On view in Houston as the first show to be installed with Rice School of Architectures new Karamuk Kuodesigned William T. Cannady Hall, The Sixth Sphere pulls together 18 entries to examine the effects of human intervention on Earth, the shared concern for the state of our planet, and models of design thinking that move forward with awareness. The exhibition, which closes on February 14, is curated by Brittany Utting, an assistant professor of architecture at Rice University and cofounder of the design and research collaborative HOME-OFFICE. Her curation proposes an unnatural addition to the Earths five natural spheresthe lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, cryosphere, and atmospherein the form of a sixth sphere: the technosphere: the material, spatial, and technological expression of human production. The technosphere includes systems such as clean water, waste systems, electrical grids, factories, housing, data centers, and highways. Humanity has become dependent on the technospheres ever-increasing production over the years, but its growth has led to the degradation of our ecosystems and destabilization of our planet and its people. The exhibition suggests a world can exist in which we transform the technosphere to work with the natural systems of Earth rather than against them.The exhibition occupies the upper floor of Rice University School of Architectures new Karamuk Kuodesigned William T. Cannady Hall, in a long rectangular space adjacent to open workspaces. (Sean Fleming)To understand the relationship between the built environment and the technosphere, Utting organizes entries under three transcalar frameworks: the Molecular (M1), the Machinic (M2), and the Metabolic (M3). The Molecular explores the material systems of the technosphere and the associated projects cover themes of exploitation of the land and its people, placing the misuse of physical resources at the forefront of a geopolitical and environmental crisis. This section includes visual contributions from NEMESTUDIO; GRANDEZA STUDIO; Studio Muoto; Debbie Chen; Z4A Architects; and Alexandra Arnes, studio SOC + atelier shaa.The Machinic rethinks the infrastructure of the technosphere that humans depend on. Projects under this framework reframe architecture as a living machine, giving it the ability to interact harmoniously with the environment while also building upon it. This scale includes visual contributions from HOME-OFFICE, TAKK, (AB)NORMAL, Andrs Jaque / OFFPOLLINN + Miguel Mesa del Castillo, Common Accounts, and Curtis Roth.The projects reimagine social and political modelsand the future of the planet. (Sean Fleming)Lastly, the Metabolic understands the technosphere forces unnatural life cycles upon resources and land, resulting in inequities among people and nature. These projects reimagine social and political models, and, as a result, the future of the planet. This concept includes visual contributions from aldayjover architecture and landscape, Territorial Agency, Olalekan Jeyifous, Dogma, Present Future, and DESIGN EARTH. The Sixth Sphere occupies the upper floor of Cannady Hall in a long rectangular space adjacent to open workspaces. The exhibition covers three walls: There is an introduction on the first wall, the presentation of the 18 works on the long wall, and a concluding video projection on the third wall. Beautiful, intricate drawings and renders of dystopian landscapes strike the viewer when first walking up the stairs into the exhibition space. The images sit on steel panels, and white text fills the space around the images, expanding on each project. The steel backdrops fit well within Cannady Halls interiors, which are finished in muted tones, with a polished concrete floor, white-painted structure, and tall gray curtains. On the ground floor, a silver curtain, emblazoned with the overlapping circular graphic for the show, directs visitors upstairs.The exhibition design was handled by Studio Lin, who also worked with Utting to deliver the exhibition catalog. Two copies of the publication are available to read in the gallery. The title includes Unruly Spheres, an essay by Utting that establishes the scholastic context for the show. Utting previously explored this idea in, an issue she guest edited with Albert Pope. Some contributors, who were organized according to these six spheres, also have work in this current showing.Human dependence on the technosphere creates a vicious cycle of consumption and waste, as the exhibition spells out for visitors. (Sean Fleming)The show continues HOME-OFFICEs interest in architecture and technical assemblies. In Fall 2023, it displayed MESO-COSM: Medium Worlds, Worlding Mediums at the University of Houston and filed an op-ed about the project with AN. Uttings selections also overlap with ANs operations: NEMESTUDIO just won a 2024 Best of Design Award, and AN Interior has published coverage of TAKK and OFFPOLLINN. At the cost of the five natural spheres, human dependence on the technosphere creates a vicious cycle of consumption and waste. The projects highlighted in this exhibition bring each transcalar framework together to analyze our current systems and imagine ways in which we can mend them to combat environmental and social injustices. To ensure a safe future for the planet and its people, The Sixth Sphere presents design as the force to transform the technosphere.Rice University School of Architecture will hold a closing reception panel for The Sixth Sphere on February 7 at 5:00 p.m., moderated by Brittany Utting with guests Igor Bragado and Miles Gertler, Common Accounts; Curtis Roth, The Ohio State University; and John Palmesino and Ann-Sofi Rnnskog, Territorial Agency.Pooja Desai is a writer and researcher at the Community Design Resource Center at the University of Houston.

Portland, Oregon, boasts some of the finest examples of midcentury and postmodern architecture in all the land. Look no further than Michael Gravess Portland Building, or some of the sacred spaces by Pietro Belluschi to see for yourself. And still today the city prides itself on architectural innovationcheck out the recently completed Portland International Airport by ZGF or the work underway to expand Portland Art Museum. City of Possibility, a forthcoming exhibition spread across two city venues will offer an unprecedented look at the ongoing legacy of Portland architecture and urban design, its curators said. At the Expensify Bank Building and J.K. Gill Buildingboth in Downtown Portlandover 50 models of historic and contemporary projects in Oregons largest city will be on display. Ephemera pertaining to districts underway in Portland will be on view as well.The show gathers fifty models spread across two different spaces. (Courtesy DRAWINGS)City of Possibility will open January 31. The exhibition is curated by PDX Design Collaborative, a group helmed by local architects, artists, and educators. PDX Design Collaborative partnered with Portland Art Museum, Architecture Foundation of Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, ULI Northwest, University of Oregon College of Design, Portland Architecture Program, and Portland State University (PSU) School of Architecture to put on the show.The show collects the work of 40 architects, both living and deceased. (Courtesy DRAWINGS)PSU School of Architectures Juan Manuel Heredia and Anna Goodman were part of the curatorial advisory committee for City of Possibility. Local practitioners Justin Fowler, Elisandra Garcia, Randy Gragg, and Will Smith were also on the advisory committee. Theres a great deal of compelling work happening here, but not a lot of conversation around it, Smith told AN. Theres also been an influx of a lot of talented people, who are all eager to critically examine whats going on. Smith added that the curatorial concept was poignant but simple; it started after the collective asked: What if we just invite everyone to bring [models] they have, and we gather together at one big table?An Oregon EnsembleThe show collects the work of 40 architects, both living and deceased. Works by Belluschi, Graves, and Arthur Ericksonfamous architects that are no longer with uswill appear next to contemporary practitioners equally active in the Portland region like ZGF, Jennifer Bonner, Works Projects Architecture, and others.The exhibitions standout installation is a 12-foot by 18-foot fir model of Portlands urban core, on loan from the Architectural Heritage Center. The model dates back to 1971, when city planners built it as a tool for implementing Portlands 1972 Downtown Plan, something the curators called the blueprint for the Portlands renaissance that blazed the path for urban comebacks in cities across the country.The exhibition is on view through March 27. (Courtesy PDX Design Collaborative)Other items that will be on view include a conceptual model for a public market in Portland by Timothy Cook, and another concept model of C.A. Bright Tower by Robert Harvey Oshatz. Studies by Jennifer Bonner of MALLs Blank House will also be on display, as will modular studies by Waechter Architecture.The show will feature a total of nine public events over its two-month run. One such event on February 2 at the Portland Art Museum Mark Building, titled Portlands Next Horizon, will present seven projects shaping the city.City of Possibility is open through March 27.

This fancy Queen Anne Victorian residence can be found in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts, and is one of the most unique houses in the industrial city. This property was built and occupied by David B. Griggs, a builder in Chicopee under the firm D. B. Griggs & Sons. The firm was very busy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Chicopee saw rapid industrial prosperity followed by a population boom, growing in population from over 9,000 residents in 1870 to 36,000 in 1920. Builders like David Griggs were able to grow to upper-middle class and buy property on desirable house lots and build large homes for their family, as was the case here. David Griggs died in 1896, five years after his home was built, and the property was inherited by his son, Millard Griggs. While the residence is covered in vinyl siding (original siding and trim is likely underneath the present siding), the house retains much of its original fabric including the brackets, delicate open friezes at the porches, and four-story tower.

Just over a month since its launch, Sora is booming.

The humble MP3 player is making a comeback as people get burned out from all the streaming subscriptions. An MP3 player offers some fresh features your phone does not. For starters, you don't need a data connection to use it. Many come with a DAC built right in, so you can go beyond MP3 and enjoy hi-res FLAC files. And finally, why not own your own music collection, rather than rent it from someone else?What is the best MP3 player right now?We rounded up the top MP3 players you can buy by evaluating storage, battery life, media type, and price to deliver this curated list of picks. My top choice for best MP3 player overall is the Sony NW-A306 Walkman thanks to its compact design, price, and high-quality audio, but I've rounded up the best MP3 players on the market today that are worth ditching your smartphone for. Sort by All The best MP3 players of 2025 Show less This Sony Walkman may look a little different than the one you're used to from the 90's, but this model still functions the same as Walkmans of the pastnow with a modern edge. It has an LCD display with up to 18GB of memory, which can be expanded to up to 32GB with an SSD card.Sony says it uses AI to enhance the quality of compressed digital music files, S-Master HX technology to reduce distortion, and a reflow solder to improve sound localization.The player also has High-Resolution Audio, which captures and reproduces digital audio at a higher rate than a CD to get you closer to the original studio recording. You can access apps like Spotify or Apple Music via Wi-Fi or connect it to a PC to access your music collection.Reddit users praise the long battery life, and say that the Walkman's quality is such a step up from a smartphone that it's worth the buy.SonyNW-A306specs:Storage: 18GB (expandable up to 32GB with SD) |Battery:Up to 36 hours |Display: 3.6-inch tocuhscreen|Media types:PCM, AAC, WMA, JPEG, and MP3 Pros Detailed sound Compact and portable Long battery life Cons Can be a bit tricky to use with a Mac This Sony Walkman may look a little different than the one you're used to from the 90's, but this model still functions the same as Walkmans of the pastnow with a modern edge. It has an LCD display with up to 18GB of memory, which can be expanded to up to 32GB with an SSD card.Sony says it uses AI to enhance the quality of compressed digital music files, S-Master HX technology to reduce distortion, and a reflow solder to improve sound localization.The player also has High-Resolution Audio, which captures and reproduces digital audio at a higher rate than a CD to get you closer to the original studio recording. You can access apps like Spotify or Apple Music via Wi-Fi or connect it to a PC to access your music collection.Reddit users praise the long battery life, and say that the Walkman's quality is such a step up from a smartphone that it's worth the buy.SonyNW-A306specs:Storage: 18GB (expandable up to 32GB with SD) |Battery:Up to 36 hours |Display: 3.6-inch tocuhscreen|Media types:PCM, AAC, WMA, JPEG, and MP3 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon If you want to spend less than $35 on an MP3 player, this AGPTEK A02X player is a solid option. It has a 1.8-inch display and room for 32GB of storage, with support up to 128GB via a memory card.This player has Bluetooth 5.3 capability so you can pair it with your favorite wireless headphones. It does have AUX support, but you'll need a separate male to male AUX cable.You can listen to music or AM/FM radio, plus it has audiobook support as well as voice recording capabilities. Verified customers praise the device's battery life of up to 40 hours and the clear sound quality.AGPTEK A02X 32GB MP3 Playerspecs:Storage:8GB plus a microSD slot |Battery:Up to 40 hours |Display:1.8-inch |Media types:MP3/APE/WAV/FLAC/WMA/DRM/ACELP. Pros Affordable Expandable storage Versatile capabilities Cons Does not bookmark your position in a book or song If you want to spend less than $35 on an MP3 player, this AGPTEK A02X player is a solid option. It has a 1.8-inch display and room for 32GB of storage, with support up to 128GB via a memory card.This player has Bluetooth 5.3 capability so you can pair it with your favorite wireless headphones. It does have AUX support, but you'll need a separate male to male AUX cable.You can listen to music or AM/FM radio, plus it has audiobook support as well as voice recording capabilities. Verified customers praise the device's battery life of up to 40 hours and the clear sound quality.AGPTEK A02X 32GB MP3 Playerspecs:Storage:8GB plus a microSD slot |Battery:Up to 40 hours |Display:1.8-inch |Media types:MP3/APE/WAV/FLAC/WMA/DRM/ACELP. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less This compact MP3 player from Mighty is reminiscent of (and works similarly to) Apple's popular iPod Shuffle but is more 2024-friendly. The Mighty app allows you to sync your Spotify or Amazon Music playlists wirelessly, and the Stay Fresh feature automatically syncs playlists while you sleep, so you always have up-to-date tracks.This MP3 player's clip-on design makes it perfect for running or working out. Plus, it's rated IPX4 to resist splashes of water or sweat. It works with both Bluetooth and wired headphones, although some users report that wired headphones sound better.Verified customers like the ease of use of the Mighty 3 and note that it's super durable.Mighty 3 specs:Storage:8GB |Battery:Up to 8 hours |Display:1.5 inches (Just buttons, no display) |Media types:Spotify and Amazon Music Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at B&H Photo-Video Lossless audio has grown more popular in recent years thanks to Apple's implementation of the technology in Apple Music. This MP3 player from Fiio is perfect for lossless audio tracks thanks to a custom-made chip, which provides a lower noise floor and distortion.The player comes with Android 10 right out of the box, so you can immediately access the Play Store and your go-to streaming app. The Fiio uses Bluetooth 5.0 technology, and when set into Bluetooth receiver mode, it becomes a high-quality Bluetooth amplifier with an excellent frequency response.Reddit users recommend using cable headphone to get the best sound out of it, but note that even the Bluetooth sound via LDAC is much better compared to a smartphone.Fiio M11S specs: Storage:3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage |Battery:13 hours |Display:5.15-inch bezel-less (1440 x 720 ) touchscreen |Media types:WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, DXD Pros Impressive and dynamic sound Quality-built metal chassis Touchscreen display Cons Quick charge isn't really that quick Older software and limited memory Lossless audio has grown more popular in recent years thanks to Apple's implementation of the technology in Apple Music. This MP3 player from Fiio is perfect for lossless audio tracks thanks to a custom-made chip, which provides a lower noise floor and distortion.The player comes with Android 10 right out of the box, so you can immediately access the Play Store and your go-to streaming app. The Fiio uses Bluetooth 5.0 technology, and when set into Bluetooth receiver mode, it becomes a high-quality Bluetooth amplifier with an excellent frequency response.Reddit users recommend using cable headphone to get the best sound out of it, but note that even the Bluetooth sound via LDAC is much better compared to a smartphone.Fiio M11S specs: Storage:3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage |Battery:13 hours |Display:5.15-inch bezel-less (1440 x 720 ) touchscreen |Media types:WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, DXD Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best MP3 player? The best MP3 player for most people is the Sony NW-A306 Walkman, based on compatibility and price. It also has an impressively long battery life of up to 36 hours.MP3 playerPriceStorageBattery lifeSony NW-A306 Walkman$30018GB (expandable up to 32GB with SD)Up to 36 hoursAGPTEK A02X$3032GB plus microSDUp to 40 hoursMighty 3$1258GB8 hoursFiio M11S$50032GB13 hours Show more Which MP3 player is right for you? The right MP3 player for you will depend on how much storage you need, what audio files you want to upload, if you need something simple or high-end, and what price you're willing to spend. Below, I've broken down the options further.Choose this MP3 player...If you want...Sony NW-A306 WalkmanThe best overall option when it comes to price and quality. This Sony Walkman is compact and has Hi-Res audio.AGPTEK A02XA budget-friendly MP3 player. It has expandable storage and even a voice recorder feature.Mighty 3A mini MP3 player that has a clip. You can sync up your Spotify or Amazon Music playlists wirelessly to listen on the go.Fiio M11SAn MP3 player perfect for lossless audio. It has a quality metal build as well as a touchscreen display. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an MP3 player: There are several considerations to keep in mind before purchasing an MP3 player.Storage:The amount of storage in an MP3 player will ultimately determine how many songs it can hold, so pay attention to devices with lots of storage space. For example, 16GB of memory equates to about 4,000 songs.Media types:While MP3 players of course take MP3 files, consider devices that support additional file types, including WMA, WAV, AAC, and more.Battery:The great thing about modern-day MP3 players is that they will have much better battery lives than the devices of the past. The average battery life for a good MP3 player will be about 12 hours.Price:MP3 players vary greatly in price, from budget-friendly picks to expensive ones built for audiophiles. Show more How did we choose these MP3 players? When choosing the best MP3 players, we did extensive research into different products and brands and took into consideration user reviews (both good and bad), competitor analysis, and more. Show more How many songs does an MP3 player hold? This all depends on the amount of storage that is on the MP3 device. The number of songs an MP3 player can hold will also depend on a song's file format and compression rate, so these numbers may vary. Here is a quick guide for reference of how many songs typical storage types can hold:4GB = 1,000 songs8GB = 2,000 songs16GB = 4,000 songs32GB = 8,000 songs64GB = 16,000 songs Show more Is it worth it to buy an MP3 player? In 2024, you might wonder if it's even worth buying an MP3 player when you can just listen to music on your smartphone. However, MP3 players are great for kids who want to listen to music but don't yet have a smartphone, people who like to run or hike outside, or those who simply want to listen to music without any distractions from their phones. Show more What are the different audio formats? Many MP3 players today support multiple audio files. Here are the most popular ones you'll see and what they mean:WAV: A lossless audio format for studio recording larger than MP3 files.FLAC: A lossless format that maintains excellent sound quality, even though the files are compressed.WMA: A Windows-based MP3 alternative.AAC: Provides high-quality sound thanks to advanced audio coding.OGG: A Spotify-specific audio format. Show more Do MP3 players need Wi-Fi? No. Because MP3 players don't need Wi-Fi to work, you can use them in more situations. However, some MP3 players do have Wi-Fi connection capabilities, such as the Mighty Vibe player. Show more Are there alternative MP3 players worth considering? Of course, there are plenty of other MP3 players outside of these four options. Here are some other products I think are worth looking into. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

WorkflowspixabayPostman, a leading API platform, recently announced the launch of its AI Agent Builder. This generative AI tool allows developers to design, build, test and deploy intelligent agents by seamlessly integrating large language models, application programming interfaces and workflows.The Importance of APIs in the Era of AI AgentsAI agents are fundamentally changing the way we interact with technology. These intelligent systems can understand context, make decisions and execute tasks autonomously, leading to increased efficiency and productivity for both users and organizations. As AI agents become more sophisticated, their reliance on APIs grows. APIs act as the crucial link between AI agents and the external world, enabling them to access information, interact with various applications and perform actions.In the era of AI agents, APIs are more critical than ever. Abhinav Asthana, co-founder and CEO of Postman, states, "As agents gain traction, we could see a 10100X increase in API utility, enabling software systems to execute increasingly complex workflows".APIs are the crucial building blocks for these agents, providing the necessary infrastructure for them to:Access real-time information: AI agents need access to dynamic data to make informed decisions. APIs allow them to retrieve up-to-the-minute information from various sources, such as weather services, financial databases, or e-commerce platforms.Interact with applications: AI agents can use APIs to interact with different applications, automating tasks and streamlining workflows. For example, an agent can use APIs to schedule meetings, send emails, or update records in a CRM system.Perform actions: APIs empower AI agents to perform actions in the real world. This could include controlling smart home devices, making online purchases, or even interacting with physical robots.Use Cases of Postman's AI Agent BuilderPostman's AI Agent Builder offers a wide range of applications across different domains. Some key use cases include:Automated API Testing: AI agents can be used to automate the testing of APIs, reducing the manual effort required and improving the efficiency of the testing process.Developer Onboarding and Training: AI agents can assist in onboarding new developers by providing interactive tutorials and guidance on using APIs.Complex Workflow Orchestration: AI agents can be used to orchestrate complex workflows involving multiple APIs and services, automating tasks and streamlining processes.These use cases demonstrate the versatility of Postman's AI Agent Builder and its potential to transform how developers interact with and utilize APIs.Postman vs. the CompetitionWhile Postman is a major player in the AI agent builder space, other tools are available, each with its own strengths and target audiences. Some notable competitors include:LangChain: A framework designed for building context-aware agents that excel in dynamic, multi-turn conversations.LlamaIndex: Specializes in integrating large datasets into AI workflows, enhancing how data is queried and used for decision-making.CrewAI: Designed for multi-agent collaboration, enabling AI agents to work in tandem on complex tasks.Postman differentiates itself by offering a comprehensive platform that combines API development, LLM integration and workflow automation in a user-friendly environment. Its focus on API-first development and the extensive Postman API Network make it a strong choice for developers looking to build AI agents that interact with the broader API ecosystem.Postmans AI Agent Builder represents a leap forward in API-first AI development. By providing a unified platform for building, testing and deploying AI agents, Postman enables developers to create innovative solutions that leverage the power of APIs and LLMs. The tool aims to simplify API interaction, streamline workflows and enable the creation of intelligent agents capable of performing complex tasks.With the API economy booming and AI agents becoming increasingly prevalent, the role of APIs in software development is more critical than ever. Postman's AI Agent Builder attempts to address this need by providing developers with the tools to navigate this evolving landscape and unlock the full potential of AI-powered API solutions.

Samsung's Galaxy S25 Series omits an important Android feature according to a new report. 2025 Bloomberg Finance LPA new report claims that the Samsung Galaxy S25 Series is missing an important Android security feature that Google wants to make compulsory on all new devices running Android 15 and above.Android expert Mishaal Rahman recently reported that Samsungs Galaxy S25-series smartphones dont appear to support Androids Advanced Virtualization Framework (AVF), leaving them incompatible with some advanced features such as the forthcoming Android Linux Terminal app.What Is AVF?AVF, introduced in Android 13, lets your device create secure, isolated virtual machines that run a mini version of Android called Microdroid. These virtual machines can run code in a protected environment with restricted access to a smartphones hardware and sensitive data. Conversely, AVF can protect running code from malicious apps on the host device.Samsungs home-grown Knox solution duplicates many of AVF's security benefits, such as separating sensitive data and biometrics from the rest of the Android operating system.However, Googles new Android Linux Terminal app goes one step further, allowing you to run a complete Linux operating system inside a virtual machine. This could eventually let Android devices run graphical Linux apps like Chrome OS can already.MORE FOR YOURahman claims that the Galaxy S25 Series hardware should be capable of running AVF. Rival devices like the recently released OnePlus 13 support AVF using the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset as Samsung. However, Samsung has chosen not to.According to an earlier report from Rahman, at least 361 Android devices from various manufacturers already support AVF. However, no Samsung devices are among them, despite Googles stated intention to make AVF support compulsory in the future.The architecture of AVF provides security by isolating code withing a protected environment.GOOGLEWill Samsung Support AVF In The Future?Androids new Linux Terminal app will likely launch with Android 16, so it will be interesting to see whether Samsung adds support for AVF in One UI 8 later this year.While most Galaxy S25-series owners wont miss AVF, it would be unfortunate for a flagship device like the Galaxy S25 Ultra to miss out on apps widely available on devices from other manufacturers.Ive contacted Samsung for comment on this issue and Ill report back with any updates.Follow @paul_monckton on Instagram.https://www.forbes.com/sites/paulmonckton/2025/01/25/google-to-let-users-turn-off-divisive-google-photos-feature/https://www.forbes.com/sites/paulmonckton/2025/01/12/google-to-restore-much-needed-google-photos-feature-report-claims/

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsiPhone SE 4: possible release date and priceiPhone SE 4: designiPhone SE 4: displayiPhone SE 4: specsiPhone SE 4: camerasiPhone SE 4: battery lifeWhile the spotlight always seems to be on Apples mainline iPhones, the iPhone SE is a great pick for those who are on a budget. If you want an iPhone that doesnt break the bank, the SE is the way to go.The original iPhone SE came out in 2016, and then Apple revamped it in 2020 and 2022 by giving it some more modern hardware. The iPhone SE tends to get updated every two or so years rather than annually like the traditional iPhone. This means that we should see a new iPhone SE 4 in 2025.Recommended VideosHeres everything we know so far about the iPhone SE 4.Please enable Javascript to view this contentAndy Boxall / Digital TrendsWhen the iPhone SE first came out in 2016, it seemed like a one-and-done deal. We did not see another iPhone SE until 2020, and then we got a third iteration in 2022.Based on that, it would seem like 2024 is a good time for a refresh. However, rumors have been a mixed bag. There were previous reports that the iPhone SE 4, which was originally planned for 2024, was canceled entirely, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Later, Kuo followed up that claim by saying the project was revived, though it may not come to fruition until 2025.Considering that 2024 is just about over, and Apple usually launches its SE model in the first half of the year, a 2025 release date seems most likely. And a report in November from MacRumors seems to indicate that a March 2025 date is very likely. After all, Apple announced the iPhone SE 3 in March 2022, so a March 2025 release would be almost three years to the day, depending on the actual release date.Despite featuring numerous upgrades, the iPhone SE 4 isnt expected to cost more than $500 at most. The current iPhone SE starts at $429, so the next generation will likely fall around that same price but with a potential increase. Even if the iPhone SE 4s price increases slightly, it will still be less than the mainline iPhone 16.iPhone SE 4 render Jon Prosser / Front Page TechThe original iPhone SE in 2016 was modeled after the iPhone 5s, and the iPhone SE 2 and iPhone SE 3 had the same design as the iPhone 8. However, a potential iPhone SE 4 seems ripe for a change in chassis design.Rumors have indicated that the iPhone SE 4 will feature a 6.1-inch display, similar to what Apple currently offers on the mainline iPhones. That makes the new iPhone SE 4 much larger than the current 4.7-inch display on the 2022 model.Going with a 6.1-inch design will also eliminate the home button for Touch ID, bringing the iPhone SE in line with the other models with Face ID.However, its unlikely that we will see the Dynamic Island, as the notch will almost certainly return.The iPhone SE 4 may also get an Action button, which initially debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro and replaces the silent/ring toggle. And to make it more like the mainline iPhones, it will also transition to USB-C rather than Lightning.In October 2024, there was a report that we may see a big change with the iPhone SE 4, in that it may have a Plus-sized variant. Originally, it appears that the iPhone SE 4 was designed in a 6.7-inch model like the iPhone 14 Plus, but then it was decided later to have a 6.1-inch model like the iPhone 14. This would be the first time that Apple offered the iPhone SE in two sizes.The reason for the possibility of an iPhone SE Plus is likely that Apple is considering replacing the Plus models with a new Slim variant. Those who would still want an iPhone Plus could consider the iPhone SE Plus, which would also mean a lower price point than the flagship series.Joe Maring / Digital TrendsAll previous iPhone SE models used LCD technology for the display. However, with the iPhone SE 4, Apple could switch to OLED.Apple has been using OLED panels for iPhones since the iPhone 12. Switching to OLED would make the iPhone SE 4 more akin to the flagship models but still at a lower price.OLED displays have deeper, richer blacks and better contrast compared to LCD. If the switch is happening, it would be a big upgrade for the budget iPhone.iPhone 14 Plus (left) and iPhone SE (2022) Andy Boxall / Digital TrendsTraditionally, the iPhone SE has used a prior-generation chip to make it more budget-friendly, but rumors now suggest the iPhone SE 4 will run the same A18 chip in the iPhone 16. This will enable Apple Intelligence features, although probably on a more limited scale than the flagship models.There have also been rumors that Apple has been working on an in-house 5G chip, which could appear in the iPhone SE 4. This would result from Apple acquiring Intels modem business in 2019, leading the company to build and use its modems in future devices rather than relying on Qualcomm. Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, a reliable Apple tipster, has claimed that Apple will begin a three-year transition to its own in-house modems, similar to the M-series transition from Intel. This transition will begin in 2025; the first one is rumored to be the iPhone SE 4.If the iPhone SE 4 does support Apple Intelligence, it will have at least 8GB of RAM. Given what else we know about the handset, this looks like a major increase in power from previous SE models.Andy Boxall / Digital TrendsAll models of the iPhone SE thus far have only had a single-lens camera, and the iPhone SE 4 will likely follow that trend. After all, the base model iPhones have dual camera setups, while the Pro models have triple lenses. Keeping the SE at a single lens would prevent it from potentially cannibalizing the other models.A report in December has given us a sneak peek at what to expect with the rear and front-facing cameras on the iPhone SE 4. To keep it modern, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to get a single 48-megapixel rear camera and a 12-megapixel TrueDepth camera on the front, according to recent supply reports from Korea. The TrueDepth camera would align with Face ID coming to the iPhone SE, finally eliminating the home button once and for all.Andy Boxall / Digital TrendsOne of the iPhone SEs most significant weaknesses is its battery life, which is due to its small size. The iPhone SE 3 currently only has a 2,018mAh battery, which doesnt last as long as those in flagship iPhone models.However, if Apple were to move to an iPhone 14 design, there would be more room for a larger battery. The iPhone 14 currently has around 3,279mAh, which is much better than the iPhone SE. However, that might not be enough; with Apple Intelligence and potentially an OLED panel, the iPhone 4 SE might get a higher-capacity battery that doesnt result in a longer-lasting battery because of increased power demands.For now, thats all we know. Take these rumors with a healthy dose of salt; Apple has a way of surprising its customer base, so we wont know the official specs until much closer to launch. Regardless, the iPhone SE 4 looks much better on paper than its predecessors and more like a proper phone than a highly stripped-down version of last years model.Editors Recommendations

The gaming laptop deals that are worth buying will still cost you a significant amount of cash even after the discount, but you should be ready for that if you want a reliable machine for playing video games. Heres an offer that we highly recommend the Alienware m16 R2 with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card for $1,300 from Dell, following a $300 discount on its original price of $1,600. Were not sure how much time is remaining before you miss out on the savings, so you better hurry with your purchase of this fantastic gaming laptop.Alienware is a Dell-owned brand thats considered by many as one of the authorities in gaming laptops, and the Alienware m16 R2 gaming laptop is one of the best examples of what it offers. With the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card combining with the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor and 16GB of RAM, this device will be able to run the best PC games smoothly. The Alienware m16 R2 also comes with a 1TB SSD, so youve got plenty of space to install your favorite titles, and with Windows 11 Home pre-loaded, you can start doing that right after you unbox the gaming laptop.The power inside the Alienware m16 R2 gaming laptop wont matter if you cant enjoy the graphics of modern video games. Fortunately, that wont be an issue with its 16-inch QHD+ screen with a 240Hz refresh rate for smooth movements. The display also supports Nvidias G-Sync, which eliminates screen tearing and stuttering for an immersive experience while you play.RelatedTheres always high demand for Alienware deals because of the brands amazing machines, and we dont think there will be anything different with Dells discounted price for the Alienware m16 R2 with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card. The gaming laptop, which is originally sold for $1,600, is down to only $1,300 for $300 in savings that you can spend on accessories and video games. Youre going to have to complete the transaction as soon as you can though, as the stocks that are up for sale may run out sooner than you expect.Editors Recommendations

Alphabet-owned Waymo plans to test its autonomous taxis in cities including Las Vegas and San Diego this year.