Tyler Hayes
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Creator: This Week The Trend
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Articles by Tyler Hayes
How to pick a good iPhone Duo case, from a longtime tech writer
Despite the iPhone Duo being announced on September 9 and not shipping until October 23, finding a good case for the phone is still a problem. I've seen all kinds of different issues with the ones I've tried. From cases that don't fit quite right to ones that are just poorly designed—not fully thought out. Each year, as a tech creator, I go hands-on with dozens of new iPhone cases.
Sony MDR-3R review: These $59 retro wired headphones sound surprisingly good
As more people return to wired music listening, Sony's answer is to revisit the original Walkman headphones with a modern USB-C connector. The Sony MDR-3R are a faithful remake, including the same type of foam earpads and overall design. Wired headphones get rid of concerns about battery life and the need to charge anything. USB-C headphones are powered by the device they're connected to. Using these also sidesteps any Bluetooth pairing issues that might arise.
I test smart speakers, and Apple's new HomePod mini 2 is a disappointing upgrade
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Apple's latest smart speaker costs $50 more than the original, but it doesn't deliver the upgrades I expected. Tyler Hayes Creator of This Week The Trend• Updated Nov 2, 2026 Updated Mon, November 2, 2026 at 11:51 PM UTC 5 min read Pale pink Apple HomePod mini 2 (Tyler Hayes) Six years after the HomePod mini debuted, the HomePod mini 2 is here. After that much time, you'd hope for some serious upgrades.
I put this Instagram-famous mini fridge in my living room. Here's what surprised me
The Rocco Essential mini fridge is not your old college dorm-room refrigerator. It's sophisticated. It's the one that completes a room that you build your after-college house around. The Essential adds extra functionality that you might not have realized a living space needed. Let's rewind for a second. Rocco has been an Instagram star for a couple of years thanks to its original Classic mini fridge. The company continues to add attractive color options to that product.
Airport security just got faster: How to add your driver's license and passport to your phone
From credit cards and car keys to event tickets and transit passes, your phone can now hold all the physical objects you once crammed inside a pocket, wallet, or purse. But did you also know you can add your state-issued driver's license and passport Several states let you quickly store digital versions of your identification on the Apple Wallet Google Wallet , or Samsung Wallet app to get through TSA checkpoints a little faster. Certain states also have third-party ID apps.
Airport Security Just Got Faster: How to Add Your Driver's License and Passport to Your Phone
Apple Wallet 13 hours ago GM Says Apple Wallet Car Keys Coming to These Vehicles MacRumors - Joe Rossignol • 13h In a late September press release that we just discovered now, GM announced that it has started rolling out Apple Wallet car key support in select Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicle models, with additional models to follow over time.
This kid-friendly iPod alternative just got a major upgrade, and I think it’s worth the money
Despite Millennials' pleading, it doesn't seem like Apple is likely to start making iPods again. But that doesn't mean there isn't a modern, charming music and audiobook player out there for younger kids that they can use to listen and learn. The new Yoto Mini 4 is a portable handheld player with a headphone jack, Bluetooth, and a built-in speaker. It's made for kids, but it's convenient for parents.
Apple Watch Series 12 review: What's new and whether it's worth upgrading
The Apple Watch is having a bit of an identity crisis. From the beginning, Apple's wearables were built around notifications, calls, texts, and general activity tracking. In that sense, its smartwatches have been perfect for casual users. But this year's Apple Watch Series 12 ushers in a new era by incorporating a slew of artificial intelligence features — and it's caught between what it has been and what it could be. I've been covering the Apple Watch since the first model was released in 2015.
Apple Watch Series 12 review: What's new and whether it's worth upgrading
The Apple Watch is having a bit of an identity crisis. From the beginning, Apple's wearables were built around notifications, calls, texts, and general activity tracking. In that sense, its smartwatches have been perfect for casual users. But this year's Apple Watch Series 12 ushers in a new era by incorporating a slew of artificial intelligence features — and it's caught between what it has been and what it could be. I've been covering the Apple Watch since the first model was released in 2015.
I found a pair of wireless headphones that punch well above their $130 price tag
The EarFun Wave Pro X has a lot of the features you expect from a premium pair of wireless headphones. They offer respectable active noise cancellation (ANC) and audio quality. In most ways, these are positioned to take on the biggest names in the headphone space. The difference is that EarFun is selling the Wave Pro X for $129.99. These aren't a one-trick pony either. Because it's not just the ANC performance that's good enough for commuting or dual drivers with bass that packs a punch.
Sonos Beam Ultra soundbar review: Compact design, big Dolby Atmos sound
Sonos' latest soundbar might be small in stature, but it's kind of a big deal. It's called the Beam Ultra, and it's a step-up version of the brand's popular Beam Gen 2. This new model adds four more audio drivers to deliver larger, more expansive home-theater sound without compromising a modest footprint. It dials up its Dolby Atmos performance with much more convincing overhead effects, so even listeners in small spaces can get full, cinematic sound.
Sonos Beam Ultra soundbar review: Compact design, big Dolby Atmos sound
9 hours ago SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: DLB), a leader in immersive entertainment, will release financial results for the fourth quarter (Q4) and full year fiscal 2026 after the close of regular trading on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. Members of Dolby management …
Apple AirPods Pro 3 review: Here's why they're still the brand's top earbuds
I've been testing audio products for well over a decade, and each iteration of the AirPods Pro has delivered an impressive set of features in a compact form factor. The AirPods Pro 3 are no different. In fact, despite being a year old, they remain the best AirPods for most people. These earbuds are the whole package, with powerful ANC, a built-in heart rate sensor, better water resistance than older models, refined sound quality, and hearing-health features you won't find on standard AirPods.
I've tested most premium headphones in 2026. Technics' A1000 stood out for one big reason
Whether it's high-fidelity equipment, turntables, or headphones, Technics is selling itself to audiophiles. That messaging of reference-class devices is all over its website. It's no surprise then that the company's latest over-the-ear headphones, the EAH-A1000, using 40mm magnetic fluid drivers, are targeted at the same kind of music lovers. The magnetic fluid driver technology found in Technics' AZ100 wireless earbuds is reimagined for the larger headphones.
Apple AirPods 5 review: 4 reasons they're worth it
The Apple AirPods 5 deliver impressive performance for the money. Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link At first glance, Apple's new AirPods 5 appear to be more of the same. They don't look any different than the AirPods 4 or make any earth-shattering changes. But looks can be deceiving. Despite the familiar design, there are several reasons to be excited about these new wireless earbuds.
Apple AirPods 5 review: 4 reasons they're worth it
The Apple AirPods 5 deliver impressive performance for the money. Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link At first glance, Apple's new AirPods 5 appear to be more of the same. They don't look any different than the AirPods 4 or make any earth-shattering changes. But looks can be deceiving. Despite the familiar design, there are several reasons to be excited about these new wireless earbuds.
Apple AirPods 5 review: 4 reasons they're worth it
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The clever design of this tiny 2-in-1 charger makes traveling with it a breeze
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. The charger weighs 3.8 ounces (Tyler Hayes) For ultra-portable needs, like traveling or commuting, the Ugreen 25W MagFlow 2-in-1 Foldable Charger might be your iPhone's best friend. This MagSafe charger has two charging sides that fold up and magnetically attach together. One side has Qi2 25W of power, while the other side offers 5W of power, ideal for AirPods or other smaller accessories.
I flew 11,000 miles with the new Sonos Ace Ultra headphones, and their noise cancellation wowed me
The new Sonos Ace Ultra are some of the most impressive headphones I've reviewed all year, mainly because of their top-notch active noise cancellation (ANC). And I don't make that claim lightly. In addition to testing nearly every premium headphone model released over the last three years, I've already flown more than 11,000 miles with the Ace Ultra. I can assure you they're built to travel the world as much as they're suited for everyday listening at home.
I flew 11,000 miles with the new Sonos Ace Ultra headphones, and their noise cancellation wowed me
The new Sonos Ace Ultra are some of the most impressive headphones I've reviewed all year, mainly because of their top-notch active noise cancellation (ANC). And I don't make that claim lightly. In addition to testing nearly every premium headphone model released over the last three years, I've already flown more than 11,000 miles with the Ace Ultra. I can assure you they're built to travel the world as much as they're suited for everyday listening at home.
Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones review: The brand's best noise cancellation yet
The WH-1000XM6 are a worthy successor to the highly rated XM5 headphones. Updated Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link Sony's 1000X series consistently ranks among the best headphones you can buy. The first-generation model launched back in 2016, and the brand's latest flagship pair, the WH-1000XM6 (XM6), was released in May of 2025.
Sonos Arc Ultra review: A powerful all-in-one Dolby Atmos soundbar
The Sonos Arc Ultra is still the company's most impressive soundbar. Updated Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link The Sonos Arc Ultra is a stand-alone Dolby Atmos soundbar that delivers on its promise to be an immersive, all-in-one home theater system. It simulates a room full of speakers with punchy bass and convincing overheard audio effects, all from a single soundbar unit you place right by your TV.
Apple TV just got more expensive, but I still think it's the best deal in streaming
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Last year, I made the case that paying $99 per year for Apple TV was completely worth it. The catalog continues to expand in ways that should make HBO viewers jealous. But now, the price has increased from $99 to $119 per year. So, the simple question remains. Is Apple TV still worth it? No one likes paying more if they don't need to. But even with its $20-per-year price increase, it's a good value.
Tim Cook Was No Steve Jobs, But That Was His Secret Weapon
If you were describing Tim Cook’s 15-year tenure as Apple's CEO in one word, “boring” would be a top contender. So, it's no surprise that his final few months at the helm have been a tidy affair. No public controversy or drama; just a seasoned exec preparing to hand over the reins of one of the world’s most profitable and innovative companies to another Apple veteran on Sept. 1. This was the plan all along.
Siri AI Isn't Enough: The 2 Major Hardware Flaws Holding Apple's Smart Home Back
If you've experimented with smart home tech for any length of time, you've likely slogged through multiple platform transitions and poorly implemented gadgets. It's easy to be skeptical; companies discontinue devices and services every year, and home voice assistants still need work. That said, an honest evaluation of Apple’s current smart home landscape reveals it’s not in terrible shape.
I’ve tested countless wireless chargers. These 5 are anything but boring
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Left to right: Ugreen, Kuxiu, and Twelve South (Tyler Hayes) It's not hard to find a wireless iPhone charger. It seems like there are a million of them. However, finding a good one with a unique design or functionality can be trickier.
Siri AI Can Only Do So Much. For Smart Home Dominance, Apple Needs to Improve These Two Products, and Fast
As a longtime technology journalist, I’ve slogged through multiple smart home platform transitions and poorly implemented gadgets. It's easy to be skeptical; companies discontinue devices and services every year, and home voice assistants still need work. That said, an honest evaluation of Apple’s current smart home landscape reveals it’s not in terrible shape.
Siri AI can only do so much. For smart home dominance, Apple needs to improve these two products, and fast
As a longtime technology journalist, I've slogged through multiple smart home platform transitions and poorly implemented gadgets. It's easy to be skeptical; companies discontinue devices and services every year, and home voice assistants still need work. That said, an honest evaluation of Apple's current smart home landscape reveals it's not in terrible shape.
Best budget record players of 2026
We tested affordable turntables from brands like Victrola and Sony to find the top budget record players. Updated Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link There are plenty of cheap turntables out there, but affordable doesn't automatically mean good value. Though it might be tempting for vinyl newbies to pick up the first low-cost player they see, many inexpensive turntables cut corners on quality and design.
Bose QuietComfort 2nd Gen Headphones review: What's new and how they stack up
The second-generation QuietComfort Headphones are Bose's latest midrange option. Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link The new Bose QuietComfort 2nd Gen are a great pair of wireless headphones, with features and performance that make them well-suited for everyday listeners. They've been redesigned (subtly) with a revised headband and cushions. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is also better engineered in a few ways.
Bose QuietComfort 2nd Gen Headphones review: What's new and how they stack up
The second-generation QuietComfort Headphones are Bose's latest midrange option. Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link The new Bose QuietComfort 2nd Gen are a great pair of wireless headphones, with features and performance that make them well-suited for everyday listeners. They've been redesigned (subtly) with a revised headband and cushions. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is also better engineered in a few ways.
New to vinyl? This clever speaker makes getting started easier than ever
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. The Soundstage comes in black or brown (Tyler Hayes) The Victrola Soundstage is a speaker base that can work with nearly any turntable. Instead of rearranging a room in your house around a record player, bookshelf speakers, and all the wiring, this product makes it easy to place your vinyl setup wherever you want it.
I tested the headphones everyone keeps seeing on Instagram. Here’s my verdict
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. The Daisy One headphones in Pacific color (Tyler Hayes) If your Instagram algorithm is anything like mine, then you probably see the Daisy One headphones all the time, shown in ads and creators' posts. The Daisy One stand out for a few reasons. Primarily because of their metal construction and distinct spinning volume knob. They look premium in almost every way.
Best Apple Watch in 2026
The Apple Watch remains the gold standard for what users should expect from a smartwatch. It handles the everyday stuff — texts, notifications, workouts, sleep tracking — so seamlessly that it can quickly become one of those gadgets you barely think about but use constantly. The hard part is choosing the right one. Apple's current lineup includes three models at different prices, and the best Apple Watch for you depends on what you actually want from it. That's where I can help.
Best budget headphones of 2026
We put cheap headphones and earbuds to the test to find the top budget models under $150. Updated Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link If you're willing to spend top dollar, it’s easy to find headphones packed with features and high-end audio quality. But what about cheaper models? Are lower-end headphones still worthwhile?
I watched the first episode of 5 new shows. These are worth your time
The Audacity, Young Sherlock, Star City, The Hawk, Sunny Nights (Tyler Hayes) Having too many TV shows to pick from isn't the worst problem to have. But sometimes it causes paralysis, and you end up watching reruns of Friends or The West Wing. Instead of finishing a great show and then falling into another rut, I decided to switch things up. I picked one show from a variety of streaming services to give it a shot. The assignment was simple: only commit to watching the first episode.
The Oura Ring 5 is the best health gadget of 2026
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Stealth colored Oura Ring 5 (Tyler Hayes) After spending several weeks testing the Oura Ring 5, I'm ready to declare it the best health gadget of 2026, hands down. In fact, it might be the best tech product altogether. Such acclaim of the Oura Ring 5 isn't solely based on my time with this new model.
Samsung Frame Pro TV review: Here's what sets this upgraded model apart
The Frame Pro TV offers enhanced image quality compared to the standard model. Updated Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt. Impact Link Samsung's Frame TVs are a go-to for anyone who wants a screen that can double as stylish home decor. They're designed to look like artwork when not in use, with a flush wall mount and a matte panel that resembles canvas.
Have You Set Up Your Digital ID Yet? How to Add Your Driver’s License and Passport to Your Phone
14 Must-Try Apple Watch Features That Don't Come Enabled By Default The Apple Watch is one of the best smartwatches on the market, hands down. And that's not just us. Consumer Reports agrees. Few other watches do such …
Best turntables and record players of 2026
The best turntables make listening to music feel deliberate and tangible. Pulling an album from its sleeve, setting it on the platter, and lowering the needle creates a hands-on connection you simply don't get from tapping play in a streaming app. A good record player can also produce the full, warm sound that makes vinyl so satisfying to listen to. But with so many turntables available at various price points, choosing the right record player can be tricky.
The $99 CMF Clip Pro are the open-ear earbuds most people can afford
The $99 CMF Clip Pro wireless earbuds offer open-ear comfort and transparency without sacrificing audio quality too much. In fact, the Clip Pro sound pretty good overall for wireless earbuds in this price category. Besides their open-ear, clip-on style, they also offer the novelty of media controls on the case. There's a dial that spins 360 degrees for volume. It can also be clicked to skip, play, and pause media. I've been using the CMF Clip Pro for my daily running, and they've worked well.
This magnetic power bank gets the basics right—and adds one smart feature
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. There are plenty of power banks to choose from, but Ugreen's latest, the MagFlow Air 10K, offers multiple charging options in a sturdy, unassuming design. It can wirelessly charge compatible phones with 15 watts of power using its Qi2 tech. It can also supply up to 30 watts of power using its integrated USB-C cable.
I tried B&O's $2,200 luxury headphones to see what they offer that cheaper ones don't. Here's what surprised me.
As a tech writer, I've used hundreds of headphones and earbuds. I review dozens each year for various publications, including top options from Apple, Bose, and Sony. But while I've tested cans from all the major players in the mainstream market, I haven't really dabbled much in the luxury space. So when I got the chance to try out Bang & Olufsen's $2,200 Beoplay H100 wireless headphones, I was excited. Could these premium headphones really offer something that $500 models can't match?
I tried B&O's $2,200 luxury headphones to see what they offer that cheaper ones don't. Here's what surprised me.
As a tech writer, I've used hundreds of headphones and earbuds. I review dozens each year for various publications, including top options from Apple, Bose, and Sony. But while I've tested cans from all the major players in the mainstream market, I haven't really dabbled much in the luxury space. So when I got the chance to try out Bang & Olufsen's $2,200 Beoplay H100 wireless headphones, I was excited. Could these premium headphones really offer something that $500 models can't match?
I spent 30 days wearing Google's $99 Fitbit Air—it only let me down in 2 ways
Google's Fitbit Air is a $99 screenless fitness tracker. It monitors sleep, blood oxygen, heart rate, VO2Max, and all kinds of activity metrics. Its low price and distraction-free health tracking make it a compelling way for people to keep tabs on their body. I've spent over 30 days wearing the wristband, comparing it to an Oura Ring and an Eight Sleep mattress pod. I was surprised to see all of these devices collect comparatively accurate data.
These wireless headphones deliver concert-level bass that you can actually feel
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. The Crusher 1080 ANC headphones come in three color options (Tyler Hayes) If being crushed by the level of bass in your music sounds tempting, then the new Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC wireless headphones are probably for you. The adjustable sensory bass experience, just like previous versions, can legitimately rattle you to your core. Skullcandy's latest Crusher headphones don't just rely on intense booming bass.
Amazon Ember Artline TV review: Is this Frame TV alternative worth it?
Amazon's Ember Artline TV is its answer to Samsung's popular Frame TV. Its design is meant to resemble art hanging on your wall, and it gets really close in a lot of ways. However, the Artline TV misses the mark in one key area: It doesn't get the frame quite right. The Ember Artline covers all the basics of a gallery-style TV. It has an anti-reflective screen, a flush wall mount, and access to a ton of artwork.
Amazon Ember Artline TV review: Is this Frame TV alternative worth it?
Amazon's Ember Artline TV is its answer to Samsung's popular Frame TV. Its design is meant to resemble art hanging on your wall, and it gets really close in a lot of ways. However, the Artline TV misses the mark in one key area: It doesn't get the frame quite right. The Ember Artline covers all the basics of a gallery-style TV. It has an anti-reflective screen, a flush wall mount, and access to a ton of artwork.
I didn’t know my iPhone charger needed this feature—but now I can’t live without it
This Week The Trend and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Charge an iPad or MacBook Neo at full speed (Tyler Hayes) The Mophie 4-in-1 Wireless Charge Stand has several attractive features, like its Qi2 25W power or its innovative cooling technology. But easily the stand's best feature is its hidden retractable USB-C cable. On the back of the Mophie 4-in-1 Stand is a USB-C cable capable of 60 watts of power.
Roborock Saros 20 review: A smarter, more refined robot vacuum, but is it worth the upgrade?
The best premium robot vacuums and mops will take frequent house cleaning off your schedule. They're helpful without being intrusive or distracting. The Roborock Saros 20 is one of the latest entries to this space. As Roborock's 2026 flagship level offering, this slim,feature-packed robot capable of going under couches but over big thresholds thanks to a lifting chassis that raises its body over three inches and incorporates AI features to create personalized cleaning plans.
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