Apple is preparing to launch new smart home devices like doorbells, security cameras, and thermostats, working with manufacturer LG to build them. These gadgets would let you control your home's temperature, answer your door remotely, and monitor security all from your iPhone or iPad, making your house easier to manage as you age in place. Worth knowing: when Apple launches these devices next week, you'll want to check if they work with your existing home setup before buying, since some older systems don't connect easily to Apple's ecosystem.
# Kindle Click vs Kobo Remote: Which Page-Turner Is Right for You?
You can now buy small wireless remotes designed specifically to turn pages on e-readers—Kindle's Click and Kobo's Remote both do this job, though they only work with their matching devices. For older readers who find it tiring to hold a heavy tablet or keep reaching to tap a screen, these lightweight remotes mean you can relax your hands while reading for hours. Worth knowing: before buying an e-reader, check whether the model you're interested in actually supports a remote, since not all do—this detail often gets overlooked when shopping online.
MapQuest, the mapping service many of you used before Google Maps took over, is making a comeback and now works with Android Auto in your car. This gives you another choice if you prefer MapQuest's interface or want a backup option when you're driving and need directions. Worth knowing: you can download the MapQuest app and enable it in Android Auto's settings today if you want to try the beta version.
Sigil Wen, a young AI developer backed by prominent Silicon Valley figures, has created a new AI assistant called Underdog that runs entirely on your own device—meaning your conversations and data never leave your computer or phone. Unlike popular AI tools that send your information to company servers, this approach keeps your personal details completely private, which is especially valuable if you're concerned about who sees what you search for or ask about. You can explore Underdog yourself if privacy feels like your priority, though it's worth trying it alongside tools you already use to see if it handles the everyday tasks you care about.
AI agents that could handle your shopping, travel bookings, and restaurant reservations are being developed, but many websites are actively blocking them to protect their systems and data. For you, this means these helpful digital assistants might not work as smoothly as promised when trying to complete real tasks on your behalf. Worth knowing: before investing time in an AI agent service, check whether the websites you use most frequently have agreed to work with it, or you may find yourself back to doing these chores manually.
# Skydance is merging two major streaming services—HBO Max and Paramount+—into one combined platform, which should simplify things for people juggling multiple subscriptions. For viewers over 50 who've been paying for both services separately, this could mean lower costs and easier access to shows from both networks in a single place. Worth knowing: watch for announcements about pricing and timing, since the merger could take months to complete and existing subscribers may need to transition their accounts.
Amazon has removed the voice command feature that let people tell Alexa to play music from devices plugged into their Echo speakers through the AUX cable port. If you've been using commands like "Alexa, play from line in" to listen to music from a connected device, those voice controls simply won't work anymore starting this week. Worth knowing: if you have an older Echo speaker with an AUX port and rely on this feature, you'll need to switch to manually pressing buttons or using your phone's Bluetooth connection instead.
Pinterest has added a clever AI feature that takes beauty photos you like and transforms them into practical salon instructions, complete with what to ask for, how much it might cost, and how often you'll need touch-ups. This means you can finally show your hairdresser or nail technician exactly what you want without the awkward "I saw this on the internet" moment. Worth knowing: when you save a beauty Pin that catches your eye, look for the new "Beauty Guide" option to see the professional details before you book your appointment.
Google is narrowing down what free users can do with its AI assistant Gemini—starting October 9th, you'll only have access to the most basic version unless you pay for a subscription. If you currently use Gemini for free to help with writing, research, or creative projects, you'll notice fewer powerful options available to you. Worth knowing: if you rely on Gemini regularly, check your email after October 9th for any notices from Google, and decide whether a $4.99 monthly subscription makes sense for your needs.
Spotify is adding a fun music trivia game where you can answer questions about over 2,000 different artists and test how well you really know your favorite music. If you enjoy discovering new music or have been listening for decades, this gives you a playful way to engage with songs and artists you thought you knew. Worth knowing: the quiz is rolling out gradually to all users, so check your Spotify app under the "Home" section to see if it's available for you yet.
Google is ending free access to its most capable AI assistants—Gemini Flash and Pro—starting October 9, so you'll only be able to use the basic Gemini model unless you pay. If you've been using these advanced versions to help with writing, research, or problem-solving without paying, you'll notice a real drop in what the AI can do for you. Worth knowing: check your Google account now to see which Gemini model you're currently using, and decide whether upgrading to a paid plan makes sense for how you actually use it.
Some Amazon Echo speakers have started repeating "lalala" over and over for several minutes, sometimes interrupting conversations, and the speakers seem unaware it's even happening. If you rely on your Echo to control your home or get information, this glitch could be frustrating and make the device less trustworthy when you need it. Worth knowing: if your Echo starts behaving oddly, try unplugging it for a minute and plugging it back in, which often fixes these kinds of temporary software hiccups.
