Recent developments across the technology sector highlight a major push towards artificial intelligence and updated user interfaces. Microsoft is offering its AI-enhanced Windows 11 Pro at a significant discount, while Apple users are adapting to the visual and functional changes in the new iOS 26. Meanwhile, Google is revamping its Home app with Gemini AI, and Samsung is preparing to launch a high-end virtual reality headset.
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft is offering a lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro, featuring its AI Copilot, for under $15 for a limited time.
- Apple's new iOS 26 has received mixed feedback, with some users finding the process to revert to a previous version to be complex and risky.
- Google is redesigning its Google Home app to integrate its Gemini AI, coinciding with the expected release of new Nest smart devices.
- Samsung is expected to release its 'Project Moohan' VR headset in October, positioned as a high-end competitor to Apple's Vision Pro.
Microsoft Offers Windows 11 Pro with AI Features
Microsoft is providing a limited-time offer for its Windows 11 Pro operating system. Users can purchase a lifetime license for $12.97, a substantial reduction from the regular price of $199. This promotion is scheduled to run through October 5.
The professional version of Windows 11 includes several features designed to improve productivity and security. One of the most notable additions is the integration of AI Copilot, an artificial intelligence assistant built directly into the operating system. Copilot is designed to help users with a variety of tasks, such as adjusting settings, summarizing web pages, and generating text or code.
Enhanced Productivity and Security
Beyond AI, Windows 11 Pro introduces user interface enhancements aimed at better organization. Features like snap layouts and multiple desktops allow for more efficient multitasking. These tools are intended to benefit a wide range of users, from developers to creative professionals.
Security has also been a focus in this version. The operating system incorporates several advanced security measures:
- Biometric Logins: Allows for secure access using fingerprint or facial recognition.
- BitLocker Encryption: Provides full-disk encryption to protect data from unauthorized access.
- Smart App Control: Adds a layer of protection against untrusted or potentially malicious applications.
- TPM 2.0 Requirement: Ensures a hardware-based root of trust for platform integrity.
Lifetime License
Unlike many modern software products that rely on a subscription model, this offer for Windows 11 Pro is for a perpetual license. This means users pay a one-time fee for continued access to the software on a single device.
For gaming enthusiasts, the inclusion of DirectX 12 Ultimate ensures that the operating system is optimized to take full advantage of modern graphics hardware, delivering improved visual performance.
Apple's iOS 26 Update Prompts Mixed User Reactions
Apple's release of iOS 26 has introduced significant changes to the iPhone's interface, including a new design aesthetic referred to as "Liquid Glass." While many users have embraced the new animations and customization options, others have expressed dissatisfaction and reported software bugs.
The user response has been divided. Some have praised the new features, including Apple Intelligence upgrades and system tweaks. However, a notable number of users have reported issues online, with some calling the update a mistake and expressing frustration over performance glitches.
The Complexity of Downgrading iOS
For those unhappy with the update, reverting to a previous version of iOS is not a straightforward process. According to reports from beta testers and user forums, attempting to downgrade from iOS 26 to an older version like iOS 18 is a technical procedure that carries a significant risk of complete data loss.
Prerequisites for a Successful Downgrade
A user must have a full device backup that was created before updating to iOS 26. An iCloud or computer backup made while running the new operating system cannot be used to restore data on an older iOS version. This is a critical point that many users may overlook.
The process itself involves manually downloading the correct firmware file (.ipsw) for the specific iPhone model, placing the device into recovery mode, and using a computer to restore the phone with the older software. For the average user, this can be a difficult and risky task. Most technology experts advise that it is safer to wait for Apple to release subsequent updates to address bugs and performance issues.
Interface Changes and the Search Bar
One specific design choice in iOS 26 that has drawn criticism is the relocation of the search bar to the bottom of the screen in many parts of the system. This change disrupts the muscle memory of long-time iPhone users who are accustomed to the search bar appearing at the top.
While many aspects of iOS 26 are customizable, the system-wide search bar location is not one of them. There is currently no setting to move the search bar back to the top across the entire operating system. However, there is a solution for one specific app: Safari.
Users can move the address and search bar in the Safari web browser back to its traditional top position by following these steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and select Safari.
- Under the "Tabs" section, select the "Top" option.
This change only affects Safari and does not alter the search bar's position on the home screen or in other applications.
Google Prepares Major Google Home App Overhaul
Google is set to release a significant update for its Google Home app, redesigning the user interface to place its Gemini AI at the core of the smart home experience. According to a report from Android Authority, the new version will heavily feature Gemini and Gemini Live, replacing the older Google Assistant as the primary interaction method.
The update introduces an "Ask Home" search bar, allowing users to control devices and automations using natural language commands powered by Gemini. The app's layout is also being refreshed with cleaner pages, new icons, and a reorganized "favorites" page for quick access to preferred devices and settings.
Hardware and Software Integration
This app redesign is expected to coincide with Google's planned announcement of new smart home hardware in October. The new product line is rumored to include a new Nest speaker with built-in Gemini, a new Nest doorbell, and updated Nest cameras.
The move to integrate Gemini more deeply follows Google's decision earlier this year to end support for first and second-generation Nest Thermostats. The company stated this was necessary to focus resources on developing and supporting newer hardware and software experiences.
Samsung to Challenge Apple with High-End VR Headset
Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch its long-awaited virtual reality headset, codenamed "Project Moohan," in October. The device is positioned as a direct competitor to Apple's Vision Pro and is expected to come with a premium price tag, with leaks suggesting a range between $1,799 and $2,999.
While this price is significantly higher than the Meta Quest 3 ($499), it remains below the starting price of the Apple Vision Pro ($3,499). The expected launch will be staggered, with an initial release in Korea on October 13, followed by a global launch on October 21. Preorders are rumored to begin on September 29.
Advanced Technology and Specifications
Leaked specifications indicate that the Samsung headset will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip, a more powerful variant of the processor found in the Meta Quest 3. This suggests a strong focus on performance for high-fidelity mixed-reality experiences.
The display technology is another key area of focus. The headset is said to feature 1.3-inch Micro-OLED panels with a resolution of 3552×3840 per eye. This equates to 13.64 million pixels for each eye, which is nearly two million more than the Apple Vision Pro and substantially more than the Quest 3's 4.56 million pixels per eye. This high resolution should provide an exceptionally sharp and immersive visual experience.