News Summary
Zattoo integrates „ARD Krimi“ and „ARD Lindenstraße“ as FAST channels
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024
Video service Zattoo expands its program with two additional FAST channels, „ARD Plus Krimi“ and „ARD Plus Lindenstraße,“ available from December 17. FAST stands for „Free-Ad-Supported-Streaming-TV,“ meaning access to channels is free but ad-supported. The channels offer diverse crime formats and all episodes of the German series „Lindenstraße.“ The additions continue Zattoo’s expansion beyond 50 such channels, and offer HD quality streaming with flexible viewing options.
macOS Sequoia allows simpler Alt key shortcuts again
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024
Apple reverses the requirement to use Command or Control keys with the Alt key for global shortcuts. With macOS Sequoia 15.2, users can again use simple key combinations involving Alt or Alt+Shift. This change addresses previous user dissatisfaction over the restrictions introduced in September, which intended to limit capabilities of key-logging malware. The rollback is welcomed by users and developers who had to adjust their workflows and apps.
Sonos Roam 2: Portable speaker with AirPlay and Bluetooth at the best price
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024
Sonos offers its Roam 2 speaker at a reduced price of 139 EUR, down from 199 EUR, through Amazon. The Roam 2 integrates into Sonos‘ multi-room system, supports AirPlay 2, and can function as a Bluetooth speaker. It features robust design elements and is rated IP67 for dust and water resistance. The speaker promises high sound quality for its size, supported by advanced audio technologies and user interface options for sound customization. Additionally, Sonos products like headphones and subwoofers are available at discounted prices.
HomePod mini and Apple TV: Upcoming models with Apple chips
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024
Apple is developing its own chip for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections, dubbed „Proxima,“ aiming to reduce dependence on suppliers like Broadcom. The new chip is set to debut in 2025, starting with a new generation of HomePod mini and Apple TV. This shift is intended to improve device performance by aligning components seamlessly and enhancing energy efficiency. Eventually, Apple plans to integrate these chips into iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
Sky offers its IPTV bundle at half price
Date: Thu, 12 Dec 2024
Sky has halved the price for its Sky Stream package for the first 12 months, offering its IPTV service for 60 EUR per year. The package includes access to around 100 TV channels via the Sky Stream box, which connects via Ethernet or WLAN, including Wi-Fi 6 support, and allows streaming in 4K with HDR 10 and Dolby Vision support. Alternatives like waipu.tv offer competitive pricing with additional benefits such as bundled Disney+ access.
Apple indirectly announces MacBook Air with M4 processor
Date: Thu, 12 Dec 2024
macOS Sequoia 15.2 has referenced new MacBook Air models featuring the M4 processor, expected in both 13-inch and 15-inch versions. Speculation suggests a potential release in January, following Apple’s usual early-year launch pattern. This update comes shortly after an October upgrade which increased RAM in current Air models, highlighting Apple’s strategy to align its Mac lineup with newer, higher-performance hardware.
HomePod software 18.2: Exciting new features only in the USA
Date: Thu, 12 Dec 2024
Apple’s HomePod receives software version 18.2 alongside iOS 18.2 and macOS 15.2 releases, featuring „natural language search“ available solely in the USA and only for English requests. This feature facilitates music searches via everyday language commands. In Germany, updates focus on bug fixes and stability, introducing „Enhance Dialogue“ for HomePod 2 with Apple TV 4K, improving dialogue and background noise separation.
Color Picker App „Pika“ now officially available
Date: Thu, 12 Dec 2024
The color selector app „Pika“ has been officially released in version 1.0, moving beyond its extended beta phase, and is now available on the Mac App Store for 2.99 EUR. „Pika“ is aimed at creatives, offering efficient color selection with support for formats like Hex, RGB, and HSB. Its interface allows dual-color comparison, helpful for achieving optimal visual design elements while assessing WCAG compliance.
Dispatch is a new narrative game from ex-Telltale developers
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024
„Dispatch“ was unveiled at The Game Awards, a new narrative game from AdHoc Studio, featuring a voice cast including Aaron Paul and Laura Bailey. The game is a „superhero workplace comedy“ where player decisions impact the storyline. The game is set to release in 2025, continuing the legacy of adventure games pioneered by Telltale Games.
Apple’s updated MagSafe wireless charger is on sale for $35
Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024
Apple’s new MagSafe charger, updated alongside the iPhone 16, is currently available at a discounted price of $35 on Amazon, down from its usual price. Offering faster charging speeds of up to 25W with the iPhone 16, it’s highlighted as a must-have accessory for iPhone users, providing efficient wireless charging capabilities.
