Apple has rolled out iOS 18.5, introducing carrier-provided satellite messaging capabilities specifically for the iPhone 13 series, including the iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max. T-Mobile users can now access a Starlink-powered satellite messaging service free during a US trial period ending in July. However, this update doesn't enable Apple's exclusive satellite features like Emergency SOS, which remain available only on iPhone 14 and newer models. The update also brings a new Pride-themed wallpaper, enhanced Screen Time notifications for parents when children use the Screen Time passcode, improvements in the Mail app, and fixes for the Apple Vision Pro app. Additional updates include macOS Sequoia 15.5 and watchOS 11.5 releases.

Ticketmaster has launched the "All In Prices" initiative, displaying full ticket prices including service fees upfront before checkout, as part of compliance with the Federal Trade Commission's ban on hidden fees starting May 12th. Customers can view the face value and service fee through a dropdown menu, although local taxes and delivery fees will still appear at checkout. This comes after increased regulatory scrutiny following the 2022 Taylor Swift ticketing issues and ongoing legal actions against Ticketmaster and Live Nation for alleged price manipulation. Additionally, Ticketmaster has enhanced its queue system by providing real-time ticket availability updates and exact queue positions for customers.

Anker's versatile 2-in-1 braided USB-C cable, capable of charging two devices simultaneously from one power source, is currently available at its lowest price ever: $17.99 for the 4-foot version and $19.99 for the 6-foot version on Amazon. This cable supports up to 140W charging speed when paired with a compatible power brick or portable battery, making it suitable for fast charging laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro. Available in black and white, this cable is a convenient accessory for powering multiple gadgets concurrently.

Apple's iPhone 16 series launches with notable updates, including the affordable iPhone 16E and the introduction of Apple Intelligence via iOS 18.1. While AI features like ChatGPT integration and new writing tools are included, the overall iPhone experience remains familiar, as Siri updates are largely cosmetic. Apple Intelligence will gradually enhance the ecosystem through 2025. Testing each phone thoroughly, key factors such as battery life, screen size, and overall value are considered. The iPhone 16 offers significant improvements with the A18 chipset, Action Button, and advanced camera controls without the ProMotion screen and zoom lens of Pro models. The iPhone 16 Pro adds a better 5x zoom and a slightly larger screen at 6.3 inches, providing a high-end experience without needing the largest Pro Max size. The iPhone 16 Plus stands out for battery life, offering extended use and a large but lightweight screen. For budget-conscious buyers, the iPhone 16E delivers solid performance and wireless charging but misses features like MagSafe and the ultrawide camera. The iPhone 15 remains available at a lower price with features such as MagSafe and Dynamic Island, making it a viable alternative. Users not eager for incremental camera or performance updates are advised to hold on to their current phones, but those with older iPhone 11 or 12 models might find worthwhile gains in upgrading now.

Philips has launched an initiative called Philips Fixables, allowing consumers to 3D print replacement parts for their personal health products, such as beard trimmer accessories. Initially launched in the Czech Republic in partnership with Prusa Research, the 3D printable files are available globally on the Printables platform. While this doesn't apply to entire devices, small parts like cutting guides can be easily printed, reducing waste and prolonging product life. Philips ensures these parts meet quality standards and recommends specific printing materials and methods for durability. Currently, a single adjustable comb for the OneBlade trimmer is available, with plans to release more parts, including those for toothbrushes and hair dryers. Users can also request specific parts, although availability and timelines are not guaranteed.

Apple's upcoming iOS 19 update is expected to feature an AI-enhanced battery management system that optimizes power usage based on user behavior, according to Bloomberg. This smart feature analyzes collected battery data to predict and reduce power consumption by limiting certain apps or functions when needed. Similar to Google's Adaptive Battery on Android, which manages background app activity, Apple's tool aims to extend battery life, especially important for the rumored slim iPhone 17 with a smaller battery. Additionally, iOS 19 will reportedly include a lock screen charging time indicator. The update may also bring a wider redesign and is anticipated for release after a developer preview at WWDC in June, followed by public release in September.

The US Energy Department has announced a rollback of longstanding energy and water efficiency standards for appliances, calling it the largest deregulatory effort in history. The department aims to eliminate 47 regulations deemed burdensome, including efficiency standards for appliances like commercial clothes washers, microwave ovens, dishwashers, and faucets. This move targets the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), which includes an anti-backsliding provision meant to prevent weakening of efficiency standards. The proposed rollback could reverse decades of progress, raising costs for consumers and increasing energy and water waste. Advocates argue the rollback is illegal and likely to face legal challenges, as past court decisions have upheld the anti-backsliding provision. Critics warn this would undermine energy efficiency achievements, increasing utility bills and limiting access to more efficient technologies for all consumers.

Duolingo is updating its learning system by replacing the traditional hearts with a new "energy" mechanic designed to be more motivating and gamified. Previously, users lost hearts when they made mistakes and had to wait, watch ads, or spend Gems to regain them. Now, learners spend one unit of energy per exercise, with mistakes also costing one energy. However, completing multiple lessons consecutively rewards extra energy, encouraging more engagement. The full energy bar holds 25 units, compared to five hearts before, and regenerates over time. Subscribers to premium tiers enjoy unlimited energy. The change is intended to focus users on their progress rather than penalizing errors, leading to increased user interaction according to Duolingo senior staff engineer Moses Wayne. The new system will roll out first on iOS and later on Android within the year. This move aligns with Duolingo's recent push toward AI-first strategy and course expansion.

Giant Bomb, the popular gaming site, has announced its independence as an employee-owned entity after being sold by its parent company, Fandom. This move comes after reports of editorial interference and content being put on hold earlier this month. The site emphasized its commitment to focusing on its community and creators rather than algorithms or corporate executives. Alongside this change, Giant Bomb introduced a subscription model costing $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually. Subscribers will receive benefits like ad-free podcast RSS feeds and access to exclusive Discord channels. Most content will remain free to ensure accessibility. This development follows recent challenges in gaming media, including Giant Bomb's content pause and the sale of Polygon by Vox Media, highlighting ongoing changes in the industry.

The Trump administration has dismissed Shira Perlmutter, the Register of Copyrights, shortly after the US Copyright Office released a pre-publication report addressing the fair use of copyrighted works in AI training data. The report highlighted that fair use depends on the specific circumstances of AI training and indicated potential limits when copyrighted works are used commercially to compete with original markets. Representative Joe Morelle criticized Perlmutter's firing, viewing it as politically motivated due to her stance against unregulated AI use of copyrighted content. Legal experts noted the report's nuanced stance on copyright law and expressed skepticism about the firing's justification. Additionally, Trump also removed the Librarian of Congress the same day amid unrelated controversy.