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Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET I handle and review a bewildering array of gadgets throughout the year, from cables to satellite communicators. However, I feel that the real test for any product is whether it can make the shift from something I reviewed into something that I use long-term. This list represents gadgets that transitioned from mere review assignments to become essential parts of my kit. These are the things that live in my pocket or laptop bag…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Beyerdynamic DT1990 Pro MKII headphones are available now on Amzon for $599 These headphones deliver mind-blowing accuracy and detail The price might be a turn-off to some but they are worth every penny. In a world of cheap, overly-processed sound, any opportunity to hear music as its creators intended can elevate the experience in ways many listeners have never known. Beyerdynamic knows this all too well and has a reputation for…

John Moore / Getty Images When I first explored ChromeOS Flex, it felt like a minor miracle. Here was a platform that breathed new life into aging x86 hardware, transforming dusty laptops into lightweight, secure, and efficient devices. At the time, I saw it as a solution with great potential — not just for reducing e-waste but for extending the usability of older systems in an increasingly fast-paced tech world. But even then, I recognized…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The TCL QM8 (2024) features rich colors and searing brightness. It has enhanced audio over last year’s model, while still being easy to set up and navigate. I wish the viewing angles weren’t somewhat limited, and you’ll want to wait for a deal to buy one. more buying choices What’s the deal? Several models of the TCL QM8 (2024) have received huge discounts on Best Buy. You can buy the 65-inch and 75-inch displays…

Adam Breeden/ZDNET What’s the deal? The Sony Bravia X90L is on sale at both Amazon and Best Buy with the 55-inch model starting at $998, or 17% off. The steepest discount is on the 98-inch model, which has had its price tag slashed by 25%, going from $7,999 to $5,998. For most people, I’d recommend the 65-inch Sony X90L — on sale for $1,098. Why this deal is ZDNET recommended What the Sony Bravia X90L lacks…

Jason Hiner/ZDNET With the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) being less than a week away, you have probably seen countless mentions of the conference from any tech news outlet or company you follow. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or consumer, the show is guaranteed to feature something you care about, whether it’s the launch of a new tech product or feature or the demo of some visionary technology with the potential to change the future.  Want…

Wireless charging is the easiest way to charge your device these days, and if you have a Samsung phone, you can take advantage of some of the fastest wireless charging available. You’ll need the right charger to get the fastest speeds, though, because some chargers have limited capability. If you’re trying to find the best wireless Samsung charger, I have good news — there are plenty of options available.  When picking a Samsung charger, consider…

ZDNET Quick Share could soon expand to iOS and MacOS, bringing even more cross-platform sharing options to Apple users. Android’s Quick Share feature is a simple method of transferring files from one device to another over a network. Originally named Nearby Share, it has evolved from a slightly clunky to a fairly streamlined experience. It allows you to share files from Android to Android, Android to Chrome OS, and Android to Windows. There’s also the RQuickShare that…

SOPA Images / Contributor A VPN, or virtual private network, is software that encrypts your data online to create a secure connection between your computer and the internet. It’s a useful tool for protecting your private information while connected to public Wi-Fi and can even let you enjoy streaming services in another part of the world. Netflix’s catalog, for example, differs from country to country, as some shows are unavailable in the United States. Also: The…

ZDNET We’ve known for a while that Apple’s first phone of 2025, the iPhone SE 4, will likely be a complete revamp — from the software inside to the design outside. What we didn’t know was how much Apple would charge for the retooled device. Under $500 Thanks to a recent leak, though, we now have an idea – and it’s better than expected. According to a Japanese site (and through Notebookcheck), the iPhone SE 4 will likely…