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Acer CEO warns customers will see laptop prices rise from March 2025
10% rise follows news of tariffs imposed by Trump administration
The tariffs apply to products imported from China
The chairman and chief executive ofAcer, one of the world’s biggest computer manufacturers, has warned a 10% price rise is coming to US customers ‘by default’ as a result of President Trump’s tariffs on imported Chinese goods.
In an interview withThe Telegraph, CEO Jason Chen confirmed price adjustments for customers will be added on Acer laptops to reflect the tariff, noting “we think 10pc probably will be the default price increase because of the import tax. It’s very straightforward.”
The tariffs are applicable on items imported from China, but don’t apply to products that left before February 2025, so it could be a few weeks before the prices rise to reflect this. Since electronic goods make up a significant portion of Chinese imports, and most Acer products are manufactured in China – it’s likely many products across the industry will be affected.
The move was pretty widely predicted in the industry, with theCEO of the Consumer Technology Association recently warning the tariff plan would be ‘devastating’, reminding that tariffs are not paid for by either country involved, “they’re paid for by the consumers that are paying for a tax”.
Whilst 10% may not seem like a lot, Acer laptops can often sit between $2,000-$3,000, meaning customers will see hundreds of dollars added to their bills.
Acer is not the only company to manufacture their products overseas, in fact almost 80% of laptops and 40% of all tech products imported into the US are made in China and will be affected by these tariffs one way or another – so Americans can expect to see their pockets hurt in the near future.
Some firms may use the tariffs as an excuse to raise prices beyond 10%, but many companies have not yet confirmed how they expect their products to be affected.
Chen confirmed that Acer is looking into the possibility of “different supply chains beyond China”, and that “one of the options” was an American manufacturing line.
Microsoft 365 is available in free and paid versions, so we’ve explored the differences and discovered which could be the best option for you
(Image credit: Claudio Scott / Pixabay)
Microsoft365 is available in lots of different guises for home and business users, but these productivity packages can get expensive – so it’s no surprise that lots of people turn to Microsoft 365’s free version instead.
There are usually compromises when it comes to free versions of paid apps, though. That means it can be difficult to know if these versions are worth the download or if you should just stump up the cash for a paid version instead.
To stave off the confusion, we’ve weighed up the free and paid versions of Microsoft 365 to find out exactly what you get with the free app – and to see how the paid products go further.
Microsoft 365 free: what’s included?
Microsoft 365 offers a free version designed for users who need basic functionality without the cost. This version, accessible online via Office.com, allows individuals to utilize stripped-down editions of popular applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote directly from their web browsers. These basic features are sufficient for light document creation, spreadsheet management, and presentations, making it an excellent option for occasional users or those with simple needs. Microsoft 365 provides a free version designed for users who need basic functionality without any cost. This version is accessible online via Office.com and allows individuals to use simplified editions of popular applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote directly from their web browsers. These basic features are adequate for light document creation, spreadsheet management, and presentations, making it a great option for occasional users or those with simple needs.
In addition to the free version, Microsoft offers a 30-day free trial of the entire Microsoft 365 suite. This trial enables users to explore the full range of premium applications and services, which include advanced features like real-time collaboration in Word, Power BI for data analysis, and sophisticated design tools in PowerPoint. During the trial, users can also take advantage of extensive cloud storage provided by OneDrive, allowing them to access files from any internet-enabled device.
Furthermore, Microsoft 365 Education is free for students and educators, subject to eligibility verification through participating educational institutions. This version includes additional tools designed for learning, such as Microsoft Teams for classroom collaboration and Intune for Education to manage devices securely. By utilizing these resources, educators can create a more interactive and engaging learning environment, while students gain exposure to essential software that can support their academic and future professional endeavors.
In addition to the free version, Microsoft offers a 30-day free trial of the entire Microsoft 365 suite. This trial allows users to experience the full range of premium applications and services, including advanced features such as real-time collaboration in Word, Power BI for data analysis, and sophisticated design tools in PowerPoint. During the trial, users can also explore the extensive cloud storage offered through OneDrive, which enhances productivity by enabling file access from any device with internet connectivity.
Moreover, Microsoft 365 Education is free to students and educators, subject to eligibility verification through participating educational institutions. This version offers access to additional tools tailored for learning, such as Microsoft Teams for classroom collaboration and Intune for Education to manage devices securely. By leveraging these resources, educators can create a more interactive and engaging learning environment, while students gain exposure to essential software that can support their academic and future professional endeavors.
Whether to pay for Microsoft 365 depends on your needs, usage habits, and specific requirements.
A paid subscription may be worthwhile if you require regular access to the complete suite of desktop applications—such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These desktop applications offer advanced features, extensive formatting options, and greater functionality than their online counterparts. Additionally, a subscription includes services like OneDrive, which provides cloud storage for your files, allowing you to access them from any device and collaborate seamlessly.
On the other hand, if your needs are more basic, and you primarily use the online versions of these applications for simple tasks like drafting documents, creating spreadsheets, or making presentations, the free version of Microsoft 365 might be sufficient. The online applications are user-friendly and accessible, though they may lack some advanced features in the paid version.
It’s also important to consider your budget. Subscriptions can range in price depending on your chosen plan, so reflect on whether this cost aligns with your financial goals. Furthermore, think about how frequently you will use the software. If you only need it occasionally, a pay-as-you-go approach or sticking with free alternatives could be a more economical choice. Ultimately, evaluating these factors will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Microsoft 365 provides a comprehensive suite of business plans tailored to address the diverse needs of organizations of all sizes. These plans typically include essential productivity applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, serving as the backbone for daily operations. In addition to these core tools, Microsoft 365 enhances business functionality with features like business-class email, which includes custom domain names and advanced calendar sharing, facilitating professional communication.
One of the standout offerings is OneDrive, which provides secure online storage and file-sharing capabilities. This empowers teams to access documents from anywhere, collaborate in real time, and ensure data safety with automated backup features. Complementing these tools is Microsoft Teams, a versatile platform that fosters seamless collaboration through chat, video conferencing, and integrated file sharing, making remote work and communication efficient.
Moreover, organizations can use advanced security features to safeguard sensitive data from threats, depending on the selected plan. Features like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), advanced threat protection, and data loss prevention help businesses protect their information and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
Specialized applications, such as Access for database management and Publisher for professional-quality publications, are also available for those requiring tailored solutions. With varying tiers, businesses can select a plan that best suits their size, budget, and specific requirements, ensuring they have the tools to boost productivity, enhance collaboration, and maintain a competitive edge in their industry.
Microsoft 365 represents a versatile and scalable solution for modern businesses, ensuring organizations can thrive in a digital workspace.
Microsoft 365 paid and free versions: what should you use?
When deciding between the paid and free versions of Microsoft 365, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs and how you plan to use the software.
If your primary focus is on basic document editing and you primarily access Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for quick tasks, the free version available at Office.com may be all you require. This option provides online access to essential features, making it convenient for casual users or those who need to create and edit documents occasionally. The free version is ideal if you don’t need advanced functionalities, offline access, or extensive cloud storage.
However, if your work demands a more robust suite of tools, the paid Microsoft 365 subscription may be a better fit. The paid version offers the full desktop applications, ensuring you have access to the complete range of features, including advanced editing tools, formatting options, and powerful data analysis capabilities in Excel. Additionally, it includes business-class email through Outlook, making it suitable for professionals who need reliable communications.
One of the significant advantages of a paid subscription is the increased cloud storage via OneDrive, allowing you to store, share, and collaborate on documents seamlessly. Moreover, features like Microsoft Teams facilitate effective communication and teamwork, especially for those working in larger organizations or on group projects.
Consider your usage patterns, the complexity of your projects, and whether you often require offline access to documents when weighing your options. For instance, frequent travelers or remote workers might find offline functionality crucial, which is only available with a paid subscription.
In summary, the free version is fantastic for casual users or students, while the paid plans cater to professionals, business users, and anyone who requires a comprehensive suite of productivity tools. Make your choice based on how frequently you’ll use the software and the level of functionality that best suits your needs.
Apple’s new-generation iPhone SE is called the iPhone 16e
Applehas officially launched the iPhone 16e. The company announced the new budget-friendly iPhone at 11am ET / 8am PT / 4pm GMT on February 19, confirming that the iPhone 16e is a new member of the iPhone 16 family and not, as many suspected, a standalone iPhone SE 4.
The new phone features the A18 chipset, a 6.1-inchOLEDdisplay, Apple Intelligence compatibility, a single 48MP rear camera, and a 12MP front-facing camera. The iPhone 16e also features a notch instead of the Dynamic Island, but it does inherit the Action button from the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 lines.
Pre-orders for the iPhone 16e begin on February 21, and the device will ship from February 28. It starts at $599 / £599 / AU$999 and comes in either 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage configurations.
Follow along as we react to the announcement of Apple’s latest mid-range model, which has discontinued both the iPhone SE (2022) and the iPhone 14.
The Galaxy S25 Edge has two cameras, one less than the Galaxy S25
One Apple product that the iPhone 16e might foreshadow is the rumorediPhone 17 Air. With Samsung launching a super-slimGalaxy S25 Edgelater this year, it is more likely than ever than we’ll see an extra-thin iPhone from Apple to answer the long-running rumors.
With its single high-resolution, wide aperture camera, the iPhone 16e might be a good model for a thin iPhone 17 Air. Cameras add much of the thickness to today’s big phones, so I expect two cameras on an iPhone Air at most, but one great camera with flexible shooting modes, like we see on the new iPhone 16e, would do the trick.
Will the iPhone 17 Air arrive looking like a slimmed-down iPhone 16e? We’ll find out eventually, if the rumors are true.
If the iPhone 16e is drumming up Apple nostalgia for long-time Apple followers, for me it resembles nothing so much as the original (in)Famous iPod nano. I personally loved the nano’s look and design, but it replaced the iPod mini, the most popular iPod of all time (thus far). The iPod mini was bright and colorful, available in pink and blue and green. The iPod nano was sleek and professional, available only black and white.
The iPod nano was the future, of course, with its solid state storage. I might argue that Apple’s incredible investment in the iPod nano and solid state drives drove the price of that technology down faster, and ultimately led to the smartphones and other mobile innovation we have today. It all started with the iPod nano, folks.
So, if the iPhone 16e color options make you sad, they don’t bring me down. They remind me of an important an influential time for Apple, when it shifted from old and fun to innovative and new.
20 February 2025 at 03:50
An Apple iPhone 5c in green
Let’s be honest, this is a huge price hike for Apple’s bargain iPhone offering. It’s a big jump over theiPhone SE (2022), which started at $429 / £419 / AU$719, but that phone was also more expensive thanitspredecessor, theiPhone SE (2020), which cost only $399 / £389 / AU$679.
Of course, to be fair to Apple, the original budget iPhone was theiPhone 5c, launched in 2013, and that phone cost $549 / £469 / AU$739 at launch (wow, sorry GBP :-£).
Also, previous budget iPhone models have skimped on the processing power, and therefore the potential longevity with software updates, compared to the base model iPhone of the same year. It’s a very big deal that the iPhone 16e gets an Apple A18 chipset and Apple Intelligence features. Those would have been doubtful for the predicted iPhone SE 4 that did not arrive today.
20 February 2025 at 03:09
So what does the iPhone 16e get that makes it worth more than the iPhone SE, besides the latest Apple A18 processor? The addition of FaceID is especially interesting. Unlike basic face unlock methods on Android phones, Apple isn’t just using a camera for FaceID. It has specialized hardware that would make it a more expensive proposition for a bargain phone.
FaceID needs an infrared emitter to spray your face with invisible dots (you can see them with an infrared camera). Then it has a special camera to read those dots and make a 3D model of your face, which is much more secure than simply reading a photograph of your face. That’s why banks have long allowed Apple to use FaceID to unlock banking apps, but Android phones usually won’t let you use your face to unlock your bank account.
I’ve used every unlock method, and I’d have to say that Apple’s FaceID is the fastest and most reliable by a wide margin. Whatever sacrifices the iPhone 16e makes, Apple clearly felt the super-fast, secure unlock method was worth the trade for bargain hunters.
20 February 2025 at 02:20
C1, who?
(Image credit: Apple)
Let’s talk quickly about that C1 modem.
Ever since Appleacquired Intel’s modem business for $1 billion, the company has been racing to build its own modem in a bit to reduce reliance on Qualcomm, which produces the modems for all current iPhone models. Perhaps surprisingly, the iPhone 16e is the first beneficiary of this years-long project.
It’s not yet clear how much better or worse Apple’s C1 modem is versus Qualcomm’s equivalent, but superior battery efficiency could be on the cards for iPhone 16e owners. Indeed, Apple is touting 26 hours of video playback, which is certainly an impressive figure.
20 February 2025 at 01:28
(Image credit: Apple)
Here’s the front and back of the new iPhone 16e, which comes in either Black or White (where are the funky colors, Apple?).
20 February 2025 at 01:26
‘Apple is finally simplifying its iPhone lineup’
“Apple is finally simplifying its iPhone lineup, squeezing almost all of it into the 16 family. This is a good thing for people trying to choose and it also means that the distance from a budget iPhone to a Pro one isn’t as great as it used to be. For my money, though, the inclusion of the C1 chip is the most intriguing bit. It isn’t often your most affordable handset gets your newest and maybe most controversial piece of tech.” – Lance Ulanoff, Editor-at-Large
“What would have sold it for me is Apple opting down in terms of computing power to offer a non-AI iPhone alternative, which would cater to a big chunk of consumers who just aren’t bothered about AI et. But then, that’s basically admitting that consumers might not care about Silicon Valley’s latest golden goose.” – Josie Watson, Managing Editor, Lifestyle
“I’ve never noticed Tim Cook’s accent before – isn’t it lovely?” – Becky Scarrott, Audio Editor
Thanks, Becky.
20 February 2025 at 01:19
No MagSafe?!
(Image credit: Apple)
A quick look at Apple’s newmodel comparison pagereveals a few frustrating omissions for the iPhone 16e.
The biggest is the lack of MagSafe support. Yes, you read that right:the iPhone 16e will not support MagSafe cases, wallets, and wireless chargers. The phonedoeshave wireless charging capabilities, but only up to 7.5W, which is punishingly slow. There’s also no ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, and the GPU is made up of only four cores (compared to five and six on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max, respectively).
20 February 2025 at 01:03
‘I think this could be a hit for Apple’
Some more reactions to the iPhone 16e announcement from the batterymap team for you here:
“I like the simple, unfussy design paired with some powerful chips and access to Apple Intelligence. I think this could be a hit for Apple, though the price is a bit high, but I think people will gobble it up.” – Roland Moore-Colyer, Managing Editor, Mobile Computing
“At $599, the iPhone 16e is more expensive than any of us were hoping – but it looks like there’s some serious Apple power under the hood, too. Looking forward to trying this one out, but not sure I’d recommend pre-ordering.” – Jamie Richards, Staff Writer, Mobile Computing
“It’s somehow killed off two phones [the iPhone 14 and previous iPhone SE] without filling the void left by either of them.” – Rob Dunne (aka The Dunnster), VPN Editor
20 February 2025 at 00:40
(Image credit: Apple)
Here’s that 48MP camera lens up close. It’s the same ‘Fusion’ camera as you’ll find on the iPhone 16, which Apple claims “has the capabilities of two cameras in one.” That’s because it features an integrated 2x telephoto that lets you zoom in with optical quality. The 48MP Fusion camera lets you shoot 4K video in Dolby Vision, too, which is neat.
20 February 2025 at 00:33
Do the specs justify the price?
Now for those specs…
The iPhone 16e features the A18 chipset, a 6.1-inchOLEDdisplay, Apple Intelligence compatibility, a single 48MP rear camera, and a 12MP front-facing camera. There’s a notch instead of the Dynamic Island, but the new phone does inherit the Action button from the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 lines.
All told, then, this is a major step up from the iPhone SE (2022), but the iPhone 16e’s $599 / £599 / AU$999 price tag also marks a major increase over that of its predecessor.
20 February 2025 at 00:16
The official iPhone 16e announcement video
Introducing iPhone 16e – February 19 – YouTube20 February 2025 at 00:16
Here’s the official iPhone 16e announcement video, hosted by Tim Cook himself.
20 February 2025 at 00:15
Farewell, iPhone 14 and iPhone SE (2022)
(Image credit: Apple)
And just like that, the iPhone 14 and iPhone SE (2022) are no more. Apple has removed both models from its website.
20 February 2025 at 00:13
(Image credit: Apple)
Here’s the official product page for the iPhone 16e in the UK.
The phone will start at $599 / £599 / AU$999 and comes in either 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage configurations. That’s a huge increase on the $429 / £419 / AU$719 starting price of the iPhone SE (2022). Can we really consider this a budget phone?
20 February 2025 at 00:07
The iPhone 16e is official!
(Image credit: Apple)
The iPhone 16e is official!
Appleofficially announced the new deviceon its website at 11am ET / 8am PT / 4pm GMT, confirming that the iPhone 16e is a new member of the iPhone 16 family and not, as many suspected, a standalone iPhone SE 4.
We don’t yet know the name of Apple’s new device, but is this its official design?
The above images (or perhaps best-guess renders) shared by leakerMajin Buare the closest thing we have to a peek at the new iPhone SE’s possible design. They certainly line up with previous leaks; the device in question has a notch, a flat metal frame, and a single-lens camera.
There’s also a customizable action button (a nice bonus for a more affordable iPhone). The notch means this should also be the first SE model with Face ID, which is a nice time-saver on my iPhone 16 Pro. If this is all true, it could prove popular – if the price is right…
19 February 2025 at 23:53
The Apple Store is down!
(Image credit: Apple)
OK, here’s our first big indicator that a product launch is imminent. Apple has closed its online store for maintenance, which is almost always a sign that new devices are on the way.
In this case, Apple has only closed theproduct page for the iPhone SE (2022), which (surprise!) strongly hints that a replacement device is about to be revealed. But will it be the iPhone SE 4, the iPhone SE (2022), or the iPhone 16E? Given Tim Cook’s “family” comment, my money’s on the latter.
19 February 2025 at 23:42
The biggest iPhone SE upgrade rumors
(Image credit: Apple)
As for the iPhone SE 4 specifically, we’re expecting the new device to bring major hardware and software improvements over its now-outdated predecessor. Thebiggest rumored upgrades for the iPhone SE 4are as follows:
A bigger, better display: Where the iPhone SE (2022) uses a 4.7-inch LCD panel, its successor is tipped to use a 6.1-inch OLED display running at a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels.
Apple Intelligence compatibility: The iPhone SE 4 will likely be the cheapest entry point into Apple Intelligence, and therefore one of the best AI phones at its price point.
A more powerful camera: The iPhone SE 4 will very likely get a better camera than the almost three-year-old iPhone SE (2022), and the latest rumors point towards a single 48MP rear snapper and a 12MP selfie camera.
A longer-lasting battery: The iPhone SE 4 will almost certainly get a larger, longer-lasting battery than that of its predecessor. The latest leaks suggest it’ll be an iPhone 14-style 3,279mAh cell, which will surely bring tangible improvements to endurance.
Let’s kick off with a proper look at Apple’s official teaser, which was shared to X on February 13. Tim Cook’s shiny Apple logo doesn’t give a lot away, but the internet has some compelling theories.
Firstly, the tagline “get ready to meet the newest member of the family” does tally with rumors of a new iPhone SE. It’d be part of the iPhone family, but does that also hint at a rebrand? The iPhone SE 3 was simply theiPhone SE (2022)and there have also been rumors that the new model might be called the iPhone 16E.
The circle around the logo could also be hinting at the new SE’s single camera, or the move away from a physical home button. It does also look a lot like an AirTag (potentially theAirTag 2?), but we weren’t expecting to see a new one of those for quite a while yet…
Okay… exactly what is ISO in photography? This is what it stands for, what the numbers mean and when you should change them
It may be a simple question: what is ISO in photography? However, the answer isn’t quite so straightforward – mainly because it’s a term that originated before digital imaging.
So, let’s rewind: what is ISO in photography in terms of analog shooting?Camera filmcomes in different speeds, with a higher ISO rating equating to a ‘faster’ film – which means it is more sensitive to light, enabling you to use faster shutter speeds than you can with ‘slower’ film.
Using a higher-sensitivity ISO is useful for moving subjects (where faster shutter speeds are required) and particularly for shooting in low light. Thus, ISO forms one corner of theexposure triangle– along withapertureandshutter speed.
Okay, but how is this speed measured? A number of different scales were introduced when film was invented, and two of the best known – the American ASA and German DIN scales – were ultimately brought together to create the standardized ISO system.
Thebest digital cameras, of course, do not use film – but the same ISO scale is still used today to measure the camera’s sensitivity to light. Although the camera’s image sensor cannot be changed the way film can, its sensitivity can be boosted by the camera’s circuitry. This is done with theISO control.
What is ISO in photography? It’s like turning up the volume dial on an old radio when the signal is weak – and the higher you go, the more distortion or noise you get
What does ISO stand for?
So, we’ve answered “what is ISO in photography”. Butwhat does ISO stand for? ISO is the name of the International Organization of Standardization: a body that creates thousands of agreed standards for a huge range of products, procedures, and practices. ISO isn’t an acronym and doesn’t stand for anything – it simply refers to the Organization.
For the photographer, ISO is simply a set of numbers. The base sensitivity – the lowest native setting – of many digital cameras is ISO100. But is typically increased by pressing the appropriate button, rotating a dial, swiping the touchscreen or changing a menu setting. On some cameras, you may even get a separate ISO control dial.
The scale is such that doubling the ISO number doubles the sensitivity of the sensor. So increasing the ISO setting from 100 to 200 means that, to get the same overall exposure, you can use a shutter speed that is half as long (or twice as fast).
Each doubling of the ISO also increases the sensitivity by a full exposure ‘stop’ – with the typical full-stop ISO scale progressing to 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 and so on. The top ISO setting varies depending on the age and cost of your camera. Typical maximum settings range from ISO3200 to ISO819,200. Some of thebest low-light camerasare particularly good at handling high ISOs
What is ISO in photography is one question – what ISO actually means is another!
Confusingly, the top ISO settings on some models are hidden and must be enabled using a custom option called ‘ISO Expansion’ or similar. The reason for this is that each time you increase the ISO setting, you also get a small and cumulative decrease in image quality. So, while cameras boast extremely high or low ‘expanded’ ISO sensitivities, you may not want to use them!
Boosting the picture signal also amplifies impurities in the signal known as ‘noise’. This noise shows up as grain and color mottling in the image – and this gets progressively more noticeable the higher the ISO is set.
You only need to use a high ISO in low light if the camera is handheld, or the subject is moving. With static subjects, and a tripod, you can use the slowest setting – here a setting of ISO100 (Image credit: Chris George)
For low light images where the subject is moving, a higher ISO (here ISO1600) become essential
Some photographers try to resist increasing the ISO at all costs in search of getting the best, grain-free images. However, pumping up the ISO often actually increases image quality overall, as this simple change lets you use a faster shutter speed – thereby eliminating camera shake. A grainy picture is always better than a blurry one!
A higher ISO can also enable you to use a narrower aperture – increasing depth of field, and thus increasing the resolution of a lens – to give you sharper-looking pictures.
Although higher ISO settings are invaluable in low light, they are not essential for all low-light situations, in fact, if you can keep the camera steady, they are often best avoided. If you are using a solid tripod, the slowest ISO setting (ISO100) is usually the best option – as you can then use a longer shutter speed to make up for the lack of light.
Similarly, if you are using flash, high-ISO settings are not needed (although increasing the ISO will increase the effective range of your flash).
Luminance noise: Traditional monochromatic grain in darker areas (as seen in the wall behind the statue in the detail above right) is typical of luma noise
Chromatic noise:Low light interior shows chromatic noise in shadows, as seen in the rainbow speckles in the detail
There are two different types of noise found in digital images. Luminance noise shows up as a speckled pattern, like specks of black sand, and is similar to the grain that was found when using high-ISO black-and-white films. Chromatic noise is colored and looks like the rainbow-like sheen when looking at a patch of oil (and is similar in appearance to the blotchy dye patterns that you saw when enlarging high-ISO color films).
It’s important to look at these two types of noise separately – as each can be reduced using different tools during the editing stage. These are often provided as separate noise-reduction sliders by a RAW converter (such as inAdobe Photoshop’s Camera Raw utility). Specialist software, such asDxO Dfine, is particularly useful for reducing noise without sacrificing detail.
So, what is ISO in photography? It’s a whole lot of things – and all of them are important!
Nintendo is set to discontinue its Gold Points rewards scheme
From March 24, 2025, you’ll no longer be able to earn them
However, points you earn now will be redeemable for another 12 months
Nintendo has confirmed it will be winding down its eShop Gold Points rewards scheme next month.
The announcement was made over on the officialMy Nintendo website, confirming that the earning of Gold Points will be discontinued on March 24, 2025. At the time of writing, the website is currently returning an error for that page. But an FAQ (sourced byGo Nintendo) provides more details, reading:
“Beginning at 9:30 p.m. PDT on 3/24/2025, users will no longer be able to earn My Nintendo Gold Points. Gold Points will no longer be earned for digital purchases on Nintendo eShop after 9:30 p.m. PDT on 3/24/2025.
“Gold Points will no longer be earned on physical games that release after 3/24/2025. For physical games that released on or before 3/24/2025, Gold Points may still be earned by registering eligible titles within one year from the original release date of the game.
“All earned Gold Points will continue to be valid and redeemable for 12 months after they are issued. Please note that there are no changes to how you redeem the Gold Points you already earned.”
Suspiciously, this is happening about a week and a half ahead of April 2’s scheduledNintendo Switch 2Direct. Nintendo currently hasn’t announced a replacement for the Gold Points rewards scheme, but there is a chance the company could be implementing a new system for when its new console arrives later this year.
If not, then that’s definitely a shame. Gold Points are a pretty great way of saving cash on digital eShop purchases. Like PlayStation Rewards, Gold Points are added to your Nintendo account after registering a physical game or purchasing a game digitally on the eShop. Over time, this lets players save a substantial amount on thebest Nintendo Switch games.
Nintendo has confirmed that Nintendo accounts will transfer to Nintendo Switch 2, so, could a bigger Nintendo eShop overhaul be on the way? Let’s hope so, because it definitely needs one.
Older Intel CPUs are still supported with 24H2, despite some reports claiming otherwise
Some reports mistakenly claimed Windows 11 24H2 has dropped support for Intel 8th, 9th, and 10th-gen CPUs
Microsoft has made it clear this isn’t the case
The confusion arose due to a support document which is correct, but aimed at PC makers, so it only applies to new, not existing, Windows 11 systems
Windows 11hasn’t dropped support for some olderIntelprocessors with its latest incarnation, the (rather problematic) 24H2 update, despite some reports that are floating around claiming this is the case.
Windows Latestbrings this clarification, complete with word fromMicrosoftthat these older Intel 8th, 9th, and 10th-generation processors are still fully compatible with Windows 11 24H2, and nothing has changed in that respect.
So where did this errant idea originate? It came from an official list of supported CPUs for Windows 11, which was indeed very recently updated for the 24H2 release, whereupon the mentioned Intel chips were removed.
However, the key point is that this is a support document that lists processors that are okay to use for laptop and PC manufacturers in their new Windows 11 devices. The text clearly states: “OEMs [PC makers] may use the following CPUs for new Windows 11 devices.”
There’s a clear difference between CPUs recommended to go in new Windows 11 PCs, and chips that are inexisting PCs which are supported by Windows 11. Something has changed in the former case – those mentioned Intel processors are now considered too out of date to be included with a new machine packing 24H2 (even though they’re still technically okay) – but nothing has changed in the latter case with existing devices.
In short, you’ll be fine to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 if you’re using an Intel 8th, 9th, or 10th-gen chip, there’s no need to worry on that score.
Windows Latest received a clarification direct from Microsoft with a statement that the “requirements haven’t changed” for Windows 11 24H2, and indeed they haven’t been modified since the OS was first released.
In a separate support article elsewhere on the Windows Hardware Development portal, regarding the CPU requirements for Windows 11 which are provided, Microsoft also notes: “Changes to the processors listed do not indicate or impact a customer’s existing Windows support and are intended for OEMs to determine processors which may be used in new Windows devices.”
Analysis: It’s easy to see where confusion crept in
That clears up the matter definitively, then. That said, there is something of an oddity in that theWindows 11 system requirements page– the official effort for consumers – links across to a ‘list of approved CPUs’ which is the aforementioned recommendations for OEMs, not consumers.
So, Microsoft could do with tidying up its support literature here, as it’s easy to see how someone might become confused. If you don’t read the full text of the article, you won’t spot the reference to OEMs (and who reads everything these days?).
What are you supposed to do, then, as a consumer wondering about the exact CPU requirements for Windows 11? Well, Microsoft evidently doesn’t want you poring over any lists of supported processors, and instead recommends you run thePC Health Check app– which admittedly is an easy and hassle-free way to see if your computer does indeed support Windows 11. (Also checking for every possible requirement, not just the processor).
I’d still recommend Microsoft cleans up the mentioned support documentation, though, to ensure that any possible confusion is kept to a minimum, because clearly, as this episode illustrates, there’s some room for befuddlement.
It’s one step closer to having a computer in my pocket
I don’t understand why we don’t have computers that fit in our pockets. Oh wait, we do — they’re called smartphones. So why am I still lugging around a laptop every day to work?
This is exactly the reason why I’ve leaned onSamsung DeXso much on my Galaxy phones that support it. There’s no kidding thatDeX is one of the most underrated phone featuresaround, but I really find value in how it sort of replicates the desktop PC experience with its ability to run multiple apps simultaneously whenever I connect my phone to an external monitor. I’ve purposefully left my laptop at home on days when I have to commute to the office thanks to this.
However, I stumbled upon a hidden feature in myPixel 9 Pro XLthat gives me a similar desktop PC-like experience — and I’m stoked about it. After spending a week with it, I hope thatGooglewill make it a native feature for all Android phones.
Not quite as polished as DeX, but usable
Google’s desktop mode isn’t polished at all, which is why it’s accessible only once developer mode is enabled. Still, it gets the job done for most things I need to do on a daily basis. Once I’ve connected my Pixel 9 Pro XL to my monitor at work (through a USB-C hub, which also has a mouse and keyboard connected to it), Google’s desktop mode launches after I select the on-screen message on my phone to mirror my screen.
Similar to Samsung’s DeX, this desktop-like environment lets me multitask a lot better than on my phone. This is due to how I can run multiple apps simultaneously and resize their respective windows in such a way where I can feasibly run upwards of four apps. Try doing that on any phone! You can’t.
And since this mode lets me use my mouse and keyboard, my productivity is amplified over what I could traditionally do on just my phone. However, I wouldn’t go far to say it would totally replace my laptop. That’s because it can’t quite handle all the stuff I rely on to get my work done. For example, there are severalChromescripts I use for work which aren’t available to me on my phone.
There are also other oddities in the interface, like how it can’t automatically tile windows and how it doesn’t support common keyboard shortcuts (like Alt + Tab for quick switching apps). It’s more of a manual affair with this interface, which is why Samsung DeX feels like a more polished interface.
In order to access this hidden mode, you have to enable a few settings hidden in Developer Mode. You just need to head on over to theSettings > About Phone > Build Number, then proceed to taprepeatedlyon the build number until a message appears saying that you’re now a developer.
2. Enable settings for Desktop Mode
From there, you’ll want to navigate to Settings > System > Developer options. Now scroll down all the way to the bottom of the list and toggle on the following options: Enable Freeform Windows, Force activities to be resizable, Enable freeform windows on secondary display, and Enable non-resizable in multi window.
Even though it’s not necessary, I would recommend installing theTaskbar appas well because the native one in the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s desktop mode is broken. There’s a button to access the apps panel, but the home and back functions are strangely hidden. They’re there towards the bottom edge of the panel because those actions happen when I press on those corresponding areas.
Using the Taskbar app allows me to better juggle around all the apps, versus manually relaunching each one from the apps panel whenever I minimize windows.
Clearly there’s still a lot of work needed before this desktop PC-like interface can convince me it’s just as good as Samsung DeX. Nevertheless, the foundation is here and I hope that Google continues to develop this because I’ve also found out that it supports touchscreen displays.
Google has a long way to go before this desktop mode matches Samsung’s DeX, but making it a native feature for other Android makers to add on to and enhance could make for a worthwhile experience in those times I don’t want to lug around my laptop.
Now Playing may have been busted for months, with no fix in sight
(Image credit: Google)
One of the most useful hidden features in Google’s Pixel phones is the “Now Playing” function. When enabled, it can detect any music playing nearby, and display song information on your lock screen. Unfortunately, users are reporting that the feature has been broken for months, with no news on when that might change.
Some Pixel owners have been discussing this issue at great length over onReddit, with the original poster expressing confusion as to why theirPixel 6was only able to recognize two songs throughout a four-hour road trip.
Others have chimed in with their own experiences, including noting that thePixel 9 Prosuffers the same issues — “horrendously bad compared to earlier iterations.” Another lamented the fact that Now Playing has lost its reliability, and “doesn’t show up half the time,” plus a few choice words we can’t repeat here.
In response to this, one Redditor mentioned that the Now Playing icon is often missing from the lock screen, but songs are still being listed in the history. I’ve never used Now Playing, instead preferring to be old-school with my music identification — opting for apps like Shazam.
But I did give Now Playing a go on my Pixel 9 Pro. It mostly worked, but I will caveat with the fact that it wasn’t perfectly seamless. Not to mention the fact I have no idea how good Now Playing was in the past, which Reddit users clearly do.
What I found was that Now Playing was able to identify big name artists and songs, but struggled with smaller ones — including cover bands that are all the rage on my YouTube feed.
So while my Pixel could identify the likes of AC/DC or The Weeknd, it got a number of smaller YouTubers completely wrong. Assuming it was able to identify them at all. Now Playing was also pretty slow to update, and needed a good 30-60 seconds of music to update the lockscreen.
Granted I’ve only just set the feature up, and only just downloaded Now Playing’s music database to my phone. From what people on variousReddit threadsare saying, the problems only arose after a period of frequent use. Whether Now Playing simply gives up after a while, or if I’m just on a lucky streak, isn’t clear.
Android Authoritynotes that Google did release an update to Android System Intelligence to fix some of the problems last month — promising “bug fixes and improvements to Pixel Now Playing Album Art feature.”
However, that doesn’t seem to have fixed the problem. Other users have recommended clearing the System Intelligence cache, which can be done inSettings > Apps > All Apps > Android System Intelligence > Storage & Cache > Clear cache.
If that doesn’t work, then there isn’t much more that can be done until Google tackles the problem with a future update. In the meantime you may just need to rely on other music identification apps like Shazam, or by asking Google Assistant.
Amazon is removing the Download & Transfer via USB option on Kindles
The feature hadn’t appeared on the latest models
It’s likely that the move is to combat ebook piracy
I’ve owned and loved some of thebest Kindlesin the series sinceAmazonfirst introduced the ereader, but using these devices can feel somewhat restrictive – especially now Amazon is killing off a useful USB file transfer feature.
As reported byThe Verge, the Download & Transfer via USB option is going away on February 26. That means you’ll no longer be able to download ebooks purchased from Amazon, and then move them to yourKindleover a wired USB connection.
The feature isn’t actually available on the latest generation of Kindles, pushed out last year, but all other models are going to be affected. Amazon doesn’t give a reason for the move, but it’s almost certainly to crack down on ebook piracy.
Using fairly simple tools available online, users could download purchased ebooks from Amazon, crack the DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection on them, and send them to other devices or distribute them widely on the web. That will no longer be possible.
As is often the case, efforts to battle digital pirates means rule-abiding users lose out. This means ebooks can no longer be saved on computers as backups, or moved over without a Wi-Fi connection, which gave Kindle owners some extra flexibility.
It’s worth bearing in mind that Amazon does occasionally remove ebooks from its catalog, or replace them with modified versions. Now more than ever, users are going to be at the whims of what Amazon decides to make available.
You will still be able to move ebooks over via Wi-Fi of course, as well as transfer files to your Kindle via USB and software such as Calibre. It’s specifically the ability to download purchases from the Amazon website to a computer that’s disappearing.
This also gets closer to fully killing off the older AZW3 format for Amazon ebooks: it’s been replaced by the newer KFX format, which is much harder to crack in terms of its DRM, and which is now used in most situations (except downloads to a computer).
APS-C cameras from the Fujifilm X100VI to the Canon EOS R100 still have a lot to offer
Most camera shoppers look at specifications like megapixels, but there’s a feature that can often be even more important: the type of camera sensor. A popular option is APS-C, a sensor size that balances image quality with price. But, to the novice photographer, that camera spec looks like a confusing alphabet soup that inevitably begs the question, what is an APS-C camera?
An APS-C camera is a digital camera that uses a sensor that’s smaller thana full-frame sensorbut larger thanMicro Four Thirds. This mid-size sensor is the Goldilocks of camera sensors – not too small, but not too expensive either.
The term, which stands for Advanced Photo System Type C, originates from photography’s film era but today is more often used to describe a class of digital cameras. The exact size of the APS-C sensor varies slightly by manufacturer but measures roughly 23mm by 15mm.
This comparison shows how an APS-C sensor compares to full frame, as well as how it crops the image
That’s about 1.5 times smaller than a full-frame sensor. Full frame sensors are considered the standard for professional cameras.
Because APS-C cameras have sensors that are slightly smaller than full frame, the lenses appear to be cropped. Compared to the larger full frame, an APS-C sensor crops off the edges, which is why APS-C cameras are also referred to as crop sensor cameras.
The Sony A6700 on the left has an APS-C sensor while the Sony A7c on the right has a larger full-frame sensor
Most photographers will tell you that the larger the sensor is, the better – and that’s mostly true. A larger sensor will produce less grain and gather more light than a smaller one, among other benefits. But, an APS-C can have some advantages over full frame.
The first is the crop factor. Because APS-C cameras crop the edges off a full frame, the lenses appear to me more “zoomed in” than on a full frame camera. An APS-C camera has a 1.5x crop factor. Many full frame camera lenses will still work on an APS-C camera (provided you purchase the correct mount), but that lens will have a 1.5x cropped view on it when compared to putting that same lens on a full frame camera.
What does that mean? It means that a 50mm lens becomes a 75mm lens on an APS-C camera, which means the photo appears to be taken at a closer distance because those image edges are cropped off. If you are taking pictures of a far away subject, as is often the case with wildlife or sports, that crop factor can actually be an advantage because your lens appears to reach a bit farther.
However, don’t buy a crop sensor camera just for that added reach. Why? Because if you really want that reach, you canuse a full frame camera in crop mode, or crop the images later inLightroomorPhotoshop. You lose some resolution, but by turning the crop mode on a full frame camera on and off you can effectively have the benefits of both full frame and crop sensor from one camera.
The other big advantage of an APS-C camera is the cost. Crop sensor cameras tend to cost less thanfull frame cameras. That’s not always the case, as with entry-level options like thePanasonic Lumix S9compared to the advancedFujifilm X-H2, but for the most part crop sensor cameras cost less.
Another perk? Often APS-C cameras can be more compact than full-frame cameras. Some APS-C cameras with large grips can feel more like full-frame cameras, however.
The Canon EOS R100 is a budget-friendly APS-C camera
While APS-C are more affordable and give lenses more reach, the full frame sensor is considered the professional standard. A larger sensor lets in more light, so full frame cameras have an advantage in dark scenarios.
Full frame cameras will also produce more background blur orbokeh. And if you want to take an ultra-wide shot of a landscape, the crop factor on APS-C cameras becomes a disadvantage, cropping off the widest edges, rather than an advantage like with telephoto lenses.
Are APS-C cameras worth it?
TheNikon Z50is a compact APS-C camera
While full-frame cameras have more light-gathering abilities, the APS-C camera is the sweet spot for many photographers to get a camera at a reasonable price that still takes excellent images. If you want the best possible image quality and have a large budget, you’ll probably lean towards full frame. But if you want the best balance between features and price, you’ll want to consider an APS-C camera.
Many of the best mirrorless cameras are APS-C – and even some popular compact cameras like theFujifilm X100VI. APS-C cameras have more light gathering power than Micro Four Thirds, but tend to cost less than full frame cameras.
While the full frame camera category has more professional cameras, don’t believe the myth that professional photographers have to use full frame cameras. I’m a professional wedding and portrait photographer and I shoot withFujifilmAPS-C cameras. I chose Fujifilm for the colors, and the APS-C sensor is still plenty big enough, especially since I traded my full-frame f/2.8 lens for an f/1.0 and f/1.2 primes so I could compensate for the smaller sensor.
You only need to use a high ISO in low light if the camera is handheld, or the subject is moving. With static subjects, and a tripod, you can use the slowest setting – here a setting of ISO100 (Image credit: Chris George)
Luminance noise: Traditional monochromatic grain in darker areas (as seen in the wall behind the statue in the detail above right) is typical of luma noise 
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
