Windows 11's built-in Phone Link app lets users make and receive phone calls directly from their PC by pairing an iPhone or Android device. Setup requires updating Phone Link through the Microsoft Store, enabling Bluetooth on both devices, and installing a companion app (Link to Windows) on the phone to complete pairing. Once paired, users can dial contacts or use a dial pad from the Calls tab, and incoming calls route to the PC automatically.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-18
A new consumer guide explains that Bluetooth speakers often list two different power figures: peak power, which measures short-burst maximum output, and RMS power, which reflects sustained continuous output. Manufacturers frequently advertise only the higher peak figure, and retailers like Target often omit wattage details entirely, as seen with the JBL Go 4.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-17
Analogue has released Plus versions of its Super Nt and Mega Sg FPGA-based consoles, which play original Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis cartridges respectively. The updated models add Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless controller support, USB-C power, a USB-A port, and the ability to swap cartridges or power on the console via a gamepad without shutting down. Both cost $219.99, open for pre-order this weekend, and are expected to ship in December.
techspot.com
· 2026-10-17
Amazon has cut the price of JBL's Vibe Buds 2 wireless earbuds to $39.95, a $20 reduction from their regular retail price of roughly $59.95. The earbuds feature active noise cancellation, 8mm drivers, and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-16
Amazon has discounted the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Bluetooth speaker by 19%, bringing its price to $64.99. The compact speaker features an IP67 waterproof and floatable design and supports stereo pairing with a second unit.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-16
B&H Photo is offering Sony's WH-1000XM6 noise-canceling headphones in silver for $328, a $130 discount, as part of its Deals of the Day promotion running through the rest of today. The price undercuts what Amazon and Best Buy have charged even during seasonal sales, including the recent Prime Day event.
theverge.com
· 2026-10-15
A developer released Flipflop, an open-source tool that creates a persistent trusted tunnel between two or more devices, allowing files, links and text to be sent between them at any time. It works over Bluetooth, LAN, or the internet using the iroh networking library, with builds available for Linux, macOS, Windows and Android.
github.com
· 2026-10-15
Microsoft has released the Xbox Nano controller, its smallest ever at just over 5 inches long and 3.5 ounces, making it lighter and more compact than most smartphones. The controller retains all 18 standard gameplay inputs and a customizable Action Button, and supports both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity via a rechargeable battery. It costs $50 and is available for preorder in the US now, with other markets like the UK, Canada and Australia getting it in November.
cnet.com
· 2026-10-14
Microsoft released its October Patch Tuesday update, addressing roughly 1,410 security vulnerabilities including two zero-day flaws across supported Windows versions. The release is also the first official update for Windows 11 26H2 and the final supported update for Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions. It also includes fixes for File Explorer and Bluetooth issues, plus the ability to remap the Copilot key.
zdnet.com
· 2026-10-14
A project called Sprout Pi (and a lesser Sprout Pico version) replaces an iPod's motherboard to add Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C charging, a microSD slot and FLAC playback without requiring soldering. The upgrade supports audio over USB, the original 3.5mm jack, AirPlay and Google Cast streaming, podcast downloads, and on the Pi model, Spotify and Apple Music apps. It works only with 3rd- and 4th-generation iPods and the iPod mini, and will launch via a Crowd Supply crowdfunding campaign with pricing not yet announced.
theverge.com
· 2026-10-14
CMF, Nothing's sub-brand, has released two milk-carton-shaped portable speakers: the $59 Speaker S with a 45mm driver and passive radiators, and the $109 Speaker M with a 10W tweeter, dual drivers and a 25W woofer. Both offer Bluetooth 6.0, IP68 water and dust resistance, up to 18 hours of battery life, USB-C charging and audio input, and support for NFC, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair and Auracast, with the ability to pair two identical units together.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-14
8BitDo has released the Ultimate 2C Bluetooth Controller priced at $30, aimed at Nintendo Switch 2 owners. The gamepad includes Hall effect thumbsticks and triggers, haptic feedback, motion control, and an extra mappable button on each shoulder, while omitting extras like RGB lighting and rear paddles.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-14
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