Category Archives: consumer electronics

artificial intelligence, business, consumer electronics, technology

Amazon reveals range of new Kindle, Ring and Echo devices powered by AI

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Online juggernaut Amazon has unveiled its next generation of Kindle, Ring, and Echo devices, among other gadgets, all powered by artificial intelligence and connected to Alexa+, its AI-infused personal assistant that made its debut in February.

The line-up, announced at a presentation and showcase in New York on Tuesday, includes new cameras for its Ring video monitoring device featuring an AI facial recognition system. This new feature allows users to register friends and family and receive notifications about who is at the front door.

Amazon also introduced four new Echo devices revamped with Alexa+. These smart speakers provide personalized insights, such as alerts if the user left the front door unlocked after midnight.

In addition, the Seattle-based company revealed a series of Alexa+-infused Fire TVs. These TVs enable more personalized searches, like finding a specific scene in a movie or getting commentary about the previous day’s football game.

The presentation marked the first major product event for Panos Panay, who joined Amazon in 2023 to lead the company’s devices and services teams. Panay brings with him a 19-year career at Microsoft, where he served as chief product officer.

Speaking to an audience of several hundred journalists and bloggers, Mr. Panay emphasized how Alexa+ and artificial intelligence are enabling technology to work seamlessly in the background. “Products creating subtle shifts in all our behaviour, driven by AI, integrated into the hardware,” he said. “And flowing natural through the products themselves. Whether it’s a camera catching what you missed; your Fire TV updating you on a game; or your Kindle remembering exactly where you left off.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/amazon-reveals-range-of-new-kindle-ring-and-echo-devices-powered-by-ai-1813170.html

business, consumer electronics, technology

Apple planning hardware event in October: What to expect

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**Apple Planning Hardware Event in October: What to Expect**
*By Mudit Dube | Sep 30, 2025, 05:10 PM*

After the recent launch of the iPhone 17 series, Apple is reportedly preparing for another event this October. The tech giant is expected to showcase a variety of new products at the upcoming event, continuing its tradition of fall hardware reveals.

### What’s on the Horizon?

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is likely to unveil new iPad Pro models powered by the latest M5 chipset. These new iPads are rumored to feature dual front cameras designed for both portrait and landscape modes, enhancing user experience for video calls and photography.

### Product Lineup

Alongside the refreshed iPad Pro, Apple is said to be planning several other product launches:

– **Vision Pro Headset:** Anticipated to receive upgrades including a faster M4 or M5 chip, a redesigned head strap for improved comfort, and possibly a sleek Space Black finish.
– **Apple TV:** Expected to feature the A17 Pro or N1 chip, support for Wi-Fi 7, and enhancements that will prepare the device for future Apple Intelligence features.
– **HomePod mini:** Likely to get an updated S-series chip, improved sound quality, a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, and potentially new color options.
– **AirTag:** The updated model is rumored to offer longer tracking range, enhanced durability, and clearer battery alerts.

### Apple’s October Event History

Apple has a consistent history of hosting notable product launches in October.

– In **2021**, Apple introduced MacBook Pro models with M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, AirPods 3, and new HomePod mini colors.
– In **2023**, the “Scary Fast” event showcased MacBook Pro and iMac models equipped with M3 chips.

However, Apple skipped October events in both **2022 and 2024**, making this year’s event particularly anticipated.

### MacBook Pro and Future Developments

While MacBook Pro models featuring M5 series chips are rumored to be already in production, they may not be launched until early 2026. Additionally, Apple is reportedly working on future Mac updates, which include OLED displays and slimmer designs, signaling ongoing innovation for its laptop lineup.

### Conclusion

This October, Apple fans can expect exciting new hardware upgrades, particularly with the new iPad Pro and Vision Pro headset. Along with refreshed accessories like Apple TV, HomePod mini, and AirTag, the event promises a robust lineup designed to enhance the Apple ecosystem. Stay tuned for official announcements as the event date approaches.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/apple-october-2025-event-new-ipad-pro-vision-pro-expected/story

artificial intelligence, company, consumer electronics, products, technology

Amazon’s hardware event on September 30: What to expect

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**Amazon’s Hardware Event on September 30: What to Expect**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | September 28, 2025, 03:12 PM*

Amazon has officially announced its fall hardware event, scheduled for September 30. The tech giant is expected to unveil a variety of new products, including updated Echo speakers, a color version of the Kindle Scribe, and revamped TVs. This event marks one of the first major product showcases under Panos Panay, who joined Amazon in 2023 after leading Microsoft’s Surface division.

### New Echo Speakers Likely

The invitation for Amazon’s event prominently features the familiar blue Echo ring, hinting at new Echo hardware announcements. The standard Echo speaker hasn’t been updated since 2020, so a refresh is well overdue. Additionally, there are rumors about an upgrade to the Echo Studio, which was last refreshed in 2023.

If you’re planning to purchase an Echo speaker, it might be worth waiting a week to see what Amazon has in store.

### Kindle Updates: Color Kindle Scribe and Smaller Kindle

One of the teaser images for the event strongly hints at a color Kindle logo, accompanied by a cryptic mention of the “stroke of a pen.” This has sparked speculation about a color version of the Kindle Scribe — Amazon’s E Ink tablet that supports stylus input.

There are also rumors about a smaller Kindle model, possibly called the Kindle Petit Color, which is expected to deliver improved color performance compared to last year’s Colorsoft Kindle.

### Tech Advancements: Vega OS and Alexa Plus

The event invitation also features what appears to be a TV, fueling speculation about new Fire TV hardware. However, the bigger highlight might be the anticipated unveiling of Vega OS — a new operating system Amazon has been developing as a potential replacement for the Android-based Fire TV platform.

If these rumors hold true, this event will offer the public its first real glimpse of Vega OS running on TVs.

Additionally, Amazon may share updates on Alexa Plus, its next-generation AI assistant designed to compete with Google Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

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Stay tuned for Amazon’s hardware event on September 30 for all the latest announcements and product launches.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/everything-we-know-about-amazon-s-upcoming-hardware-event/story

artificial intelligence, business, consumer electronics, software development, technology

Apple is using ChatGPT-like app to test new Siri features

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**Apple is Using ChatGPT-like App to Test New Siri Features**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 01:21 PM*

Apple is reportedly testing a ChatGPT-style app, internally known as “Veritas,” as part of its ambitious plan to revamp Siri, according to Bloomberg. The tech giant aims to enhance its voice assistant’s capabilities to handle more complex tasks and provide a more intuitive user experience.

### Internal Testing with Veritas

The Veritas app—named after the Latin word for “truth”—is being developed by Apple’s AI division to experiment with new Siri features. Among its capabilities, Veritas can search through personal data such as songs and emails, as well as perform in-app actions like editing photos.

Much like other popular AI chatbots, Veritas allows users to manage multiple conversations simultaneously, reference previous chats, and engage in extended back-and-forth exchanges. This multi-turn conversational ability marks a significant upgrade from current voice assistant functionalities.

### Introducing the New ‘Linwood’ System

In addition to testing new features, Veritas is also being used to evaluate a new underlying system called “Linwood.” This innovative system combines Apple’s in-house large language models with third-party AI models to create a more powerful and responsive assistant.

Currently, Apple does not plan to release the Veritas app publicly. However, its development highlights the company’s serious commitment to advancing artificial intelligence technologies.

### Delayed Launch for New Siri

Apple initially aimed to launch the revamped Siri in spring 2025. However, technical challenges have delayed the release. Some features reportedly experienced failure rates of up to one-third during internal testing.

The updated Siri is now expected to debut as early as March 2026. Once released, it is anticipated to perform tasks beyond the current assistant’s scope, such as interacting with on-screen content and facilitating smoother navigation across Apple devices.

### Leadership Changes Amid AI Overhaul

Apple’s AI division has seen significant leadership shifts amid this overhaul. John Giannandrea, who previously led the company’s AI efforts, was sidelined earlier this year. Additionally, Robby Walker—former head of Siri—is set to leave Apple in October.

Walker’s newly formed AKI (Answers, Knowledge, and Information) team is now spearheading the effort to integrate AI-driven search into the next-generation Siri, signaling a fresh direction for Apple’s voice assistant strategy.

—

Apple’s continued investment in AI and voice assistant technology reflects CEO Tim Cook’s push for the company to excel in this rapidly evolving field. With innovations like Veritas and Linwood, Apple hopes to redefine how users interact with their devices in the near future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/apple-using-chatgpt-style-app-to-test-next-gen-siri/story

consumer electronics, gaming, pre-order, technology, video games

Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokemon Legends: Z-A bundle pre-order guide & stock

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Pokémon Legends: Z-A is less than a month away from release. While it will be available on both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Switch, the game will run much better on the recently released Switch 2. If you’re looking to buy the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle, here’s how you can pre-order it.

Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A Bundle Stock

The Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle can be found at various retailers. Below is a list of stores that currently have the bundle in stock. We will update this guide as availability changes:

  • Nintendo Store – In stock
  • Best Buy – In stock
  • Target – In stock
  • Walmart – In stock

Pre-Order Information for Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A Bundle

The Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 bundle is set to release on October 16, 2025 and is available for pre-order now. The console comes with a digital download of Pokémon Legends: Z-A Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.

Purchasing the $499.99 bundle saves you roughly $20 on the game compared to buying it separately. The box features special artwork inspired by Pokémon Legends: Z-A; however, please note that this is not a special edition console.

https://www.shacknews.com/article/146081/nintendo-switch-2-pokemon-legends-z-a-bundle

apple, consumer electronics, design, smartphones, technology

iPhone Air Faces Condensation Complaints As Early Users Report Foggy Patches Inside Camera Lens After Just One Day

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Just a day after hitting the shelves, the new iPhone Air is already facing complaints from early adopters about condensation forming inside the camera lens. Reports on Reddit and Twitter have surfaced, showing photos of fogged-up lenses. This raises questions about whether Apple’s ultra-thin iPhone can withstand real-world conditions.

### Early iPhone Air Buyers Report Condensation Inside Camera Lens

The problem appears sporadically, with some users noticing foggy patches inside the camera lens after sudden changes in temperature or exposure to humid environments. While condensation inside smartphone cameras is not a new issue, it is surprising to see it occurring in a premium iPhone model—especially since Apple emphasized design refinements aimed at improving durability.

YouTuber Luke Miani shared an image on X (formerly Twitter), stating that his brand-new, day-one iPhone Air had condensation inside the camera. Another user on X, known as Dongle, also posted several images and commented, “My iPhone Air has condensation in the camera… maybe this is widespread.”

There was also a Reddit post featuring a similar experience, though the user later deleted the image. From available reports, it seems multiple early users have encountered the same issue.

### Potential Cause and Concerns

It remains to be seen if this problem is widespread. If confirmed, it could fuel criticism that Apple may have gone too far with the design in pursuit of extreme thinness. Even if the condensation inside the camera lens disappears on its own, the issue might tarnish the iPhone Air’s reputation among early adopters.

Some users speculate the problem may stem from reduced internal sealing or differences in thermal dissipation compared to the iPhone 17 Pro models, which feature a dedicated thermal management solution.

### What to Do If You Experience Camera Lens Condensation

If your iPhone Air’s camera lens is fogged up with condensation, it is advisable to:

– Keep the phone at room temperature for extended periods, allowing the water droplets to evaporate naturally.
– Store or use the iPhone in dry environments.
– Avoid sudden temperature shifts between hot and cold settings to reduce the chance of condensation reoccurring.

Apple has previously acknowledged that condensation inside the camera lens is not normal and could potentially lead to long-term hardware damage.

### Final Thoughts

It is still too early to declare this a widespread flaw, so we will wait for more reports before drawing any firm conclusions. For now, follow Apple’s advice to let the device dry naturally. If the condensation persists, you should contact Apple Support for assistance.

Have you experienced condensation inside your iPhone Air camera lens? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.
https://wccftech.com/iphone-air-condensation-camera-lens-issues-reports/