Gear – KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com Tech News, Reviews, and How-To's for the Non-Techie Wed, 24 Jan 2024 15:41:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cropped-LOGO-ICON-KNOW-TECHIE-FINAL01-01-COLOR-32x32.png Gear – KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com 32 32 OnePlus 12 and 12R make global debut; to hit US stores in February https://knowtechie.com/oneplus-12-and-12r-glolabl-launch-us-february/ https://knowtechie.com/oneplus-12-and-12r-glolabl-launch-us-february/#respond Wed, 24 Jan 2024 15:41:23 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=358122 The OnePlus R-Series model goes global for the first time.

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After the Chinese release of the OnePlus 12 last month, the flagship smartphone is set to hit the US market on February 6th with a price tag starting at $799.99, something that we’ve been waiting on for months.

The phone offers great battery life, a large 6.82-inch, 1440p resolution display, and a triple-camera setup with a main 50-megapixel sensor, a 48-megapixel ultrawide, and a 64-megapixel telephoto with a 3x optical zoom.

Notably, the OnePlus 12 also includes wireless charging support, an improvement on its predecessor, the OnePlus 11. The smartphone is built around a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 with a Trinity Engine software and a vapor chamber-based cooling system.

OnePlus 12R becomes first R-series model to go global

Additionally, OnePlus launched the lower-end OnePlus 12R alongside the OnePlus 12, marking the first time that the R-series device has been released outside of China and India.

The 12R features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, IP64-rated dust and water resistance, and a 5,500mAh battery, among other features.

The phone has a slightly lower-specification camera configuration, consisting of a 50-megapixel main and eight-megapixel ultrawide, and a two-megapixel macro camera. The phone comes in blue and gray color options and will start at $499.99 in the US, as stated in the company’s press release.

SpecsOnePlus 12OnePlus 12R
Dimension6.47 x 2.98 x 0.36 in6.43 x 2.96 x 0.35 in
Weight7.76 oz7.30 oz
DisplayLTPO AMOLED, 120HzLTPO4 AMOLED, 120Hz
Size6.82 inches6.78 inches
Resolution1440 x 3168 pixels1264 x 2780 pixels
OSAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14Android 14, OxygenOS 14
ChipsetQualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
GPUAdreno 750Adreno 740
Configurations256GB 12GB RAM
512GB 16GB RAM
1TB 16GB RAM
1TB 24GB RAM
128GB 8GB RAM
256GB 16GB RAM
Main Camera50MP wide
64MP periscope telephoot
48MP ultrawide
50MP wide
8MP ultrawide
2MP macro
Selfie Camera32MP wide16MP wide
Battery5400 mAh5500mAh
Starting Price$799.99$499.99

OnePlus is also launching its third-generation true wireless earbuds, the OnePlus Buds 3, with an open sale on February 5th in the US. The earbuds include active noise cancellation, which will adjust to the wearer’s ear canal, and multipoint support for use with multiple devices.

They also feature sweat resistance and an IP55 rating, with a battery life of up to 6.5 hours with ANC on or up to 10 hours with it turned off, rising to 28 and 44 hours, respectively, when combined with the earbud case. The earbuds will cost $99.99 in the US.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Google Pixel 9 Pro design leaks in new renders with a familiar look https://knowtechie.com/leaked-google-pixel-9-pro-renders-leak/ https://knowtechie.com/leaked-google-pixel-9-pro-renders-leak/#respond Wed, 24 Jan 2024 15:20:53 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=358116 The Google Pixel 9 Pro looks gorgeous in newly leaked renders.

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Google is in the rumor mill yet again, and this time it’s all about its much-awaited flagship smartphone – the Google Pixel 9 Pro. Reputed leaker OnLeaks joined hands with MySmartPrice to reveal the 5K renders of the Google Pixel 9 Pro, giving us the first look at the device.

According to the newly-leaked renders, the upcoming smartphone by the search engine giant will feature a circa 6.5-inch flat display with a centered punch-hole cutout for the front-facing camera.

The renders also confirm that Google Pixel 9 Pro will flaunt thin bezels on all four sides of the display, making for a sleek and modern design.

Google going the Apple and Samsung way with Pixel 9 Pro

OnLeaks suggests that the flagship smartphone will sport a flat frame with the power button and volume rockers on the right side of the device. The overall design is similar to what we’ve seen on the iPhone, and more recently, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series.

The left side of the device will remain clean, except for the antenna markings. The bottom of the device will feature a USB Type-C port, speaker grille, and SIM card tray.

In terms of measurements, the Google Pixel 9 Pro will reportedly measure 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm. The camera bump will push that area’s thickness to 12mm. The smartphone will also have an mmWave antenna cover and a microphone on top.

While both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have a microphone on the top area, only the Verizon-version of the Pixel 8 Pro has the mmWave antenna.

But what caught our attention the most was the rumored refreshing design upgrade for the rear cameras. The leaked renders indicate that Google might introduce a new triple-camera setup that will feature a telephoto sensor, along with the standard wide-angle camera sensor.

The large camera island suggests that the smartphone might support variable aperture, making it one of the most sought-after smartphones for photography enthusiasts.

As of now, nothing is official because we still have many months to go before the release of the new Pixel 9 line. However, with the recent leaks and rumors, we can undoubtedly say that the Google Pixel 9 Pro is one of the most eagerly awaited flagship smartphones of the year.

Until then, however, we’re still hoping to get the Google Pixel 8A this spring.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

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The Prox PRD is the perfect solution for forgetful phone users https://knowtechie.com/the-prox-prd-lost-stolen-phone/ https://knowtechie.com/the-prox-prd-lost-stolen-phone/#respond Wed, 24 Jan 2024 02:45:40 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=357415 This is a simple, no-subscription, no-app-required approach to ensure your smartphone never gets left behind.

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You know the drill. You’re halfway through your commute, and that sinking feeling hits. No, it’s not a sudden realization of existential dread (well, not this time) – you’ve left your phone on the kitchen counter. Again.

But what if there was a way to stop that mid-journey face-palm? Meet the Prox PRD, the Bluetooth buddy that’s hoping to be your smartphone’s new best friend.

Our phones are practically extensions of our bodies; it’s almost comical how often they’re forgotten.

Wallet, keys, phone – the holy trinity of “Things We Routinely Pat Our Pockets For” – and yet, the phone, our digital lifeline, is the one we manage to leave behind. Every. Single. Time.

Enter the Prox PRD. With its minute dimensions of 1.77 inches by 1.77 inches, it’s as unobtrusive as the common car key fob. Pair it with your phone, and the Prox PRD will sound an alert if you start to walk away without it. 

prox prd on a purple background
Image: KnowTechie

To get a better understanding of what makes the Prox PRD stand out, I reached out to Michael McCrary, the CEO of Prox Devices. He was quick to clarify a few misconceptions:

‘We know what you’re thinking!’ McCrary said in our conversation. ‘NO – it’s not a tracker; NO – it’s not a key finder; NO – it’s not an item finder; NO – it’s not a phone finder; NO – you don’t already have one when you have an AirTag or Tile; YES – it will keep you from forgetting your phone.’

The Prox PRD is a Phone Reminder Device that alerts you before you forget your phone and leave it behind, with no subscription, no data collected or sold, no app, no sign-up, no registration, no passwords, and no tracking ‘Location Services’ used to invade your privacy and drain your phone’s battery.

Prox PRD Prox PRD
4.0
$69.95 $57.95

Designed by Prox Devices, this little guy is a no-hassle solution to keep your phone by your side. Forget complex setups. This is a simple, no-subscription, no-app-required approach to ensure your smartphone isn't left behind.

What We Like:
  • Privacy Champion: It doesn't collect data or need an app, ensuring your personal details stay personal.
  • Forget-Me-Not: This device alerts you before you leave your phone behind, acting as your digital leash.
  • Year-Long Vigil: A long-lasting battery life means fewer worries about maintenance.
  • Effortless Setup: Attach it to your keychain or bag, pair it with your phone, and go about your day with one less worry.
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.
01/25/2024 07:41 pm GMT

Ever find your phone in the fridge? Guilty as charged. So naturally, I jumped at the chance to test the Prox PRD.

Indoors, the PRD’s alerts are crystal clear. Step outside, however, and the bustling city may easily drown out its alarm.

Battery life is another consideration. The PRD joins the club of devices that nudge us to stockpile batteries. While it’s not a major inconvenience, it’s certainly an addition to the mental checklist.

Video: Prox Devices

The team at Prox Devices claims that the Prox PRD is energy efficient, but how long can it really last? And what about its performance in different environments? Airports, shopping centers, and places teeming with Bluetooth signals – can it hold its own?

For the most part, yes, it can. From its easy setup to its reliable alerts, this little device seems to stand tall amidst the ocean of forgetful phone owners.

The folks at Prox Devices are pretty open about what this thing can and can’t do. Even its troubleshooting page is upfront about potential issues, a refreshing nod to transparency.

image of three prox prd dedvices on a purple background
Image: KnowTechie

According to McCrary, Prox Devices CEO, the thoughtfulness behind the Prox PRD’s design comes from a careful examination of the market; he tells KnowTechie in an email. McCrary shared that a friend asked him to create a simple device to remind him about his phone before leaving it behind.

And Prox Devices isn’t stopping there. McCrary shared that the company is currently developing three new products, all of which will be easy to use and reliable. The first of these is expected to be released sometime in 2024.

So, if you’ve ever felt the cold dread of Phone Separation Anxiety, the Prox PRD might just be the gadget for you. It won’t solve world peace, but if it prevents that heart-stopping ‘Where’s my phone?’ moment, it could be worth its weight in gold.

It won’t solve world peace, but if it prevents that heart-stopping “Where’s my phone?” moment, it could be worth its weight in gold.

The Prox PRD retails for $57.95 and can be purchased directly from the company’s website or Amazon. As an added bonus, KnowTechie readers can use promo code AN15%OFF for a 15% discount via the company’s website.

Prox PRD
4.0
$69.95 $57.95

Designed by Prox Devices, this little guy is a no-hassle solution to keep your phone by your side. Forget complex setups. This is a simple, no-subscription, no-app-required approach to ensure your smartphone isn't left behind.

Amazon Website - Promo Code: AN15%OFF
KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.
01/25/2024 07:41 pm GMT

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Samsung Galaxy Ring announced; Oura responds to new competition https://knowtechie.com/oura-responds-samsung-galaxy-ring-announcement/ https://knowtechie.com/oura-responds-samsung-galaxy-ring-announcement/#respond Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:16:46 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=357379 Oura says "New players entering the space is validation for the category."

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Samsung’s new health device, the Galaxy Ring, has been rumored for a while, and at yesterday’s event, the Korean tech giant officially announced the device, showing off its sleek and stunning design. 

As usual, the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event was stuffed with several exciting announcements, including the stars of the event – the Galaxy S24 series and Galaxy AI.

The company also announced various other services and features. However, the event’s biggest surprise was the Galaxy Ring.

The surprise Galaxy Ring announcement

Samsung Galaxy Ring
Image: Samsung/YouTube

Samsung spent the final phase of the show discussing Samsung Health. The company is bringing groundbreaking improvements to health tracking with the implementation of the Galaxy AI.  

However, before the speaker finished his talk and the event came to an eventual end, Samsung announced the Galaxy Ring

Based on the presentation, Samsung isn’t going out of its way to make the ring look different. 

It’s a traditional-looking smart ring with a shiny chrome-like exterior, and all the expected sensors will be available inside. 

However, the design of the smart ring is pretty much all we got. It probably was a last-minute addition to the presentation as Samsung didn’t provide any details about the device’s capability, the price, or when it will launch. 

Oura responds to Samsung’s announcement 

Besides Samsung’s Galaxy Ring announcement, the second exciting event of the day would be Oura’s response to its new competitor. Oura has been a pioneer in the smart ring space.

Wasting almost no time, Oura CEO Tom Hale provided the following statement to Android Central via email. 

Since our founding over a decade ago, we’ve invested relentlessly in [the] service of creating the best smart [ring] that gives [everybody] a voice. Our members span from Gen Z to Boomers, from pro athletes to those seeking to improve their sleep and health, from women tracking their cycles to those who want to better manage their stress.

With new features released regularly, Oura has the strongest IP portfolio—in both hardware and software—for the smart ring form factor, with 100 granted patents, 270 pending patent applications, and 130+ registered trademarks. New players entering the space is validation for the category and drives us to aim higher to serve our members and community.

The statement clearly indicates that Oura isn’t even worried a bit about a big name like Samsung throwing its hat in the game. 

That said, Samsung will also have its hands full as a newcomer into the smart ring space.

Best Buy: Samsung Galaxy S24 Preorder Deal

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Check Availability

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

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How to update Hisense TV software https://knowtechie.com/how-to-update-your-hisense-tv-software/ https://knowtechie.com/how-to-update-your-hisense-tv-software/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 22:58:07 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=214656 The latest Hisense TVs can update over Wi-Fi, whereas the old ones can only be updated manually.

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Quick Answer: If your Hisense TV has an internet connection, you can update its software over the air. If not, you can update your TV manually via a USB drive. But you may have to request the updated file from customer support.

Hisense TV software should be updated regularly as new updates can improve the performance and stability of your TV. So, if you’re wondering how to update Hisense TV software to get those benefits, you’re in the right place.

These updates introduce new features and enhancements and fix security patches and firmware bugs that may have been discovered since the last release.

Hisense TVs are available in three operating systems: VIDAA U, Roku TV, and Android TV.

The latest Hisense TVs come with internet connectivity and can update their software over the air through a Wi-Fi or ethernet connection.

Unfortunately, you need to update the firmware on older models through a USB drive.

If you’re looking for instructions for a Hisense TV software update, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to updating your Hisense TV software on all three operating systems.

Hisense Software Update Download: To download the latest Hisense software update, go to the official Hisense website. Navigate to the Support or Downloads section and search for the specific model of your Hisense device. From there, locate and download the available software update to keep your device up to date with the latest features and improvements.

Here are some of the solutions we’ll be covering in this post:

Over-the-Air Updates on Hisense TVs

Unfortunately, not every Hisense TV can receive over-the-air updates. The Hisense models listed below can connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or ethernet and support OTA updates.

READ MORE: How to turn on Hisense TV without a remote?

Depending on the operating system of your Hisense TV, the process of checking, downloading, and installing updates will be different.

The latest Hisense firmware update enhances performance and fixes bugs for your Hisense device. Keep your device up to date with the latest features, improvements, and security patches by downloading and installing the firmware update directly from the Hisense website.

How to update Hisense TV software

On Hisense Android TVs

  1. Make sure that your TV is connected to the internet.

  2. Open Settings (Gear Icon) from the Android TV home screen.hisense tv android tv settings

  3. Find and select Device Preferences.hisense android tv device and prefererences settings

  4. Go to Abouthisense android tv about settings

  5. Scroll down to System Updatehisense android tv system updates settings

  6. Your TV will now look for any available updateshisense android tv checking for updates

  7. If there’s an update available, select Update Now to install it.

How to find your software update on a Hisense Roku TV

  • Access the Home screen of your TV by pressing the Home button on the Remote.
  • Select the Settings option.
hisense roku tv home menu and settings
Image: KnowTechie
  • Scroll down and select the System option.
hisense roku tv system menu uption
Image: KnowTechie
  • Find and select System Update.
hisense roku tv system update menu option
Image: KnowTechie
  • Next, select the ‘Check Now‘ option so the TV can check for updates.
hisense roku tv looking for updates
Image: KnowTechie
  • A popup menu will appear on your TV screen if the updates are available.
  • Select Update so that your TV will be updated to the latest firmware.

On Hisense VIDAA U TVs

  • Press the Setting Button (Cog) on the remote, this opens the setting menu.
hisense vidaa v home screen
Image: KnowTechie
  • Next, find and select ‘Support
hisense vidaa tv support menu
Image: KnowTechie
  • Select ‘System Update
hisense vidaa tv system update menu
Image: KnowTechie
  • Now, select ‘Check Firmware Upgrade
Hisense-Vidaa-TV-check-firmware-updates-menu
Image: KnowTechie
  • Your TV will now start checking for updates. If there are any available updates, they will show up on the screen.
hisense vidaa tv looking for updates
Image: KnowTechie
  • Select ‘Upgrade‘ to install the update.

You can enable an Automatic Update option on newer Hisense TVs (Mostly VIDAA U). Enabling this option automatically checks, downloads, and install new updates as and when they are released from Hisense.

To activate this feature, follow the above steps for VIDAA U TV until you reach the System Update menu.

From here, enable ‘Auto Firmware Upgrade.’

  • Press the settings button on your Hisense remote.
  • Navigate to “Support,” then “System Update
  • Ensure “Auto Firmware Upgrade” is enabled.

How to Manually Update Hisense Smart TV Via USB

Thankfully, there’s one last resort if your Hisense TV doesn’t have an internet connection or can’t update over the air. Luckily, you can update your TV manually via a USB drive.

But there is a catch.

Only a few Hisense TVs have their updates publicly available on the company’s website, while for others, you have to contact customer support and request the update file.

Hisense software update download: How to manually update your Hisense TV with a USB drive

  1. Unzip the file you received from customer support.
  2. Locate and copy the ‘upgrade_loader.pkg‘ file on a formatted USB drive (preferably FAT 32). Make sure the USB is empty.
  3. Turn off the TV.
  4. Insert the USB drive into one of the USB ports at the back/side of the TV.
  5. Turn on the TV.
  6. Press and hold the ‘Stand by’ Button on the remote until you see the message ‘Software Updating.
  7. It takes almost 10-15 minutes to update the software. Once done, the TV will turn on automatically.

Wrapping Up

Hisense TVs, like all other smart TVs, need regular software updates to keep them running smoothly.

If your TV supports internet connectivity, Hisense has made it easy for you to update the software and firmware over the air. If not, you will have to request the updated file from customer support and update it manually via USB.

By following the tips and steps in this guide, you’ll be able to update your Hisense TV software. You might also use this information to troubleshoot any issues that you may have with your software.

After ensuring your Hisense TV runs the latest software, you might want to explore how it connects with other devices.

For those on the go, learn how to connect your AirPods to different devices, including in-flight entertainment systems, for a seamless audio experience wherever you are.

Want more tips like these? Sign up for the KnowTechie newsletter and get the best news and guides weekly. Over 10,000 people subscribe to it, and we hope you will too.

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Can you use AirPods on a plane? https://knowtechie.com/will-apple-airpods-work-on-a-plane/ https://knowtechie.com/will-apple-airpods-work-on-a-plane/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 22:38:32 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=96127 And more importantly, will airlines let you use AirPods on the plane.

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Quick Answer: Yes, AirPods work on planes and you can even use them during your flight. Airlines treat them no differently than wireless headphones. However, you should be aware of a few limitations.

True wireless earbuds like Apple AirPods are great for work, home, and working out. But what about travel? More specifically, do they work on a plane?

At first thought, it seems obvious. But sometimes, things aren’t as simple as ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ While AirPods might technically work on an airplane, rules can change.

For example, the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) rules over device use on aircraft. So what’s the deal with using your AirPods and AirPods Pro on a plane?

So, will AirPods work on a plane?

Short answer: Yes

Yes, your AirPods will work on a plane, and yes, you can use them in the air. And, of course, you can use AirPods on in-flight TVs. Airlines treat them no differently than wireless headphones.

This functionality comes right out of the box available across all models includeing the second generation airpods, all the way to Apple AirPods Max.

airplane mode on smartphone
Image: KnowTechie

However, you’ll have to enable your phone’s Airplane Mode to disable cellular radio. Then, turn Bluetooth back on. Thankfully, that’ll keep you inside the FAA’s rules.

READ MORE: AirFly connects your wireless headphones to in-flight entertainment systems

If your flight has onboard WiFi, you can connect that too. That’s all because, in 2013, the FAA relaxed its regulations on in-flight device use:

If your air carrier provides WiFi service during flight, you may use those services. You can also continue to use short-range Bluetooth accessories, like wireless keyboards.

Can you use AirPods for phone calls on an airplane?

2nd generation apple airpods on a purple background
Image: KnowTechie

Sadly, no. The only thing you can’t do is make voice calls, even over WiFi, thanks to FCC regulations prohibiting airborne calls from using cell phones.

Do Apple AirPods 2nd generation work with in-flight entertainment?

airfly main
Image: Twelve South

Ah, in-flight entertainment. The best way to snooze through red-eye transatlantic flights. But there’s a problem.

Airlines don’t often give out headphones for free anymore. That’s okay; most of us have earbuds in our pockets, but do your AirPods work on a plane to watch movies?

The answer is yes, but you’ll need an adapter to connect things. We like Twelve South’s AirFly range, which works with in-flight entertainment systems or the TVs at your local gym.

If you don’t have a Bluetooth adapter, thankfully you can use AirPods or any other Bluetooth device for more than just watching movies on a plane. For instance, you can listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks via your laptop or smartphone.

Using AirPods on a plane without Wi-Fi

No worries if you don’t have a Bluetooth adapter! Thankfully, you can still use AirPods or other Bluetooth devices for more than just watching movies on a plane.

bluetooth symbol on phone
Image: Unsplash

For instance, jam out to music, catch up on podcasts, or get lost in audiobooks via your laptop or smartphone, all without Wi-Fi.

AirPods connect to your device using Bluetooth, so you don’t need an internet connection. Just remember to set your device to airplane mode and enable Bluetooth while you’re in the sky.

Can you use AirPods on a plane?

Yup, AirPods work basically anywhere.

So the next time you fly, remember to use your Apple AirPods in the air, at the terminal, or anywhere gate-to-gate as long as your phone is in Airplane Mode.

Key PointDescription
Bluetooth ConnectivityAirPods use Bluetooth technology to connect with devices, which doesn’t require Wi-Fi or data
Airplane Mode CompatibilityEven when a device is in airplane mode, Bluetooth can still be enabled, allowing AirPods to function
In-flight EntertainmentSome airlines, like Delta, are rolling out Bluetooth connectivity for their in-flight entertainment systems, making it possible to use AirPods for this purpose
Airline PoliciesThe use of Bluetooth devices like AirPods is subject to the airline’s regulations. It’s always a good idea to check with the airline before the flight
Battery LifeAirPods have a good battery lifespan, making them suitable for long flights. The charging case provides multiple charges for even longer usage
Noise Cancellation (AirPods Pro)AirPods Pro feature active noise cancellation, which can be useful on noisy flights

And there you have it, folks, your comprehensive guide to using AirPods on a plane, all neatly packed in the table above.

It’s clear that whether you’re cruising at 30,000 feet with no Wi-Fi in sight or just want to tune out the world around you, AirPods have got your ears covered.

FAQs (frequently asked questions)

Can I use AirPods on Delta flights?

Absolutely, you can! Not wanting to be left in the technological dust, Delta Air Lines has hopped on the Bluetooth bandwagon and equipped their inflight entertainment systems with wireless connectivity. So yes, your beloved AirPods can now be your flight companion.

Do AirPods stop your ears from popping on a plane?

Sure, but don’t expect miracles from your AirPods. They’re great for drowning out the drone of the plane engine or that chatty passenger next to you, but they’re not going to stop your ears from popping. That’s because the popping sensation is due to changes in air pressure, not whether or not you’re jamming out to your favorite tunes.

Can you use AirPods on a lane without Wi-Fi?

Your AirPods don’t need Wi-Fi to work. They’re like your loyal Golden Retriever, always ready to play fetch, whether you’re at home, in a park, or 35,000 feet up in the air.

Where do you use your AirPods? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Apple wants to launch Vision Pro outside the US before WWDC 2024 https://knowtechie.com/apple-vision-pro-launch-outside-us-before-wwdc-2024/ https://knowtechie.com/apple-vision-pro-launch-outside-us-before-wwdc-2024/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:43:28 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=357170 Apple has to overcome numerous logistical issues first.

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While Apple hasn’t disclosed its plans for the international availability of the Apple Vision Pro, the company’s first mixed-reality headset is about to land in the United States on February 2, with pre-orders starting from January 19. 

However, in a new report, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says that international buyers may not have to wait that long. 

Why the Apple Vision Pro isn’t available in non-US markets

The journalist said, “Apple is likely to release Vision Pro outside the U.S. market before WWDC 2024.” And he attributes different factors to back up his statement. 

Kuo states that Apple is planning to share visionOS’s development information with the global developers before WWDC 2024, as it would benefit the company and the global development ecosystem of visionOS if it could launch the headset in non-US markets.

As for the reasons behind Apple’s exclusion from the non-US markets, Kuo had the following to say, 

  1. Apple Vision Pro’s initially limited supply
  2. To ensure the sales process in the United States goes smoothly
  3. They also needed more time to modify the algorithm to comply with other country’s regulations. 

Besides these, Apple also has to go through numerous logistical hurdles to make the device available internationally.  

For example, the protocol for adding prescription lenses varies from country to country. And, of course, for the sales process, Apple’s physical stores also play a crucial role.

They have to train all the store employees properly. 

However, Kuo believes there’s a possibility that Apple can overcome all these issues and be ready to launch the device before June, at least in some countries.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Apple Vision Pro finally gets FCC approval as launch inches closer https://knowtechie.com/apple-vision-pro-gets-fcc-approval/ https://knowtechie.com/apple-vision-pro-gets-fcc-approval/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:38:37 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=357179 Apple can finally launch the Apple Vision Pro in the US in peace.

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Apple Vision Pro is all set to grace us on February 2, while the pre-orders will start weeks before that, on January 19. As the launch date gets closer, Apple has finally received FCC approval in the United States for its first mixed-reality headset.

Today, the FCC has published filings from Apple and test reports confirming that Vision Pro can be sold in the United States.

However, it wasn’t a secret that the Apple Vision Pro didn’t have FCC’s approval up until now – the company has always been upfront about it, and even its marketing material included the disclaimer.

Apple Vision Pro has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be, offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.

So, Apple can finally remove this disclaimer from its marketing materials, courtesy of the FCC.

That said, several FCC documents are still labeled as short-term confidential, with more details set to become available on July 14, including internal photos, setup photos, and more.

Apple Vision Pro lacks UWB and the latest Wi-Fi chip used in the M3 Macs

Apple Vision Pro headset inside showing the chips
Image: KnowTechie

The FCC filing has revealed an interesting new detail for the Vision Pro. Apparently, Apple’s mixed-reality headset lacks Ultra Wideband and Wi-Fi 6E or 7 chips.

However, this shouldn’t come as a surprise, as the hardware inside the Vision Pro was developed around Apple’s M2 silicon. Apple has since moved on to the M3 chip. 

So, the absence of these chips was speculated. The FCC filing just supports these assumptions.

For this same reason, the Apple Vision Pro will support Wi-Fi 6, not the Wi-Fi 6E. And for those who were expecting Wi-Fi 7, according to MacRumors’ Joe Rossignol, there’s always Apple Vision Pro 2, but we will likely have moved on to Wi-Fi 10 by then. 

In addition, the FCC filing reveals that Apple Vision Pro will not come with Ultra Wideband capabilities.

Reportedly, the iPhone 15’s UWB is of a specific kind, and the Vision Pro lacks that. Apparently, Apple’s UWB chip is all about spatial awareness, but it is also different from spatial computing.

Now that the FCC has officially granted its approval, Apple can officially launch the Vision Pro in the United States. 

However, if you are disappointed about the $3,499 Vision Pro not having UWB and Wi-Fi 6E/7, don’t worry. Apple Vision Pro has plenty of things to get excited about. 

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Apple Vision Pro apps finally begin arriving to the App Store https://knowtechie.com/apple-vision-pro-apps-launch-app-store/ https://knowtechie.com/apple-vision-pro-apps-launch-app-store/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:32:03 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=357200 Check out what the $3,500 "spatial computer" will be able to run at launch.

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Apple provided access to the developers with an Apple Vision Pro Developer Kit a few months back for developing apps for the platform, complete with visionOS branding guidelines.

The headset arrives on February 2, and the Cupertino company has made it possible for developers to submit their apps. The visionOS applications are finally rolling out today. 

Apps for the Apple Vision Pro have started rolling out 

The developers who submitted their application for the visionOS for the App Store Review at the beginning of this month are getting email notifications today. 

The email is basically telling them that the applications submitted by them have been approved. And now, they are available for download on the visionOS App Store.

However, developer Dylan McDonald also noticed that the iOS App Store is also showing which apps are compatible with the device.

While there are still a few weeks left for the Apple Vision Pro’s launch, select journalists and developers have been publishing hands-on experiences. So, it’s not surprising that Apple has made the visionOS apps available on the App Store right now.

Since the spatial computer’s announcement back in 2023, Apple has been hosting labs all around the globe for developers to test their apps. 

A few of them were even able to obtain a developer’s kit, which needs to be returned to Apple after the headset’s launch. 

Apple Vision Pro starts at $3,499 in the configuration with 256GB of storage. The official launch is set for February 2.

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Apple reveals which apps will work on Vision Pro at launch https://knowtechie.com/all-the-apps-available-for-apple-vision-pro-launch/ https://knowtechie.com/all-the-apps-available-for-apple-vision-pro-launch/#respond Tue, 16 Jan 2024 15:39:33 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=356988 Some apps have been custom-made for "Spatial Computing."

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Apple is ready to launch the Vision Pro within a few weeks. The pre-orders for the company’s first mixed-reality headset are all set to begin on January 19, while the first deliveries are slated for February 2.

Ahead of the launch, we have some insight into the applications for productivity, streaming, and others for the company’s new “Spatial Computing” platform that you can expect at launch.

Applications available for Apple Vision Pro

We are not entirely sure which or how many applications will be available at the Apple Vision Pro launch, but Apple has shed some light on the matter.

According to the company’s latest press release, there are “more than 1 million familiar apps across iOS and iPadOS are available on Apple Vision Pro and automatically work with the new input system.”

That said, the device’s Apple Store will feature apps with custom-designed “spatial computing experiences unlike any other platform” – allowing apps to scale and be arranged almost anywhere.

Here’s the list of applications that would offer a full spatial computing experience, according to Apple.

Productivity apps

  • Microsoft 365 apps (specifics TBA)
  • Fantastical
  • JigSpace
  • Slack
  • Apple’s Freeform

Communication apps

  • FaceTime
  • Zoom
  • Cisco Webex
  • Microsoft Teams

The headet’s Persona feature will also be available at launch, but it is to be considered a beta version.

Vision Pro streaming apps

The following streaming services will be ready for Vision Pro.

  • Apple TV+
  • Disney+
  • Max (HBO Max + Discovery)

Gaming

  • Access to 250+ games with Apple Arcade
  • Support for PS5 and Xbox wireless controllers (and others)
  • More games could be supported outside of Apple Arcade

That’s all! Interestingly, not even a single Google productivity or entertainment services were explicitly mentioned.

In terms of entertainment services, we are getting Disney+, HBO Max, and other services. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 and Slack were the big work names.

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