Several popular smartwatch models are reaching the end of their software support in 2024, meaning they won't receive new features or security fixes much longer. For older smartwatch owners, this matters because an unsupported device becomes less secure over time and may struggle to connect properly with your phone and other gadgets. Worth knowing: check your smartwatch model on the manufacturer's website to see when support ends, and start thinking about whether an upgrade makes sense for you before yours stops getting updates.
# Better Sound from Your Current Earbuds
Swapping out the rubber tips on your earbuds for better-fitting or higher-quality ones can make a real difference in how they sound—often for just a few dollars. A proper seal in your ear means clearer audio and better bass, which many people find makes music and podcasts much more enjoyable without buying expensive new earbuds. You can pick up replacement tip sets online (look for brands like Comply or Dekoni) or ask the store where you bought your earbuds whether they sell upgrades for your model.
Apple will still accept iPhones from nearly a decade ago in their trade-in program, meaning that dusty old iPhone 6s sitting in your drawer could be worth something toward a new device. For many of us who hold onto our phones longer than Apple would like, this is good news—you're not forced to throw away working technology just because it's aged, and you can recoup at least a little money when you finally upgrade. Worth knowing: before you dig out an old phone to trade in, check Apple's website to see what your specific model is actually worth, since values vary quite a bit depending on its age and condition.
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that lets you play games with friends online and gives you access to a library of classic games, but the question of whether it's worth the cost depends on how much you actually use those features. If you're someone who enjoys multiplayer gaming or loves revisiting old Nintendo favorites like Super Mario Bros. and Zelda, the subscription can provide genuine entertainment value; however, if you mainly play single-player games offline, you're probably paying for something you won't use. Worth knowing: before committing to a subscription, think honestly about whether you'll actually play online games or use the classic game collection regularly enough to justify the monthly or yearly fee.
# Android Auto YouTube Limitations: Is It Worth Using In The Car?
I don't have access to the full article text you're referring to, so I can't write an accurate summary. Could you please paste the article content or key points? Once you do, I'll write three warm, straightforward sentences explaining what's going on with Android Auto and YouTube for someone who drives and wants to stay informed.
Amazon is raising prices on many of its devices—including the Echo speakers, Kindle e-readers, and Fire tablets—because the cost of memory chips has jumped dramatically. If you use any of these gadgets or were thinking about buying one as a gift, you'll want to know that they're becoming more expensive. Worth knowing: check current prices now if you've been considering an Amazon device, as prices may continue climbing over the next few months.
Pebble has made a smartwatch that skips all the complexity and fancy features, instead focusing on fun watch faces, simple apps, and buttons you can actually press instead of swiping. Unlike fancier smartwatches that need charging every day or two, the Pebble Time 2 runs for weeks on a single charge and uses a crisp, easy-to-read screen that works perfectly in bright sunlight. You can try one out at a tech store or read independent reviews online to see if its straightforward approach appeals to you more than the bells and whistles of pricier alternatives.
Walmart is finally letting customers use Apple Pay and other tap-to-pay options at checkout, starting this month in some stores and spreading to all locations by year's end. If you've felt frustrated watching others tap their phones or watches to pay while you had to scan a QR code, this change means you'll have the same convenient choice—no wallet needed, just your phone or smartwatch. Worth knowing: Check your local Walmart's website before your next visit to see if tap-to-pay is available yet, and make sure your phone or watch has Apple Pay or another tap option set up in its settings.
Walmart and Sam's Club are planning to let you pay for your purchases by tapping your phone or smartwatch at checkout by the end of 2026, catching up with most other major retailers who already offer this feature. If you use mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay, this means one less thing to carry—your wallet can stay at home if you want. Worth knowing: check whether your bank or card issuer already supports tap-to-pay payments, as many do, so you might be able to start using this at other stores right away.
# Can Your Old Satellite Dish Pull in Free TV?
That satellite dish left behind by the previous owner might work as a regular TV antenna, but whether it actually will depends on your location and what kind of broadcasts are available nearby. For people who've cut the cord on expensive cable or satellite subscriptions, this could mean free access to local channels without buying new equipment. Worth knowing: you'll need to check if your area still has over-the-air television signals (most do), and you may need an adapter or new cable to connect the old dish to your TV.
Oura, the company behind popular sleep-tracking rings, is being sued because the rings may not actually measure what they claim to measure about your sleep. For people who've spent money on these devices hoping to improve their sleep habits, this raises real questions about whether you're getting useful information or just expensive guesswork. Worth knowing: if you own an Oura ring or similar device, check what the company actually guarantees versus what it merely suggests, and remember that a good night's sleep still depends on the basics—keeping a regular schedule and a cool bedroom—rather than gadget readings.
Walmart has decided to accept Apple Pay and Google Pay at its checkout counters, ending a long holdout against these mobile payment methods. If you prefer tapping your phone instead of carrying cards or cash, you'll now have that option at one of America's largest retailers. Worth knowing: check your phone's settings to make sure Apple Pay or Google Pay is set up before your next Walmart visit, so you can try it out smoothly.
