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“Bose’s Method for Phasing Out SoundTouch Speakers Provides Insights for Smart Home Brands”

When you purchase a smart home gadget that depends on an internet connection or cloud services for operation, a countdown begins. These gadgets won’t function indefinitely, as the manufacturers will eventually opt to stop supporting them. Certain smart home and Internet-of-Things devices may endure longer than anticipated, while others may be rendered obsolete much sooner than users expect.

Devices linked to the internet will ultimately be phased out — this is unavoidable. What follows remains unclear. Some brands leave their customers stranded with inoperable hardware, while others provide refunds or store credits to facilitate upgrades to newer (supported) models.

The optimal choice, however, is for smart home manufacturers to open-source the software behind discontinued devices. This approach allows the community to intervene and maintain their smart home devices for an indefinite period. Once the software is open-sourced, users can self-host their smart home systems, integrate with platforms like Home Assistant, and utilize community-driven projects to prevent hardware from ending up in landfills.

A few months back, Bose revealed that its SoundTouch speakers were entering their end-of-life phase, ceasing official support in February 2026. What transpired afterward serves as a model for how smart home companies should engage with their customers when it’s time to gracefully retire products they can no longer support.

Bose initially faltered but then corrected its course

Speakers should ideally last indefinitely, but with the addition of smart functionalities, assumptions can’t be made. Bose’s SoundTouch range of home audio speakers and soundbars featured “smart” technology relying on cloud capabilities for music streaming and multi-room audio. Their cost was also significant, with some variants exceeding $1,000.

In its initial announcement in October 2025, Bose declared that as of February 18, 2026, it would cease cloud support for all SoundTouch offerings. The hardware would stop receiving security updates, the app would be discontinued, and features such as Spotify/TuneIn integration and multi-room listening would vanish.

Naturally, this news didn’t sit well with customers, who expressed their discontent on Reddit regarding their smart speakers becoming non-smart. According to the initial plan, SoundTouch speakers would still be able to stream music via Bluetooth, Aux, or HDMI, but that was the extent of it.

Don’t let anyone convince you that collective dissent is ineffective, as Bose altered its approach last week in light of customer feedback. An updated email from the company stated that Bose has “been listening closely” to SoundTouch users and is adjusting its plans accordingly.

Specifically, the end date for cloud support has now been pushed to May 6, 2026, the SoundTouch app will remain accessible for local control after the shutdown, and the SoundTouch API will be open-sourced for community use.

This is about as significant a victory as Bose SoundTouch owners could have hoped for. While cloud support will eventually be discontinued, AirPlay and Spotify Connect “should continue to operate,” according to the company. When the cloud services are deactivated, the SoundTouch app will be updated to a local variant, allowing users to set up, configure, control remotely, and group their systems.

Although some functionalities, like cloud music services and presets, will be eliminated in May, they may not be gone for good. Bose’s consumer-friendly choice to open-source the SoundTouch software presents the community with an opportunity to restore lost features.

Open-sourcing smart home technologies benefits all involved

Open-sourcing the SoundTouch software always appeared to be the wisest path for Bose. It serves everyone’s interests. Bose can safely deactivate the cloud infrastructure supporting SoundTouch systems, reallocating those resources to new product lines. In the meantime, consumers can continue to access most of their speakers’ functionalities, and the open-source community can assist them in reclaiming — or even exceeding — lost features.

This stands in stark contrast to how other companies have addressed the phasing out of older hardware. Last year, Google withdrew support for the first and second-generation Nest Learning Thermostat models. This action effectively disabled their most valuable features, reducing them to “dumb” thermostats. Does that sound familiar? It’s a similar opening to Bose’s handling of SoundTouch speakers.

However, Google only offered owners of affected Nest Learning Thermostats a $130 discount on a new fourth-generation model. It made no attempt to restore essential functionalities or open-source the software for community access.

As is often the case, the open-source community found a way forward nonetheless. One developer, Cody Kociemba, reverse-engineered the Nest API to restore certain features of the Nest Learning Thermostat in a project named NoLongerEvil Thermostat.

The end result is arguably similar — both Bose and Google Nest users have a makeshift workaround to prolong their devices’ functionality — but the public sentiment diverges. Bose appears open to feedback and demonstrates concern for its customers, while Google’s approach seems more anti-consumer.

Major companies like Google, Amazon, and Samsung should take notes.

Rarely do companies imitate Bose’s actions from last week. It is uncommon for a business to take steps,

Google’s January Update Provides Major GPU Corrections for Pixel 10 Series

Pixel 10 users have faced challenges in recent months, but Google is rolling out solutions to assist.

What you should be aware of

– The January patch from Google is now available, bringing GPU solutions for the concerns Pixel 10 users have encountered.
– The announcement indicates that “general performance” enhancements are included for the GPU, in addition to fixes for touchscreen sensitivity, battery drain, and other issues.
– In October, Pixel 10 owners reported lag and freezes during gaming, compelling the company to promise ongoing GPU updates.

Google is commencing the week on a high note, as its monthly security patch is being distributed to Pixel devices with a significant fix that has been eagerly anticipated.

Earlier today, Google shared the details of its January 2026 security patch on its Pixel community forum. This patch is being issued for devices from the Pixel 7a through the Pixel 10 series. All devices are gearing up for the update designated as vBP4A.260105.004.E1. The primary focus of this patch is the introduction of a fix for various GPU-related problems that have affected many Pixel phones.

The announcement specifies, “General enhancements for GPU performance in specific situations” are rolling out today (Jan 12).

Naturally, these concerns mainly involve the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and the 10 Pro Fold. Additional display fixes for this month include yet another patch for the AOD (always-on display) addressing “flickering in specific scenarios.” This was an issue the Pixel 10 series frequently encountered in December, following the previous update. Furthermore, editing images in Adobe Lightroom on the Pixel 10 occasionally led to “noisy line flashes,” which has also been resolved.

Interestingly, Google mentions it is deploying a fix for the touchscreen issues within the Pixel 10 series, as some users reported it would occasionally stop responding. This should no longer be an issue after installing this update, but as always, remain attentive.

The rest of the January 2026 patch includes:

– Resolution for noisy ringback tones during Webex calls under certain circumstances
– Resolution for battery drainage issues in certain scenarios
– Resolution for an issue where removing a Live Universe wallpaper could sporadically render the Wallpaper and style app unusable until a device reboot

Addressing the challenges

The Pixel 10 has been grappling with its GPU since its release, with Google providing minor updates since September and October. It is expected for the series to utilize the Tensor G5 chip internally; however, Google’s proprietary chip still lags in performance, often disappointing users with high-end gaming. In October, users reported lag and freezes during games, resulting in dissatisfaction.

Google has allegedly committed to enhancing and updating the GPU in its Pixel 10 series, which is becoming evident in January.

It is also important to note that some of the fixes in the January patch were initially highlighted in December, including touch concerns and battery drain. Pixel 10 users faced display unresponsiveness and troublesome touchscreen problems, prompting the critical mid-December update. Nonetheless, it appears users are still contending with persistent issues. The January patch will gradually start to circulate, and hopefully, this marks the resolution of these complications.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Anticipated to Uphold Existing Display Approach

The Galaxy S26 Plus, Samsung’s forthcoming flagship device, seems to be almost identical to its predecessor, the S25 Plus. Reports indicate that the S26 Plus will keep the 6.7-inch display, 4,900mAh battery, and 45W wired charging inherited from the S25 Plus. A significant enhancement is the addition of Qi2 support, which could improve wireless charging speeds past the earlier 15W limit. Production for the S26 Plus is scheduled to commence this month, following the Ultra model, which began in December. Initially, Samsung contemplated substituting the Plus model with a sleeker Galaxy S26 Edge but reverted to the Plus due to market dynamics and underwhelming sales of the S25 Edge. The S26 Plus will feature a 6.66-inch AMOLED QHD+ screen, akin to the S25 Plus. While the Plus model stays mostly the same, the standard Galaxy S26 is predicted to experience a minor increase in screen size to 6.27 inches. Although there are no major hardware changes, escalating component expenses may result in a price hike. The Galaxy S26 series is expected to be announced at an Unpacked event on February 25, with retail launch in March.

T-Mobile Provides Complimentary Motorola Flip Phone, lauded as “Truly Outstanding,” No Trade-In Required

Create a fresh line and this highly rated foldable might be entirely yours.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Challenges in Adjusting macOS 26 Windows Owing to Non-Rounded Corners

### The Resizing Challenge in macOS 26: Recognizing the Design Flaw

Following the upgrade to macOS 26, numerous users have faced a vexing problem while trying to resize windows. The typical scenario entails attempting to grab a corner of a window, only to discover that the action does not succeed. This issue stems not from user mishaps, but from a design flaw by Apple concerning the window corners.

Traditionally, Mac windows had a visual cue in the lower right corner that distinctly indicated the capability to resize, offering a clear grab handle. This design feature was emphasized by John Siracusa in his review of Mac OS X Lion back in 2011. However, with the arrival of macOS 26, the enlarged corner radii have posed a new obstacle.

Developer Norbert Heger remarked that the natural inclination to click to resize a window often occurs in a region that does not yield the anticipated response. The functional area for resizing is a 19 × 19 pixel box situated near the window corner. In earlier versions of macOS, a substantial part of this area resided within the window. Nevertheless, due to the extended corner radius in macOS 26, around 75% of this area now extends outside the window, resulting in frequent unsuccessful attempts to resize.

Heger demonstrated this inconsistency with visual representations, illustrating where users generally click (green shading) in contrast to the actual functional area (red shading). This discrepancy between visual expectation and functional design is the fundamental reason for the resizing difficulties.

Additionally, John Gruber highlighted the extra visual confusion caused by this design oversight. For example, scrollbars are programmed to function within a rectangle with square corners, which further complicates the user interaction.

As conversations concerning the design of macOS 26 progress, it is evident that the resizing problem is a crucial area of concern for users. The visual and logical inconsistencies in window corners underscore the challenges that may emerge when aesthetic modifications do not coincide with functional design tenets.

Apple Introduces ‘Apple Creator Studio’ Subscription: An Overview of Features and Advantages

**Apple Creator Studio: A Fresh Chapter in Creative Capability**

Apple has officially unveiled the introduction of Apple Creator Studio, an innovative collection of creative applications aimed at equipping users with professional-level tools. Scheduled to launch on the App Store on January 28, this service will come with a subscription price of $12.99 monthly or $129 annually, including a one-month complimentary trial for new users.

**Highlights of Apple Creator Studio**

Apple Creator Studio offers a wide array of applications, addressing various creative requirements:

– **Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Pixelmator Pro**: Offered on both Mac and iPad, these top-tier applications enable users to edit videos, compose music, and produce breathtaking graphics.

– **Motion, Compressor, and MainStage**: Exclusive to Mac users, these instruments augment video production and live performance potential.

– **Smart Features for Productivity Applications**: Keynote, Pages, and Numbers will gain premium content and smart features, improving the overall experience for users.

– **Freeform**: This collaborative tool will be available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, though its launch is set for a later date.

A prominent highlight is the arrival of Pixelmator Pro on iPad, which promises an experience optimized for touch, specifically designed for Apple Pencil users.

**Latest Features and Improvements**

Alongside the Apple Creator Studio launch, every application in the suite will feature new elements, enhancing both their functionality and user experience. These updates are designed to simplify workflows and provide users with cutting-edge tools to advance their creative endeavors.

Apple Creator Studio marks a major step towards making high-quality creative tools available to everyone, regardless of their skill level. With its extensive suite of applications and features, Apple is ready to motivate a new generation of creators.

Listing the Top 5 Sci-Fi Comedies of All Time

In the cosmos, laughter goes unheard. A handful of series have remarkably blended the sitcom format with elements of science fiction. While Captain Kirk (William Shatner) explored the outer reaches of the universe, or Time Lords wandered through phone booths on “Doctor Who,” fans with a sense of humor were envisioning what comedic programs might entail if they incorporated extraterrestrial beings and mind-bending narratives.

Reflecting on the years, we’ve gathered a selection of beloved cult classics and enduring series that paid tribute to the realm of sci-fi while interspersing laughs throughout. The finest examples achieved a superb equilibrium that resonated not only with sci-fi enthusiasts but also with those unfamiliar with how to perform a Vulcan salute, or who fired first (or at all) in “Star Wars.”

From heroes hatching from eggs from distant worlds to bittersweet yet funny tales illustrating the pitfalls of futuristic living, some sitcoms with a sci-fi twist proved to be just as remarkable as those grounded in reality. With that said, here’s our list of the top five sci-fi sitcoms of all time. Treat yourself: Set your phasers to enjoyment and explore these shows, and don’t hesitate to embrace the wonderfully bizarre and imaginative aspects they offer.

5. Mork & Mindy

Researchers Uncover Essential Element for Maintaining Human Existence on the Moon

efforts by NASA to establish habitats on the moon have yet to yield a tangible result. The reason why the aspiration for lunar colonization has been elusive is clear; the moon, as Earth’s satellite, is devoid of the essential resources for sustaining life. It not only lacks liquid water but also has such a sparse atmosphere that it resembles a vacuum. A fundamental necessity for any prospective lunar colony would be a method for producing breathable air.

Creating such a system requires access to the components of air. It has generally been presumed that to generate breathable air on the moon, it would be necessary to bring in particles from our atmosphere to initiate the process. Transporting part of Earth’s atmosphere to the moon would be an unparalleled technological challenge, and one can only imagine the associated costs. Nevertheless, a recent research publication has indicated that natural processes may have already achieved this for us.

In a revolutionary study published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment in December of 2025, a research group from the University of Rochester’s Department of Physics and Astronomy presented findings suggesting that solar winds have been continuously carrying particles from Earth’s atmosphere to the moon, where they settle on its surface. If this is accurate, then the lunar material might be crucial for both Earth’s future and its history.

Computer simulations unveiled an unforeseen occurrence

Galaxy S27 Ultra’s Images Anticipated to Outperform Rivals

This marks the initial occasion we’re encountering anything regarding the S27 Ultra’s camera, and they are already attempting to generate excitement around photography.

Recent speculations surrounding Samsung’s Galaxy S27 Ultra suggest that the smartphone might feature “new technologies” for its camera setup. A source on X indicates that the device could come with an ISOCELL HP6 sensor; however, it might still perform with the expected 200MP resolution. Earlier leaks hinted that future Galaxy S models could reintroduce the previous dual-aperture option from Samsung’s earlier releases.

It’s astonishing to consider that we are still anticipating the Galaxy S26 series while there are already rumors swirling about the Galaxy S27 Ultra (notably focused on its cameras), yet here we are.

Over the weekend, speculation from the tipster Ice Universe on X claims that Samsung is actively enhancing the camera for its Galaxy S27 Ultra (via SamMobile). The informant made a statement, asserting that Samsung is incorporating “more new technologies” into its 2027 Galaxy S Ultra camera system. Although the specifics of these new technologies weren’t detailed, one would assume they would enhance both photography and potentially videography quality.

On a hardware front, the X post mentioned that Samsung might adopt a new sensor for the device, referred to as “S5KHP6.”

Speculation suggests this is likely the ISOCELL HP6, particularly since the tipster points out that it may maintain the same “size” as the HP2. As noted by SamMobile, if this is accurate, then the HP6 could possess 200MP capabilities, most likely for the primary lens, in addition to a 1/1.3-inch format.

The timing of this rumor on social media is intriguing, given that Ice Universe previously shared another report regarding the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s camera. Leaks suggest that the phone could receive an improbable camera enhancement through a 24MP mode, thanks to Good Lock’s Camera Assistant. It was speculated that, once activated, a 24MP option would appear in both Photo and Portrait modes within the camera application.

Currently, nothing is confirmed, as the tipster indicated that Samsung is merely exploring this concept.

Additional rumors about the Samsung Galaxy S camera imply that the company might even revive a classic (but cherished) feature: dual-aperture. There are claims that Samsung could bring back “narrow” and “wide” apertures, a feature particularly useful in low-light situations. The lower the aperture number, such as f/1.8, the wider your lens, and conversely. The report suggested that Samsung might pursue this in response to Apple. Should this come to fruition, there’s considerable speculation and excitement surrounding it for the S27 series.

Other rumors regarding the S27 series include a “full-face” biometric scanner that is reportedly “spoof-resistant.”

Apple Assesses Car Key Features in Partnership with Major Automotive Manufacturers

**Apple’s Engagement in the Car Connectivity Consortium’s Plugfest Event**

Apple is actively participating in a week-long event hosted by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) designed to assess the practical performance of the digital key standard, which supports its Car Key feature. This effort is part of a larger initiative to improve vehicle access technology, facilitating smooth integration between smart devices and automobiles.

### Summary of the Plugfest Event

The Plugfest event unites prominent automotive manufacturers and technology firms to perform interoperability testing of the CCC Digital Key, a worldwide standard for secure, smart device-based vehicle entry. Key participants include significant automakers such as BMW, General Motors, Hyundai, Mercedes, Rivian, and Volkswagen, as well as tech leaders like Google and Motorola Mobility.

This year’s evaluations concentrate on version 4 of the digital key standard while also reviewing compatibility with version 3. The CCC noted that last year, 115 vehicles and products received certification, demonstrating an increasing adoption of this technology within the industry.

### Significance of Digital Keys

The CCC asserts that the automotive sector has achieved a critical mass concerning digital keys, anticipating that 2025 will signify a major milestone as these technologies progress from early innovations to standard expectations among consumers. According to the CCC’s 2025 Future of Vehicle Connectivity Report, 97% of its member companies regard vehicle access as extremely or very important to their business, emphasizing the rising demand for consistent and interoperable digital key experiences.

### Testing Focus Areas

The testing at the Plugfest covers various crucial areas, including security, privacy, and reliability. A key aspect of the event is the assessment of passive entry systems, which enable compatible vehicles to unlock automatically as a user approaches with their iPhone or Apple Watch using the Car Key feature. This capability seeks to improve user convenience and security, facilitating smoother vehicle access.

### Final Thoughts

Apple’s participation in the CCC’s Plugfest highlights its dedication to advancing digital key technology and ensuring interoperability across different platforms and devices. As the automotive industry progresses, the demand for secure and effective vehicle access solutions becomes increasingly essential, paving the way for a future in which digital keys are a fundamental component of the driving experience.