Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are now available for $119. The updated model adds Adaptive Audio and improved voice clarity while retaining seamless iOS integration and wireless charging. At this price, they're a compelling option for anyone who wants Apple's ecosystem features without stepping up to the Pro lineup.
TL;DR: If you're looking for a powerful productivity suite without paying any subscriptions, Office 2021 is now available for just $35. All the essential tools you need for work or personal projects at over 80% off the regular price.
The takeaway: Apple has unveiled its next budget smartphone, the iPhone 17e, featuring several upgrades over its predecessor. The most notable additions include MagSafe support, a more powerful processor, an improved cellular modem, enhanced screen protection, and double the base storage capacity. Despite these improvements, the iPhone 17e is expected to retain the same starting price as the model it replaces.
End-of-support deadlines and aggressive requirements are pushing some reluctant users forward
Connecting the dots: Windows 11 finally takes over the desktop, but maybe not on Microsoft's preferred terms. StatCounter's latest numbers show Microsoft's latest OS running on nearly three-quarters of Windows desktops worldwide, with Windows 11 at 72.78% and Windows 10 down to 26.27%. It is a sharp swing from only late 2025, when Windows 11 hovered above the 50% mark and Windows 10 still powered nearly half of all machines.
Why it matters: One of the greatest risks of quantum computing is its potential to break many of the cryptographic protocols that keeps the internet safe today. Thankfully, quantum is still fairly distant from being that great a risk – at this stage, it can't break internet encryption. But Google isn't exactly waiting around for that to happen. On Friday, the company announced that Chrome is rolling out a new type of web certificate that's essentially designed to be quantum-proof from the ground up.
Watch out for borderline fraudulent deals on Amazon
Cutting corners: As the ongoing AI-fueled memory shortages raise hardware prices, options for ultra-budget laptops are becoming limited. Some manufacturers and resellers appear to be taking advantage of the desperation in the sub-$500 segment with deceptive advertising, often including OneDrive trials in their storage specifications. Many also skimp on processors, screen resolution, and RAM when better deals show that this is unnecessary.