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Apple's next-gen TV 4K and HomePod Mini 2 likely coming later this year

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Hindustan Times
28 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Why Google's Pixel 10 design strategy is more genius than lazy
Apart from the iPhone Pro models, the only other phones that are truly recognisable in the wild are Google Pixel phones. You can tell them apart from virtually any other phone because you can spot the iconic horizontal camera bar that sits at the top. Google Pixel 10 Pro is expected to look just like the Pixel 9 Pro.(Shaurya Sharma/HT Tech) I have spotted countless Pixels at airports, cafés and more, but I can't say the same about other brands' phones. You know what a Pro model iPhone looks like thanks to its triple-camera setup, which is laid out in a distinctive fashion. The same is the case with the Pixel. So, when renders and leaks about the Pixel 10 series models started surfacing, and when Google officially unveiled the Pixel 10 Pro, I was relieved. Why? Because it continues to feature the iconic design language and aesthetic that Google has built over the past few generations. Yes, Google switched to an all-new design language with the Pixel 6. Since then, there have been minor iterations, but the core aesthetic has remained the same: a large, iconic camera bar that sits in the top half of the phone and minimal pastel colours. That is the aesthetic formula Google is following, in the footsteps of Apple. Let me explain. How Apple Created The 'iPhone Look' If you look at the Pro model iPhones up to the iPhone 16 Pro from the back, they technically look largely the same, ignoring the different colours. Take the iPhone 11 Pro, for example. It debuted the triangular camera module look. Many people compared it to various designs and created gas stove memes about it, but since then, Apple has stuck to the same triple-camera layout for all its Pro models, including the latest iPhone 16 Pro. This is expected to continue with the iPhone 17 Pro, albeit with some changes to the camera module. So, what has this achieved? You know that someone is holding a Pro iPhone just by looking at it. In fact, this is so effective that some Android manufacturers, like Infinix, have launched devices over the last few years that resemble the iPhone Pro model's camera layout. This is because a connotation is now associated with this look: a triangular camera module in the top-left of the phone signifies a premium device, specifically a premium Pro iPhone. Applying a similar logic to the Google Pixels, Google has done more or less the same. The Pixel 6 debuted this visor-like camera bar with minimal colours, and it has since continued to offer more or less the same design up to the Pixel 8 series. Yes, with the Pixel 7, 8, and 9, Google did switch from an all-glass design to a combination of glass and metal for the camera visor, but the core look remained the same. An enthusiast would know you are using a Pixel at a glance. Thus, Google was able to craft a unique aesthetic for its Pixel phones. The Pixel 9 certainly shook things up with a disconnected camera module, flat sides, and a flat display, but it too, in a way, resembles the last few Pixel generations. Yes, the camera module is now disconnected, but the core look remains, again creating a unique and recognisable aesthetic. Same is good as long as it creates identity Based on what Google has shared officially, it is confirmed that the Pixel 10 series will feature the same design as the Pixel 9 series. I think that is a very good thing for Google. The company should not consider changing or revamping the entire Pixel look and feel, as it may make some people feel disconnected from the new models. Nowadays, people associate the camera visor look with the Pixel models, and a total revamp could alienate some buyers and ruin the very effort Google has put in over the last few years. With its fortunes turning around, Pixel sales are also better in North America. Many people recognise Pixels, and I, for one, think this strategy is working in Google's favour, just as creating a unique aesthetic did for Apple. Therefore, I was elated when official images of the Pixel 10 surfaced online. The Pixel 10 is going to offer the same core design language, and I believe that it, along with processor refinements and other improvements, will make for a great, iterative update that cements the visual identity for the brand.


Mint
2 hours ago
- Mint
Skip Apple's student discount! Here's how to grab a MacBook for cheaper
MacBook remains every student's preference when it comes to a good-performing laptop for college students because of its sleek design, long-lasting performance and reliable software. But one can't ignore the truth. MacBooks are pricey and with Apple's latest MacBook Air models starting at nearly ₹ 99900, it's tough for students to justify the cost, even when they know they're buying a gadget that will last them through graduation and beyond. So how are students spotting the secret deals here? The most common route students take to buy a MacBook is through Apple's official Education Store. It offers discounted pricing on Macs and iPads, and sometimes sweetens the deal with freebies, like a pair of AirPods, an Apple Pencil or a Magic Mouse. However, to be honest, the price drop is marginal, just about ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 10,000 in most cases. For instance take the M4 MacBook Air, it's price drops from ₹ 1,14,900 to ₹ 1,04,900, about a 10% cut. But these offers don't last all year and frankly, the discount isn't that massive. To be clear, Apple's student pricing is still one of the safer and more reliable options. But when it comes to making every rupee count, there's another Apple-approved method that deserves your attention. Apple's Certified Refurbished Store We are sure you have never really heard about this lesser-known section of Apple website that offers returned or lightly used products. In simpler words, these products are repaired, restored and resold at significantly lower prices. If the word refurbished makes you think of scratched-up laptops or questionable third-party sellers, don't worry, this isn't that. Apple's refurbishment process is thorough and tightly controlled. Every device is cleaned, fully tested and any faulty parts are replaced with genuine Apple components. It's then repackaged in a fresh box with new cables and accessories, and shipped to your door without any charges. That's not it. You also get a full one-year Apple warranty, just like you would with a brand-new device. You can also opt for AppleCare+ to extend your coverage. If you're looking to save smart without compromising on quality, this is a route worth exploring. Discounts on top of discounts Things get more interesting here with the price advantage. While Apple's education store lists the base M4 MacBook Air at ₹ 74,600, the Certified Refurbished Store often offers the same model for just ₹ 70,400. That's an additional ₹ 4000 off for a device that looks and performs just like new. Although there's a chance you might stumble upon a cheaper MacBook on eBay or Facebook Marketplace, but those deals rarely come with Apple's rigorous quality control, fresh packaging or the one-year warranty that the refurbished store provides. That said, it's always smart to check prices across major retailers. Occasionally, stores like Amazon or Best Buy offer new Macs at prices that rival Apple's refurbished listings. If you find a new MacBook for less, that's obviously the better deal. But if you're short on time or don't want to play the waiting game, Apple's refurbished store gives you a safe, reliable way to save. It's one of the best ways to get a high-quality MacBook for college without paying full price or compromising on quality.


Mint
2 hours ago
- Mint
Portronics introduces Apollo 20 Bluetooth speaker in India at ₹2,549- All details
Portronics has launched a new Bluetooth speaker, the Apollo 20, in the budget segment with dynamic RGB light, voice-changing effects and dual wireless karaoke mics. It offers 25W output that is enough to fill the room with deep base sound, making it perfect for small gatherings at home. Since it comes with karaoke, users can also enjoy singing solo or a duet with their friends and family, making it a perfect choice for a random karaoke session. Alongside the mics, it also offers extended battery life, so it will not offer a dull moment. Therefore, if you are looking for something similar, then know what the Apollo 20 Bluetooth speaker has to offer at under Rs. 3000. Portronics has introduced a new Bluetooth speaker dubbed Apollo 20 for karaoke lovers with dual wireless mics. The speaker offers 25W of audio output that includes dual passive radiators for clear and deep bass sound. The mics and speaker both come with RGB lighting that changes light effects based on voice and echo controls, enhancing the vibe of the party. With Apollo 20, Portronics is offering up to 5 hours of playback time and supports fast charging with a Type-C port. Portronics Apollo 20 Bluetooth speaker comes with Bluetooth 5.4 for a wide range of connectivity. Users can also opt for AUX and USB connections. Additionally, the speaker has a compact build; therefore, users can easily carry the device around using the easy grip handle. It also has a splash-proof exterior, enabling users to keep it indoors or take it outside without many worries. Hence, the company said, 'Apollo 20 offers the perfect combination of entertainment and portability.'