Gadgets

  • AI-driven memory shortage pushes iPhone prices up by £100

    A global shortage of memory chips, driven largely by booming demand from AI data centres, is pushing up the cost of electronic devices and reversing years of falling prices. Apple has added £100 to every iPhone, including older models, meaning consumers pay more without receiving improved features; Samsung and Google have also raised flagship prices…

  • One mobile number, two phones: What is iPhone handoff and which carriers support it?

    Apple has introduced iPhone Handoff with iOS 27, a new feature that allows users to employ a single phone number across two iPhones simultaneously without requiring separate carrier accounts. The functionality is designed for simplicity—users merely unlock the iPhone they wish to use, and calls, messages, and most app features operate seamlessly on both devices…

  • Wired vs. wireless internet: Which should you choose for your home?

    The article explains that “wired” and “wireless” home internet describe how a provider delivers service to the property, not whether devices use Wi‑Fi or Ethernet indoors. Wired services use fibre, coaxial cable or DSL lines, while fixed wireless uses 4G LTE or 5G to connect a home gateway; the best choice depends on availability, performance…

  • Which major chatbot apps work with CarPlay?

    Apple CarPlay now supports several AI chatbot apps through a voice-only interface introduced with iOS 26.4. ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Meta AI and Grok are available, while Siri AI also works on compatible iPhones running iOS 27, giving drivers access to new or existing conversations without using the screen directly. Users need an iPhone running the…

  • Android and Windows users can join FaceTime calls through web browsers

    Apple’s FaceTime application is accessible to Android and Windows PC users through web browsers, though this cross-platform functionality has been available since 2021 with iOS 15 and macOS Monterey. The feature allows non-Apple device users to join FaceTime calls without feeling excluded when communicating with iPhone-using friends and family, addressing a longstanding limitation of the…

  • The benefits of using an E Ink tablet over an iPad

    E Ink tablets can be preferable to an iPad for people whose main activities are reading and drawing. Their paper-like, reflective displays are generally more comfortable for prolonged use, perform well outdoors and can offer better battery life and lower weight, making them suitable for focused, low-power tasks. However, E Ink devices are less versatile…

  • Customise your Samsung Galaxy side button functions

    Samsung’s side button is a multifunctional feature that replaced the traditional power button in 2019 and merged with the previous Bixby button on newer models. Most users may not realise just how customisable this button is, and many can benefit from remapping its functions to suit their needs rather than relying on default settings that…

  • Secure your data before selling, donating or recycling an old laptop

    Before disposing of an old laptop—whether selling, donating, or recycling—you must protect your personal data and prepare the device securely. Follow these essential steps: – Back up your data first using Windows Backup or Time Machine (Mac), ideally to an external drive, as free cloud storage is limited to 5GB – Verify important app syncs…

  • These small changes can improve your home surround sound in a big way

    Most home surround sound systems underperform not because of faulty equipment, but due to poor room setup and speaker placement—all of which can be corrected through low-cost adjustments like repositioning speakers, adding soft furnishings, and running built-in calibration tools. – Room acoustics matter most: hard surfaces such as bare walls, tile floors and windows reflect…

  • Five specifications to prioritise when choosing an Android gaming phone

    When shopping for an Android gaming phone, you don’t need to be swayed by marketing jargon or expensive “gaming” branded devices—instead, focus on five key technical specifications that genuinely matter for gaming performance. – **Processor**: The most important component. Snapdragon 8 Elite and MediaTek Dimensity series are best-in-class; determines graphics quality, frame rates and lag…