Author: alex

Nintendo Store app arrives on iOS & Android Nintendo has launched its Nintendo Store app on both iOS and Android. The app is a reimagining of the My Nintendo app that first appeared in Japan, and it lets users browse consoles, physical and digital games, accessories and official merchandise from their phones or tablets. Purchases are completed through an in-app browser that takes you to the product page. The app also aims to keep players informed with news, event updates and wishlist notifications when items go on sale. Key features Browse & shop: View consoles, games, accessories and merch directly in the app (checkout uses an in-app browser). Wishlist alerts: Get notifications when items on your wishlist drop in price. Store & event check-ins: Check in at physical Nintendo stores…

SanDisk 256GB microSD Express for Switch 2 drops to $60 — early Black Friday deal SanDisk’s 256GB microSD Express card for the Nintendo Switch 2 is on sale for a record low of $60 in an early Black Friday deal. It’s the first time we’ve seen this model discounted; SanDisk also offers 128GB and 512GB variants but only the 256GB is on sale right now. We included this card in our list of the best microSD cards for the Switch 2 thanks to its top transfer and load speeds. In benchmark tests (CrystalDiskMark and real‑world transfers), it was consistently among the fastest cards, which helps reduce load times and speed up game installs and updates. Why this matters for Switch 2 owners Compatibility: Switch 2 requires microSD Express/SD Express cards;…

Google Maps adds Gemini for conversational, hands‑free navigation Google is replacing Assistant with Gemini across its apps, and Maps is the latest to get the upgrade. Gemini lets you interact naturally with Maps while driving — asking follow‑ups, requesting local recommendations along your route and starting navigation by voice without leaving the app. The integration aims to make hands‑free navigation more conversational and useful. You can ask questions like “Is there a budget Japanese restaurant within two miles on my route?”, follow up with “Does it have parking?”, then say “Okay, let’s go there” to start turn‑by‑turn directions. Core features Natural conversation: Keep asking follow‑ups without repeating context — Gemini understands multi‑step queries while you navigate. Start navigation by voice: Confirm a place and tell Gemini to begin directions hands‑free.…

Netflix goes all‑in on video podcasts for early 2026 Netflix is preparing a major push into video podcasts in early 2026. The streamer has reportedly reached out to talent agencies and is licensing shows from established podcast producers — including Spotify Studios, The Ringer and iHeartMedia — as it builds a library of video podcast content. According to reports, Netflix has sent dozens of requests to agents at WME, UTA and CAA to line up hosts and existing series with audiences. The company wants a Q1 launch with a slate of shows that already have followings, and it may pursue exclusivity deals that would limit distribution on other platforms. What we know so far Netflix plans a video‑podcast push in early 2026, targeting shows with built‑in audiences. Deals under discussion…

Best tech stocking stuffers under $50 for 2025 Big gifts get the headlines, but small, thoughtful tech accessories often make the best stocking stuffers. We've rounded up a dozen under‑$50 options that are practical, fun and likely to be used — perfect for coworkers, family members or anyone who likes useful gizmos. The list focuses on items that balance price, usefulness and novelty: portable chargers, compact Bluetooth speakers, cable organizers, magnetic mounts, smart key finders and more. Many of these arrive quickly and fit easily into a stocking without sacrificing value. Top categories to consider Power & charging: Slim power banks, USB‑C cables and magnetic chargers for topping up on the go. Audio: Compact Bluetooth earbuds or mini speakers for music and calls. Organization: Cable wraps, multi‑port chargers and travel…

Google and Epic reach settlement — what it means for Android, app stores and payments Google and Epic Games have filed a proposed settlement in the federal court in San Francisco that would end their long‑running antitrust dispute over Google Play distribution and in‑app billing. The deal keeps most of Judge James Donato’s original injunction but adds negotiated modifications intended to expand developer choice, permit alternative payment methods and allow third‑party app stores to be installed on Android devices. The case began in 2020 when Epic accused Google of illegally monopolizing app distribution and in‑app billing on Android. A 2023 ruling sided with Epic, and Google’s appeals and requests to pause the injunction — including a Supreme Court request — were denied. The proposed settlement is now before Judge Donato…

DJI Osmo Mobile 8: 360° pan, Apple DockKit support and pet tracking arrive DJI has launched the Osmo Mobile 8, a next‑generation smartphone gimbal that adds several creator‑focused upgrades over its predecessor. Key new features include full 360‑degree panning, Apple DockKit support for native iPhone app tracking, enhanced subject tracking (including dogs and cats) and a multifunctional module with LED fill light and audio receiver functionality. The Osmo Mobile 8 keeps the compact form of the previous model but improves usability with a more secure magnetic phone mount and a comfortable grip that eases low‑angle shooting. DJI also emphasizes robustness in tracking: the pan axis now rotates freely for continuous follow shots, and ActiveTrack 7.0.1 with Dual Lens Boost 2 helps prevent lost subjects by combining wide and tele lenses…

DJI launches Osmo Mobile 8 — next‑generation smartphone gimbal DJI has introduced the Osmo Mobile 8, the successor to the Osmo Mobile 7, bringing several notable upgrades aimed at mobile creators. The new gimbal adds a full 360° pan axis, improved cross‑platform object tracking and an accessory module that integrates lighting and audio for better production value on the go. DJI positions the Osmo Mobile 8 as a compact, versatile tool for smartphone videography — including iPhone users — that reduces the need for separate rigs by combining stabilization, tracking and basic production accessories into one package. Key features 360° pan axis: Complete rotational range for smoother pans and creative movement without mechanical limits. Cross‑platform object tracking: Improved tracking that works across different devices and OS ecosystems to keep subjects…

Ring Intercom Video: retrofit video for existing intercom systems Amazon’s Ring has introduced the Ring Intercom Video, an add‑on solution designed to bring video functionality to existing intercom systems that already support local video. The accessory is pitched at residents and managers of multi‑unit buildings where structural rewiring or major modifications are impractical. The key advantage of this approach is retrofit convenience: instead of replacing an entire door intercom system, the Ring Intercom Video lets properties add camera and video features while keeping the core intercom in place. That can reduce installation complexity and avoid building‑permit hurdles in apartment blocks. Who this is for Residents in multi‑family buildings who want video calls from their door without major building work. Property managers seeking an easier upgrade path for older intercoms that…

iOS 26.2 beta arrives with Live Translation for EU and several app tweaks Less than 24 hours after iOS 26.1 rolled out, Apple has begun beta testing iOS 26.2. The update is slated to arrive publicly next month and includes a number of feature additions and refinements — most notably the rollout of Live Translation for AirPods users across the European Union. Live Translation on AirPods will let supported devices translate conversations in real time between multiple languages. Apple previously said additional engineering was needed to meet regional privacy and regulatory requirements, and the iOS 26.2 beta appears to implement those changes ahead of the EU launch. Other changes in the beta Reminders app updates: Apple is making refinements to the Reminders app to improve scheduling and organization (settings and…