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PRE-ORDER NOW: As of May 7, new Magic Keyboards for both sizes of the new iPad Pro are available for preorder through the Apple Store. The 11-inch Pro keyboard costs $299 and the 13-inch Pro keyboard costs $349, and both will begin shipping the week of May 15.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro starting at $299 Pre-Order Here

If you couldn't quite justify buying one of the new MacBook Pros that came out in the fall, forget that FOMO — the 2024 Magic Keyboard pushes the iPad Pro experience closer to that of a MacBook than ever.

Apple announced a new Magic Keyboard during its iPad-centric event on May 7. You can now pre-order either the 11-inch or 13-inch iPad Pro Magic Keyboard for $299 or $349, respectively. The Pros themselves can also be pre-ordered now, and the whole setup can all be in your hands as soon as May 15.

The changes to the Magic Keyboard aren't as revolutionary on paper as the ones seen on the other Apple accessory upgrade, the new Apple Pencil Pro. However, they're certainly not nothing: First and foremost, the Magic Keyboard finally has a function row, and a 14-key one at that. That alone brings the iPad into real laptop territory.

SEE ALSO: iPad Air 2024: 3 new features that iPad Air 2022 doesn't have

The 2024 Magic Keyboard is also outfitted with a larger glass trackpad with haptic feedback and compatibility with Multi-Touch gestures, backlit keys, an aluminum palm rest, and a scissor mechanism with 1mm travel. No, it still doesn't need to be charged.

There's actually an argument to be made that the 2024 iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard combo create a more powerful experience than that of the MacBook Pro released a few months ago. That's because the new iPad Pros are the sole Apple devices (so far) to wield the M4 chip, coined (by Apple) as the most powerful neural processing unit of any personal computer on the market. With the immersive Apple Pencil Pro also on hand, the iPad Pro and its accessories form an intimidating laptop competitor.

Google Pixel 8a preorders 128GB model Google Pixel 8a $499 at Google Store (Get $100 credit to the Google Store) Pre-order now 256GB model Google Pixel 8a $559 at Google Store (Get $100 Google Store credit) Pre-order now

It looks like Google isn't waiting for its I/O conference next week to make all its big announcements.

On May 7, the day of Apple's iPad event, Google swooped in and put the Pixel 8a up for preorder, starting at $499 for the 128GB model. Google has also released a 256GB Pixel 8a for $559, but at the time of writing, it was only available in the Obsidian colorway. Fans have been waiting for the more affordable phone to drop since the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro were released last fall, and once again, it looks like Google has made the budget Android to beat.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro: Every single thing we know so far

When the Google Pixel 7a hit the market in 2023, we thought the rumors that it could be the last of the A-Series Pixels made sense: it was a pretty darn close recreation of the Pixel 7 for about $100 cheaper. We're glad Google didn't decide to throw in the towel, and instead is offering even more of an attractive deal — while the Pixel 8's price increased $100 over its previous generation to $699, the Pixel 8a is available at the same $499 starting price as the Pixel 7a started at. Basically, the Pixel 8a gets you a similar product to the Pixel 8 for $200 less.

Price-wise, that's not the only exciting news. Google is offering $100 of Google Store credit through May 19 when you buy a Pixel 8a. The official release date for the 8a is May 14.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 8a (128GB) $499.00 at Google Store
Pre-Order Here Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 8a (256GB) $559.00 at Google Store
Pre-Order Here How the Pixel 8a compares to the Pixel 8

Based on its spec sheet, the Pixel 8a shares quite a bit in common with the Pixel 8, including:

• Tensor G3 chip

• 24+ hour battery life

• Magic Editor and Magic Take camera tools

• 128 and 256GB options for storage

• 8 GB RAM

• Up to 120Hz refresh rate (up from 90Hz on Pixel 7a)

The Pixel 8a will come with a slightly less powerful battery than the Pixel 8, one less microphone, and no spatial audio. It also comes in the same colorways as the Pixel 8 Pro: Obsidian, Bay, and Porcelain, plus one additional color, Aloe (there's less overlap with the Pixel 8, which comes in Obsidian, Rose, Mint, and Hazel).

SEE ALSO: New iPad Air announced — here's everything you need to know

The Pixel 8a is barely smaller than the Pixel 8, with just a 0.1-inch difference in the display size. It also houses the same 64 MP Quad PD wide camera, 13 MP ultrawide rear cameras, and 13 MP front camera that the 7a does. Considering the 7a marked a significant improvement over previous generations, it isn't surprising that Google didn't opt for big changes just one year later.

Best deals at Amazon Pet Day 2024 Best pet tech deal Tractive GPS tracker and health monitoring for dogs $29.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best pet bed deal Furhaven cooling gel dog bed (iceberg green) $38.20 at Amazon (save $6.79) Get Deal Best pet toy deal Chuckit! dog ball launcher (sport, 25 inches) $8.69 at Amazon (save $5.30) Get Deal

It's hard to find something in life that's more enjoyable than spoiling our pets. Giving us unconditional love, pets deserve all the treats in the world all the time. And thanks to the Amazon Pet Day sale, you can spoil your furry friends for less.

When is Amazon Pet Day 2024?

While the name implies just one day of sales, Amazon Pet Day actually spans two days, May 7 and 8, with deals expiring at 11:59 p.m. on May 8. But keep in mind that some deals will be Amazon Lightning Deals which means they could be gone in a flash.

Amazon Pet Day deals are the perfect excuse to stock up on toys, pet accessories, tech, and treats. This could be an ideal time to pick up your pet's favorites.

What to expect from Amazon Pet Day

While this isn't a massive sale like Amazon Prime Day, you'll find tons of deals for pets like self-cleaning litter boxes, the Furbo dog camera + treat dispenser, dog food, and toys to keep your dog or cat entertained all day.

Unlike some Prime Day deals, Amazon Pet Day sales are open to all shoppers, even those without an Amazon Prime membership.

The best Amazon Pet Day deals

We've compiled our favorite pet deals below, and we'll continue updating this page as the sale continues.

Here are our top recommendations so far:

Best pet tech deal Opens in a new window Credit: Tractive Our pick: Tractive GPS tracker and health monitoring for dogs $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Mashable's top choice for a budget-friendly GPS dog tracker is the Tractive GPS tracker and health monitoring system. The tracker slips onto your dog's collar and through the associated app, you'll be able to keep tabs on your dog 24/7. With no distance limitations, the tracker gets about 15 days of battery life before it needs a recharge. You can also set up a custom area where your dog typically hangs out, like inside of the house and the backyard. If the dog leaves this area, you'll automatically be alerted, which can help give you peace of mind while you're not at home.

More pet tech deals:

• Petkit stainless steel cat water fountain — $52.99 $89 at Amazon (save $36.01)

• Petcube Play 2 Wi-Fi pet camera with laser for cats and dogs — $63.99 $79.99 at Amazon (save $16)

• PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart front-entry self-cleaning cat litter box — $249.95 $299.95 at Amazon (save $50)

• Petkit PuraMax self-cleaning cat litter box — $399 $596.99 at Amazon (save $197.99)

Best pet bed deal Opens in a new window Credit: FurHaven Our pick: FurHaven cooling gel dog bed (iceberg green) $38.20 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $6.79 Get Deal Why we like it

Soaring summer temps are just a few weeks away and if your pet tends to overheat, the FurHaven cooling dog bed could be perfect for warmer months. Designed for small or medium dogs, the bed has a removable and washable cover. While it's made for dogs, who's to say a cat wouldn't love to nap on the cooling gel foam too? It's designed for cushioned support in dogs that weigh up to 35 pounds while the L-shaped chaise design gives pets a cozy pillow to relax on.

More pet bed and furniture deals:

• Kitty City large cat tunnel bed (white) — $33.58 $39.50 at Amazon (save $5.92)

• Happy & Polly Fruit World cat tree — $87.77 $109.99 at Amazon (save $22.22)

• Bedsure XXL orthopedic dog bed — $92.79 $139.99 at Amazon (save $47.20)

Best pet toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Chuckit! Our pick: Chuckit! dog ball launcher (sport, 25 inches) $8.69 at Amazon
$13.99 Save $5.30 Get Deal Why we like it

Some dog toys are absolutely essential, and the Chuckit! ball launcher is certainly at the top of this list. If your throwing arm is lacking, the Chuckit! turns almost every toss into an award-winning throw, giving your dog the ball-chasing experience they dream of. The 25-inch length of this model is said to be ideal for dogs between 20 and 60 pounds, and it includes a medium ball. Not only does the Chuckit! allow you to launch the ball like never before, its handy cup design means you no longer have to touch a slobbery tennis ball that's rolled through the dirt.

More pet toy deals:

• Chuckit! Paraflight Flying Disc dog toy — $4 $16.99 at Amazon (save $12.99)

• Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Puzzle — $8.38 $12.99 at Amazon (save $4.61)

• Disney for Pets Pixar’s Finding Nemo cat play tunnel — $15.99 $19.99 at Amazon (save $4)

• Petlibro Interactive Cat Toy — $18.99 $26.69 at Amazon (save $7.70)

More deals on essentials for dogs and cats:

• Save up to 21% on Fresh Step cat litter

• Save up to 40% on Frontline flea and tick for cats and dogs

• Save up to 48% on dog food and treats

• Save up to 54% on Purina cat food and treats

Look in on your pets when you're away with a reliable pet camera. Here are some of our top picks on sale during Amazon Pet Day as of May 7:

Best Pet Camera Deals Best Pet Camera Deal Eufy Security Pet Camera $129.99 at Amazon (Save $70) Get Deal Best Treat-Dispensing Pet Camera Deal Furbo 360° Dog Camera $69 at Amazon (Save $30) Get Deal Best Pet Camera with Laser Pointer Deal Petcube Play 2 $63.99 at Amazon (Save $16 ) Get Deal Best Budget Pet Camera Deal Petcube Cam 360 Camera $33.58 at Amazon (Save $8.41) Get Deal

What are your pets up to when you're away? If you leave your dog or cat to roam the house when you have to step out, that's probably a frequent question on your mind. Are the cats shredding the sofa cushions? Is the dog sneaking treats from the treat stash? Put all those questions to rest with a pet camera. Whether you want to check in here and there to let your pup know you're on your way home, or you need peace of mind that your pets aren't destroying your home, these cameras are absolute necessities for pet owners.

It's a great time to grab one right now, too. During Amazon Pet Day, you can save up to 35% off top pet camera brands to help you stay in the loop with what your furry friends are doing at any given time. We've chosen some of our favorites during the sale that you can bring home today without spending a paw or a tail. Below, find different pet cameras for different needs and budgets that you can shop through Amazon Pet Day depending on availability.

Best pet camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Eufy Security Pet Camera $129.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Eufy Security Pet Camera is a feature-rich camera that comes with on-device AI tracking, a 360-degree field of vision, and 1080p video quality. It also has plenty of local storage to keep all the footage of your pets on board should you need it for any reason. Fortuitously, it doesn't require a monthly fee for all of those goodies. It can follow your pet automatically so you don't have to deal with looking at the side of your fur baby or a sliver of them off-screen, and you can toss treats to them from time to time as well. Set up notifications when motion or noise is detected and get them on your phone via app, and you're set to keep track of every single move your pet makes.

Best treat-dispensing pet camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Furbo 360° Dog Camera $69.00 at Amazon
$99.00 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Furbo 360° Dog Camera is a treat-dispensing camera that tosses treats like you would, far enough from the device so your dog or cat doesn't come sniffing around where they don't need to be. It also comes with a variety of other goodies, like a 360-degree wide angle lens, 4X HD zoom, selfie alerts, and more – though you do need a paid subscription for all of these extras, which starts at $6.99 monthly. But it's a sleek and simple pet camera that packs everything you need into one easy-to-use device, with motion and sound detection, app alerts, and more, including a video history to check what your pet was up to anytime during your absence.

Best pet camera with laser pointer deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Petcube Play 2 $63.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $16.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Petcube Play 2 is one of our favorite pet cameras, especially if you have cats. Its built-in laser toy will keep them busy when you can't, and that means a lot fewer opportunities for your feline friends to get into mischief. Beyond that, this affordable camera has built-in support for Alexa in its compact frame, so you have plenty of options when setting it up to align with your smart home devices. It records in 1080p with a 160-degree ultra wide angle view, and it also has night vision. It's the perfect mix of affordable and functional, and no subscription is required.

Best budget pet camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Petcube Cam 360 Camera $33.58 at Amazon
$41.99 Save $8.41 Get Deal Why we like it

The Petcube Cam 360 Camera is a budget-priced camera that you won't have to spend too much on to get quality out of – it offers full 1080p video and a 360-degree view with pan and tilt rotation. With its 8x zoom and night vision, there isn't much that'll get past you, either. It offers real-time AI alerts to your phone as well with an optional Petcube Care subscription if that's important to you, and its ultra-fast setup means you can be out of the house with a mechanical nanny for your pets in minutes.

In J.G. Ballard's 1962 story "The Garden of Time", a count and his wife reside within the walls of their extravagant villa, surrounded by flower-laden groves. Their verdant home appears to be an oasis from the outside world, but suddenly the couple waits with bated breath as a vast mob approaches. The prestige and glamour of the house and their own lofty social status then crumbles as the people sweep through the villa and destroy it.

Ballard’s story served as the theme and dress code for the 2024 Met Gala, which fell again on the first Monday of May and welcomed a throng of celebrities to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. The event took place at a volatile and harrowing moment in history, bringing into question, for many, the significance of both the gala and its chosen theme: a dystopian story symbolizing a dystopian time.

SEE ALSO: Katy Perry and Rihanna's Met Gala looks went viral. But they weren't real.

That's why, perhaps, many people online have drawn parallels between this year's Met Gala and The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins' YA franchise that famously examines class divide, privilege, and the revolutionary fight for survival. It seems that social media users have harnessed, increasingly, the gist of The Hunger Games to capture the dystopian state of the world.

After all, facets of the series are not far from the reality in question. In the series' core republic of Panem, fashion functions as a socio-political weapon. It's used by the wealthy Capitol to distinguish itself from the state's oppressed, heavily surveilled, poorer districts. Powerful people wear extravagant outfits that intentionally outshine the more modest clothing worn by the masses. But this facade of glitz and glamour is also used to mask government-mandated brutality. Katniss Everdeen, the story's heroine, is made to wear a custom flaming gown in a public "tribute parade" before the titular Hunger Games, where she'll fight young people from other districts to the death. Here, pure spectacle mutes reality.

SEE ALSO: On TikTok, 'The Hunger Games' is a metaphor for our modern dystopia

The Met Gala drew comparisons to The Hunger Games quickly online on Sunday. As social media flooded with reactions to the spectacle of the red carpet, others were acutely aware of the scenes unravelling outside the prestige of the gala. Just about a mile away from the Met, hundreds of pro-Palestine activists demonstrated in protest of the war, with many blocked from entering the gala itself. And miles away, Israeli armed forces carried out an assault on the city of Rafah, resulting in dozens of casualties and injuries.

Simultaneously, the student movement across college campuses in the U.S. has resulted in thousands of arrests and cancelled commencements, as university goers protest in solidarity with Palestine, despite efforts to suppress their demonstrations.

The circumstances surrounding both the Met Gala and the ongoing devastation of violence in Gaza, and the subsequent link with between Ballard's story and the protests outside the event, was almost too clear. The Met Gala itself has not changed: it is always a chance for extravagance, an overt display of opulence, and a moment for the cult of celebrity. But the timing, this year, has raised different questions.

It's less surprising then, that users on X (formally Twitter), turned to The Hunger Games as an apt metaphor. The line between fiction and dystopian reality, say these users, has been blurred.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

It's unclear whether the Met Gala's organizers and attendees recognize the irony in this year's choice of theme, and in the lack of expression towards a harrowing humanitarian crisis. But it would be hard not to.

UPDATE: May. 7, 2024, 11:20 a.m. EDT This story has been updated with additional details about the all-new Apple iPad Pro.

Where to pre-order the Apple iPad Pro (2024): 11-inch model Apple iPad Pro Starting at $999 in the Apple Store Pre-order Now 13-inch model Apple iPad Pro (2024) Staring at $1,299 in the Apple Store Pre-order Now

The rumor mill was cooking: Apple revealed a revamped iPad Pro with a fresh design, an M4 chip, and an OLED display during its "Let Loose" event Tuesday. Available in 11- and 13-inch sizes, it's now up for preorder in the Apple Store ahead of next week's launch (starting at $999 and $1,299, respectively).

This update marks the powerful tablet's first refresh since 2022 — and arguably its biggest ever. For starters, the two variants are sleeker and lighter than any previous iPad Pros: The 11-inch version is 0.21 inches thin and weighs a mere 0.98 pounds, while the 13-inch version is 0.2 inches thin and 1.28 pounds. Apple said they're even slimmer than ye olde iPod nano, making the 2024 iPad Pro "the thinnest Apple product ever."

The new iPad Pros have also made the jump to a shiny new M4 chipset, skipping the M3 generation that powers the current Mac and MacBook lineups. It offers up to 50 percent faster CPU performance and up to four times faster GPU performance compared to the previous iPad Pro's M2 chip, according to a press release. Its new GPU architecture also brings support for hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing — an iPad first.

SEE ALSO: Everything Apple announced during its iPad event, including new OLED iPad Pro

There's a zippier new neural engine in there, too: Apple claimed it's "more powerful than any neural processing unit in any AI PC today."

Both iPad Pro models come equipped with a new "Ultra Retina XDR" screen, which is billed as "the world’s most advanced display." It features two stacked OLED panels for rich, vivid colors and details (Apple is calling this "Tandem OLED technology"), and it can hit up to 1,600 nits of brightness. The Ultra Wide 12MP camera with Center Stage on the front of it has been scooted over to the landscape orientation.

The new iPad Pros will be available in two aluminum finishes (silver and space black) and four storage options: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB. Shoppers have the option to upgrade them both with cellular connectivity and nano-texture glass (in the 1TB and 2TB models only).

Those who put in a preorder won't have to wait too long for their new tablet to arrive: The new iPad Pro starts shipping on Wednesday, May 15.

Featured Video For You Everything Apple announced during its iPad event, including new OLED iPad Pro Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Pro (2024) Starting at $999 in the Apple Store Pre-Order Here

Apple showed off some iPads! Let's talk about them.

At its "Let Loose" event on Tuesday, Apple wasted no time getting into the next generation of its tablet line. Specifically, we got a couple new iPads Pro models and a couple new iPad Air models. On top of that, we even saw the debut of Apple's latest in-house silicon.

Here's everything Apple announced.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPad Event: 4 AI features announced New iPad Pro with OLED and M4 chips: Specs, price, release date Enter the void. Credit: Apple

Let's start with the show-stopper. I know you're not supposed to do that, but whatever.

Apple finally confirmed two new iPad Pro models, to follow up on the 2022 model. These new iPad Pros come in 11-inch and 13-inch models, and Apple wouldn't stop gushing about how thin they are. The 11-inch model comes in at 5.3mm of thickness, while the 13-inch model is just 5.1mm thick. According to Apple, it's "the thinnest Apple product ever."

The 11-inch model launches at $999 and the 13-inch model will run you $1,299. They come in just two colors: Silver and Space Black.

Apple focused heavily on two big enhancements for this next round of iPad Pros. Specifically, they have all-new OLED displays, with 1,600 nits of peak HDR brightness. OLED offers deeper and truer levels of darkness and generally makes everything look snazzier and fancier than an LCD display.

SEE ALSO: OLED iPad Pro 2024: 5 new features that iPad Pro 2022 doesn't have

Aside from that, the new iPad Pros also mark the debut of Apple's latest in-house silicon, the M4 chip. This will enable things like hardware accelerated ray tracing, but generally speaking, it'll just make the new iPad Pro run faster and more smoothly than before. Apple claims it's four times faster than the 2022 iPad Pro, which used the M2 chip.

Other odds and ends include a repositioned front-facing camera so that it's on the tablet's landscape edge, and 256GB of starting storage, up to a total of 2TB. Truly, it is the most professional iPad you can get.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Pro (2024) Starting at $999 in the Apple Store Pre-Order Here New iPad Air: Specs, price, release date Colors! Credit: Apple

However, if you're not looking to edit feature films and/or Apple event livestreams on a tablet, the new iPad Air might be for you.

SEE ALSO: How to preorder the iPad Air (2024)

Apple confirmed what we basically knew going in, which was that there are two new iPad Air tablets, coming in at 11-inches and 13-inches in size. It's the first time Apple has launched the iPad Air in two different sizes. The 11-inch variant launches at $599, while the bigger iPad Air is $799. The color options here are a bit better: Blue, purple, Starlight, and Space Grey.

While the iPad Pro got most of the attention, Apple didn't spend as much time on the Air. It doesn't feature a new Mini-LED display, as was previously rumored. However, the new M2 chip should provide a boost in performance, and a repositioned front-facing camera (like on the Pro) should make video calls better. Apple also doubled the starting storage, bumping it up to 128GB.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air (2024) Starting at $599 in the Apple Store Pre-Order Here Magic Keyboard announced Yep, those are function keys alright. Credit: Apple

Of course, a new iPad Pro needs a new Magic Keyboard. As such, Apple is providing one.

Priced at $299 for the 11-inch iPad Pro and $349 for the 13-inch version, the new Magic Keyboard works the same as before, but with some new additions. Crucially, it has a full function row now, to go along with a bigger and more responsive trackpad. Apple also promised it's generally bigger but also lighter than before.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Magic Keyboard Starting at $299 in the Apple Store Pre-Order Here Apple Pencil Pro announced Very professional. Credit: Apple

Lastly, aspiring artists or casual doodlers got some good news at the Apple event.

Yes, there's a new Apple Pencil. It's called the Apple Pencil Pro and it launches at $129. Apple actually went and did a bunch of stuff to this new Pencil, including adding haptic feedback and a gyroscope for more accurate motion detection. It's also got a new squeeze gesture you can use to select shortcuts without touching the screen.

Oh, and Apple added Find My support to the Apple Pencil Pro, in case you lose it. You shouldn't lose it, though, because it magnetically attaches to and charges from the side of the iPad Pro. That's convenient! Oh, the Pencil Pro works with the iPad Air, too.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil Pro Starting at $129 in the Apple Store Pre-Order Here

On Tuesday, Google finally showed off the Pixel 8a. Of course, we've already lined up a comparison with last year's Pixel 7a for you.

On the surface, these two phones have a lot in common, as one would expect from a one-year iteration on Google's budget Pixel line. But to Google's credit, there have actually been some major changes under the hood between the Pixel 7a and 8a.

Here's how those changes (and every other difference between the two phones) stack up.

SEE ALSO: How to blur your home on Google Street View (and why you should) Pixel 8a vs. 7a: Price and specs The black one looks nice. Credit: Google

As of right now, both Pixel 8a and 7a cost the same amount: $500. That makes the rest of this category easy, as we can directly compare the specs of both devices without worrying about value.

Here are the Pixel 8a's basic specs:

• Google Tensor G3 chip

• 8GB RAM

• 128GB or 256GB storage

• 6.1-inch display with 2,400 x 1,080-pixel resolution

And here's how the Pixel 7a looks by comparison:

• Google Tensor G2 chip

• 8GB RAM

• 128GB storage

• 6.1-inch display with 2,400 x 1,080-pixel resolution

As you can see, the surface-level specs of the two phones are very similar. A couple of noteworthy differences jump out. The Pixel 8a has a newer Tensor G3 chip and an option for twice the storage, which admittedly bumps the price up to $559.

But even if you don't go for more storage, the Pixel 8a offers more for the same price.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Opens in a new window Credit: Mashable Google Pixel 7a $499.00 at Google Store
Get Deal Pixel 8a vs. 7a: Design

When it comes to design, Google was probably never going to change things up too much with an A-series Pixel phone. That's definitely the case here.

All the colors are here. Credit: Google

Both the Pixel 7a and 8a share the same basic design language, with the horizontal camera bar near the top of the phone's backside. There's not much to talk about in terms of dimensional differences, either:

• Pixel 8a: 6.0 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches

• Pixel 7a: 6.0 x 2.8 x 0.4 inches

See what I mean? The two phones are practically the same in terms of size. They even have the same listed weight of 6.8oz.

Both have different colors, though. Pixel 8a's options include aloe, bay, obsidian, and porcelain. On the Pixel 7a, Google offers orange, light blue, black, and white.

Google Pixel 7a Credit: Mashable

This category is so subjective, since basically the only meaningful difference is color choices. I tend to prefer the 8a's options, but it doesn't matter that much.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Display

This category is easy. There's only one major difference between the displays on Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a. The former can go up to 120Hz,; the latter can only rise to 90Hz.

Porcelain looks like porcelain. Credit: Google

Everything else, from resolution to screen size, is the same. But scrolling will feel marginally nicer and smoother on Pixel 8a.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Performance

This is another slam dunk for Pixel 8a.

Google Pixel 7a Credit: Google

Put simply, a newer processor most likely equals better performance. This could change once we've had more time with the Pixel 8a in our hands, but performance was great in last year's Tensor G3-powered Pixel 8, and it should stay that way in the Pixel 8a.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Camera

Google Pixel phones are generally regarded as best-in-class when it comes to smartphone photography, but the A-series doesn't always push the envelope forward in that regard.

Google Pixel 7a Credit: Google

Without wasting too much time, both the Pixel 8a and 7a have the exact same camera arrays. Both phones have 64MP wide lenses, 13MP ultra-wide lenses, and 13MP front lenses. Even the apertures are the same across both devices. When it comes to pure, physical specs, there's no contest because the two phone are exactly the same.

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Camera features Tensor is back. Credit: Google

But when it comes to features, that's where things get a little more spicy.

Pixel 8a can do everything the Pixel 7a can do, offering Portrait Mode, Face Unblur, Night Sight, and Magic Eraser, among other odds and ends. But it can also do a bunch of other stuff that didn't make it into the Pixel line until the Pixel 8 came around, such as Magic Editor and Best Take.

Those AI-powered features are fueled by Tensor G3, so they just wouldn't be possible on Pixel 7a.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Battery life

It's difficult to say which phone's battery life is better without intense testing. But we can at least look at the numbers.

Google Pixel 7a Credit: Google

It's simple. Pixel 8a's battery size is 4,492mAh and Pixel 7a's is 4,385. That should give the Pixel 8a a leg up, but all sorts of other factors can change that. For now, this category goes to the newer phone, but we'll have to wait and see.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Which should you buy?

As expected, the newer phone comes out on top.

Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a are practically the same phone, just with different processors, (optionally) more storage, and more camera features. Considering they cost the same amount of money (unless Google does a price drop in the near future), it's hard to recommend Pixel 7a over Pixel 8a.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Google Pixel 7a $456.99 at Amazon
Get Deal

Say hello to the new Google Pixel 8a. Last year, when the Google Pixel 7a dropped, it sort of seemed like maybe we wouldn't get a Pixel 8a. That couldn't have been more wrong.

Google lifted the veil off the Pixel 8a on Tuesday, and to no one's surprise, it seems like a cheaper version of the Pixel 8, with a few compromises that some users may not even notice.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 8 reviews are in — 3 things critics hate about the Android device All about the new Pixel 8a

Without doing a full comparison between the two right here and now, here's a basic rundown of what Pixel 8a buyers will get when the phone launches for $499 on May 14:

• 6.1-inch, Actua OLED display with 20:9 aspect ratio, up to 120Hz refresh rate, and 1080 x 2400 resolution

• Tensor G3 processor

• 8GB RAM

• 128GB or 256GB storage

• 4,492mAh battery

• 64MP main camera lens

• 13MP ultra-wide lens

• 13MP front lens

Aside from being a tenth of an inch smaller in display size, most of those specs are the same as on Pixel 8. While Pixel 8a's camera lenses have higher pixel counts, the aperture on Pixel 8 is wider, so the older, more expensive phone might still produce better-looking photos.

Those few differences aside, though, the Pixel 8a is a lot like the Pixel 8, only cheaper. Its Tensor G3 chip allows for most of the same AI features like Best Take and Magic Editor that graced the Pixel 8, even if we didn't like those features very much last year. Still, 'tis better to have iffy AI features than not have them at all, one could argue anyway.

Regardless, we're just glad the A-series lives on.

The Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8 is a face-off we decided to put together to help you understand the difference between the Pixel 8a and its pricier Pixel 8 sibling.

At first glance, they may seem similar, but when you dive into the nitty gritty details, they're a lot more different than you think.

Without further ado, let's pit the new Pixel 8a against the Pixel 8.

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Price and specs

The Pixel 8a starts at $499, $200 cheaper than the Pixel 8.

Pixel 8a Credit: Google

This configuration comes with the following specs:

• Google Tensor G3 chip + Titan M2 security co-processor

• 128GB of storage

• 8GB of RAM

• 6.1-inch, 2,400 x 1,080-pixel display

The Pixel 8 starts at $699:

• Google Tensor G3 chip + Titan M2 security co-processor

• 128GB of stage

• 8GB of RAM

• 6.2-inch, 2,400 x 1,080-pixel display

For both the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8, you can upgrade your configuration to 256GB of storage, which will require you to shell out an additional $160 for both models.

Of course, price-wise, the Pixel 8a has the edge.

Winner: Pixel 8a

Opens in a new window Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable Google Pixel 8 $699.00 at Google Store
Get Deal Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Design

The new Pixel 8a has a familiar Pixel 8 design, featuring rounded corners and the distinctive tennis sweatband-like camera bar, an unmistakable characteristic of Pixel phones.

Google Pixel 8 Credit: Google Pixel 8

However, the dimensions tell a different story:

• Pixel 8a - 6.0 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches

• Pixel 8 - 5.9 x 2.8 x 0.4 inches

The Pixel 8a is a hair taller than the Pixel 8 as well as slightly wider. In terms of thickness, they have the same height (i.e., 0.4 inches).

As far as weight is concerned, the Pixel 8a is slightly heavier than the Pixel 8 (i.e., 6.8 oz vs. 6.6 oz), but not by much.

The Pixel 8 offers these colorways: Hazel, Mint, Obsidian, and Rose.

The Pixel 8a, on the other hand, comes in the following colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay and Aloe.

Google Pixel 8a Credit: Google

Keep in mind, though, that the Pixel 8 has IP68 dust-and-water resistance while the Pixel 8a has an IP67 rating. This means that, unlike the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 8 can survive being underwater for a longer period and a deeper depth. As such, if you tend to be the clumsy type, and you often go to the beach, I'd opt for the Pixel 8.

Winner: Pixel 8

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Display

Let's start with the display size. The Pixel 8 offers slightly more screen real estate at 6.2 inches compared to the new Pixel 8a's 6.1-inch display.

Google Pixel 8 Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable

Here are the display specs of both phones:

• Up to 120Hz refresh rate

• 2,400 x 1,080-pixel resolution

• Up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness

• OLED screen

• 20:9 aspect ratio

On difference worth pointing out, however, is that the Pixel 8a has a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 display. The Pixel 8, on the other hand, has a Corning Gorilla Glass Victus panel, which offers significant improvement to drop and scratch resistance.

Pixel 8a Credit: Google

In other words, the Pixel 8 will be less susceptible to scratches as well as wear-and-tear, so if you're looking for better durability, the Pixel 8 is your guy.

Winner: Pixel 8

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Performance

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a both have the same processors: Google Tensor G3 chip + Titan M2 security co-processor. They also have the same RAM (8GB).

As such, neither phone should have a significant advantage over the other when it comes to performance.

Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Camera

There are some marked differences between the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 when it comes to their cameras. Let's break them down.

Pixel 8a Credit: Google Wide camera

Pixel 8a: 64MP

Pixel 8: 50MP

Ultra-wide camera

Pixel 8a: 13MP

Pixel 8: 12MP

Selfie camera

Pixel 8a: 13MP

Pixel 8: 10.5MP

The Pixel 8a's cameras are more pixel dense than the Pixel 8's shooters, but don't let this fool you. For example, yes, the Pixel 8 has a 50MP main camera compared to the Pixel 8a's 64MP main camera. But the Pixel 8's wide-lens sensor is much larger than the Pixel 8a (1/1.31" vs 1/1.73"), allowing the former to capture more light in photos.

On top of that, the Pixel 8's main camera has a wider aperture (f/1.68 vs. f/1.89), again, yielding better light gathering.

The same can be said for the other shooters. On paper, the Pixel 8a may appear to have the better camera set, but the aperture and sensor size say otherwise.

Pixel 8 vs. Pixel 8a: Camera features

The Pixel 8a has some features that the 7a didn't have, including Best Take and Magic Editor (utilities you can find on the Pixel 8).

For the uninitiated, Best Take analyzes a set of similar photos and delivers, well, "the best take," ensuring that everyone looks their best.

Magic Editor, on the other hand, lets you move objects around the scenery.

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a share the following camera features:

• Magic Eraser

• Photo Unblur

• Real Tone

• Face Unblur

• Panorama

• Manual white balancing

• Locked Folder

• Night Sight

• Top Shot

• Portrait Mode

• Portrait Light

• Motion Auto Focus

• Frequent Faces

• Dual exposure controls

• Live HDR+

• Ultra HDR

One feature that the Pixel 8 has that the Pixel 8a doesn't is Macro Focus. Macro Focus lets you get extremely close to a subject and capture it in great detail.

Winner: Pixel 8

Pixel 8 vs. Pixel 8a: Battery life

The Pixel 8, packed with a 4,575 mAH battery, has a larger battery capacity compared to the Pixel 8a (i.e., 4,492 mAh).

Google Pixel 8 Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable

Still, Google rates the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a as having the same runtime: "31 hours" on a usage profile based on a mix of talk, data, standby and other features.

We'll have to get the Pixel 8a in for review to know for sure.

Unlike the Pixel 8, the Pixel 8a does not have a feature called "Battery Share," which lets you charge other devices on it wirelessly.

Winner: TBD

Pixel 8 vs. Pixel 8a: Which should you buy?

The biggest difference between the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 lies in the cameras. You should get better-quality photos with the Pixel 8 because the shooters are designed to let in more light compared to the Pixel 8a.

I'd also add that the Pixel 8 is designed to be more durable. As such, if longevity is important to you, and you want to reduce the risk of a cracked screen, get the Pixel 8.

If these aren't alluring to you, the Pixel 8a would be a perfectly good fit for anyone looking to snatch some flagship-caliber features at a more wallet-friendly price.

Google Pixel 8 $549.00 at Amazon
$699.00 Save $150.00 Get Deal

PRE-ORDER NOW: The new Apple iPad Air (2024) is available for preorder through the Apple Store as of May 7. The 11-inch model starts at $599 and the 13-inch model starts at $799. Both will ship as soon as May 15.

Where to preorder the new iPad Air: 11-inch model Apple iPad Air 2024 Starting at $599 Pre-order Now 13-inch model Apple iPad Air 2024 Starting at $799 Pre-order Now

The hotly anticipated iPad Air has arrived in two sizes with some shiny new features to power AI features. Previously available in just the 10.9-inch size, the iPad Air now comes in 11- and 13-inch models outfitted with the M2 chip, an upgrade from the M1.

SEE ALSO: New iPad Air announced — here's everything you need to know

Announced at Apple's "Let Loose" event on May 7, the updated iPad Air debuted alongside a new iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil Pro. In addition to the new sizes, the tablets are getting upgraded storage. The models now start with 128 GB of storage with 256 GB, 516 GB, and 1 TB options also available.

As we suspected, the front-facing camera on the new iPad Air moved to the landscape view and pairs with landscape stereo speakers for heightened sound quality. The new M2 chip gives the upgraded iPad Air faster CPU, GPU, and neural engine speed. The M2 also powers the iPad Air with machine learning. Now users can enjoy split view screens, subject lift, and live text features on the device.

Credit: Apple

The iPad Air comes in four different colors: Purple, blue, starlight, and space gray. The 11-inch model starts at $599 while the 13-inch model starts at $799.

The new Apple iPad Air is available for preorder now ahead of its May 15 release.

Apple iPad 2024: Price and preorder details Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPad Air 2024 $599.00 at Apple
The new iPad Air 11-inch model starts at $599. Pre-Order Here Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPad Air 2024 $799.00 at Apple
The new iPad Air 13-inch model starts at $799. Pre-Order Here

It's the 2020s, and there's still no way to record a phone call on your iPhone without using an app or a separate device. But alternatives abound, and we've rounded them up here.

What to know before recording

The legality of recording calls differs from state to state, with some territories requiring the permission of all parties on the call. Be sure to check the legality of recording in your state before making the call.

Given the legal murkiness of recording calls, it's almost always the best option to call someone over Zoom or Google Meet and record the conversation using the built-in tools on those platforms. This ensures that both parties are aware they are being recorded and also results in the highest-quality recording for you.

1. Record a phone call by app

Third-party apps are the only solution for recording a call with phone-quality sound. While many options exist, the highest-recommended app online is Rev, which provides free and unlimited call recording for U.S. phone numbers.

After your call, you can opt to have it transcribed by Rev as well. They promise to deliver it in less than 12 hours.

2. Record a phone call by speakerphone

You'll need another recording device nearby to do this, but it's an easy solution for last-minute recordings. On Apple laptops, open the QuickTime application and choose File > New Audio Recording. Click the record button, which looks like a red square in a gray circle. Make your call and put it on speakerphone. You should see the rising and falling sound of your voice reflected as sound bars on the QuickTime display as it records.

If you don't have an Apple laptop, Rev offers a free recording service that you can access from your browser. You can see that service here.

3. Record a phone call with a recording device

Physical recording machines are sturdy and useful in a pinch, and have been for decades. Simply set your call to speakerphone and hit record on your device. Simple recording devices are available from places like Best Buy and Amazon for affordable prices and can be delivered to you as quickly as the next day.

Opens in a new window Credit: EVISTR Store / Amazon 64GB Digital Voice Recorder at Amazon
Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: IECOPOWER / Amazon 64GB USB Digital Audio Recorder $34.98 at Amazon
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Opens in a new window Credit: PLAUD / Amazon 64GB PLAUD AI Voice Recorder, Empowered by ChatGPT at Amazon
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PRE-ORDER NOW: As of May 7, the new Apple Pencil Pro is available to preorder for $129 at the Apple Store. Shipping begins the week of May 15.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil Pro at Apple
Pre-Order Here

May 7 marks the last leg of the Apple product drop trifecta that started in the fall of 2023. After getting new iPhones, new Apple Watches, and new MacBooks, just one major Apple product category was left ripe for a refresh this spring. And Apple went hard not only with a new iPad Pro and Air, but with the accessory that fuels the entire iPad experience: the Apple Pencil.

After almost a decade of existence, the Apple Pencil has finally been initiated into Apple's "Pro" club. Rather than the one or two small tweaks of Apple Pencil upgrades past, the Apple Pencil Pro has been entirely redesigned with a suite of new ways to bring ideas to life — and keep up with that M4 chip.

It's the next best thing to a magic wand. Credit: Apple

A light squeeze of the Pencil Pro pops up a palette to swiftly switch between tools, line weights, and colors, while a slight rotation while holding the Pencil Pro activates barrel roll: a built-in gyroscope that reacts immediately for intuitive, precise control of pen shapes, brush tips, or animation movements. Custom interactions can also be programmed.

Control of your project is taken even further with a hover feature that allows you to target actions without even touching the screen, like previewing a line before it's drawn or switching between a pile of layers in Final Cut Pro without making a wrong move. Haptic feedback has also been enhanced to tip you off when a new layer is, in fact, perfectly in the middle.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPad Pro 2024: Thinner and lighter than ever, with M4 chip inside

As always, the Apple Pencil Pro charges and stores magnetically to the side of your iPad. If it falls off in transit, no worries: it's the first Apple Pencil to support Find My.

Despite "Pro" being tacked onto the name, Apple isn't gatekeeping the Apple Pencil Pro just for iPad Pro users. iPad Air users can also opt to experience the magic of the Pro. And there's little reason to not make that bump: Despite so many revolutionary changes, the Apple Pencil Pro is available to preorder for $129: the same debut price as the second gen Apple Pencil from several years ago.

Today, Apple announced a new-and-improved Apple Pencil alongside new iPads at its May 7 "Let Loose" event.

Apple's graphic for today's event showed a hand holding a pencil, so it's no surprise that the Cupertino-based tech giant is unleashing a refresh of its popular stylus. However, what was surprising — and hinted at just the day before by Apple insiders — is that the new Apple Pencil is an entirely new model of the device called the Apple Pencil Pro, set to launch on May 15.

SEE ALSO: How to preorder the new Apple iPad Pro (2024) The new Apple Pencil Pro

The Apple Pencil Pro is a pretty significant upgrade to the current Apple Pencil. However, at just $129, it appears Apple is replacing the current base Apple Pencil with the Apple Pencil Pro. Apple is also keeping the cheaper, lower-end model — now known as Apple Pencil.

So, what makes this new Apple Pencil Pro "pro?"

Credit: Apple Haptic feedback

The Apple Pencil Pro offers haptic feedback, meaning users will feel vibration effects when using it, which match the actions being performed on the iPad.

For example, when users try to align objects in a photo editing or illustration app, they can feel the objects snap into alignment thanks to the Apple Pencil Pro's haptic feedback.

Physical interactivity

The Apple Pencil Pro also comes with several new features that allow users to interact with the iPad without touching the screen with the stylus.

For example, users can apply pressure to the Apple Pencil Pro by squeezing the device to perform certain tasks, such as opening a new tool palette.

SEE ALSO: Everything Apple announced during its iPad event, including new OLED iPad Pro

The Apple Pencil Pro's internal gyroscope provides another new option. If a user twists the Apple Pencil Pro in their hand in a barrel roll-type motion, that provides another new array of options, such as the ability to change the shape of a brush in an illustration app.

This upgraded addition to the Apple Pencil lineup is sensitive to pressure and how the device is held by the user. Tilting the stylus at a certain angle will result in a different output on the iPad. Double-tapping the Apple Pencil Pro also activates shortcuts within iPad apps.

Developers can also create custom interactions and shortcuts and integrate them into specific Apple Pencil Pro movements.

The latest iPad accessory

According to Apple, the Apple Pencil Pro works with both the new iPad Pro and the new iPad Mini. However, it can only pair, charge, and be stored on the side of the new iPad Pro.

As mentioned, this new Apple Pencil Pro is an update on Apple's original model launched in 2018. There is no updated version of the lower-end model Apple Pencil released in 2023.

That gives users two different Apple Pencil models to choose from. But at that $129 price point, it's hard to imagine not just splurging on the Apple Pencil Pro with all its new additional features.

This iPad Air 2024 vs. iPad Air 2022 face-off will help you determine whether the new sixth-gen model, announced at the May 7 "Let Loose" event, is worth the upgrade.

SEE ALSO: How to preorder the new Apple iPad Pro (2024)

For Apple enthusiasts drawn to the company's hallmark blend of sleek design and robust performance, deciding between the two isn't easy. With two new sizes for the first time we've broken it all down, comparing the old with the new to make your decision a little easier.

iPad Air 6 vs iPad Air 5: Size and Design Credit: Apple

The iPad Air 5 retained the design language introduced with its predecessor, featuring a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2360 x 1640 resolution. The device sports a thin and light structure, measuring 6.1 mm thick and weighing about one pound, making it highly portable yet sturdy.

• iPad Air 5 colors: Space Gray, Starlight, Pink, Purple, and Blue

• iPad Air 6 colors: New Blue & Purple, Space Gray, Starlight

In contrast, the iPad Air 6 will come in two sizes for the first time: 11-inch and 13-inch. With a 2732×2048, the 13-inch size will add "30 percent more screen real estate" according to Apple. On top of that, the device features the same Liquid Retina, this time with a front-facing landscape camera that Apple says will make video calling even easier.

• iPad Air 5: 10.9-inch display (1.02 pounds); 12MP-wide camera

• iPad Air 6 11-in: 10.9-inch display (1.02 pounds); 12MP-wide camera

• iPad Air 6 13-in: 12.9-inch display (1.36 pounds); 12MP-wide camera

iPad Air 6 vs iPad Air 5: Price

The iPad Air 5, launched in March 2022, was introduced at a starting price of $599 for the base model with 64GB of storage. This pricing was consistent with Apple's strategy of maintaining a mid-range price point for the Air series, offering a balance between affordability and high-end features.

The iPad Air 2024 will launch at $599, with the 13-inch version starting at $799. On top of that, the 6th generation device will also include a 1TB version for the first time.

• iPad Air 6 (64GB + WiFI) - $599 / $799

• iPad Air 6 (128GB + WiFI) - $699 / $899

• iPad Air 6 (256GB + WiFI) - $899 / $1,099

• iPad Air 6 (1TB + WiFI) - $1,099 / $1,299

• iPad Air 6 (64GB + WiFI + Celluar) - $749 / $949

• iPad Air 6 (128GB + WiFI + Celluar) - $849 / $1,049

• iPad Air 6 (256GB + WiFI + Celluar) - $1,049 / $1,249

• iPad Air 6 (1TB + WiFI + Celluar) - $1,249 / $1,449

For the moment being, you'll be hard-pressed to find the 5th gen version on the Apple store, but across retailers, it seems the device has received a price drop. For example, you can grab the iPad Air 5 for $499 at Best Buy down from its original $599 price.

iPad Air 6 vs iPad Air 5: Performance This one is for the artists Credit: Apple

Powered by the Apple M1 chip, the iPad Air 5 represented during its release a significant leap in performance compared to its predecessors, aligning it with the more powerful iPad Pro models. This chipset substantially boosted CPU and GPU performance, ensuring smooth multitasking and high-end gaming capabilities. However, the M1 chip is now close to four years old.

While still capable, the 2024 version will only be upgraded to the M2 chip. However, this is still a hefty upgrade for the Air, as it's always been considered the budget-friendly version. The M2 is nothing to scoff at, and it will give the Air three times the performance of its predecessor and 50 percent faster as well.

You can pre-order the new iPad Air today, with Apple planning to ship it out sometime next week.

The long-awaited OLED iPad Pro finally dropped today with, as we expected, two variants: an 11-inch model and a 13-inch model — slightly larger than the last generation's 12.9-inch model. Both are slightly thinner, and much faster than their predecessors.

The rumor mill was spot on about iPad Pro 2024 having an OLED display. Typically, it's the larger model that gets all the cool display technology while the base model, the 11-inch variant, gets left out of the fun. But this time around, both the 13-inch model and the 11-inch variant have OLED displays.

But you may be wondering, what else does the iPad Pro 2024 have to offer over its previous-generation model. Let's dive into the brand-spankin' new features.

iPad Pro 2024: 5 new features

The new iPad Pro has been reportedly delayed several times now, but the popular Apple tablet finally got released on Monday. But the question is, what new features has Apple stuffed into this new device? Let's explore all of them.

1. OLED display

Apple packed the new iPad Pro — both the 11-inch and 13-inch models —with new "tandem OLED" screens and Ultra Retina XDR. What does this mean for you? It should yield crisper and brighter visuals, with more contrast. Plus, OLED displays increase the accuracy of color reproduction — while sucking down less battery power.

In other words, the iPad Pro's display should look like a visual treat compared to the previous model, and leave you to do more without plugging in for longer.

2. Thinner and lighter

Apple says this new iPad pro is the thinnest gadget it has ever made, thinner even than the old-school iPod Nano. The 11-inch model is 0.21 inches thick, and the 13-inch is a hair thinner, at 0.2 inches. That compares to 0.23 inches and 0.25 inches respectively.

It's also lighter, in both sizes, than its predecessor. The 11-inch model weighs in at 0.98 pounds, versus 1.03 pounds previously, and the 13-inch screen model is 1.28 pounds, a significant improvement on 1.5 pounds.

3. Better front-facing camera

The new Pro has a 12-megapixel front-facing camera, the same as the previous model. However, the new camera can do landscape shots as well as portrait.

4. New TrueDepth camera location

Also on the previous iPad Pro, when you held it in portrait mode, the webcam would be on the top bezel. However, if you hold the new iPad Pro in the same position, you'd find it on the right bezel. In other words, the iPad Pro encourages you to hold it in landscape mode, ensuring that the webcam is on the top again.

4. New M4 chip

The iPad Pro 2024 now has a zippier chip with the M4 processor aboard, making it a performance beast in the tablet realm.

In an unexpected plot twist, the iPad Pro models have a new M4 chip that's four times faster than the M2, rather than jumping just one generation up to the M3. The chip also boasts a new "neural processing unit" that assists in AI features.

Does that mean that the iPad Pro 2024 can replace a laptop? Yes and no. As I mentioned in my experiment with using the iPad Air for a week for work, the performance is sufficient to handle my workflow, but iPadOS has its limitations.

This story is developing ...

Apple held a major iPad event on Tuesday and announced lots of new products and features. Among them was Adaptive True Tone flash for its newly announced iPad Pro. This is the sort of announcement that might not seem major but could be huge for folks using their iPad in a professional setting.

OK, so...what is Adaptive True Tone flash? It's a complicated-sounding name for an improved flash feature in the new iPad Pro's camera. It is primarily aimed at scanning documents. If you're trying to scan with imperfect lighting, or a shadow, the iPad's new camera with Adaptive True Tone flash should automatically fix it.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPad Pro 2024: Thinner and lighter than ever, with M4 chip inside

"Using AI, the new iPad Pro automatically identifies documents right in the Camera app, and if a shadow is in the way, it instantly takes multiple photos with the new adaptive flash, stitching the scan together for a dramatically better scan," Apple wrote in a press release.

Tweet may have been deleted

If you've ever had to scan a document — or, say, your driver's license for ID purposes — you've likely run into this issue. Lighting in a home, or even outside, can be uneven and you need to scramble to find the right surface and light. Now, the new iPad Pro should fix that problem.

At Apple's May 7 iPad event on Tuesday, the tech giant unveiled the iPad Air and iPad Pro with some snazzy new AI capabilities.

The iPad Air has an M2 chip, which offers AI features for design and photo editing. But the iPad Pro now comes with an M4 chip, confirming some last minute rumors, Apple leapfrogged over the M3 chip and, instead, packed the iPad Pro with an M4 chip. The chip has an upgraded Neural Engine for accelerating machine learning tasks, and can handle 38 trillion operations per second.

iPad Air AI capabilities

With the M2 chip, there are some noticeable AI updates reflected in iPadOS and Apple apps.

Visual Look Up, Subject Lift and Live Text

With Subject Life, Apple users can highlight specific aspects of an image or design and move them around for easy editing. With Live Text, the iPad Air recognizes text in images for looking up phone numbers and translation. And there's also Visual Look Up, which exists on the iPhone, and let you learn more about specific aspects of an image like popular landmarks.

Improved Photo editing in Photomator

The ML Enhance tool in Photomator was trained on 20 million images, and enables you boost up your photo with the click of a button.

iPad Air costs $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model.

iPad Pro with OLED display AI capabilities

As mentioned, the M4-based iPad Pro comes with a host of new AI features. Here are some perks you'll get with the new Apple tablet.

Isolate subjects in Final Cut Pro

With a simple tap, users can highlight the subject of an image or video in Apple's video editing app. With iPadOS, the iPad Pro offers easy AI editing capabilities like matching exact colors.

Scan documents

The iPad Pro is making your scanner even more obsolete. With the iPad Pro's updated True Tone Flash, it automatically detects documents and receipts and uses AI to stitch together the frames so there isn’t a shadow in the image.

Today's event marks the first time Apple has announced a device with generative AI capabilities as a selling point. Apple was considered slow to jump on the AI bandwagon, compared to competitors like Samsung and Google which have already deployed AI-powered features for their smartphone lineups. But starting with the iPad Pro, Apple is ramping up AI offerings.

WWDC is a little over a month away, and we're expecting major AI additions to iOS 18. Apple's flagship September iPhone event will likely bring more AI-related announcements. If Apple's strategy is about taking the time to get it right, we'll find out how that pays off very soon.

iPad Pro will set you back $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch model.

SAVE $20: As of May 7, get the Tractive GPS pet tracker for just $29.99, which is $20 off its normal price of $49.99. That's a discount of 40%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Tractive GPS $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

It's super stressful when you look around and can't find your furry best friend. Are they chilling under the sofa? Did your spouse let them out into the backyard? Wherever they roam, knowing where your pet is at any given moment can put your mind at ease. That's where a GPS pet tracker can come in handy. Sure, you can rely on a microchip to get your dog back home if they end up getting lost, but why risk it when you can fit them with a GPS that'll lead you to their exact location? If the thought of your dog roaming somewhere without your knowledge gives you anxiety, it's time to go ahead and grab a GPS pet tracker. And right now, you can save big on one of our favorites.

As of May 7, you can get the Tractive GPS pet tracker for just $29.99. That's $20 off its normal price of $49.99 and a discount of 40% during Amazon Pet Day. We named it our favorite budget GPS pet tracker, and it's well worth the price, especially if knowing where your pet is at all times can give you a little bit of peace of mind.

The Tractive GPS pet tracker attaches to your furry friend's collar and offers live tracking by way of its companion app. You can check where your dog or cat is at any moment as well as reference a location history so you can also see where they've been. Additionally, the tracker supports setting up a virtual "safe area" for your pet by way of a geofencing system. If your pet ventures outside that area, you'll be notified.

The tracker itself is waterproof and has a built-in light for when you and Fido head out on walks together. It's also inconspicuous enough that your furry friend won't notice it too much, and it can fit on a collar easily. While it doesn't have the same amount of features as some of the bigger names in the pet tracking space, it's an affordable way to keep an eye on your best friend, and a simple one at that. Give it a try and never lose sight of your bestie with four paws again.

The new iPad Air finally made its grand entrance during the much-awaited "Let Loose" Apple livestream on May 7. And let's be real — the upgrade was long overdue.

March 2022 was the last time the iPad Air got a refresh. That's over two years ago. So, yeah, the iPad Air has been a lonely neglected corner of the Apple product lineup for while, and it's good to see it finally getting some attention again.

You're probably here to find out the core value proposition — how is this thing different from the old one? We've got you covered with a roundup of all the fresh bells and whistles so you can weigh whether or not it's time to make the leap.

iPad Air 2024: 2 new features

The iPad Air 2022 has a pretty old processor: the M1 processor. For the uninitiated, the M1 chip came out about four years ago, so we're glad Apple blew the dust off the iPad Air and gave it an update.

Check out three new features that have landed on the iPad Air.

1. New sizes

The iPad Air is now more similar to the iPad Pro more than ever. Like the iPad Pro, which comes two flavors (i.e., 12.9-inch and 11-inch models), the iPad Air now comes in two variants, too: 11-inch and 13-inch.

This means that you can now have a larger screen experience with the mid-tier iPad to match its more premium sibling.

2. New M2 chip

The iPad Air upgraded from the obsolete M1 chip to a, er, less obsolete M2 chip. The M1 chip is so 2020, but the M2 chip is a little more modern as a two-year-old processor.

You can already find the M2 chip in laptops such as the 13.6-inch M2 MacBook Air and the 15-inch M2 MacBook Air.

The M2 chip should provide zippier gen-over-gen performance over the M1 chip, giving users a better user experience while navigating iPadOS.

Featured Video For You Everything Apple announced during its iPad event, including new OLED iPad Pro 3. New webcam location

Hold the previous-generation iPad Air upright and you'll find the webcam perched on the top bezel. However, with the new iPad Air, you'll find the webcam on the right side bezel instead.

This new location will nudge users to have video calls in a horizontal orientation instead of the portrait posture. We didn't see this one coming. Gotta hand it to Apple to keep us on our toes —or should I say on our sides?

This story is developing ...