Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube790kSonic the Hedgehog 3 marked the return of Jim Carrey after the actor previously claimed that he would likely be retiring from the industry. He didn't just return to play Ivo Robotnik, however, but also took on another role in the form of Gerald Robotnik, Ivo's grandfather and creator of Shadow the Hedgehog.In a previous interview with Variety, Carrey stated that his retirement announcement was "hyperbole", and that he decided to return to play Robotnik because "I bought a lot of stuff and I need the money, frankly". Now, in a fresh interview with Cinema Today, he expressed an openness to returning again for future Sonic movies, provided he thinks the potential new ideas sound "fun"."I'm definitely open. I'm open to the idea, and generally they come to me with the next idea, and if I go "that sounds fun", y'know, then I'll do it. I don't feel locked to anything in life unless it's something that interests me."I certainly love this crew, I love this gang that makes these movies and I love the fans. I think there's a lot of really great energy around it and great responses. And the fans jump in there and go like "How about if you do this?" y'know, and they've been super helpful; I think we're all making this movie together."In referencing his previous retirement announcement, Carrey jokingly stated that his intention is to now "power rest" between projects. We reckon he'll probably need a pretty big one after playing dual roles in Sonic 3!So, we guess whether Carrey returns in a future movie or not is currently up to the screenwriters. We've seen the third film, we know how the story plays out, but we request that you keep the spoilers to an absolute minumum in the comments. Is anyone surprised?Gotta go fastWhat did you make of the Sonic 3 movie and Carrey's dual role as Ivo and Gerald Robotnik? What kind of storyline do you hope to see tackled in future movies? Let us know with a comment.[source youtube.com]Share:03 Nintendo Lifes resident horror fanatic, when hes not knee-deep in Resident Evil and Silent Hill lore, Ollie likes to dive into a good horror book while nursing a lovely cup of tea. He also enjoys long walks and listens to everything from TOOL to Chuck Berry. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesSega President Shuji Utsumi On Sonic The Hedgehogs Next Major OutingIt must be a "great game"Sonic The Hedgehog 'Metal Sonic' First 4 Figures Statue Revealed, Here's Another LookIf you know, you knowSamsung Reveals New Sonic-Themed MicroSD CardsShadow trumps SonicHere's Another Look At Sonic's DC Crossover Comic SeriesThe Sonic characters become famous superheroesRandom: Sonic 3's Movie Writers Would Love To Adapt Zelda: Wind Waker To The Big Screen"We're putting it out there in the world"

Consumer goods giant Hindustan Unilever is in advanced talks to acquire four-year-old direct-to-consumer startup Minimalist for up to $350 million, according to two people familiar with the matter.An acquisition would add to the Unilever subsidiarys buying spree in India, where it expanded into the health and wellbeing category by acquiring Oziva and Wellbeing Nutrition a year ago.In line with our business strategy, on an ongoing basis, we evaluate various strategic opportunities for the growth and expansion of our business, a Hindustan Unilever spokesperson told TechCrunch in a statement. An acquisition will also broaden the skincare portfolio of Unilevers Indian subsidiary, with a market cap of over $65 billion. HUL operates brands including Dove, Ponds, Lakme, Sunsilk, Lux and Lifebuoy.The talks are ongoing, but a deal is yet to be finalized, the people cautioned, requesting anonymity as the deliberations are private.In the second half of last year, Minimalist attempted to field interest from venture capital firms to secure capital at about $300 million valuation, according to newspaper Mint. Jaipur-based Minimalist operates a skincare brand, selling a wide-range of products, including sunscreen to hair repair serum. It saw its revenue surge 89% to $40.8 million in the fiscal year ended March 2024. The startup also said it was profitable.Hindustan Unilever is an investor in Minimalist, having participated in the startups Series A round in mid-2021 through its venture arm, Unilever Ventures. Peak XV was the first institutional investor in Minimalist, leading the startups seed funding in late 2019.Minimalist and Peak XV Partners did not respond to requests for comment.

The Minotaur Room. All images courtesy of Historic England, shared with permissionNear Liverpool, a One-of-a-Kind Art Environment by Ron Gittins Is SavedJanuary 3, 2025Kate MothesBehind the unassuming red brick facade of a gable-roofed flat in Birkenhead, England, sits a home like no other. The only clue passersby would have had, until recently, was a pair of hand-sculpted figurative columns that flanked the wooden front door. But to step inside this corner flat near Liverpool is to be transported into the imaginative world of Ron Gittins.A gifted artist who also dabbled in local acting groups and music, Gittins was a complex character. He took day jobs here and there, but he was much more inclined to work for himself, on his own terms. Anecdotally, he was known for his zest for life and determination to do great things; his sister recounts that he once exclaimed to their brother, I will not be ignored! His creativity shone through in every facet of his life, and his home is no exception.HallwayIn a ground floor rented flat, which he let in 1986, Gittins created monumental hearths in the shapes of a lion, minotaur, and relief-adorned Roman altar. He painted bright murals inspired by ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, including a central hallway adorned with hieroglyphs. The columns at the front door were reminiscent of palatial stone depictions of pharaohs and deities.Gittins turned to the era of English romantic portraiture in one rooms Georgian era-inspired murals, which feature framed paintings in a row above an ornate hearth. And in the bathroom, the walls swim with aquatic-themed images.Although Ron was extremely proud of his artwork, he generally refused entry to landlords, maintenance staff, and any kind of officialdom in order to protectthe fantasy world he had created for himself, says a statement from Wirral Arts & Culture Community Land Trust, which now owns and manages the property. It adds, After all, not every property owner would allow their tenant to build an epic concrete lion fireplace in their living room.Gittins tenancy agreement permitted him to decorate the interior of the property to his own taste and the external porch in classical style without the prior written consent of the Landlord. He also had access to the garden, which he was able to landscape at his own expense.The Lion RoomFew people were granted the privilege of seeing Gittins creations during his lifetime, as he was protective of his art and preferred to maintain his privacy. He continued to collect unique objects and transform his home into his ultimate fantasy, his self-described villa. Then, following his unexpected death in 2019, its fate was suddenly uncertain.In December 2021, artist Jan Williamswho is also Gittins niecealong with Chris Teasdale of The Caravan Gallery, launched a campaign to save the flat. Along with a dedicated team of volunteers comprising family, friends, and experts in arts and heritage, a last-minute purchase at auction was successful in March 2023. Since then, the team has continued caring for the installations and sifting through the artists eclectic collection of books, magazines, videos, clothes, furniture, and trinkets.The Wirral Arts & Culture Community Land Trust continues to catalogue Gittins belongings and work to preserve this unique environment for years to come. Learn more and take a virtual tour on the organizations website.The Georgian RoomCeiling of The Georgian RoomThe Roman Altar in the kitchenBathroomThe Minotaur RoomThe Georgian RoomExterior of Gittins flat in Birkenhead, EnglandFront door columnsNext article

Tech Turo rentals emerge as common thread in Las Vegas Cybertruck and New Orleans deadly incidents How peer-to-peer car rentals are linked to high-profile tragedies Published January 3, 2025 7:00am EST close Tom Homan warns US 'in danger' after New Orleans attack, Cybertruck explosion Incoming Trump "border czar" Tom Homan joins "America Reports" to analyze the aftermath of the New Orleans New Year's attack and the Las Vegas Cybertruck blast. In the early hours of Jan. 1, 2025, two horrific attacks shook the nation, raising serious questions about car-sharing platform security and potential terrorism links. In Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel, killing the driver and injuring seven others.Meanwhile, in New Orleans, a pickup truck, later identified as a Ford F-150, plowed into crowds on Bourbon Street, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and dozens of injuries.Both vehicles were rented through Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform, sparking intense scrutiny of the company's operations and security measures. Image from Turo website (Turo)The Las Vegas incidentAt approximately 8:40 a.m. PT on Jan. 1, 2025, a Tesla Cybertruck pulled up to the valet area of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Within 15 to 20 seconds, the vehicle exploded, killing the driver and injuring seven bystanders. Investigators discovered that the Cybertruck was packed with firework mortars and camp fuel canisters.The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism. Tesla CEO Elon Musk claimed on social media that the explosion was caused by large fireworks or a bomb in the bed of the Cybertruck and was unrelated to the vehicle itself.The New Orleans attackIn the early hours of New Year's Day, a pickup truck, later identified as a Ford F-150, rammed through police barricades on Bourbon Street in New Orleans' French Quarter. The driver, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, an Army veteran from Texas, mowed down pedestrians over a three-block stretch while firing into the crowd.The attack resulted in at least 15 deaths and dozens of injuries. Jabbar was killed in a subsequent shootout with police. The FBI is treating this incident as an act of terrorism, noting that an Islamic State flag was found on the vehicle and improvised explosive devices were discovered inside.The Turo connection to both incidentsBoth vehicles used in these incidents were rented throughTuro, a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform. This connection has raised significant questions about the company's security measures and screening processes.What is Turo?Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform that connects vehicle owners with people looking to rent cars. Often described as the "Airbnb for cars," Turo allows individuals to list their personal vehicles for rent, providing an alternative to traditional car rental companies.Founded in 2010 as RelayRides and rebranded to Turo in 2015, the company has grown into an international vehicle-sharing marketplace with more than 14 million users worldwide. Turo is available in more than 16,000 cities across the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia and France. Image from Turo website (Turo)How does Turo work?The Turo process is straightforward:Listing: Car owners list their vehicles on the Turo platform, including details like make, model, price and availability.Booking: Renters search for available cars in their desired location and dates, then book directly through the Turo website or app.Verification: Both car owners and renters must verify their identities through the platform.Pick-up: Renters meet the car owner to pick up the vehicle or arrange for contactless check-in.Return: At the end of the rental period, the renter returns the car to the owner.Turo handles payments and insurance options and provides customer support throughout the process.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Image from Turo website (Turo)Turo's security measures and responseIn light of the recent incidents, Turo's security measures have come under intense scrutiny. The company's current screening process includes:Identity verificationBackground checks (though the specific extent of these checks is not clear)Turo requires users to upload a valid driver's license to the app to be cleared for use. In some instances, Turo may collect additional identity verification information such as photographs or scanned copies of driver's licenses, passports or other forms of identification.The company has stated that they were "devastated" by the recent events and that their trust and safety team is actively cooperating with law enforcement. Importantly, Turo said in a statement to CyberGuy, "We do not believe that either renter had a criminal background that would have identified them as a security threat, and we are not currently aware of any information that indicates the two incidents are related."GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Turo app ad (Turo)Regulatory landscape for peer-to-peer car-sharing platformsThe regulatory landscape for peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms like Turo is in a state of flux, with at least 13 states having enacted laws specifically governing this industry, distinct from regulations applied to traditional car rental companies.Turo has been proactive in advocating for additional regulations in various states to establish clearer operational guidelines. A significant development occurred in 2022 when New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed SB 6715 into law, providing a comprehensive regulatory framework for peer-to-peer car-sharing operations in the state. This legislation aims to expand transportation options and create economic opportunities for New Yorkers while addressing safety and insurance concerns.Kurts key takeawaysThese tragic events have highlighted potential vulnerabilities in the peer-to-peer car-sharing model. As investigations into these incidents continue, it's likely that there will be increased scrutiny of Turo's operations and security measures. The car-sharing industry may face calls for stricter regulations and enhanced screening processes. Turo and similar platforms might need to reevaluate and strengthen their security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWhat are your thoughts on the safety and regulatory measures of peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms like Turo, and should there be stricter screening processes for renters and vehicles to prevent potential misuse or criminal activities? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com. Related Topics

Published January 3, 2025 6:00am EST close China rolls out its crime-fighting ball to chase down criminals A robot is chasing down criminals at impressive speeds. China's latest innovation in policing technology has rolled onto the scene, quite literally.The Rotunbot RT-G, developed by Logon Technology, is a spherical robot that's turning heads and chasing down criminals at impressive speeds.This 276-pound mechanical machine is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in law enforcement robotics. Let's break down what this crime-fighting machine is all about. Rotunbot RT-G (Logon Technology)A versatile crime-fighting machineThe RT-G is not your average police assistant. This self-balancing sphere can reach speeds of up to 22 mph on both land and water, making it a formidable pursuer of suspects. Its amphibious capabilities allow it to navigate through mud, slush and even dive into rivers, emerging unscathed on the other side.What sets the RT-G apart is its rapid acceleration. It can hit speeds of about 19 mph in 2.5 seconds, giving it a significant advantage in pursuit scenarios. This quick burst of speed, combined with its ability to handle drops from knee-high ledges and potentially roll down staircases, makes it a persistent and resilient force in the field. Rotunbot RT-G (Logon Technology)Advanced technology at its coreThe Rotunbot RT-G is equipped with an array of advanced sensors and technologies that make it a sophisticated piece of equipment. These include GPS for precise positioning, multiple cameras and ultrasonic sensors for environmental awareness, obstacle avoidance capabilities and threat and target tracking systems. These features enable the RT-G to navigate complex environments while avoiding collisions with people and objects. Additionally, the robot uses gyroscopic self-stabilization to maintain its balance and keep its wide contact patch firmly on the ground, ensuring smooth and quiet operation.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Rotunbot RT-G (Logon Technology)Non-lethal arsenalFor law enforcement purposes, the RT-G comes equipped with a comprehensive range of non-lethal tools designed to manage diverse tactical scenarios. These tools include tear gas dispensers, smoke bomb launchers, high-decibel horns, acoustic crowd dispersal devices and net shooters capable of close-range suspect apprehension.This sophisticated arsenal allows the robot to handle various situations, from crowd control to individual suspect takedowns, without resorting to lethal force, providing law enforcement with a versatile and humane technological solution.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Rotunbot RT-G (Logon Technology)Real-world applicationThe Rotunbot RT-G is not just a concept; it's already being put to the test. In Wenzhou, a city in China's Zhejiang province, these robotic spheres are assisting police patrols in commercial zones. This real-world trial is providing valuable insights into the effectiveness and practicality of the RT-G in actual law enforcement scenarios.However, despite its impressive capabilities, the RT-G is not without its limitations. Video footage shows that the robot can be somewhat unstable when making turns, and its pursuit capabilities may be easily thwarted by a flight of stairs. These challenges highlight the ongoing need for development and improvement in robotic law enforcement technology. Rotunbot RT-G (Logon Technology)Kurts key takeawaysThe Rotunbot RT-G's amphibious nature, high-speed capabilities and non-lethal arsenal make it a versatile tool for police forces. However, like any new technology, it raises questions about privacy, surveillance and the increasing automation of policing. The RT-G may be rolling into the future of law enforcement, but we must carefully consider the implications of deploying such advanced robotic systems in our communities.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHow do you feel about the increasing use of robotic technology in law enforcement, and what potential risks or benefits do you see emerging from these technological advancements? Let us know what you think by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com. Related Topics

artbase - stock.adobe.comNewsCorporate cover-up behind world-beating cyber security record in Middle East Report ranking Gulf corporations ahead of US and EU counterparts for cyber security has sparked debate about the regions tendency for secrecy and state controlByMark BallardPublished: 03 Jan 2025 11:37 Only two of the top 100 listed companies in the Middle East reported cyber security incidents last year, according to defence vulnerability scanning firm SecurityScorecard, but most incidents in the region went unreported, it said.SecurityScorecards findings highlighted an impressive record in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) when compared with Europe, where 18 of the top 100 firms had security breaches, and to the US, where 21% of firms in the S&P 500 stock market index were hit.Gulf states in particular have invested heavily in cyber security to deter rampant attacks in the region as they transform from central, state-controlled petro-states to diverse economies more dependent on vulnerable information communications. But experts said it still lagged EU and US in laws required to guarantee open reporting deemed necessary for resilience.Ryan Sherstobitoff, vice-president of research at SecurityScorecard, said he believed most security breaches that large MENA corporations suffered last year went unreported.I would say probably 80% is not reported, he said. The Middle East isnt exactly required to report breaches in the same way as North America, or even some locations in Europe. So, its never going to be recorded.When a MENA security breach did become public, it was usually because hackers had hit the subsidiary of a foreign corporation whose home rules required it to report the incident, said Sherstobitoff. Moreover, the geopolitical situation spawned more attacks than elsewhere. Four-fifths of the top 100 MENA corporations are in Gulf countries usually state-owned banks, energy firms and utilities.That impelled Gulf countries in particular to invest heavily in cyber security and build robust defences that ranks them, according to the ITU Global cyber security index in September, among the best in the world. Robust defences were the main reason why direct security breaches were so low in MENA countries, said Sherstobitoff.SecurityScorecard did not state the data was unreliable when, upon publishing its findings in November, it claimedthat the top 100 MENA firms beat European rivals on cyber security. It distributed a press release making the claim privately, butdid not publish it with other releases on its public media page.It also withholds names of firms in its reports, though it styles itself as doing for cyber risk what credit ratings agencies do for financial investors. It scans 15 million firms for vulnerabilities and tracks reports of hacking attacks, but only firms that pay get to see ratings. It sells its services in the region.The would-be ratings agency noted a correlation between firms that reported no breaches and those it scored A, after assessing detailed scans it did of their security vulnerabilities, along with incident reports. Breaches diminish a firms rating significantly, but only briefly, according to its methodology.It gave half the top 100 MENA firms A ratings twice as many as Europe, and a fifth more than the US S&P 500. SecurityScorecard rated 84 of the 100 as either A or B. The strength of MENA cyber security, widely attributed to massive investment, was confirmed in the ITU global index, with Gulf economies ranked among the most secure in the world.MENA incident reports that appear more reliable involve indirect attacks, with 84 of the top 100 firms admitting they suffered breaches caused by the mistakes of their suppliers, according to SecurityScorecard. Almost every single top EU firm reported the same. A spokesperson said that it has not produced comparable third party breaches of US firms.Ross Brewer, an expert with deep experience of high-level security in the region, said MENAs immense spending on cyber resilience was not as good in reality as on paper.In Western societies, bad news travels fast. In the Middle East, if the government has anything to do with it, bad news does not travel at all.When you are building a utopian future that will attract global tourists, you want to present the absolute best image, he said.Firms in these pretentious countries did not report incidents because the culture encouraged dignified face-saving, said Brewer. Intense government control of all communications in and out of the region, and internally, was effective at catching attackers. But MENA investment in cyber defences, according to Brewer, had been hasty, shoddy and done piecemeal by expats who left behind them a fractured and vulnerable security architecture. People were afraid to speak out, he claimed.Bharat Raigangari, board adviser to Dubai security consultancy 1CxO, a company which large firms in the region, said an independent security ratings agency was just what the region needed to address the security problems implied by its third party breaches. Raigangari said was trying to create one, with the backing of the UAE cyber security Council, but it is much easier said than done.It was true MENA had fewer reported incidents because firms were not inclined to report them, he said. But the regions security, and its regulations, were maturing fast and catching up with the West.Experts in the region applaud state authorities for their progress in building cyber defences and enacting legislation.Yedhu Krishna Menon, head of third-party cyber security at a MENA bank, who asked for his employer to remain anonymous because it is culturally unacceptable to reveal it, said that reported incidents were low because the regions defences were particularly good.Whereas hiding security breaches to save face was not limited to MENA, a bigger concern is reputation damage, fear of negative publicity, of stigma its a global thing, he said.They dont report the majority because they dont want to lose business, he added. MENA culture had also progressed. Its not like 10 years back.Attackers, aiming to bring down economies and exploit vulnerabilities introduced by the regions transforming economies, had merely prompted MENA countries to implement regulation to drive investment in security. The regulatory impetus had been momentous and like nowhere else in the world, said Menon.Munir Subor, a partner at law firm Taylor Wessing in Dubai, said that it was common practice for firms in the region not to report incidents. Those reported to government would remain secret.Nick Loumakis, MENA managing director at Obrela, a Greek firm working closely with UAE cyber security authorities, believed the regions low incident numbers were correct.Government was always in the room whenever he had dealt with an incident, but he knew of only one large firm hit in the past two years. He didnt think saving face played a factor. Its not easy to keep this information hidden, he said, believing that government control of large firms and an oligarchical economy has allowed MENA countries to stamp out attackers more effectively.MENA state authorities contacted by Computer Weekly were unavailable for comment.In The Current Issue:What do the home secretarys policing reforms mean for the future of the Police Digital Service?What are the security risks of bring your own AI?Download Current IssueData engineering - Hycu: Bridging data & infrastructure, the evolving role of data engineers CW Developer NetworkMicrosoft Copilot: A Year of Learning Write side up - by Freeform DynamicsView All Blogs

As 2025 kicks off, Apple released a major update for its Fitness Plus service that brings new programs and content to your iOS devices.

With advanced features such as voice assistants, crash detection, call and text support, and long battery lives, modern smartwatches are far more than just an accessory. And thanks to powerful sensors and extensive app suites, they've become one of the most popular health and fitness trackers, too. At ZDNET, we've tested all of the best smartwatches on the market, testing their battery life, durability, features, and more. We also interviewed athletes, fitness experts, and medical professionals to ask what features they loved most about their smartwatches to help you get a better idea of the top health and fitness tracking features, too. What is the best smartwatch right now? Based on our extensivehands-on testing and insights from experts, the Apple Watch Ultra 2is our pick for the best smartwatch overall due to its powerful processor, long battery life, third-party application support, storage capacity, high-quality titanium materials,sleep-tracking capabilities, women's wellness features, and advanced workout metric feature suite. If you're not an Apple user, read on to see how watches fromSamsung(including its newestGalaxy Watch Ultra), Google (including its newest Pixel Watch 3),Garmin,Withings, and Amazfit compare to find the best smartwatch for your needs and your wrist. Sort by All Health & wellness Build quality/durability Advanced features Applications Core functionality The best smartwatches of 2025 Show less View now at Amazon The Apple Watch maintained the same form factor and basic design for eight years, but all of that changed in 2022 when Apple released the radical new Apple Watch Ultra, built and optimized for the outdoor adventurer. The Ultra 2 builds on the Ultra with a new processor, a much brighter display, twice the storage capacity, and the use of recycled titanium materials. Apple also announced a matte black titanium Ultra 2 this year, with all of the same specifications and performance as the 2023 model.The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the most rugged and capable Apple Watch to date and offers a bright, flat 49mm display made of scratch-resistant sapphire glass and 3000 nits maximum brightness. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is larger than the Series 10, but the titanium case helps keep the weight down, and it is far lighter than competing sports watches.Apple's WatchOS 10 launched with APIs for custom workouts, and third parties have released new versions of applications to support this advanced training functionality. We tested the TrainingPeaks integration and this capability is a serious shot across the bow of dedicated GPS sports watches. WatchOS 11 brought even more to challenge legacy sports watches with training load, a Vitals app to inform your readiness, sleep apnea detection, and a customizable Summary tab in the Apple Fitness app on your iPhone. Beyond the build quality and advanced training functions, no other smartwatch supports as many applications and utilities as an Apple Watch, clearly making it the best smartwatch available today. Its capability to serve as a primary means of communication also makes it tough to beat.Apple Watch Ultra2 tech specs: Display:49mm, 410 x 502 pixels OLED sapphire glass |Battery life:36 hours|Dimensions:49 x 44 x 14.4mm|Weight:61.3 g|Water/Dust resistance:100m with IP6X |LTE cellular option:Yes Pros Large bright display Crash detection contacts first responders when you're in a crash 100m water resistance Extra button and dual speakers Long battery life Offline mapping for navigation without a phone Cons May be too large for small wrists The Apple Watch maintained the same form factor and basic design for eight years, but all of that changed in 2022 when Apple released the radical new Apple Watch Ultra, built and optimized for the outdoor adventurer. The Ultra 2 builds on the Ultra with a new processor, a much brighter display, twice the storage capacity, and the use of recycled titanium materials. Apple also announced a matte black titanium Ultra 2 this year, with all of the same specifications and performance as the 2023 model.The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the most rugged and capable Apple Watch to date and offers a bright, flat 49mm display made of scratch-resistant sapphire glass and 3000 nits maximum brightness. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is larger than the Series 10, but the titanium case helps keep the weight down, and it is far lighter than competing sports watches.Apple's WatchOS 10 launched with APIs for custom workouts, and third parties have released new versions of applications to support this advanced training functionality. We tested the TrainingPeaks integration and this capability is a serious shot across the bow of dedicated GPS sports watches. WatchOS 11 brought even more to challenge legacy sports watches with training load, a Vitals app to inform your readiness, sleep apnea detection, and a customizable Summary tab in the Apple Fitness app on your iPhone. Beyond the build quality and advanced training functions, no other smartwatch supports as many applications and utilities as an Apple Watch, clearly making it the best smartwatch available today. Its capability to serve as a primary means of communication also makes it tough to beat.Apple Watch Ultra2 tech specs: Display:49mm, 410 x 502 pixels OLED sapphire glass |Battery life:36 hours|Dimensions:49 x 44 x 14.4mm|Weight:61.3 g|Water/Dust resistance:100m with IP6X |LTE cellular option:Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Apple Watch Series 10looks similar to the Series 9, but improves the user experience with narrower black borders, larger displays, and a much thinner form factor, making it the thinnest Apple Watch ever. Despite the reduction in thickness, the Apple Watch Series 10 still functions for more than a day, and now it charges up much more quickly so you can top it off while you get ready for the day.Along with an improved display, the Series 10 also gets a new processor. For the first time, buyers can also choose a glossy jet black color aluminum watch that has a 30-step anodization process for a stylish and classy look.Sleep apnea is a condition that is very common today, yet it is reported that 80% of the cases are undiagnosed. The Apple Watch Series 10 can help indicate whether or not you should seek medical evaluation for the condition. If sleep apnea is not treated, it can lead to hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiac issues.Also, like the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Series 10 watches now support the integrated water temperature and depth utility that can turn on automatically as you enter the water. A Tides app is also available to help you track conditions for more than 115,000 beaches and surfing areas around the world. The lack of precision start for GPS tracking is a limitation preventing me from selecting the Series 10 as my primary smartwatch.Apple Watch Series 10 tech specs: Display: 416 x 496 pixels (46mm) and 374 x 446 pixels (42mm) OLED | Battery life: 18 hours | Dimensions: 46 x 39 x 9.7mm (46mm) and 42 x 36 x9.7mm (42mm) | Weight: 36.4 grams (AL 46mm) and 30 g (AL 42mm) | Water/Dust resistance: 50m with IP6X | LTE cellular option: Yes Health & wellness 10 Build quality/durability 9 Advanced features 6 Applications 10 Core functionality 9 Pros Ultra-thin form factor Large, vibrant display Temperature sensing for sleep and ovulation estimates Sleep apnea detection Crash detection contacts first responders when you're in a crash New advanced workout metrics Cons Less than two-day battery life Apple Watch Series 10 Best smartwatch for iPhone users 4.4 / 5 Score The Apple Watch Series 10looks similar to the Series 9, but improves the user experience with narrower black borders, larger displays, and a much thinner form factor, making it the thinnest Apple Watch ever. Despite the reduction in thickness, the Apple Watch Series 10 still functions for more than a day, and now it charges up much more quickly so you can top it off while you get ready for the day.Along with an improved display, the Series 10 also gets a new processor. For the first time, buyers can also choose a glossy jet black color aluminum watch that has a 30-step anodization process for a stylish and classy look.Sleep apnea is a condition that is very common today, yet it is reported that 80% of the cases are undiagnosed. The Apple Watch Series 10 can help indicate whether or not you should seek medical evaluation for the condition. If sleep apnea is not treated, it can lead to hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiac issues.Also, like the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Series 10 watches now support the integrated water temperature and depth utility that can turn on automatically as you enter the water. A Tides app is also available to help you track conditions for more than 115,000 beaches and surfing areas around the world. The lack of precision start for GPS tracking is a limitation preventing me from selecting the Series 10 as my primary smartwatch.Apple Watch Series 10 tech specs: Display: 416 x 496 pixels (46mm) and 374 x 446 pixels (42mm) OLED | Battery life: 18 hours | Dimensions: 46 x 39 x 9.7mm (46mm) and 42 x 36 x9.7mm (42mm) | Weight: 36.4 grams (AL 46mm) and 30 g (AL 42mm) | Water/Dust resistance: 50m with IP6X | LTE cellular option: Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Google's third-generation Pixel Watch 3 is sure to please the masses with two size options, improved displays, and software enhancements that provide a richer user experience. This watch integrates several Fitbit features, including improved heart rate sensors and GPS tracking, making it secretly the best watch available for both Fitbit and Google Pixel fans.While it is clearly the best Fitbit made, it also challenges every other watch regarding support for runners. Google incorporated a running workout builder that gathers your health data over a two-week period and then creates a program that adapts to your data regularly. Real-time guidance is provided as you run, advanced metrics are tracked and then Google shows you how to improve the metrics, a Daily Readiness Score is provided even if you are not a Fitbit Premium subscriber, and Cardio/Target load features are available. The Cardio and Target load features may even trump some of the best sports watches.One of the best functions of the Pixel Watch 3 that even beats out the Apple Watch is the focus on safety. While the Apple Watch can appear in your Find My application, and you can share your location with family and friends, that's a passive setting that requires people to physically check the app to find you. The Pixel 3's Safety Check feature allows you to set a check-in timer whenever you're moving from point A to B and want your emergency contacts to be notified if anything goes wrong -- the most reliable feature I've seen on any wearable I've tested. It also supports immediate emergency alerts/SOS and fall detection alerts, similar to the latest Apple Watches.The newLoss of Pulse Detection feature,coming later to select countries, is sure to save lives and could have had a direct impact on my family life if it had been around a few years ago.Bottom line: If you're a Fitbit fan and are looking for the latest and greatest Fitbit in a watch form factor, then the Google Pixel Watch 3 is the wearable for you. If you also enjoy Google's take on wearables and want years of updates, then this is the watch to consider.Google Pixel Watch 3 tech specs: Display:1.2-inch (41mm) and 1.45-inch (45mm) AMOLED | Battery life: 24 hours with AOD | Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm and 45 x 45 x 12.3mm | Weight: 31 g (without band) and 37 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes Health & wellness 8 Build quality/durability 6 Advanced features 5 Applications 7 Core functionality 8 Pros Two sizes to choose from Personalized running workouts Advanced safety features Minimalist, elegant design Improved battery life Cons Not built for rugged adventures Google Pixel Watch 3 Best Google smartwatch 3.4 / 5 Score Google's third-generation Pixel Watch 3 is sure to please the masses with two size options, improved displays, and software enhancements that provide a richer user experience. This watch integrates several Fitbit features, including improved heart rate sensors and GPS tracking, making it secretly the best watch available for both Fitbit and Google Pixel fans.While it is clearly the best Fitbit made, it also challenges every other watch regarding support for runners. Google incorporated a running workout builder that gathers your health data over a two-week period and then creates a program that adapts to your data regularly. Real-time guidance is provided as you run, advanced metrics are tracked and then Google shows you how to improve the metrics, a Daily Readiness Score is provided even if you are not a Fitbit Premium subscriber, and Cardio/Target load features are available. The Cardio and Target load features may even trump some of the best sports watches.One of the best functions of the Pixel Watch 3 that even beats out the Apple Watch is the focus on safety. While the Apple Watch can appear in your Find My application, and you can share your location with family and friends, that's a passive setting that requires people to physically check the app to find you. The Pixel 3's Safety Check feature allows you to set a check-in timer whenever you're moving from point A to B and want your emergency contacts to be notified if anything goes wrong -- the most reliable feature I've seen on any wearable I've tested. It also supports immediate emergency alerts/SOS and fall detection alerts, similar to the latest Apple Watches.The newLoss of Pulse Detection feature,coming later to select countries, is sure to save lives and could have had a direct impact on my family life if it had been around a few years ago.Bottom line: If you're a Fitbit fan and are looking for the latest and greatest Fitbit in a watch form factor, then the Google Pixel Watch 3 is the wearable for you. If you also enjoy Google's take on wearables and want years of updates, then this is the watch to consider.Google Pixel Watch 3 tech specs: Display:1.2-inch (41mm) and 1.45-inch (45mm) AMOLED | Battery life: 24 hours with AOD | Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm and 45 x 45 x 12.3mm | Weight: 31 g (without band) and 37 g | Water/Dust resistance: 5 ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Samsung Apple took a shot across the bow of serious GPS sports watch brands with the Apple Watch Ultra series, and now Samsung joins the party with the large Galaxy Watch Ultra. Samsung branded it the same way as Apple, along with a familiar orange button and waterproof silicone band. A few other advanced features found in Apple's model are present in the Samsung model, which is a great thing for Android phone owners, especially Samsung Galaxy phone owners.The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has a unique square design with a round watch face, an interesting magnetic lug system, three buttons on one side, gesture support, advanced running dynamics, and more. Samsung's Galaxy AI is present in the form of wellness insights that combine into a daily score to help guide you to optimal performance, including healthy sleep levels.The Watch Ultra runs the Samsung-powered Google Wear OS 5.0 with One UI Watch 6.0, meaning it still looks like a Samsung smartwatch, but also supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.It has an operating system optimized for the round watch design with a virtual rotating bezel. Fall detection, messaging, phone calls, and more are available on the watch, with advanced fitness data such as VO2 Max and advanced running dynamics data also supported.At $649, it is the most expensive Samsung Galaxy watch, but it is still $150 less than Apple's competing Apple Watch Ultra 2. There are some fantastic deals available and solid trade-in options, so if you are considering this watch, make sure to check out the latest prices on Samsung's website.Galaxy Watch Ultra tech specs: Display: 1.5 inch, 480 x 480 pixels Super AMOLED | Battery life: Two to three days | Dimensions: 47.4 x 47.1 x 12.1mm | Weight: 60.5 grams | Water resistance: 10 ATM+IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes Health & wellness 9 Build quality/durability 10 Advanced features 8 Applications 7 Core functionality 10 Pros Lightweight titanium casing Sapphire glass AMOLED display Advanced safety features Large capacity battery Google Wear OS app support Cons Large size not suitable for smaller wrists Blood pressure certification taking much longer than advertised Apple took a shot across the bow of serious GPS sports watch brands with the Apple Watch Ultra series, and now Samsung joins the party with the large Galaxy Watch Ultra. Samsung branded it the same way as Apple, along with a familiar orange button and waterproof silicone band. A few other advanced features found in Apple's model are present in the Samsung model, which is a great thing for Android phone owners, especially Samsung Galaxy phone owners.The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has a unique square design with a round watch face, an interesting magnetic lug system, three buttons on one side, gesture support, advanced running dynamics, and more. Samsung's Galaxy AI is present in the form of wellness insights that combine into a daily score to help guide you to optimal performance, including healthy sleep levels.The Watch Ultra runs the Samsung-powered Google Wear OS 5.0 with One UI Watch 6.0, meaning it still looks like a Samsung smartwatch, but also supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.It has an operating system optimized for the round watch design with a virtual rotating bezel. Fall detection, messaging, phone calls, and more are available on the watch, with advanced fitness data such as VO2 Max and advanced running dynamics data also supported.At $649, it is the most expensive Samsung Galaxy watch, but it is still $150 less than Apple's competing Apple Watch Ultra 2. There are some fantastic deals available and solid trade-in options, so if you are considering this watch, make sure to check out the latest prices on Samsung's website.Galaxy Watch Ultra tech specs: Display: 1.5 inch, 480 x 480 pixels Super AMOLED | Battery life: Two to three days | Dimensions: 47.4 x 47.1 x 12.1mm | Weight: 60.5 grams | Water resistance: 10 ATM+IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Samsung Samsung's latest smartwatch for the masses, the Galaxy Watch 7, was unveiled along with the Galaxy Watch Ultra at its 2024 Unpacked event in Paris in July. The Watch 7 is available in two smaller sizes compared to the Watch 6 series, 44 and 40 mm, so it is likely to appeal to most Galaxy phone owners with smaller wrists. The Watch Ultra is a large 47mm watch designed for those with larger wrists.Unfortunately, this year, there is no Galaxy Watch model with a rotating bezel, so if you like this navigation method, then you will have to rely on the software option that supports moving your finger around the outside of the watch face to scroll through lists and tiles.The Galaxy Watch 7 is affordable at $300 for the 40mm model and $330 for the 42mm model. LTE cellular support is an additional $50, along with the cellular plan from your carrier.Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 tech specs: Display: 1.5-inch 480x480 Super AMOLED (44mm) and 1.3-inch 432x432 (40mm) | Battery life: Up to 40 hours | Dimensions: 44.4 x 44.4 x 9.7 mm (44mm) 40.4 x 40.4 x 9.7 mm (40mm) | Weight: 28.8g (44mm) and 33.8g (40mm)| Water/Dust resistance: 5ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes Health & wellness 9 Build quality/durability 9 Advanced features 5 Applications 7 Core functionality 9 Pros Brighter, bigger display Upgraded optical and electrical BioActive sensors New, faster Samsung Exynos processor Sapphire crystal display and small form factor Cons Large display is likely to consumer more battery power Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Best Samsung smartwatch for smaller wrists 3.9 / 5 Score Samsung's latest smartwatch for the masses, the Galaxy Watch 7, was unveiled along with the Galaxy Watch Ultra at its 2024 Unpacked event in Paris in July. The Watch 7 is available in two smaller sizes compared to the Watch 6 series, 44 and 40 mm, so it is likely to appeal to most Galaxy phone owners with smaller wrists. The Watch Ultra is a large 47mm watch designed for those with larger wrists.Unfortunately, this year, there is no Galaxy Watch model with a rotating bezel, so if you like this navigation method, then you will have to rely on the software option that supports moving your finger around the outside of the watch face to scroll through lists and tiles.The Galaxy Watch 7 is affordable at $300 for the 40mm model and $330 for the 42mm model. LTE cellular support is an additional $50, along with the cellular plan from your carrier.Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 tech specs: Display: 1.5-inch 480x480 Super AMOLED (44mm) and 1.3-inch 432x432 (40mm) | Battery life: Up to 40 hours | Dimensions: 44.4 x 44.4 x 9.7 mm (44mm) 40.4 x 40.4 x 9.7 mm (40mm) | Weight: 28.8g (44mm) and 33.8g (40mm)| Water/Dust resistance: 5ATM/IP68 | LTE cellular option: Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Apple made an interesting move in 2020 and released a lower-priced Apple Watch designed to expand the use of an Apple Watch to other family members. The newest version of theApple Watch SEstarts at just $249, and if you are an iPhone user, it's an easy wearable to recommend.Emery Wright, a former ZDNET associate editor who contributed to this article, wears her Apple Watch to track her steps, check notifications, and stay mindful of how she spends her time. She said it helps her accurately track running distance and pace while she trains for her next half-marathon.With an Apple Watch, iPhone users can answer phone calls, receive notifications, and send messages from the convenience of their wrist. That's why Dr. Richard Newman, MD, Head & Neck Surgical Oncologist, prefers wearing an Apple Watch over a Garmin one during his everyday routine.Now retired, Newman is training for his 75th marathon. He said he appreciates the convenience of smartphone connectivity: "For daily running, I use the Apple Watch. As a physician, sometimes I get a call, and so I like being able to answer on my watch. It also monitors my heart rate, which is nice" he said.The next generation of the Apple Watch SE contains many features from the Apple Watch Series 8. You gain Crash Detection technology, meaning the watch can detect if you've been in an accident and contact first responders.It also features the enhanced Workout app, giving you access to custom workouts and advanced metrics like heart rate zones, stride, length, and vertical oscillation. Ultimately, the newest version of the Apple Watch SE proves great things can come in small packages.Apple Watch SEtech specs:Display:368 x 448 pixels OLED|Battery life:18 hours|Dimensions:44 x 38 x 10.7mm|Weight:36.5 g (Al)|Water resistance:50m|LTE cellular option:Yes Core functionality 9 Health & wellness 9 Build quality/durability 9 Advanced features 4 Applications 10 Pros Gorgeous, refined hardware Excellent price for a powerful smartwatch Broad support for health and fitness features Extensive third-party application support Cons Less than two days of battery life Limited sleep details Apple Watch SE Best value Apple Watch 4.1 / 5 Score Apple made an interesting move in 2020 and released a lower-priced Apple Watch designed to expand the use of an Apple Watch to other family members. The newest version of theApple Watch SEstarts at just $249, and if you are an iPhone user, it's an easy wearable to recommend.Emery Wright, a former ZDNET associate editor who contributed to this article, wears her Apple Watch to track her steps, check notifications, and stay mindful of how she spends her time. She said it helps her accurately track running distance and pace while she trains for her next half-marathon.With an Apple Watch, iPhone users can answer phone calls, receive notifications, and send messages from the convenience of their wrist. That's why Dr. Richard Newman, MD, Head & Neck Surgical Oncologist, prefers wearing an Apple Watch over a Garmin one during his everyday routine.Now retired, Newman is training for his 75th marathon. He said he appreciates the convenience of smartphone connectivity: "For daily running, I use the Apple Watch. As a physician, sometimes I get a call, and so I like being able to answer on my watch. It also monitors my heart rate, which is nice" he said.The next generation of the Apple Watch SE contains many features from the Apple Watch Series 8. You gain Crash Detection technology, meaning the watch can detect if you've been in an accident and contact first responders.It also features the enhanced Workout app, giving you access to custom workouts and advanced metrics like heart rate zones, stride, length, and vertical oscillation. Ultimately, the newest version of the Apple Watch SE proves great things can come in small packages.Apple Watch SEtech specs:Display:368 x 448 pixels OLED|Battery life:18 hours|Dimensions:44 x 38 x 10.7mm|Weight:36.5 g (Al)|Water resistance:50m|LTE cellular option:Yes Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Garmin Garmin's watches are GPS sports watches focused on helping you improve your health, fitness, and performance. There are some features that rival smartwatches, but the Venu 3/3S is clearly the best Garmin to take on the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch.The Venu 3/3S is extremely well built, has a brilliant AMOLED display, lasts for more than a week, lets you accept and make calls from the wrist, and supports voice assistants via a connected smartphone. It supports various sports and activities, including golf so it is an excellent choice for multi-sport participants.In addition to its smartwatch functions, the Venu 3/3S supports all of the amazing Garmin functions and vast ecosystem. This includes subscription music support, Garmin Pay, Connect IQ app support, and the superb Garmin Connect smartphone application.Review:Garmin Venu 3SGarmin Venu 3S tech specs:Display:390 x 390 pixels AMOLED |Battery life (GPS):21 hours|Dimensions:41 x 41 x 12mm|Weight:27 grams (40 grams with band)|Water resistance:5 ATM|LTE Cellular option:No Pros Brilliant AMOLED display More than week long battery Exquisite design, fit, and finish Cons Expensive Garmin's watches are GPS sports watches focused on helping you improve your health, fitness, and performance. There are some features that rival smartwatches, but the Venu 3/3S is clearly the best Garmin to take on the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch.The Venu 3/3S is extremely well built, has a brilliant AMOLED display, lasts for more than a week, lets you accept and make calls from the wrist, and supports voice assistants via a connected smartphone. It supports various sports and activities, including golf so it is an excellent choice for multi-sport participants.In addition to its smartwatch functions, the Venu 3/3S supports all of the amazing Garmin functions and vast ecosystem. This includes subscription music support, Garmin Pay, Connect IQ app support, and the superb Garmin Connect smartphone application.Review:Garmin Venu 3SGarmin Venu 3S tech specs:Display:390 x 390 pixels AMOLED |Battery life (GPS):21 hours|Dimensions:41 x 41 x 12mm|Weight:27 grams (40 grams with band)|Water resistance:5 ATM|LTE Cellular option:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon One company that continues to push the limits of what you can buy for just over $200 is Amazfit. The Amazfit Balance offers an elegantly designed smartwatch with Amazon Alexa support and the ability to answer calls via a Bluetooth connection to your watch, just like all other non-cellular smartwatches. It runs the latest Zepp OS 4.0 operating system, built for a lean and mean experience.It's tough to beat the low $220 price, and I continue to push the watch to see where the flaws are that could justify such a low price, but they don't exist. The Amazfit Balance has a brilliant AMOLED display, integrated mic and speaker, GPS, various advanced health/wellness sensors, and a battery life that lasts up to two weeks between charges. The battery life alone is something modern smartwatches cannot match and if you want to charge your watch just twice a month rather than every other day, then you might want to consider this watch.Amazfit provides the Zepp smartphone application that provides an exhaustive experience to track every detail of the data captured by the various sensors. The one flaw is that the application may be overwhelming for some users and thankfully, Amazfit continues to refine and simplify the application to make it more useful for Amazfit Balance owners.Phone calls sound good and it is convenient to make and accept calls from your wrist when your phone is secured in a pocket or your backpack. There is support for more than 150 sports and the available watch faces look awesome.Amazfit Balancetechspecs: Display:1.5-inch, 480 x 480 pixels AMOLED|Battery life:14 days |Dimensions:46 x 46 x 10.6 mm|Weight:35 grams (w/o strap)|Water resistance:5 ATM|LTE Cellular option:No Pros Gorgeous AMOLED display Lovely, refined design Two week battery life Low price Extensive health and wellness support Cons No Google Assistant support Overwhelming smartphone app experience One company that continues to push the limits of what you can buy for just over $200 is Amazfit. The Amazfit Balance offers an elegantly designed smartwatch with Amazon Alexa support and the ability to answer calls via a Bluetooth connection to your watch, just like all other non-cellular smartwatches. It runs the latest Zepp OS 4.0 operating system, built for a lean and mean experience.It's tough to beat the low $220 price, and I continue to push the watch to see where the flaws are that could justify such a low price, but they don't exist. The Amazfit Balance has a brilliant AMOLED display, integrated mic and speaker, GPS, various advanced health/wellness sensors, and a battery life that lasts up to two weeks between charges. The battery life alone is something modern smartwatches cannot match and if you want to charge your watch just twice a month rather than every other day, then you might want to consider this watch.Amazfit provides the Zepp smartphone application that provides an exhaustive experience to track every detail of the data captured by the various sensors. The one flaw is that the application may be overwhelming for some users and thankfully, Amazfit continues to refine and simplify the application to make it more useful for Amazfit Balance owners.Phone calls sound good and it is convenient to make and accept calls from your wrist when your phone is secured in a pocket or your backpack. There is support for more than 150 sports and the available watch faces look awesome.Amazfit Balancetechspecs: Display:1.5-inch, 480 x 480 pixels AMOLED|Battery life:14 days |Dimensions:46 x 46 x 10.6 mm|Weight:35 grams (w/o strap)|Water resistance:5 ATM|LTE Cellular option:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Withings is focused on providing advanced health and wellness products with the ScanWatch series available to capture data from your wrist. The Withings ScanWatch 2 continues to provide 30 day battery life in a hybrid watch with support for Android and iOS smartphones.To navigate the watch, it's as easy as rotating the crown button through the various displays and pressing in to make selections. There is no back button, so you will need to scroll through the available screens in each widget to get to the back option on the display to return to the original main display carousel.With a hybrid design, the Withings ScanWatch 2 has standard analog watch hands on its face with a small OLED display that you can scroll through with the rotating crown button. The ScanWatch 2 can also perform an ECG assessment, measure blood oxygen levels, track your heart rate throughout your day, measure sleep, and track your general physical activity. One gripe that I have with the sleep tracking on the watch is that it can't distinguish between deep and REM sleep, so it's not the most informative sleep-tracking device available today.Withings ScanWatch 2 techspecs:Display:0.63-inch OLED|Battery life:30 days |Dimensions:42 x 42 x 11 mm|Weight:52.6 grams |Water resistance:5 ATM|LTE Cellular option:No Health & wellness 8 Build quality/durability 10 Advanced features 4 Applications 2 Core functionality 9 Pros Excellent battery life thanks to hybrid design Analog hands that adapt to digital display Extensive Withings ecosystem Cons Some advanced metric require a subscription Limited third-party support Withings ScanWatch 2 Best hybrid smartwatch 3.3 / 5 Score Withings is focused on providing advanced health and wellness products with the ScanWatch series available to capture data from your wrist. The Withings ScanWatch 2 continues to provide 30 day battery life in a hybrid watch with support for Android and iOS smartphones.To navigate the watch, it's as easy as rotating the crown button through the various displays and pressing in to make selections. There is no back button, so you will need to scroll through the available screens in each widget to get to the back option on the display to return to the original main display carousel.With a hybrid design, the Withings ScanWatch 2 has standard analog watch hands on its face with a small OLED display that you can scroll through with the rotating crown button. The ScanWatch 2 can also perform an ECG assessment, measure blood oxygen levels, track your heart rate throughout your day, measure sleep, and track your general physical activity. One gripe that I have with the sleep tracking on the watch is that it can't distinguish between deep and REM sleep, so it's not the most informative sleep-tracking device available today.Withings ScanWatch 2 techspecs:Display:0.63-inch OLED|Battery life:30 days |Dimensions:42 x 42 x 11 mm|Weight:52.6 grams |Water resistance:5 ATM|LTE Cellular option:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best smartwatch? My pick for the best smartwatch is the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It may be debatable if an iPhone is the best smartphone or not, but it is clear the Apple Watch is the wearable to beat -- especially for Apple users. The Ultra 2 is lauded by athletes and product reviewers as the best Apple Watch ever made.If you're an Android user, you may prefer a Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra -- the newest of the company's smartwatch lineup. I picked up the LTE model that provides cellular connectivity independently from my phone, but when paired with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, it's a perfect combination of elegance and power. The new Google Pixel Watch 3 may also catch your eye with its minimalist elegance and two size options to fit all wrist sizes.SmartwatchPriceBattery lifeDisplay sizeApple Watch Ultra 2$79936 hours49mmApple Watch Series 10$39918 hours46mm and 42mmGoogle Pixel Watch 3$35024 hours41mm and 45mmSamsung Galaxy Watch Ultra$65040 hours47mmSamsung Galaxy Watch 7$30018 hours44mm and 40mmApple Watch SE$21618 hours44mmGarmin Venu 3S$45010 days41mmAmazfit Balance$22014 days46mmWithings ScanWatch 2$35030 days38 and 42mm Show more Which is the right smartwatch for you? If you're in the Apple ecosystem, we highly recommend the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch SE, or Apple Watch Series 10 due to the easy connectivity and convenience of features like Apple Pay and Apple Music.The Google Pixel Watch 3 is the prime option for Pixel owners and for those Android smartphone users who want the best available from Google. It doesn't have the battery life of a Samsung Galaxy Watch, but there are other compelling features that stand out. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch 7 are great smartwatches built to last with stellar sensors and the ability to work with Android devices.However, finding the best smartwatch for you can be more complicated, especially if you're looking for one that fits a specific use case. Check out my expert recommendations below.Choose this smartwatch...If you need...Apple Watch Ultra 2The best, longest-lasting smartwatch with buttons to quickly launch your favorite apps or perform critical functions. It's a durable, rugged watch that can be your iPhone companion in all situations. Apple Watch Series 10A well-rounded smartwatch for fitness and communication. There's also Crash Detection, which can detect when you're involved in a car crash and connect you to emergency services.Google Pixel Watch 3A compelling smartwatch for Pixel and Android smartphones. The Pixel Watch 3 also serves as the best Fitbit available, along with possibly the best watch for helping keep you safe.Samsung Galaxy Watch UltraAn Apple Watch Ultra 2 competitor from Samsung with similar design elements. It's a Google Wear OS-powered device for Android owners and removes the influence of the Apple Watch Ultra in convincing people to move away from an Android phone.Samsung Galaxy Watch 7A reliable Google Wear OS watch for your Samsung phone. It supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Wallet, Google Play Store, and more Google apps.Apple Watch SEA more affordable option for Apple ecosystems. It also features the enhanced Workout app, giving you access to custom workouts.Garmin Venu 3SA smartwatch for advanced health tracking. You can see your recovery levels, advanced heart rate tracking, running metrics, and race time predictors. It also supports calls and your voice assistant.Amazfit BalanceAn affordable smartwatch that punches far above its price. Its powerful smartphone application provides access to a wealth of health/fitness data while supporting calls and Amazon Alexa.Withings ScanWatch 2A hybrid watch that looks like a standard watch with analog hands, but underneath this elegant exterior is the power of the Withings health and wellness ecosystem. Show more Factors to consider when buying a smartwatch Smartwatches serve as companions to our smartphones, and there are several things to consider as you explore the many options available to you. Several factors will help you quickly narrow down available candidates, so let's take a closer look and help you select the best smartwatch for you.Primary smartphone: Start by looking at the phone in your hand. If you own an iPhone, then you can consider an Apple Watch, or a watch running an operating system that is not powered by Google's Wear OS. If you own an Android smartphone, forget about buying an Apple Watch, as they do not even work with an iPad or Apple computer, let alone your Android. Android users can consider Google Wear OS watches, as well as those running a real-time operating system like Amazfit offers.Price: Most smartwatches are priced in the $250 to $400 range, so there is not a lot of variance in price, especially if you use your smartwatch daily and want a reliable watch. Apple offers the high-end Apple Watch Ultra 2, while there are some specialized Google Wear OS and Garmin watches that can cost more than $1,000.Battery life: Expect your smartwatch to last a full day and night, so you can track your sleep and then charge it while you get ready for work. A few new smartwatches are now easily lasting 48 hours between charging, with some pushing that another day or two so we are seeing improvements in battery life. Cellular connectivity: While smartwatches serve as companions to our smartphones, some models support cellular connectivity. If you buy one of these then you will need a watch line with your carrier, but these are typically $10 per month. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra include LTE support by default, but you are not required to enable cellular service. Cellular capability is great for those who want to leave their phones behind and still remain connected for communications, application usage, and safety. Show more How we test smartwatches All of the smartwatches included in this list were chosen based on how they performed when tested in the real world by the ZDNET team. When we test smartwatches, we typically follow the same routine for each one to see which performs best.Daily wear: We wear the smartwatch as our primary watch with communications, applications, and other elements being tested as if it was our only smartwatch.Application selection and performance: One aspect that makes smartwatches different than standard watches is the support for applications. We load up the watch with apps and then test the performance and functionality of those applications. Apple excels in the area of third party application support with Google's Play Store improving each year. Garmin, Amazfit, and others also are expanding the number and selection of apps available on watches.Workouts: Smartwatch makers have embraced health and fitness so we take our smartwatch out for running with GPS, rowing on the Hydrow, biking on trails, and walking with the family. GPS and heart rate data is tracked and then we evaluate the accuracy against proven GPS sports watches.Sleep and activity tracking:Sleep tracking has improved with smartwatches over time and we evaluate them as compared to smart rings and other watches. Nighttime is also a good time to charge your smartwatch, so you may choose not to use your watch to track sleep so your watch can serve faithfully all day and into the night.For a deeper look into our testing process, check out our comprehensive smartwatch testing methodology. Show more FAQs on smartwatches Are there any smartwatches I should avoid? There are many reasons why a person might want a smartwatch, so depending on your needs, it's hard to recommend watches that will satisfy everyone. However, based on my testing, there are a couple of smartwatches that you may want to leave off your list of considerations as you conduct your research.Fossil has been offering smartwatches for a long time, and I still have a working Fossil Wrist PDA that is powered by Palm OS and has a tiny stylus. For the past few years, Fossil has been making Google Wear OS-powered smartwatches and offering a fairly compelling option with some unique styles. However, in January 2024 Fossil Group announced that it would no longer be releasing smartwatches, with the last Gen 6 model released in 2021. You can still find some Fossil watches available, and Fossil Group stated that they will continue to update the watches for the next few years, but be careful when you are considering one of these watches.There was a great promise with a luxury Wear OS watch in 2022 when Montblanc released the Summit 3 smartwatch. While we provided a preliminary review as we looked for a future update that was supposed to add some core functionality, that update never came, and the watch sits idly by running the same older version of Wear OS on a processor that is now a couple of generations old. It's a lovely luxury watch so if you want a basic smartwatch with those good looks, maybe you can find one on sale. Show more How do I set up my smartwatch? Watches in our list, other than Google Wear OS or Apple Watch models, are typically set up by downloading and installing the associated companion smartphone application and then pairing the watch with that application. Some Google Wear OS watches also use this method since those models have additional applications beyond what Google provides on Pixel Watch.If you own a Google Wear OS smartwatch, primarily from Google or Samsung, then the Google Watch or Samsung Wearable application must first be installed on your Android smartphone. Google Pixel Watch models also now have Fitbit integrated into the watch, but to take advantage of this vast health/fitness ecosystem the Fitbit smartphone application is also required. Samsung also has its Samsung Health application so pairing and setting up a Google Wear OS watch is a bit of a process that generally requires two or more smartphone applications.Apple Watch users turn on the watch and then follow the prompts to pair it to an iPhone, often with the iPhone camera scanning an image that appears on the Apple Watch face. Apple has the Watch smartphone application preloaded on the iPhone so set up is quick and easy. If you had a previous Apple Watch then you can also have all of that data synced over to a new model, which makes upgrading Apple Watch models one of the experiences that keep people upgrading on a regular basis. Show more Can you use a Samsung or Google watch with an iPhone? Google Wear OS watches used to work with both Android and iPhone devices, but the new Wear OS 4 and later watches from Samsung and Google only support Android smartphones. iPhone users should stick with the Apple Watch, while Android phone users should seriously consider a Google Pixel Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch model.Garmin, Amazfit, and Withings watches work flawlessly with both Android and iPhone devices. Show more Can I text from a smartwatch? You absolutely can! However, most of their screens are too small to type on, so you'll compose messages with speech-to-text or other dictation functions or choose from several generic, auto-generated responses.Garmin watches support quick-response text messaging via a connected Android smartphone. Apple restricts third-party text messaging on the iPhone. Show more Can you use a cellular Apple Watch as a standalone device? While you can leave your iPhone at home while you run, go to the store, or stroll on the beach, you must have an iPhone turned on and connected to the internet at this other location. This is one reason why connecting to an iPhone and switching to an Android makes the Apple Watch useless with an Android phone.After initial setup, a cellular-enabled Samsung Galaxy Watch or Google Pixel Watch can act as a stand-alone mobile device. With the latest Galaxy Watch 7, Watch Ultra, or Pixel Watch 3 running Wear OS, many more apps can be used on the go, so you can leave the phone behind in most cases. Show more What are the hot new features in the latest smartwatches? Health and fitness tracking have been the areas with the most innovations and improvements in the last few years. While these watches are not medical devices, they have sensors, algorithms, and applications that help you track trends in your heart rate, stress levels, and blood oxygen levels, even allowing you to detect when ovulation occurs. You can use it as a basic ECG to check if further investigation is needed. The latest Galaxy Watchcan also measure your body composition; testing indicates it matches other methods reasonably well.These smartwatches can also serve as capable GPS sports watches to track the details of your outdoor activities. Exercise guidance is provided on the watch with connected health applications on your smartphone so you can keep track of your progress, too. Show more What's the future of wearable technology? We will likely continue to see expansion of the health and wellness features in smartwatches, but what's next on the horizon for these wrist-based computing devices? With increased connectivity and widespread adoption, smartwatches will likely become more integral to our daily lives. This may include connectivity to other devices in our lives. For example, as you approach your electronic door lock, your paired smartwatch could unlock your door so you can keep both hands on your groceries or luggage when you return home.People also regularly have video calls with family and friends, not just coworkers, so future smartwatches may integrate tiny cameras so that users can communicate in this same manner while out and about.In addition, as AI continues to integrate into our lives, having this technology available in our watches should help provide data faster and more accurately than simple web search queries that we may carry out with Siri or Google Assistant. Show more What's the best smartwatch for health monitoring? All smartwatches today integrate advanced heart rate sensors, temperature sensors, blood oxygen sensors, and more, as our health data is tracked 24/7. Samsung led the way with its smartwatch health monitoring, which includes body composition, advanced sleep tracking, ECG, blood oxygen, running power, and even blood pressure measurements.Google acquired Fitbit, and now the Fitbit ecosystem is deeply incorporated into the Pixel Watch experience. This includes helpful insights, personalized running workouts based on your sleep, activity, and lifestyle, and more practical and helpful feedback to optimize your health and wellness.Apple has advanced its health monitoring technology, and WatchOS 11 brings even more capability with detailed data measurements in its Vitals application. Training Load is also now available, challenging the likes of Garmin, Coros, and Polar with this advanced fitness metric. Show more Can smartwatches monitor blood sugar? The FDA released a safety communication to the public that advises consumers not to use smartwatches or smart rings that claim to measure blood glucose levels without piercing the skin. That said, there are indeed FDA-authorized blood glucose level devices that attach to your body and then send that data to smartwatch applications so that you can use your smartwatch to view the readings from an approved device.Devices, like those from Dexcom, send real-time glucose data directly to a compatible watch. For Dexcom monitors, this includes most versions of the Apple Watch. Make sure to check both your glucose monitor and your smartwatch compatibility before deciding whether or not to use your smartwatch to connect to your monitor and smartphone. Show more What about tracking blood pressure? There are a few models out there that can measure health stats like blood pressure, which are great for giving you a general idea of how your health journey is going so you can keep your doctors up-to-date with your healthcare plans. However, they're not as accurate as a blood pressure monitor, so you shouldn't rely solely on your smartwatch to monitor your heart or general health.Samsung provides blood pressure monitoring via its Galaxy Watch models in countries outside the US, with rumors that Apple may launch watches supporting this functionality in 2024. Show more Should I choose a smartwatch based on compatibility? Eric Potter, USA weightlifting Level 1 Coach and Performance Coach atFutureFitness, encourages people to choose a smartwatch based on compatibility, recommending an Apple Watch for iPhone users and a Samsung Galaxy Watch for Android fans. He notes that both smartwatches can track steps, heart rate, and exercise, but there are also crucial differences."The Apple Watch has a larger interface allowing for easier viewing," he said. "On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Watch is cheaper than the Apple Watch, and the battery life tends to last longer." Show more Other smartwatches we've testedMeet the experts ZDNET sourced external industry experts for this article. Here is more information about them:Emma Clark: A former University of San Diego track athlete.Dr. Richard Newman, MD: A now-retired head and neck surgical oncologist.Eric Potter:A USA weightlifting Level 1 Coach and performance coach atFutureFitness. Show more ZDNETs Smartwatch Guide Smartwatch Roundups Smartwatches Reviewed & Compared Apple Watches Explained

Jason Hiner/ZDNETI've been waiting to test the promised wide and ultra-wide screen monitor features of Apple's VisionOS 2.2 since the Vision Pro first shippedback in February 2024. When the Release Candidate became available, I rushed to install it on my head-mounted headache generator.In this article, I'll be exploring VisionOS's Mac virtual display capabilities, testing the standard display, wide display, and ultrawide display variants, and comparing them to my current physical widescreen setup. This new capability could be a game-changer for the Vision Pro.Also:Just installed iOS 18.2? I'd change these 4 iPhone settings for the best experienceI have no real idea how I'm going to demonstrate this to you. VisionOS is limited when it comes to screenshots and video captures, and trying to demonstrate an ultra-wide screen monitor in a tiny little screenshot window seems like a fool's errand. So you'll have to let me paint a picture of this experience primarily through words. The few screenshots I'm going to show you, as usual for the Vision Pro, don't do justice to the experience. And with that, let's dig in. Table stakes I decided to treat this test like a monitor review. I am a bit of a monster about my monitors because they are so key to my productivity. The configuration of my current "main machine" is a 38-inch LG 38WR85QC-W, with two suspended side monitors, each lightweight 15-inchers. Even the monitor in my second office, where I sometimes go to write when the "real" office is too noisy, has another 38-inch monitor and an old Apple 27-inch monitor as a supporting display. Also: Apple named its 2024 App Store Award finalists - did your favorites make the list?That's partially why Apple's original introduction of the 27-inch virtual monitor in VisionOS did nothing for me. Why would I tether a 27-inch virtual monitor to my Mac by slapping a brick onto my face when I already have a perfectly comfy setup with a much bigger monitor? The introduction of the VisionOS virtual wide-screen monitor allowed the Vision Pro to maintain parity (sort of because it doesn't support side monitors) with my current setup. Of course, again, there's the uncomfortable weight on my head, so maybe it's useful if I have to spend an hour writing in the kitchen while the window guy (not the Windows guy) is putting in new windows in the office. It all comes down to the ultra-wide screen virtual monitor. That could well be a value add to my productivity setup. With the amount of hours I work, I'm always looking for some kind of productivity benefit. Even if it involves grafting a $3,500 over-designed movie prop wannabe on my head, it might be worth it. So there you have table stakes for this test. Can I derive productivity value with the ultra-wide screen monitor? Can I even use it? And, at the bare minimum for a test, can I write this article on it? TL;DR: I did write this article on it. Using a release candidate I'm writing this using VisionOS 2.2, which has been widely available to Vision Pro users since December 12, 2024. If you haven't done so already, you can download it to your headset by going to the General section in the Settings menu. Go to Software Updates, and be sure to activate visionOS Updates to automatically receive patches when they come in.Full disclosure: I had an early version from the beta channel although the experience was still the same as the final release patch. Initially, I was able to get the Mac virtual display to show up, but only in the basic screen format.I wound up also having to update my Mac Studio to the Mac OS 15.2 Release Candidate to enable the multiple display configurations. If you don't see this little menu at the top of your virtual screen, you'll need to update. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNET Using the Standard Display Using the Standard Display virtual display on the Vision Pro was a fine experience -- except for the heavy headset pressing into my forehead and the inability to take sips from my coffee cup. Also: Apple settles Siri lawsuit for $95 million - here's how much you could getWhen I first began using this display, the Displays control panel on MacOS had my resolution set to 1920x1080. I adjusted it to the default of 2560x1440, which is also quite readable. I found that the 5120x2880 display option listed as a default was blurry and completely unreadable. Using the Wide Display Switching to the Wide Display changed my resolution to 3360x1440. I found the default resolution usable for most things, but difficult to read. For example, I couldn't actually read the resolutions on the Display control panel when I was in 5040x2160 mode. I had to switch back to 3360x1400 to read the resolution options.This virtual display is nearly identical to my real-world LG 38-inch wide display. It was functional, but I did lose the two side monitors I have when I use my physical wide display. Using the Ultra Wide Display The Ultra Wide Display is also quite usable, but I did find its virtual edges conflicted a bit with my physical side monitor when in passthrough mode. Here, I found myself still using the x1440 vertical resolution, although I did take advantage of the much wider display. As a trick, I tried the 10240x2880 resolution, just to be able to someday tell my granddogs that I used a monitor with more than 10K pixels across. But, to be fair, I used it for just as long as it took to type this sentence. Readable? It was not. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNETWith the Ultra Wide Display in passthrough, I was able to see my keyboard, mouse, and Elgato Stream Deck. But I wanted to see what the experience was like using one of the environments. Unfortunately, there's no environmental cutout for a keyboard or other desktop devices when in a custom environment. I can touch type, but I'm not able to see the keyboard while typing this -- although I can see my hands. It was also interesting, because I wanted to reach for my AirPods Pro 2, but couldn't see them. I had to enable passthrough using the digital crown to find them. Also: This quick Mac tip saves me time and clicks all day longConnecting them was also a bit confusing. I expected to be able to connect them to my Mac, since I was using the Mac. But since they were already bound to the Vision Pro, it took priority. I got my Mac's sound via the Vision Pro, and then via the AirPods Pro 2 bound to that Vision Pro. Still, it worked. Then I launched Final Cut Pro, my video editing application of choice. I spend a lot of time in Final Cut each week. Screen real estate is super-important when video editing because you have to work between many different control and viewing panes. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNETIt honestly took some getting used to. Having the timeline stretch ultra-wide was glorious. But the placement of the browser, preview, scopes, and control panes took a little while to dial in. Most of the time, I think my physical wide-screen monitor will be fine. But I can certainly see where having that extra wide timeline for editing complex videos might sometimes mean everything to productivity in certain projects. The same is true for research. I can easily put three side-by-side windows on my 38-inch display. That's why I bought it -- because I do a lot of side-by-side research while writing. But the extra width on the Vision Pro Ultra Wide virtual display allows for four windows (or five, if I squish some of them). That can be a major benefit for some projects where I'm comparing a ton of sources against each other. Overall Vision Pro experience Normally, when using the Vision Pro, its unique immersive experience is the star of the show. It's all about the Vision Pro. But when using Mac virtual displays, it's your work productivity on the Mac that's the raison d'tre of the experience. The Vision Pro is, quite literally, a peripheral. And, the overall Mac experience is just so-so. I'll enumerate the annoyances I found, mostly in order of when I experienced them.To be able to get the most out of my Vision Pro, I had to customize its assistive features. One feature I rely upon is the little blue assistive cursor. Usually, VisionOS just slightly brightens or dims whatever you're looking at and about to select. I find that very difficult to use, so I turned on the little round blue cursor. It helps a lot. Also:This hidden Apple feature turns your iPhone or iPad into an AI image generatorI also turned on wrist tracking rather than eye tracking. I have eyes that VisionOS finds very difficult to track, but once I turned on wrist tracking (using my wrist as my pointing device), VisionOS became much more cooperative. Unfortunately, the little blue circle assistive cursor doesn't work when selecting a screen type. The cursor is visible until it gets close to the screen-type menu. Then it goes away. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNETAs it turns out, I wound up having to turn off the assistive cursor entirely. That's because my wrist moves as I type. It moves a lot. That, in turn, made the little blue cursor bounce all over the place, which was incredibly distracting. When I turned the assistive cursor off, I lost a feature I relied upon, but gained the ability to type on the Mac's virtual screen without all the bouncing. After about two hours of dedicated Mac use inside the Vision Pro, my head hurt. It wasn't just a normal headache, although I had one of those, too. But my forehead area over the frontal skull bones really ached after a few hours. My eyes also felt quite strained. Also: I recommend this 15-inch MacBook Air to most peopleI have one more complaint. It's a minor one, but with a company of Apple's size and resources, it shouldn't be something I have to discuss. Why are there so few virtual environments? There are a ton of great coffee shops around Cupertino. You're telling me Apple couldn't send a film crew out for an afternoon to capture one? A nice library? Even a nice office on campus? C'mon Apple, get out there and add some environments. Returning to the Mac As far as the Mac is concerned, the Vision Pro is just another monitor. When you enable virtual displays on the Vision Pro, the Mac interprets that action as connecting to another monitor. The only difference is that the Mac no longer recognizes the additional monitors connected to the system. All you have is the Vision Pro. When you disconnect the Vision Pro's virtual monitor, the Mac interprets that as removing the monitor. The problem is, the Mac does not handle this gracefully -- or at least it doesn't on a machine with multiple monitors. Coming back to my desktop leaves my Mac in a bizarre state. The main screen is off, and everything is squeezed on the small vertical screen to its right. David Gewirtz/ZDNETOn that small vertical screen, there's a mirror setting dialog. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNETClicking it provides another mirror dialog, this time to enable my main screen to be mirrored. To be clear, I don't want my main screen to be mirrored, but this is the path that I have to take to get my computer back to functioning order. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNETAt this point, all three screens were arranged incorrectly. Just finding my cursor was interesting, because it jumped from one display to another, but not the one you'd expect from their physical arrangement. So, then I had to go into Displays and reset both the arrangement of the screens and all their resolutions. Because the screens were all mirroring each other, all the application windows were moved to one screen. So once the arrangement and resolutions of the various displays are restored to their correct settings, it's time to corral all the windows and applications and move them back to their correct screens. Also: I thought this new VisionOS 2 feature was just a gimmick - until it made me cry into my Vision ProThe process involves a bunch of clicks, and is both confusing and annoying. Worse, you have to do this every single time you exit using the Vision Pro as a virtual display. Get BetterDisplay Fortunately, there appears to be a solution. I've only tried this a few times on my own configuration, so I can't promise it will work for you, but it's got potential. There's an app called BetterDisplay that you can download from GitHub. There is a $20 pro version, but as best as I can tell, the feature I'm going to suggest to you works in the free download. Also: If updates bricked your Meta Quest headset, try this first - then ask for a replacementOnce you install BetterDisplay, you will have many options for controlling your monitors. Make sure your monitors are set up exactly as you'd like them. Click into the settings panel (the little gear way at the bottom of the menubar menu). Then click on Groups. Create and enable a group. Screenshot by David Gewirtz/ZDNETNotice the option that says "Activate this display group when" and then "All configured group member displays are connected." Here's what happens (I think). When you use the virtual display on the Vision Pro, your Mac thinks there's now only one display. But when you take the Vision Pro off and return to the Mac, then all your displays (in my case there are three) are connected, which causes the group to activate, and reset the display configurations. No guarantee, but it seems like BetterDisplay may fix the biggest pain point (apart from the one on your forehead) of using the Vision Pro as a virtual monitor for your Mac. What's it all mean? Using a 27-inch virtual display on a Vision Pro isn't all that interesting. But when you can use it as a wide-screen or ultra-wide-screen display, this feature becomes a killer app. There is no doubt there were times in my life when this capability alone would have been worth every bit of the $3,500 the Vision Pro cost. While laptops help make you mobile, the kind of work I do requires big screens and lots of screen real estate. Working just on a MacBook Pro screen is productivity-sapping. Also: These new smart glasses remind me of Meta Ray-Bans - but have a clever privacy featureI can see this as a huge benefit to people traveling. During my move to Oregon, when I was cobbling together screens to keep up with work while traveling and moving in, the Vision Pro would have been a massive boon. I also spent the better part of three years commuting three hours each way down to my parents during their end-of-life period when they needed my help and I had to simultaneously keep up with work. Again, the Vision Pro would have made it possible to keep up with my work while helping at their home (and even in the lobby of the care facilities I spent so much time visiting).Apple makes some incredible mainstream computers for the rest of us. But to support a platform where professionals need to get certain jobs done, the company has, for years, provided pro-level tools. The $6,000-$52,000 Intel Mac Pro made sense to certain professionals with certain workloads. Likewise, the $6,000 Pro Display XDR serves a purpose for those professionals who need its capabilities. While some are skeptical of these expensive devices, most people understand that very high-end gear has a place in the professional world.The problem with the Vision Pro, when it launched, was that it was hard to find a compelling application for the device. When the biggest value was entertainment, the cost of the thing at $3,500 was pretty excessive. But as a productivity device, as a tool that lets you take your ultra-wide screen display everywhere you go, it's a killer app. With that capability, the Vision Pro can be more than justified, at least for a certain set of pros who know what they need to get their jobs done. Also: Forget the Ray-Ban Metas: Samsung's upcoming smart glasses are the wearables I've been waiting forIt's just a shame Apple didn't prioritize for this functionality. The device had to incur a year and a half of mediocre, bemused, and ridiculing publicity because there was no good reason to spend so much on a novelty. Now, there is a compelling reason for this device. You know who you are. You know if you need this. And if you do, you really do. Now, the Vision Pro is a workhorse. Now, it makes sense. Any other immersive VR features or spatial computing whatevers are mere gravy. This feature needs some work. It needs to return to the Mac with less disruption. It needs to allow non-Apple keyboards and other interface devices to be seen through VR environments. It needs more virtual environments. Eventually, it needs to get lighter. But even as it stands, right now, this one feature fully justifies the cost to a certain category of professional customer. That's big. That's new for the Vision Pro. It's also promising. What do you think? Are you someone who could truly benefit from a big virtual display anywhere you go? Do you use a big physical display for your job? Do you own a Vision Pro? A Meta Quest? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. You can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to subscribe to my weekly update newsletter, and follow me on Twitter/X at @DavidGewirtz, on Facebook at Facebook.com/DavidGewirtz, on Instagram at Instagram.com/DavidGewirtz, and on YouTube at YouTube.com/DavidGewirtzTV.Featured reviews

CES logo is displayed at the West Hall of Las Vegas Convention CenterGetty ImagesThe Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 is all set to take place from January 7-10. Known for showcasing working prototypes and cutting-edge technology, CES is also a place for critical announcements from leading brands. Its a big event where companies from all around the world showcase their upcoming products. For context, CES 2024 attracted over 135,000 attendees and more than 4,300 exhibitors, according to the official website.In the lead-up to this grand event, several companies in the consumer tech space have announced their plans. Nvidia, for example, will have CEO Jensen Huang host a live event on January 6. But theres much more to CES than consumer tech, and here are the trends to watch for at CES 2025:More Smart Glasses, Laptop Refreshes, And New PC ComponentsMeta Ray-Ban GlassesNurPhoto via Getty ImagesSmart glasses can be broadly categorized into two types. First, AI-powered smart glasses like the Meta Ray-Ban, equipped with a camera, speakers, and AI capabilities. Second, AR glasses like RayNeo Air, which pack advanced features like those of the Vision Pro into a smaller and lighter form factor.At CES 2024, I demoed a pair of AR glasses. While I couldn't review one, theyre like carrying a portable computer with multiple screens wherever you went. I expect to see more AR smart glasses at CES 2025 alongside AI companion robots and translation devices.MORE FOR YOUAI-powered smart glasses are also gaining momentum. While Meta's Ray-Bans may be the most popular smart glasses of 2024, they lack a screen, unlike AR glasses. These AI glasses have inspired more companies to explore the form factor, and CES 2025 is likely to showcase several such form factors.CES is also a hotspot for laptops, and 2025 will be no exception. Expect major announcements from leading computing brands featuring upgraded chipsets from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, all of which are rumored to reveal new processors at the event. AMD and Nvidia are also expected to unveil new GPUs and graphic cards.AI will undoubtedly make its presence felt. The Rabbit R1 was a surprise highlight at last years show, and CES 2025 is likely have more AI-driven products. Itll not be limited to hardware products but will also be integrated into software across software products. Plus, you can expect to see AI in refrigerators, monitors, and other appliances.CES 2025 Keynotes To WatchCES is a stage where several companies host their events for new announcements and these are the CES 2025 events youd want to tune in to.NvidiaNvidia will host its event on January 6 at 6:30 PM PT. The chip giant has seen tremendous growth in recent years and is expected to announce major new chips. CEO Jensen Huang will kick off the keynote with his trademark leather jacket and an unwavering vision.AMDAMDs keynote is scheduled for January 6 at 11:00 AM PT. The company is expected to unveil new GPUs and RDNA 4 cards. Could we see the RX 8000 or RX 9000 series?SamsungThis event isnt about the Galaxy S25 Ultrathat will launch later in the month. Instead, Samsungs CES event will focus on appliances. Last year, we saw the Music Frame and next-gen transparent TVs. This years event tagline AI for All: Everyday, Everywhere suggests a push to bring AI to more home devices.CES 2025 Will Be ExcitingSamsung Transparent Micro-LED at CES 2024Prakhar KhannaCES is also a stage for innovations in TVs, home theaters, and the automotive industry. At CES 2024, Sony skipped showcasing new TVs last year in favor of Afeela, its prototype car with Honda. I expect to see more prototypes with bleeding-edge designs in the automotive industry alongside the usual focus on humanoids, robots, and AI pet companions.One of the best parts about CES is that it surprises you every year. And Ill be on-ground looking for those surprises.