Top 7 Tech Stories: AOL Dial-Up’s End to Apple Watch Feature Return
▼ Summary
– AOL discontinued its dial-up service, marking the end of an era for the iconic internet connection method.
– Apple’s iOS 26 beta hinted at a real-time translation feature for AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, expanding their functionality.
– HTC launched the Vive Eagle smart glasses, featuring AI integration with Gemini and ChatGPT, though currently limited to Taiwan.
– Samsung introduced the world’s first micro-RGB TV, offering advanced color accuracy but at a high initial price of around $32,000.
– OpenAI increased ChatGPT Plus message limits to 3,000 prompts per week and promised clearer UI labels after user backlash over GPT-5 restrictions.
The tech world never stands still, and this week delivered everything from nostalgic farewells to groundbreaking innovations. Whether it’s the end of an era for dial-up internet or cutting-edge advancements in wearable tech, these developments prove how rapidly technology evolves. Here’s a breakdown of the seven most significant stories you might have missed.
7. AOL Officially Pulls the Plug on Dial-Up (Image credit: Shutterstock)
For many, the screeching tones of a dial-up connection are a distant memory, but for some, it was still a reality. AOL has finally discontinued its dial-up service, marking the official end of an internet era. While most of us take high-speed broadband for granted, this shutdown serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come. The iconic sound of modems connecting may be gone, but its legacy lives on in the seamless connectivity we enjoy today.
6. AirPods May Soon Offer Real-Time Translation (Image credit: Future)
Apple’s latest iOS 26 beta hints at an exciting upgrade for AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2: live translation capabilities. While Apple previously introduced Live Translate at WWDC, this feature appears to extend beyond system-level translations, enabling real-time conversation interpretation directly through AirPods. Details remain scarce, like supported languages and accuracy, but if executed well, this could revolutionize how we communicate across language barriers.
5. HTC Takes on Meta with Vive Eagle Glasses (Image credit: HTC)
HTC’s new Vive Eagle smart glasses aim to challenge Meta’s dominance in the AR/VR space. Weighing just 49g, they pack a 12MP camera, open-ear audio, and impressive battery life. What sets them apart? Dual AI integration with Gemini and ChatGPT, offering a versatile assistant experience. For now, availability is limited to Taiwan, but if HTC expands globally, these could become a serious contender in the wearable tech market.
4. Samsung Unveils World’s First Micro-RGB TV (Image credit: Samsung)
Samsung’s latest innovation, the 115-inch Micro-RGB TV, pushes display technology to new heights. Using microscopic RGB LEDs, it achieves 100% HDR coverage of the BT.2020 color space, a first for televisions. The catch? A jaw-dropping price tag of around $32,000, making it a luxury few can afford. Still, Samsung promises the tech will eventually scale down to more affordable models, potentially giving OLED a run for its money.
3. Blood Oxygen Monitoring Returns to Apple Watch (Image credit: TechRadar)
After an 18-month legal battle, Apple has reinstated Blood Oxygen tracking on the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2, with a twist. Due to patent disputes, readings now appear exclusively on iPhones rather than the watch face. While not as seamless as before, it’s a clever workaround that keeps the feature accessible to users.
2. Hands-On with the Insta360 Antigravity Drone (Image credit: Future)
The Insta360 Antigravity drone isn’t just another flying camera, it’s the world’s first 360-degree drone, offering an immersive piloting experience via a motion controller and VR headset. Early test flights reveal intuitive controls and stunning aerial footage capabilities. Pricing remains unconfirmed, but for drone enthusiasts, this could be a game-changer worth the investment.
1. OpenAI Listens to User Feedback on GPT-5 (Image credit: Shutterstock/Mijansk786)
After backlash over GPT-5’s restrictive message limits, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced a major increase, from 200 to 3,000 prompts per week for Plus subscribers. The company is also improving UI clarity to distinguish between AI models. This swift response highlights OpenAI’s commitment to balancing innovation with user satisfaction, ensuring paying customers get the most out of their subscriptions.
From nostalgic farewells to futuristic breakthroughs, this week’s tech news proves the industry is as dynamic as ever. Stay tuned, next week promises even more surprises.
(Source: techradar)
