarried 37-year-old who has needed to soldier through more than a dozen friend weddings in the last decade, I also appreciated how “The Drama” very neatly satirizes how millennials have turned the exchanging of vows into an industrial nuptial complex.—A.B.

As Garry Tan, the Y Combinator CEO, has deepened his ambitions to become a political force, the task of turning his agenda into reality has often fallen on the shoulders of one guy: Forrest Liu, his political director. The work keeps Liu, 32, plenty busy—and occasionally requires him to put his body on the line as he drums up money and support for Tan’s platform.

When Liu went to a party in Healdsburg hosted by the CEO of a big fintech company recently, he left with a sprained ankle: It turned out his sandals were the wrong choice for the outing at the sprawling estate. A few weeks later, Liu was at a home near Taos, N.M., to meet with a billionaire, a former California resident who fled there to avoid the Golden State’s proposed wealth tax, which Tan strongly opposes. The estate sat at 7,000 feet—an invitation for altitude sickness for some. Lucky for Liu, the billionaire’s home had a special supply of supplemental oxygen available.

Liu and Tan channel the finances for their efforts through Garry’s List, a dark-money nonprofit that launched in February as well as a related political action committee, so they don’t have to disclose all of the money Liu brings in from his work with the wealthy and powerful. Liu said he is “constantly raising” money. Garry’s List has also hosted events with people like Gov. Gavin Newsom, and this month it plans to do one with the heavy favorite to replace him, Xavier Becerra. In June, the PAC spent $50,000 combating a San Francisco proposal that would have taxed certain highly paid CEOs. The measure failed.

A jittery stock market isn’t the best environment for new public listings. But one young startup with deep ties to the AI boom is marching ahead with its IPO plans, at least for now.

Nscale, a UK-based AI cloud provider heavily backed by Nvidia, has been meeting with prospective investors recently and scheduled an investor day to pitch analysts and investors next week in New York, according to people familiar with the matter. It’s working with Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan on the IPO, which could happen as soon as this fall, though Nscale could still choose to delay it.

This month, Apple will be unveiling its first foldable iPhone – rumored to be called iPhone Ultra. It’s going to feature a 5.5-inch outer display and 7.6-inch inner display. In July, Samsung introduced the new Galaxy Z Fold 8 – and it comes with those same screen sizes.

Whether or not you believe Samsung only made this phone to preempt the iPhone Ultra is a different story – but one way or another, seeing the Galaxy Z Fold 8 gives us a great early idea of what iPhone Ultra will feel like in the real world.

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Aproveite $1 milhão grátis em GTA Online com bônus em missões especiais entre 6 e 12 de agosto.

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As I write this article, I am about to head out for a quick trip up north, and when I hit the road, there are a few key types of gear of my smart home setup I fully rely on to keep things running smoothly. Just remember that you will need a dedicated Apple Home hub, like an Apple TV 4K or a HomePod, to access your devices remotely to take full advantage here.

My thanks to Agent Fone for sponsoring last week at DF. Agent Fone is a crazily ambitious new smartphone that doesn’t merely ship with a built-in AI assistant. Instead, the entire concept is that it enables you to create custom software, right on the phone itself. Ideas for new apps that you’ve had in your notes for years. Weird little app ideas that only you would want. Describe your idea, answer a few questions, and Agent Fone builds an app, or widget, and it’s on your home screen. They’re looking for 50 people and small teams to sell the first 50 hardware units to. If you’re interested, check out their website for all the information you need, and broader description of the platform.

Ubuntu adapta o tzdata para ajustes automáticos de horário em Alberta e Marrocos, evitando falhas e riscos de segurança.

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Uma das últimas tendências que tem movimentado o mercado de wearables é o novo formato de “brinco” para fones de ouvido Bluetooth. Uma das marcas a apostar neste tipo de acessório é a JBL, com o Soundgear Clips. 

• Veja as melhores promoções de fones de ouvido no WhatsApp do CT Ofertas

O fone tem um formato mais “aberto”, com uma pequena esfera apoiada na parte interna da orelha, sem entrar no canal auditivo. A estrutura contorna a lateral e se estende até a parte traseira, onde fica um módulo maior que abriga os sensores, a bateria e os principais componentes. 

A grande aposta deste design é, sem dúvidas, a estética. Ele funciona muito bem como um fone de ouvido, é elegante e termina, também, como uma peça de moda. Mas será que faz sentido além disso? 

Neste texto, conto o que eu achei do JBL Soundgear Clips usando esse tipo de fone pela primeira vez, e estando totalmente habituado a modelos intra-auriculares. 

Design confortável para horas de uso 

Visual de brinco à parte, o que mais me chamou atenção neste formato foi o conforto durante o uso. Apesar de “abraçar” a orelha, ele não incomoda nada. Você sente que ele está lá, mas o fone não começa a “machucar” com o tempo. 

Em fones comuns, sejam eles “de borrachinha” ou os auriculares mais básicos, é natural que após algumas horas a orelha comece a cansar, por mais confortável que o acessório seja. Com os Clips, você quase esquece que eles estão lá se não houver música tocando. 

Assim, ele é ideal para deixar na orelha o dia inteiro, mesmo sem reproduzir nada. Dá para ouvir áudios ocasionais no WhatsApp sem precisar ficar colocando e tirando o fone o tempo inteiro. 

Qualidade sonora boa, mas pouco expressiva

A qualidade de áudio do JBL Soundclips é boa: os fones não ficam “chiando” no volume máximo, e nem ficam estridentes demais. São os fones ideias para quem não é tão exigente com sonoridade. Eles entregam o suficiente para a maioria dos usuários. 

Mas se você é amante de graves e gosta de perceber perfeitamente cada frequência da música, ele pode não atender muito bem. Para quem está acostumado às batidas fortes que fones e caixas de som da JBL entregam, talvez sinta falta de um pouco mais de expressividade por parte dos Clips.

Mas este não é um problema necessariamente do hardware do fone, mas do formato. Por serem totalmente abertos e não oferecerem o mínimo de vedação, ele deixa passar muito do barulho externo, ao passo que o som também vaza muito para fora. 

Isso também leva a outro problema: os Clips não são os mais indicados para o uso no transporte público, ou em outros locais mais barulhentos. 

Eles não oferecem nenhum nível de isolamento acústico, então o som de fora interfere muito na usabilidade. No trem ou metrô, por exemplo, não é possível ouvir a música direito se o volume estiver no médio: é preciso colocar no máximo ou bem perto disso. 

E, neste cenário, vai-se embora a privacidade: quem estiver por perto pode ouvir suas músicas ou seus áudios, porque o som vaza bastante. 

Vale a pena comprar o JBL Soundgear Clips?

Pelo estilo e conforto, sem dúvidas, vale a pena comprar os fones JBL Soundgear Clips. Eles são ótimos para quem quer um fone de ouvido com qualidade aceitável, e ainda agregar no estilo. 

Mas, se recursos como cancelamento de ruído e sonoridade pesam mais na balança, os R$ 600 cobrados, em média, não justificam o que o fone entrega. Nesse cenário, compensa mais um fone “comum”, como os Galaxy Buds 3 FE ou o JBL Live Buds 3, que são um pouco mais caro, mas entregam o que falta nos Clips. 

• Compre o JBL Soundgear Clips no Magalu
• Compre o JBL Soundgear Clips no Mercado Livre
• Compre o JBL Soundgear Clips na Amazon
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