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In the realm of batteries, notable names like Duracell and Energizer dominate, along with a host of others. These also encompass store brands sold by retailers such as Costco and Amazon. Costco’s Kirkland label is found on an array of items ranging from toilet tissue to alcoholic beverages, including batteries. On the other hand, Amazon’s Basics range consists of multiple products, spanning from personal care to apparel and batteries.
Both Kirkland Signature and Amazon Basics batteries come at a significantly lower cost than their competitors, making them enticing options for saving money. But are they worth it, and which one stands superior? It hinges on key criteria such as dependability, uniformity, and lifespan. While Amazon Basics batteries frequently receive solid reviews overall, Kirkland Signature batteries also deliver commendable performance. Statistically, Amazon Basics batteries generally have higher ratings and often excel in direct comparisons. However, divergent findings with useful insights exist to assist you in evaluating their merits and drawbacks, alongside price-value considerations. Ultimately, though, the decision resides in performing your own practical evaluations.
Specifications compared
How to Effortlessly Incorporate Your Smart TV into the Aesthetics of Your Living Room
DIY remedies for disorganized TV cables, such as in-wall electrical kits and streamlined cord covers. Merely utilizing twist ties to bundle cords and wall-mounted hooks to align them neatly can significantly help in managing cable chaos.
After addressing the cables, it’s time to turn attention to the TV itself. Enhancing the console area around the television allows it to blend effortlessly with your living space. For those wanting to elevate the experience, consider transforming your TV into a piece of art by utilizing its screen display.
Utilize your TV console to complement the living room
How to Rapidly and Economically Upgrade Your Steam Deck
Nintendo Switch 2 hardware proposal. Nevertheless, while the Steam Deck provides decent accessibility, it does come with drawbacks, as the console was designed with limited specifications to reduce costs and offer a lower price point.
You are unable to change the Steam Deck’s GPU or CPU, but when it comes to storage, that’s a different matter, and it’s remarkably simple to address. With new AAA games consuming vast amounts of storage space, the standard 64GB version frequently struggles to accommodate even one title. Therefore, increasing your memory is not merely a bonus; it’s crucial if you want to maintain a robust library without the incessant frustration of downloading files repeatedly.
Fortunately, Steam Deck users have several options for affordable and straightforward upgrades for their devices, as Valve’s handheld PC is compatible with two types of enhancements. This allows you to select what best fits your requirements and alleviates the necessity of managing storage on your console.
Upgrading the SSD is a budget-friendly and simple enhancement
Do Public Wi-Fi Providers Possess Access to Your Internet Usage?
company Wi-Fi networks.
At present, this can fluctuate based on where you access these networks — airports and other more secure facilities may implement monitoring to enhance security for any suspicious browsing patterns that could endanger the location. Naturally, this isn’t always true, and sometimes they can even be viewed as less secure than other public Wi-Fi spots due to their higher traffic. Therefore, it’s essential to stay informed about the risks associated with airport Wi-Fi before utilizing it.
It’s also plausible that the local café nearby lacks any form of additional monitoring and that the Wi-Fi network is merely provided to offer patrons a dependable internet connection as a benefit for patronizing the establishment. Nonetheless, that does not imply that surfing on these open networks is secure.
Why open Wi-Fi networks can pose risks
New Apple AI Feature in iOS 26: Possibly a User Favorite
### Discovering the Fresh Screenshot Features in iOS 26
It’s been six months since the introduction of iOS 26 in beta, offering users the chance to delve into its comprehensive redesign and new capabilities. Among the numerous enhancements, one key upgrade is the revamp of the screenshot functionality, now featuring three groundbreaking elements powered by Apple Intelligence: generating calendar events from screenshots, conducting image searches for web information, and the option to inquire about screenshots via ChatGPT.
#### Visual Intelligence for Calendar Events
A highlight of iOS 26 is the capability to generate calendar events straight from a screenshot. This feature has shown to be especially advantageous for users who might not frequently engage with their calendars. For many, including those who lean towards using to-do applications or depend on recollection, this functionality streamlines the event scheduling process.
The integration of this capability is flawless. Users can capture a screenshot of anything—whether it’s an Instagram story, an email, or a webpage—and with a simple tap on the “add to calendar” button that appears at the bottom, they can effortlessly extract relevant information to set up a calendar event. This has proven particularly handy during hectic times, like events such as CES, where juggling numerous appointments can become daunting.
The efficiency of this feature is remarkable; it consistently retrieves relevant details from screenshots, enabling users to swiftly and accurately incorporate events into their calendars. This convenience promotes more regular use of calendar tools, reshaping how individuals organize their schedules.
In conclusion, the screenshot upgrades in iOS 26, especially the function to create calendar events, mark a substantial leap forward in user experience. This feature not only simplifies scheduling but also motivates users to fully utilize their calendar applications, making it a significant enhancement to the iOS environment.
Consumer Reports: 5 Wireless Speakers to Stay Away From
best Bluetooth speaker brands in the past, but today we’re going to redirect our attention to wireless audio options you should avoid at all costs, as per Consumer Reports (CR).
Some of the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi speakers we’ll cover are produced by well-known companies like JBL. However, there are also other brands you might not recognize that we advise you to keep ignoring. While we aren’t here to spread negativity regarding these CR picks, an unsatisfactory wireless speaker is a letdown that drains both time and resources — which are invaluable.
We’ve selected five portable speakers from CR’s compilation of the least favorable wireless speakers of 2025. These products not only receive a low overall score on CR’s platform, but also perform poorly in other crucial areas such as sound quality, user-friendliness, and adaptability.
IKEA Vappeby
IKEA might be most recognized for its stylish, minimalist furnishings, but in the past decade, the Swedish brand has also ventured into manufacturing speakers and various smart home gadgets. The Ikea Vappeby Portable Bluetooth Speaker ranks among CR’s lowest-rated portable speakers of 2025, achieving a mere 24 out of 100 for its overall score, alongside a 2/5 for sound quality and a 2/5 for versatility.
We did some research, and despite the appealing $16 price tag, the primary reason to steer clear of this Bluetooth speaker is its restricted volume. On Ikea’s website, one reviewer noted
Review of the Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone: Record First, Edit Later
**Antigravity A1 8K 360 Drone Review: Capture First, Frame Afterwards**
The introduction of Antigravity’s inaugural 8K 360-degree drone, the Antigravity A1, signifies a major breakthrough in drone innovation. Showcased at IFA 2025, this drone distinguishes itself with its distinctive controller, sleek design, and a robust camera that can film in 8K and 360 degrees. This feature guarantees that users document every nuance without omitting any scene.
The A1 provides a captivating flying experience with state-of-the-art goggles that offer a 360-degree perspective for the operator and an external display for onlookers. With user-friendly controls, respectable battery longevity, and a range of accessories, the Antigravity A1 has undergone thorough testing, affirming its reputation as a premier selection for 2026.
**Design**
The Antigravity A1 showcases a design akin to contemporary drones, weighing 249g, adhering to sub-250g guidelines, thus negating the requirement for FAA registration. Its white exterior and flashing lights facilitate user engagement. The drone is equipped with an 8K30fps 360-degree camera and depends on Vision goggles and a Grip controller for maneuvering, differentiating it from conventional dual-stick drones.
**Vision Goggles and Grip Controller**
The Vision goggles and Grip controller are integral to the unique experience offered by the A1. The goggles incorporate dual micro-OLED screens and an external display, while the Grip controller resembles a flight simulation joystick, providing intuitive operation for flying and recording. The accessories are thoughtfully designed, featuring a manageable learning curve that enhances the piloting experience.
**Flying Experience**
Navigating the Antigravity A1 is a captivating experience, thanks to the Vision goggles and Grip controller. Although there may be some initial uncertainty, users quickly adjust to the controls, supported by features such as the Sky Path system for automated navigation and Insta360’s Deep Track for subject tracking. The drone’s 360-degree maneuvers enrich the experience, making it suitable for novices as well.
**Camera Quality**
The A1 is equipped with a dual-lens sensor system, capable of recording in 8K30fps, 5.2K60fps, or 4k100fps. Its continuous recording feature facilitates post-flight editing. While storage is confined to 20GB, which can be expanded via microSD, the camera quality remains impressive despite occasional flickering and color variations.
**App Functionality**
The Antigravity app plays an essential role in pairing, reviewing footage, and exporting material. It is equipped with tools for editing, distortion correction, and subject tracking. Users have the flexibility to modify format ratios for distinct platforms, enhancing the versatility of the drone.
**Conclusion**
Ranging from $1,599 to $1,999, the Antigravity A1 represents a significant investment for content creators who appreciate the ability to capture first and frame afterwards. Although the need for regular charging of multiple accessories exists, the drone’s groundbreaking features and immersive experience render it a valuable option for those pursuing advanced recording capabilities.
Top 12 Suggested Fitness, Health, and Nutrition Applications for Reaching Your 2026 Goals
all-inclusive AI plans to genuine workout coaches, gym exercise logs to marathon support, these are our carefully selected app suggestions.
Whether you’re aiming to achieve New Year’s resolutions or simply require a robust workout or diet tracker, the top health and fitness apps can assist you in reaching your objectives. And if the available options feel daunting (or lacking), I’m here to provide personally-tested workout and planning apps to get you underway.
Some individuals thrive with tailored, AI-generated workout or diet strategies. Others gain from social apps like Strava where challenges and “kudos” from friends keep you inspired. And you’d be amazed at how an effective spreadsheet or straightforward workout log could outperform an expensive app laden with videos and plans.
Categorized into specific segments — general health/ fitness apps, workout applications, companion apps for smartwatches, and weight/ diet tools — these are the most effective apps to help you achieve your 2026 goals, complete with information on essential features, pricing, and reasons they have assisted our staff in succeeding.
General health & fitness apps
Fitbit Personal Health Coach
Key Health Features: Sleep Score, Daily Readiness Score, Stress Management Score, Menstrual Health, Meal & Water logging, Mindfulness sessions, Trend “Insights”
Key Fitness Features: Active Zone Minutes, Cardio/ Target Load, Gemini-generated personalized workout plans, video workouts, Fitbit/ Pixel Watch integration
Subscription: $10/month or $80/year (AI plans/ analysis, video workouts, long-term reports)
Why Fitbit will aid your goals: Recommending Fitbit Premium became simpler when Google enlisted Gemini to develop the Fitbit Personal Health Coach. It allows you to “converse” with an AI coach and formulate a thorough workout plan within minutes, incorporating a multitude of different indoor or outdoor workout types. So whether your fitness goal is shedding pounds, excelling in a particular sport, enhancing muscle mass, increasing walking frequency, or anything else, Gemini can provide you weeks of tailored workouts for that aim. No other app is as extensive or adaptable.
Beyond AI, Fitbit benefits from syncing with affordable Fitbit trackers, enabling the app to monitor metrics like resting heart rate, blood oxygen, skin temperature, sleep stages, and HRV. The new app displays “Insight” cards with trend data for these metrics, so you can observe how your health is improving as you strive to get fitter or shed weight.
Why we trust Fitbit: “Fitbit is straightforward and accessible for anyone just beginning with serious workouts.” — Derrek Lee, Managing Editor
“I’m enjoying the updated interface and how easy it is to access significant data at a glance. I’ve been impressed with the AI coach and its suggestions. I believe it’s one of the finest lifestyle fitness apps with a comprehensive approach.” — Tshaka Armstrong, Contributor
Google Docs / Google Sheets
Why a spreadsheet will assist with your goals: Apps can be motivating and automatically track your data and progress over time, with elaborate graphs and AI analysis. But they are typically (A) subscription-based, (B) mobile-only, and (C) tailored to a single activity.
That’s why, when dealing with New Year’s resolutions or creating a workout schedule, a straightforward document or spreadsheet is more effective than trying to discover the perfect all-in-one app! Utilize other apps to monitor specific objectives like miles/ steps/ weight loss/ books read, but consolidate them into one document you can access on your phone or computer, utilizing tables and drop-down menus to indicate your progress (as I did above).
Alternatively, use a spreadsheet to outline your long-term workout plans, and then a specific running or strength app to execute those plans. I applied that technique to plan my months of marathon training (see above), combined with my Garmin watch, and it was exceedingly effective.
Why we depend on Google Docs/ Sheets: “Yeah, it might sound silly, but I’ve genuinely found a purpose for spreadsheets. I need upper body strength, so lifting weights is how I aim to maintain it. I can record my existing regimen as well as any ambitions, and there’s ample space for additional notes. Best of all, I can check off each day’s workout from my phone or my desktop and have access to all my long-term progress, so I feel like I’m achieving something.” — Jerry Hildenbrand, Senior Editor
Strava
Key Fitness Features: Activity recording, local routes with 3D maps, Heatmap, Segment leaderboards, Clubs, Challenges, long-term workout analysis, Athlete Intelligence summaries, race predictions, Instant Workouts
Subscription: $12/month or $80/year (Saved routes, comprehensive data analysis with AI summaries, Instant Workouts)
Why Strava will support your goals: Most individuals exert more effort when encouraged or competing with others. Strava allows you to connect with friends to give and receive “kudos,” motivating you to continue getting out there. You also have “Challenges” where reaching specific thresholds earns you badges and awards from
Establishing the Difference Between Premium and Affordable Headphones
some headphones are built with premium components and finely adjusted elements, and since headphones may contain delicate components, that can require significant effort. Other headphones featuring wireless connectivity or noise cancellation might be priced higher due to the additional processing components inside. Furthermore, Consumer Reports emphasized that numerous high-end headphones are perfect for audiophiles. Nevertheless, those more expensive options might not be necessary to fulfill your requirements. Perhaps you only use headphones while jogging, or you might favor listening to spoken word content or podcasts. Ultimately, you may also solely stream your audio material via Bluetooth, which comes with its own set of limitations. All these situations could justify choosing a more economical option.
What makes headphones expensive or cheap
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