Apple’s AirPods Pro hearing health tools could normalize wearing earbuds everywhere

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The biggest audio announcement at Apple’s iPhone event last month wasn’t the AirPods 4. Instead, the milestone news was the company’s plan to introduce a robust suite of hearing health features for the AirPods Pro 2 alongside iOS 18. Apple’s three-prong approach includes prevention, awareness and assistance with hearing protection, hearing test and hearing aid tools available directly on an iPhone.

People have been eagerly anticipating these hearing health features since Apple announced them in early September. I’ve had numerous friends and family members who aren’t regular Apple users inquire about the hearing test and hearing aid features specifically. The tools have the potential to put a wealth of information, and possibly life-changing assistance, in the pockets of people all over the world. Users will get help for a stigmatized condition without even having to set foot in a doctor’s office.

Just days after the big announcement in September, the FDA approved Apple’s hearing test and hearing aid features. Under the guidelines set forth in its 2022 decision, the FDA allows adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss to obtain hearing assistive devices without a prescription or professional consultation. Apple describes its software-based test as “clinically validated,” one that was developed with 150,000 real-world audiograms and millions of simulations, and the FDA clearly agrees.

Apple has released the entire suite of hearing health tools this week with iOS 18.1 and a firmware update to AirPods Pro 2. I’ve spent a week with them, and I can definitively say that this upgrade will be a game changer for earbuds, but not in the way that you’d expect.

Dying Wish at Hangar 1819 in Greensboro, NC at 100 dB
Billy Steele for Engadget

Even if you don’t take Apple’s hearing test, and even if you don’t have hearing loss, the hearing protection feature on AirPods Pro 2 provides a significant benefit. It helps maintain your current level of hearing health with robust protection in certain loud environments. You could absolutely use it without ever taking the hearing test.

Although Apple discussed the potential of AirPods Pro as ear protection from loud noise at launch (specifically the Loud Noise Reduction feature), the company never officially recommended the earbuds for extended use for that purpose. That’s because AirPods Pro weren’t certified as meeting certain safety standards. What’s more, Apple improved the algorithms that reduce the effect of loud noise (attenuation) while maintaining the sound signature with this new firmware update.

I’ve used the AirPods Pro 2 at concerts since their release, employing Transparency mode to cleanly reduce sound to a safer level with minimal sacrifice to overall audio quality. In an age when ear plugs with various filters are a thing, AirPods Pro 2 now officially offer a high-fidelity concert experience that won’t kill the vibe of the show by muffling the band. Since you’re more likely to always have them when you leave the house, you won’t have to remember to grab that pair of Loops or SoundProtex Plus plugs before the show. What’s more, Apple says you can use hearing protection on AirPods Pro 2 for things like subway commutes, lawn-mowing and sporting events.

There are certain sounds that Hearing Protection isn’t recommended for – mostly extremely loud impulse noises like gunfire, fireworks or jackhammers. Apple also explains that the feature shouldn’t be used for sustained sound that’s louder than 110 dBA (A-weighted decibel). On the other end of the spectrum, the company says the AirPods Pro 2 can provide up to 10 dB of passive noise reduction when they aren’t even turned on.

AirPods Pro 2 now have hearing protection active by default across all noise modes.
Apple

Hearing Protection can be applied across transparency, Adaptive and noise-canceling modes on the AirPods Pro 2. As you can see in the chart above, the latter two provide the best protection, lowering environmental noise by up to 30 dB. Those two modes also extend the exposure time limit. As a reminder, Adaptive Audio on the AirPods Pro 2 lets you select the blend of active noise cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode that best matches your surroundings.

In my tests with the new hearing protection tools, transparency mode still offers the clearest sound here, but for certain genres, like chaotic heavy metal, ANC mode actually provided more details in the live guitars. I can’t tell a difference in Apple’s revised algorithms in transparency mode for concerts versus when I used the AirPods Pro 2 at a show last month, but it already sounded great before. I used the Noise app on Apple Watch to confirm the venue sound was at 100 dB, with transparency mode reducing my exposure to 86 dB and noise-canceling mode taking it down to a safer 74 dB – all of which is in line with Apple’s stated ratings.

As a reminder, the effectiveness of hearing protection relies on how well the AirPods Pro 2 fit in your ears. You’ll want to make sure that you have a good seal with properly sized ear tips, which can be validated via the fit test in the AirPods settings.

With iOS 18.1, Apple has delivered it's hearing health features on the AirPods Pro.
Billy Steele for Engadget

Apple’s hearing aid tool is likely to get the most attention, but I’d argue it’s the hearing test that’s the most important piece. I don’t know about you, but I can’t recall the last time I had a hearing test with an audiologist. It has been at least a decade, and most likely longer than that. It’s not something adults think about unless they notice potential hearing loss or someone else picks up on the cues. Since 1.5 billion people globally experience some degree of hearing loss, according to the World Health Organization, Apple’s tool will provide more awareness of the condition in a quick, easy and private way.

According to the company, the hearing test should take about five minutes. During my sessions, it took around seven minutes, which means the software may have repeated some tones I missed along the way. Once iOS 18.1 is installed and your AirPods Pro 2 have been updated, you’ll see the hearing test in the AirPods settings and in Apple Health. You’ll need to confirm that you’re 18 or older, that you aren’t experiencing any allergy or cold symptoms and that you haven’t been in a loud environment in the last 24 hours in order to proceed.

Before the test begins, the iPhone/earbuds duo will check your surroundings to make sure you’re in a quiet space and to ensure that the AirPods Pro fit properly in your ears. When the test begins, Do Not Disturb and ANC will be enabled and you’ll simply tap the screen when you hear tones. The software will test your left ear first before moving over to the right.

The test is as easy to complete as Apple describes, and as promised, you immediately get your results when it’s finished. I’ll admit that I was concerned about what I might discover about my hearing health since I didn’t always wear ear plugs at loud concerts in college and I was in a band long before in-ear monitors were widely available. Thankfully, Apple’s hearing test determined that I have little to no hearing loss, with numbers well under the 25 dBHL threshold. The test showed slightly more hearing loss in my left ear than my right, but still nothing to be concerned about. Even though I showed little to no hearing loss, the test still offers tips on healthy habits and clearly states that the current AirPods Pro tuning is correct based on the results. Here’s how the classifications shake out:

  • Little to No Loss: Up to 25 dBHL

  • Mild Loss: 26 - 40 dBHL

  • Moderate Loss: 41 - 60 dBHL

  • Severe Loss: 61 - 80 dBHL

  • Profound Loss Above: 80 dBHL (the test can’t measure anything above 85 dbHL)

No matter how much hearing loss the test detects, you’ll still get a detailed graph in Apple Health that shows how you fared with each frequency. Here, I was able to see that I do have some issues hearing high-frequency sounds, but not enough to indicate mild hearing loss. What’s more, Apple Health displays a list of test results, so you can quickly see how your hearing changes over time (Apple recommends you retest at least every 12 months). And when you need them, PDFs of individual tests are available for export.

I had some anxiety the first time I took the test. That probably had more to do with the fact that it had been so long since I’d done anything like this, and since I’m in my 40s, I’m now hyper-aware of ailments that could be coming my way. I also spend a lot of time testing earbuds, headphones and speakers, plus I’m a big fan of live music. So, my lifestyle could’ve easily led to different results.

AirPods Pro 2 can now double as a hearing aid.
Apple

If the hearing test determines that you have mild to moderate hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 can now function as a clinical-grade hearing aid. You can also upload an audiogram to Apple Health if you have one from an audiologist. But in either cases, hearing aid will only be available to people who are 18 or older and you can’t turn it on without the required test results. If Apple’s test shows severe or profound hearing loss, AirPods Pro 2 won’t provide sufficient amplification and the software will offer guidance on how to proceed with a professional consultation.

Once you have the appropriate results, the hearing aid mode will be available under Hearing Assistance in the Hearing Health section of the AirPods Pro settings. Apple explains that it can take time to acclimate to the hearing aid feature, and while this should only take a few days, it could also require a few weeks. The company is clear that consistent use is paramount to the adjustment period. What’s more, once the hearing aid is set up on AirPods Pro 2, that hearing profile is embedded on the earbuds and you’ll be able to use it without having your iPhone nearby. However, Apple says you shouldn’t share the earbuds with anyone once hearing aid is enabled due to the personalized frequency adjustments.

Crucially, the hearing aid feature is customizable as Apple allows adjustments for amplification, tone and balance so that you can fine-tune the assistance based on your needs. These settings are accessible at any time on your iPhone, iPad and Mac, either from the AirPods menu or from Control Center. With an Apple Watch, you’ll have the ability to adjust Amplification, and the volume slider on the AirPods Pro 2’s stems will also control amplification when hearing aid mode is active. There’s also a Media Assist tool that will augment the sound of music, calls and video based on your hearing test results. Plus, the existing Conversation Boost feature on the AirPods Pro 2 will still be available.

Hearing aid will only be active when Noise Control is set to transparency mode. If you turn it off, or switch to Adaptive or noise cancellation, the assistive feature will still be enabled but it won’t be active. Hearing protection and hearing aid can be used simultaneously in transparency mode, where the former is turned on by default. You can turn hearing aid mode off entirely in the Hearing Assistance section at any time.

Lastly, Apple says you can expect the hearing aid feature to run for up to six hours on a charge. A quick five-minute top-up will give you an hour of use and the AirPods Pro 2 will fill up completely in 60 minutes. Since this isn’t enough to get you through a full day, the company recommends that you put the earbuds in their case when showering, sleeping or completing tasks where hearing assistance isn’t needed.

Depending on your personal preferences, you may have strong feelings about people who wear earbuds all day long. You may think it's rude to speak to someone when you have earbuds in your ears, or you might feel awkward trying to have a conversation with someone who’s wearing them. Transparency mode has existed for a while now, and not just on AirPods, so there’s a good chance those folks have been listening to you and not trying to drown you out with Chappell Roan.

Now that AirPods Pro 2 can double as hearing aids, we’ll all have to get used to seeing people wearing them all the time. And we’ll also have to get used to people wearing them at concerts, which I’ll admit still seems weird – and I’ve done it. I think I’ve only ever seen two other people using AirPods Pro for concert hearing protection, but that number is sure to increase dramatically over the coming months. 

From now on, people may not be rude or want to put off a “don’t bother me” vibe, they could be protecting their hearing or using AirPods Pro to help them hear better. If someone doesn’t want to wear a clinical-looking hearing aid due to the stigma around them, they may be more likely to wear earbuds that offer the same benefit – especially if they already own a pair.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/apples-airpods-pro-hearing-health-tools-could-normalize-wearing-earbuds-everywhere-140054858.html?src=rss

Election 2024: How will the candidates regulate big tech?

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The US presidential election is in its final stretch. Before election day on November 5, Engadget is looking at where the candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, stand on the most consequential tech issues of our day.

The Biden administration has been more aggressive than almost any in recent American history in its antitrust efforts. In the tech sector alone, it has ongoing cases against Apple, Meta, Google and Amazon, not to mention its battles with Ticketmaster, Microsoft, Kroger, CVS, Visa, Penguin Random House and more. Biden, Lina Khan (chair of the FTC) and Jonathan Kanter (head of the DOJ’s antitrust division) have spent the last several years working to prevent giant mergers, increase competition and punish companies (however lightly) for unfair business practices. It is unlikely that whoever succeeds Joe Biden will be quite as fervent in their fight against monopolies. That being said, it’s not only possible but probable that either a Harris or Trump administration would be very active in the antitrust field.

There is some expectation that a Kamala Harris White House will pursue these sorts of cases less aggressively. Part of that assumption is simply down to the fact that Harris hasn’t said a ton on the issue. She touts her record as attorney general of California in leading lawsuits against the medical industry, and says during her stump speeches that “companies need to play by the rules, respect the rights of workers and unions and abide by fair competition. And if they don’t, I will hold them accountable.” But she often doesn’t get more specific than that.

Her campaign also released a detailed economic policy document, though it makes little mention of antitrust and antimonopoly proposals. When it does discuss those issues, it focuses exclusively on landlords, grocery stores and the pharmaceutical industry. It does advocate for the passage of the Preventing the Algorithmic Facilitation of Rental Housing Cartels Act, though. This bill would make it illegal for landlords to use software from companies like RealPage and Yardi to coordinate on housing prices and rent increases.

However, Harris’ ties to Silicon Valley has led some to believe she would pump the brakes on antitrust efforts focused on the tech industry. Her brother-in-law, Tony West, is chief legal officer for Uber, her debate adviser was Karen Dunn, the lawyer currently heading up Google’s defense in an ongoing antitrust case, and she counts Laurene Powell Jobs (widow of Steve Jobs) among her closest friends. She’s also been quiet in the face of calls from major donors like Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn) and Barry Diller (IAC, Expedia Group and TripAdvisor) to fire Lina Khan.

Nonetheless, she has also surrounded herself with many people deeply engaged in the Biden administration’s antitrust efforts, including Brian Deese, the former head of the National Economic Council (NEC); Rachel Brown, who led on competition policy at the NEC and Bharat Ramamurti, who was not only Deese’s deputy at the NEC but also worked for Elizabeth Warren, who has made fighting big business a cornerstone of her political identity. It’s unlikely these antitrust crusaders would join Harris’ campaign if they did not believe she would continue the work of the Biden administration in some meaningful capacity.

Unlike what you’d expect from a typical Republican administration, the Trump White House was actually pretty active in the antitrust space, focusing primarily on the tech and healthcare industries. Trump has made no secret of his animosity towards some of the biggest players in the tech space, so there’s little reason to believe he’d scale back or abandon the cases against Google, Apple, Meta and Amazon underway.

During his first tenure, the Trump administration went after Google over its search results and Facebook following its purchase of WhatsApp and Instagram in antimonopoly cases. He also sought to block the acquisition of Time Warner by AT&T. Even after he left the White House, Trump continued his assault on big tech by filing personal lawsuits against Twitter, Facebook and Google, alleging censorship. According to Concurrences (an antitrust think tank), while Republican administrations tend to prioritize criminal cartel cases, the Trump DOJ pursued fewer of those than any administration since Nixon and focused more on mergers and antimonopoly cases.

While Trump hasn’t said much about his antitrust views on the campaign trail, his running mate, JD Vance, has made it a regular topic of his stump speeches. Vance has voiced strong support for breaking up big corporations, especially in the tech industry. He’s even praised Lina Khan as “one of the few people in the Biden administration I think is doing a pretty good job.”

Complicating this, however, under Trump, the DOJ and FTC were constantly mired in controversy, and he was routinely accused of using the agencies to punish his perceived enemies. To make things even murkier, there is no mention of antitrust or antimonopoly efforts or policies either on Trump’s Agenda 47 site or the official RNC platform. This makes it difficult to predict what to expect from a second Trump term. While there was significant antitrust activity on his watch, at times it seemed guided by political whims and personal vendettas. And without a guiding principle outlined in any official policy document, it’s impossible to know what avenues the DOJ and FTC might focus on to go after companies that find themselves the target of Trump’s ire.

While Donald Trump and the RNC don’t spill too many words discussing antitrust issues, the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 document does. It notes there is still some disagreement among Republicans on how aggressively to pursue antitrust action. But it focuses extensively on the changing view within the party that seeks more aggressive actions to break up the largest players in the market.

While Project 2025 pays some lip service to the negative impact on consumers of having too much industry power concentrated in too few hands, it spends most of its time discussing ESG (environmental, social and governance) and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives by businesses as a non-economic reason to pursue antitrust efforts, suggesting the Heritage Foundation sees antimonopoly laws not as a way to prevent the concentration of economic power, but as a cudgel to punish those promoting social and political ideologies it dislikes.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/election-2024-how-will-the-candidates-regulate-big-tech-133013600.html?src=rss

PlayStation 4 mod puts a portable console in your hands

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The Nintendo Switch ushered in a new age for handheld gaming devices, but somewhat ironically, PC gaming handhelds are the ones dominating that niche market. There was a time when the PlayStation Portable and Vita were the only “serious” portable consoles around, but neither Sony nor Xbox seems to be in a rush to catch up. No, the PlayStation Portal doesn’t qualify in this regard.

This left PlayStation fans to their own devices to scratch this portable itch, leading to many mods and DIY projects with varying levels of success. What makes the “PS4T” rather notable isn’t its looks, which is downright basic, but the way it tries to reuse as much of the original PS4 Slim hardware as much as possible, leading to some interesting design choices.

Designer: Josh (Restore Technique)

There is no shortage of attempts to shoehorn PlayStation and Xbox consoles into relatively handheld sizes, and many of them require modifying and cutting up the console’s motherboard to shrink the whole system down. Curiously, this particular design doesn’t do that, which simplifies the process a little bit but does mean that “handheld” is loosely applied in this case. Of course, many parts like the optical drive and hard disk have to be removed, but the fan and cooling system are mostly the same.

The PS4 Slim is used as the base for this mod as it has the smallest mainboard, fan, and power draw of modern PlayStation models. An original DualShock 4 controller was also used and gutted, but unnecessary parts like the rumble motor and the touchpad were thrown out. The process is definitely not for the faint of heart, but more seasoned modders probably won’t break a sweat.

What’s interesting about the entire process is how it reveals the considerations that have to be made when designing a portable gaming device. Not only do you have to think about battery capacity and heat management, you also have to consider the optimal placements of components inside. It’s definitely not as simple as throwing everything together to have a pretty layout, but the final design, despite its boxy shape, is satisfying and, more importantly, actually functional.

Of course, Sony would have better engineers and designers to work on such a product, so it’s really a matter of business why it hasn’t yet made a new portable PlayStation. For now, console gamers will have to settle for fan-made handheld designs, presuming they’re not wading into the murky gray area of intellectual property rights.

The post PlayStation 4 mod puts a portable console in your hands first appeared on Yanko Design.

Amazon’s Fire Max 11 tablet returns to a record-low price

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Getting a really great tablet for an affordable price is quite an achievement. That's why we're excited to see that Amazon's Fire Max 11 tablet is currently on sale for $140, down from $230 — a 39 percent discount. The deal brings this 64GB tablet back to its all-time low price, previously seen during October Prime Day. 

Amazon released the Fire Max 11 tablet in 2023 and we were immediately impressed with how much it offered for the price (especially now that it's discounted). It has slimmer bezels and a nice aluminum build, along with being just over a pound. Its 11-inch screen has a 2,000 x 1,200 resolution and is low blue light certified. Plus, it has a fingerprint sensor in the power button and supports Wi-Fi 6. 

It's worth noting that this model comes with lockscreen ads. If that's a deal breaker then check out the sale on the 64GB version that is ad-free. Right now, it's 36 percent off, dropping to $155, from $245. You can even upgrade to the 128GB model without lockscreen ads for just $5, with a 43 percent discount dropping its price to $160 from $280. 

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/amazons-fire-max-11-tablet-returns-to-a-record-low-price-131516001.html?src=rss

Vizio just announced a soundbar that doubles as a karaoke machine

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It’s easy to give into cynicism writing about tech. There are so many underwhelming announcements and iterative improvements. Companies toss the letters AI around like it’s a magic elixir sent down from the Gods. The layoffs are harsh. Sometimes, though, you find something simple, useful and fun that forces optimism. That’s where I’m at with the Vizio MicMe. It’s a soundbar that doubles as a karaoke machine. That’s a neat idea, right?

The MicMe is being advertised as a “two-in-one soundbar system” that totally eliminates the need for a clunky standalone karaoke speaker. It’s a legitimate 2.1 soundbar, complete with a subwoofer. It’ll get the job done with regard to endless streams of Agatha All Along or Nobody Wants This.

The soundbar in action.
Vizio

It also ships with two dynamic wireless microphones, and that’s where the karaoke magic comes in. The company says that the soundbar enters karaoke mode when one of the microphones is removed from the charging dock, without the user having to fiddle with anything. There is, however, an affiliated mobile app for making sound adjustments. This app also allows access to six different vocal effects.

Each microphone boasts eight hours of battery life per charge, which means a solid 8PM to 4AM karaoke session. Vizio says MicMe will have access to 80,000 songs via the proprietary app. It also integrates with many standalone karaoke apps, like Stingray. There should be no shortage of songs to ruin or master.

The soundbar hybrid is compatible with Vizio’s QuickFit technology, which allows it to attach to the company’s TVs without any tools. It’s also fully compatible with any smart TV with eARC. The MicMe costs $350. You can order one now but it won’t ship until the end of November.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/vizio-just-announced-a-soundbar-that-doubles-as-a-karaoke-machine-130016592.html?src=rss

iOS 18.1 Brings New Features You Can’t Miss – Call Recording and More

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iOS 18.1 features

Apple has officially launched iOS 18.1, a major update introducing over 55 new features and enhancements crafted to elevate the iPhone experience, including the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence. Prioritizing functionality, performance, and battery optimization, this release brings a substantial upgrade tailored for iPhone users. Here, we’ll provide insight into the standout features and examine how they […]

The post iOS 18.1 Brings New Features You Can’t Miss – Call Recording and More appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

10 Reasons to Upgrade to a New Apple M4 iMac 2024

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Apple M4 iMac 2024 AI capabilities

The 2024 M4 iMac marks a transformative advancement in Apple’s desktop lineup, blending enhanced performance with a range of user-focused features. This model builds upon previous iterations, introducing improvements tailored to both professionals and casual users.  In an era of rapid technological change, choosing the right time to upgrade can be challenging. For Apple enthusiasts […]

The post 10 Reasons to Upgrade to a New Apple M4 iMac 2024 appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Amazon is shutting down its Kindle Vella serialized story platform in February 2025

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Amazon, in what it described as a "difficult decision," is winding down Kindle Vella and shutting it down completely in February 2025. When the company launched the serialized story platform in 2021, it said Vella was a way for readers to discover new fictional stories and a new way for authors to earn from the Kindle Direct Publishing service. But it hasn't caught on as it had hoped, Amazon explains on its website, and it has decided to throw in the towel three years after Vella's debut. 

Authors can only publish stories on Vella until December 4, which is also the last day readers can purchase tokens. While readers will no longer be able to purchase tokens after that, they can continue using those tokens to unlock episodes until the program closes in February. The good news for those who've been following specific authors or stories on Vella is that they won't lose their access to whatever episodes they've already unlocked even after the platform shuts down. They can always read the stories they've purchased in their library in the Kindle app for iOS and Android, though they can no longer open them on the web. Any token they don't use by February will be refunded. 

Responses to Vella have been pretty lukewarm since it became available. Some authors liked the fact that they could use it to earn money from unfinished stories, while some readers said they'd prefer getting a whole book instead of paying for installments. Personally, as someone who follows a lot of indie authors, I only know of one who publishes on Vella and very, very few readers who actually use it. Amazon tried drumming up interest earlier this year by making the first ten episodes of a story, instead of just three, available to readers for free. The company has also tried keeping authors on the platform by giving away bonuses, but its strategies probably didn't work enough to make it consider keeping Vella around longer. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/amazon-is-shutting-down-its-kindle-vella-serialized-story-platform-in-february-2025-120030125.html?src=rss

Top 10 Wellness Gift Guide To Transform & Enhance Daily Routine

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I often struggle with managing my daily routine and find myself drowning, with a whole bunch of different tasks to attend to. In today’s world optimizing our daily routines and enhancing our homes are important for maintaining productivity, wellness, and happiness. The right collection of products can aid us in this task, providing us with functionality and style.

If your family and friends are on a mission to better organize their routines, then this collection of ten innovative products could be the perfect gift for them. These products are designed to transform their everyday routine and home environment. They’re simple, functional, and thoughtful designs that could help them enhance their quality of life. From an innovative desk organizer to an alarm clock that brews coffee for you while waking you up, these unique products offer practical solutions to rejuvenate lifestyles.

1. Gather Desk Organizer

For those seeking to streamline their work-from-home setup, the Gather Desk Organizer is a game-changer. This innovative organizer offers a modular magnetic system that allows you to customize the arrangement of your desk accessories, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach. Whether it’s a designated spot for your phone, pens, or laptop, the Gather Desk Organizer transforms clutter into a well-ordered workspace, enhancing productivity and peace of mind. Its sleek design not only elevates the aesthetics of your desk but also contributes to a more organized and cleaner home environment. This makes it the perfect gift for anyone looking to simplify their daily routine and create a more efficient workspace.

By investing in the Gather Desk Organizer, you’re not just tidying up your desk; you’re investing in a more focused and stress-free workday. Perfect for professionals and students alike, this desk organizer is the ultimate tool for anyone who values organization and efficiency in their work-from-home lifestyle.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is made from premium materials and serves as a versatile solution for a messy desk. Since it uses a magnetic system, you can customize the desk setup according to your everyday needs and requirements. The system supports complete flexibility, allowing you to build your own set, and select the additional elements you like. The MagSafe Phone Stand is one of my favorite elements, as it keeps your phone charged and offers easy access to it.

What we like

  • It features a customizable setup, enabling you to arrange your essentials the way you like
  • It is a space-saving design that delivers a clutter-free and organized desk

What we dislike

  • Made from high-quality materials which leads to a higher cost

2. Painless Key Ring

How often do you find yourself misplacing your keys, only to end up frantically searching for them in the depths of your bag or the nooks of your home? This common conundrum can eat away at your valuable time, disrupting your daily routine and causing unnecessary stress. For those who frequently find themselves in this predicament, or if you know someone who is part of the “careless and clumsy” club, the Painless Key Ring offers a brilliant solution. This isn’t just any ordinary keyring; it is a groundbreaking innovation inspired by the sophisticated mechanisms used in the aerospace industry.

The Painless Key Ring features a unique wave spring design that not only securely holds your keys but also makes them easily accessible. Its ergonomic design ensures that adding or removing keys is a hassle-free experience, eliminating the struggles associated with traditional keyrings. Moreover, its sleek and modern aesthetic makes it a stylish accessory suitable for any key set. Whether it’s for personal use or as a thoughtful gift for someone prone to losing their keys, the Painless Key Ring is a practical tool that blends functionality with innovation, ensuring you never have to worry about misplaced keys again.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The Painless Key Ring makes managing your keys a total breeze. It allows you to organize your keys using a sturdy and high-tech design, offering easy accessibility to your keys at all times. You don’t need to spend unnecessary time shuffling around for keys, which you could use for more important tasks.

What we like

  • Utilizes a wave spring technology to easily add and remove keys
  • Cuts down the task of handling tight or deformed key rings

What we dislike

  • Equipped with an advanced design, which makes it more expensive

3. Sunrise Alarm Clock Coffee Maker

A successful day starts with a well-organized and productive morning, setting the tone for your overall wellness. Waking up feeling groggy or hitting the snooze button too many times can derail your entire day, leaving you feeling unproductive and out of sync. Enter the Sunrise Alarm Clock Coffee Maker—a revolutionary device designed to transform your morning experience. This innovative gadget combines the essential functions of an alarm clock with the delightful convenience of a coffee maker, ensuring you start your day on a high note.

Instead of the usual blaring alarm, imagine being gently awakened by the soothing aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through your room. This sensory experience not only invigorates your senses but also aligns with a more natural wake-up process, promoting wellness and reducing morning stress. Ideal for those who struggle to maintain a consistent morning routine, this device encourages a more relaxed and productive start to the day. The Sunrise Alarm Clock Coffee Maker is the perfect gift for anyone looking to enhance their mornings and boost their productivity. By integrating this device into your daily routine, you can look forward to a seamless transition from sleep to wakefulness, setting a positive tone for the rest of your day.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features a compact and stylish form that would make it an eye-pleasing addition to your bedside table. It wakes you up to the smell of coffee and keeps your daily dose of caffeine ready for you. So, you can quickly get up, down your coffee, and get going with your day. It sets the tone for a pleasant and peaceful day ahead.

What we like

  • Eliminates harsh alarms with a gentle wake-up that leaves you refreshed
  • Saves time, as you can have your coffee as soon as you wake up

What we dislike

  • Unsure if it can brew enough coffee for multiple people
  • Not the best option for those who prefer other morning beverages

4. Iron Frying Plate

Cooking can often consume a significant portion of our day, making it essential to have multifunctional tools that streamline the process and enhance our wellness through home-cooked meals. For those who are passionate about meal prep and seeking to simplify their kitchen routine, the Iron Frying Plate is an invaluable addition. This innovative kitchen tool is designed to assist in preparing quick and healthy meals without compromising on quality or taste. The Iron Frying Plate not only excels as a frying pan but also doubles as a stylish serving plate, thanks to its unique removable handle.

This clever design allows you to seamlessly transition from cooking to serving, reducing the need for extra dishes and saving valuable time. The durable iron construction ensures even heat distribution, making it ideal for a variety of recipes, from sizzling stir-fries to hearty breakfasts. Whether you’re gifting it to a loved one or enhancing your own kitchen, this versatile tool supports a wellness-oriented lifestyle by encouraging home-cooked meals and efficient meal prep. Embrace the convenience and elegance of the Iron Frying Plate and transform the way you approach cooking, turning meal preparation into an enjoyable and rewarding experience

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate supports direct-from-the-pan serving, allowing you to cook up something delicious, and serve your food in one continuous process. It saves precious minutes and makes your cooking experience more efficient and quick, allowing you to move on to other activities.

What we like

  • The handle is removable, allowing you to use the pan as a serving plate too

What we dislike

  • The pan is made from iron, making it a bulky and heavy design, which can be difficult to store away

5. Spark Digital Planner

As cliché as it may sound, gifting someone a planner can be a powerful step towards helping them organize their life and home. However, we’re not talking about just any ordinary planner—those are a dime a dozen. Instead, consider the transformative potential of the Spark Digital Planner. This is not merely a planner; it is a comprehensive digital tool crafted to enhance your planning, wellness, and routine.

The Spark Digital Planner is designed to help you manage your time more effectively and achieve your goals with greater speed and efficiency. It provides a structured, streamlined approach to goal setting, allowing you to break down your yearly aspirations into manageable monthly and weekly tasks. This not only keeps you on track but also helps reduce stress by promoting a sense of accomplishment and progress. The digital format means you can access your planner from anywhere, ensuring you never miss a beat in your routine. With features that encourage reflection and mindfulness, the Spark Digital Planner supports a holistic approach to wellness, integrating personal growth with daily productivity. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, this planner is the ideal tool for anyone looking to enhance their organizational skills and foster a more balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.

Why is it noteworthy?

This product isn’t a typical planner, it guides you and embarks on the process with you. It also features a wellness tracker and vision board, offering a holistic and interactive approach to goal setting and personal development, which can often seem overwhelming to people.

What we like

  • It features a goal-oriented structure, supporting goal-setting and achievement with a clear roadmap
  • Offers visual motivation through a vision board

What we dislike

  • Since it requires a device to operate, it creates digital dependence
  • The complex system may take some time to understand and use

6. Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser

If you have a loved one or friend who struggles to relax amidst their hectic routine, gifting them an aromatherapy diffuser can be a thoughtful gesture towards enhancing their wellness. The Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser is an exceptional choice, offering a unique blend of simplicity and effectiveness that makes it an ideal gift for anyone looking to create a more serene home environment. Unlike traditional diffusers, this compact model is designed to operate without electricity or batteries, relying instead on the gentle warmth of a simple candle. This eco-friendly approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also imbues the air with soothing scents, promoting relaxation and tranquility.

As the candle warms the diffuser, it releases the calming fragrances of essential oils, allowing users to take a refreshing breath and unwind after a long day. The elegant design of the Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser complements any decor, making it a versatile addition to any room. By incorporating this diffuser into their routine, individuals can harness the benefits of aromatherapy to reduce stress and enhance their overall sense of well-being. Whether for personal use or as a gift, this diffuser is a perfect tool for fostering a peaceful atmosphere and supporting a balanced lifestyle.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser can function without any batteries or external power sources. It utilizes the heat of a single candle to spread its soothing aromatic scents throughout the room. The diffuser is made from sustainable materials, hence showcasing an eco-friendly ethos that we support.

What we like

  • You can use all kinds of essential oils with the diffuser, pick your favorite one
  • Built from recyclable materials, promoting an eco-friendly attitude

What we dislike

  • Since it doesn’t feature electric controls, adjusting the intensity of the aroma can be tough

7. Znie Light

Znie is a groundbreaking silent sleep device designed to seamlessly integrate into your nightly routine, offering a non-invasive solution to enhance your sleep quality. This innovative device, known as ELF, is crafted to help users not only fall asleep more easily but also maintain a restful state throughout the night. By promoting deeper, uninterrupted sleep, Znie significantly contributes to overall wellness, ensuring you wake up feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day.

Unlike other sleep aids that may require lifestyle changes or have potential side effects, Znie works quietly and effectively without drastically impacting your daily habits. Its user-friendly design makes it an excellent addition to any bedtime routine, providing a gentle yet powerful tool to improve sleep hygiene. A good night’s sleep is foundational to wellness, influencing everything from mood to cognitive function. With Znie, you can experience the benefits of sound rest, which include increased energy levels, enhanced focus, and a more streamlined, productive daily routine. Whether you’re seeking to improve your own sleep or looking for a thoughtful gift for someone struggling with restlessness, Znie offers a safe, effective, and unobtrusive way to achieve the restful sleep you deserve.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is a silent sleep device that is non-invasive making for an excellent addition to your night routine. The ELF helps users fall asleep and stay asleep, enhancing their sleep quality safely and effectively, and without drastically impacting their lifestyles. Sound sleep at night can help them feel fresher, leading to a streamlined and productive daily routine.

What we like

  • The ELF technology improves sleep without using medications
  • It is inaudible to humans and animals, creating a peaceful sleep environment

What we dislike

  • It may not work well for everyone, since individuals have different sleep issues

8. Technogym Bench

In today’s fast-paced world, busy schedules and demanding work routines often leave little room for regular workouts or exercise. Yet, incorporating physical activity into daily life is crucial for maintaining wellness and overall health. If someone you care about struggles to find time for fitness, consider gifting them the TechnoGym Bench—a thoughtful and unconventional present that serves as a comprehensive home workout solution. This compact and versatile fitness bench is expertly designed to fit seamlessly into any living space, making it ideal for those with limited room.

Despite its space-saving design, the TechnoGym Bench is equipped with a variety of workout tools, including elastic bands, dumbbells, and a training mat, allowing users to perform a wide range of exercises without the need for multiple pieces of equipment. This all-in-one solution encourages regular workouts by making it convenient and accessible, helping users to seamlessly integrate exercise into their daily routine. By providing a dedicated space for fitness, the TechnoGym Bench supports a balanced lifestyle, promoting physical wellness and mental well-being. Whether for personal use or as a gift, this innovative bench is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their home fitness routine while maximizing space efficiency.

Why is it noteworthy?

The TechnoGym Bench helps you perform over 200 exercises, and it seamlessly fits into your modern home. You don’t need to make time for the gym, you can easily incorporate a home workout into your daily routine. It is great for maintaining a fitness routine, without paying for an expensive gym membership.

What we like

  • It supports a whole bunch of different exercises
  • Great fit for small apartments or homes with space constraints

What we dislike

  • Not a suitable option for those who lift heavy weights
  • Will require some setup and organization before you can use it

9. SHIVR

Creating a focused and distraction-free home environment is essential for enhancing productivity and wellness, and noise-canceling headphones are an indispensable tool in achieving this. Enter the SHIVR Noise-Cancelling 3D headphones—an ideal gift for those who prioritize a serene and efficient workspace. These headphones are meticulously designed to provide an immersive audio experience, effectively blocking out external noise and allowing users to concentrate fully on their work. The advanced noise-cancellation technology ensures that background distractions are minimized, creating a tranquil environment conducive to focus and creativity.

Beyond their functionality, the SHIVR headphones offer exceptional sound quality, making them perfect for both work and leisure, whether it’s listening to music, participating in virtual meetings, or simply enjoying a moment of peace. The ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended use, making them a practical addition to any home office setup. By gifting the SHIVR headphones, you are not only providing a tool for improved efficiency but also supporting the recipient’s overall wellness by promoting a distraction-free, calming atmosphere.

Why is it noteworthy?

The headphones use gyroscope technology to provide an exceptional audio experience. They simulate a 3D sound experience, enhancing your listening experience, irrespective if you’re working, traveling, or relaxing at home. They block out distractions, ensuring you work, cook, or relax in peace

What we like

  • Features a comfortable design, ideal for extended wear
  • Creates a realistic and immersive sound environment

What we dislike

  • Some users felt that the build quality wasn’t great, although the sound quality made up for it

10. Rolling World Clock

For those striving to maintain an organized lifestyle and achieve the elusive work-life balance, having a reliable tool to manage time effectively is crucial. The Rolling World Clock offers more than just a visual representation of time passing—it provides a comprehensive view of 12 different time zones, making it an invaluable asset for anyone juggling international commitments. This innovative clock is the perfect gift for loved ones who need to optimize their daily routine and stay on top of their schedules, especially when dealing with clients or colleagues across the globe.

By displaying multiple time zones at a glance, the Rolling World Clock eliminates the guesswork and potential for error in scheduling, ensuring that meetings and deadlines are met without a hitch. Its sleek and modern design complements any workspace, serving as both a functional tool and an elegant decor piece. With the Rolling World Clock, users can effortlessly coordinate their professional and personal lives, fostering a sense of organization that contributes to a healthier work-life balance. Whether for a home office or a corporate setting, this clock is a thoughtful and practical gift that supports efficiency, reduces stress, and enhances overall productivity.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The clock offers access to different timezones through a simple one-handed movement. Users can move the clock to reach their city of choice, while the watch hand adjusts to the correct timezone automatically. The clock also features a minimal and sleek ethos, making it a visually pleasing element to add to home offices and living spaces.

What we like

  • You don’t need to check your phone or other digital devices to check the time
  • Makes time-telling an analog and organic affair

What we dislike

  • The clock only offers access to 12 cities, for checking other timezones it is of no use

The post Top 10 Wellness Gift Guide To Transform & Enhance Daily Routine first appeared on Yanko Design.

How to Install and Use Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1

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Install iOS 18.1 on Your iPhone

If you’d like to learn how to install and use the latest Apple Intelligence features introduced this week in the new 18.1 iOS update, Brandon Butch has prepared an in-depth guide. His step-by-step instructions cover the installation process and outline everything you need to access Apple’s AI features on iOS 18.1. In a world where […]

The post How to Install and Use Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1 appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.