Apple still supports the iPhone 15 with security updates and new features, even though newer models have come out, which means it will keep working reliably for several more years. For someone who doesn't need the very latest camera or processor, an iPhone 15 can save you $300-400 compared to the newest model while doing everything most people actually use a phone for. You can check Apple's official support page to see exactly how many more years of updates the iPhone 15 will receive before deciding whether an older model fits your needs and budget.
# Getting Better Sound From Your Computer
Your laptop's built-in speakers are pretty basic, but adding a simple external speaker or headphones can transform your listening experience and bring music, podcasts, and videos to life. Better audio makes everything more enjoyable—whether you're streaming your favorite songs, watching films, or joining video calls with family—and it doesn't require technical know-how to set up. You can start with an affordable Bluetooth speaker (just search for "portable Bluetooth speaker" online) or a pair of comfortable headphones, which will plug in or connect wirelessly in seconds.
# Uber's New Delivery Partner: Drones
Uber is now using drones made by a company called Zipline to deliver food orders in certain areas, expanding beyond its usual car and bike couriers. For you, this could mean faster delivery of your restaurant meals in the future—potentially getting hot food to your door in just minutes rather than half an hour. Worth knowing: check your Uber Eats app in coming months to see if drone delivery becomes available in your neighborhood, and keep an eye out for any special fees they might charge for this speedier service.
Whisker's latest smart litter box uses cameras and artificial intelligence to identify which cat is using it and track each pet's bathroom habits for signs of health problems. For cat owners, this means you could catch urinary infections, kidney disease, or other issues early by noticing changes in your cat's litter box visits—something that's hard to spot manually, especially with multiple cats. Worth knowing: the facial recognition isn't perfect yet (the company itself admits the cats occasionally confuse it), so treat its health alerts as helpful hints rather than medical diagnoses, and always confirm concerns with your vet.
A McDonald's restaurant was losing thousands of dollars each month because employees weren't showing up for their shifts, often due to problems like missing a bus or needing last-minute childcare. The restaurant started using an app that quickly helps workers solve these day-to-day problems—arranging rides, getting a meal, or finding childcare—which dramatically reduced no-shows and saved the business money. Worth knowing: if you have family members working in service jobs, similar apps are becoming common tools that make their schedules more reliable and their work lives easier.
# You Might Want to Skip Newegg's GPU Trade-In Program
Newegg is offering a trade-in program that lets you swap your old graphics card for credit toward a new one, but the trade-in values they're offering are significantly lower than what you'd get selling the card yourself online. If you're looking to upgrade your computer's graphics capability, you'll likely save money by selling your current card through Facebook Marketplace or eBay before buying a new one. Worth knowing: before using any trade-in program, check what your card is worth on resale sites so you can compare the actual money in your pocket.
Apple's latest upgrade program lets you pay a monthly fee to use an iPhone rather than buying one outright, and they've made it more affordable than in the past. For people who like having the newest phone without a big upfront cost or the hassle of selling an old one, this could be a practical choice. Worth knowing: compare the total you'd pay over two years with the cost of simply buying a phone outright, as leasing works better for some people than others.
Apple's iPhones have a built-in feature that lets emergency responders see your medical information and contact your family, even if your phone is locked. If you're in an accident or sudden health crisis, paramedics can access details like your blood type, allergies, and medications right from your lock screen—potentially making the difference in how quickly they treat you. Worth knowing: setting this up takes just a few minutes in your phone's Health app, and it's something you can do today while you're thinking clearly, rather than hoping someone else knows your information in a crisis.
# Dolby Vision on Netflix: What You Need to Know
Netflix has added Dolby Vision to its Premium plan, which means certain shows and films will have richer colours and sharper contrast if your TV supports it. If you're a film or sports fan who cares about picture quality, this upgrade could make what you watch look noticeably better — similar to the difference between a standard photograph and a professional one. Worth knowing: you'll need Netflix's most expensive subscription tier, a compatible TV (usually made in the last five years), and to check Netflix's app to see which titles actually offer Dolby Vision, since not everything on the platform has it yet.
Samsung has added a new sensor to its latest smartwatch that can measure antioxidant levels in your skin, giving you real-time feedback about your diet and health habits. For anyone over 50 who wants to keep tabs on their wellness without visiting a doctor constantly, this turns your wrist into a simple health monitor that encourages better eating choices. Worth knowing: the measurement won't replace proper medical advice, but it's a useful way to track whether you're eating enough colorful fruits and vegetables—the ones rich in antioxidants.
Robotaxis—cars that drive themselves without a human operator—are now actually available to order in a few cities, ending years of "coming soon" promises. For older adults, this could eventually mean safer, more convenient transportation without the stress of driving, especially as vision or mobility changes with age. Worth knowing: if you live in or visit San Francisco, Phoenix, or Los Angeles, you can try these services today to see how they work, though they're still limited to certain routes and weather conditions.
# Apple Watch Battery Replacement: A Summary
Apple Watch batteries do wear out over time, and you can replace them rather than buying a new watch—though the cost varies depending on which model you have. If your watch is a few years old and still works well otherwise, a battery replacement might save you money compared to upgrading to the latest version. Worth knowing: Apple charges around $79 for most models, so check your watch's age and how much a new one costs before deciding whether a replacement makes financial sense.
