AllYouCanTech

### SmallRig S70 Mic Kit: A Transformative Tool for Creators

SmallRig has made a name for itself as a reliable brand among content creators, delivering creative solutions to improve video production. At CES 2026, they introduced the SmallRig S70 mic kit, a product that aims to boost audio quality for creators without exceeding budget limits.

#### The Significance of Audio in Video Production

In video production, audio quality holds immense importance. While viewers may forgive minor visual flaws, poor audio can result in instant disengagement. The S70 mic kit tackles this essential factor, providing a high-quality audio option at an appealing price of only $90. This price point is particularly attractive when compared to other favored alternatives, like the $330 DJI Mic 3 and the $99 DJI Mic Mini.

#### Contents of the S70 Kit

The S70 mic kit is packaged in a stylish, portable case and features:

– **Two Receivers**: One tailored for cameras with a 3.5mm output and another a compact USB-C receiver for smartphones. An Apple Lightning version is also available for a limited duration.
– **Two Microphones (Transmitters)**: Designed to be discreet, these feature a loop that clips onto clothing, reducing visual distraction.

#### Main Features of the S70 Mic Kit

1. **Dual Receivers**: The camera receiver has a gain control and a switch for Stereo or Mono recording, providing flexible audio management. The stereo setting is particularly beneficial for interviews, allowing individual voice isolation.

2. **Safety Track Mode**: This function lowers gain on the second track to avoid clipping from unanticipated loud noises, making it suitable for unpredictable filming scenarios.

3. **Customizable Microphones**: The transmitters are crafted to seamlessly blend with subjects, and SmallRig provides a set of eight colored covers to complement various outfits.

4. **Expert Audio Tuning**: The S70 features microphone tuning by a four-time Grammy Award-winning engineer, along with nine EQ presets to adapt audio to particular requirements.

5. **Noise Reduction and Gain Adjustment**: The kit offers three levels of noise reduction and five levels of gain adjustment, giving creators significant control over their audio output.

6. **Remarkable Battery Life**: The microphones provide up to eight hours of operation, with a total of 40 hours available when kept in the charging case.

#### Conclusion

The SmallRig S70 mic kit distinguishes itself as a complete, cost-effective option for creators aiming to improve their audio quality. With its adaptable compatibility for both cameras and mobile devices, along with a range of professional features, it is set to become a preferred audio solution for on-the-go content creators. As SmallRig continues to evolve and meet the demands of creators, the S70 mic kit exemplifies their dedication to quality and functionality in the creative industry.

### The Future of Siri and the Apple Ecosystem: Insights from the Gemini Agreement

In a recent talk, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller explored the profound ramifications of the newly finalized Gemini agreement for Siri and the wider Apple ecosystem. This collaboration is set to introduce transformative modifications, especially in the functionality of Siri and its integration with other Apple offerings.

#### Expected Features and Innovations

Now that the Gemini agreement is official, users can look forward to the rollout of fresh features in the near term. While precise timelines are still uncertain, the hosts deliberated on possible enhancements that might elevate Siri’s capabilities, rendering it more intuitive and responsive to user demands. The incorporation of cutting-edge AI technologies from Gemini is anticipated to boost Siri’s performance, enabling more personalized interactions and smarter task management.

#### The Apple Creator Studio Package

Alongside the Gemini agreement, the discussion also examined the recently introduced Apple Creator Studio package. This offering is designed to empower creators with tools and resources to enhance their content production. The hosts considered the appeal of this package, noting its potential to engage a diverse array of users, from novice creators to experienced professionals. The blend of hardware and software solutions within the package is crafted to streamline the creative workflow, simplifying the process for users to create high-quality content.

#### Courtside Experience with Vision Pro

Chance Miller recounted his distinctive experience of watching a basketball game from courtside using the Vision Pro headset. This immersive encounter underscores the potential of augmented reality to enrich entertainment and sports viewing experiences. The features of the Vision Pro could transform how fans connect with live events, providing a new dimension of interaction and enjoyment.

#### iCloud and Data Backup Methods

In the Happy Hour Plus segment, Benjamin and Chance examined the dependability of iCloud as a data backup solution. They discussed various backup methods, highlighting the necessity of multiple layers of data security. While iCloud is a trustworthy option for many users, the hosts suggested supplementary strategies to ensure data safety, such as using external hard drives and other cloud services.

#### Join the Discussion

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus for ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and bonus episodes. For those interested in supporting the show, there are annual subscriptions available at a reduced price using the code HAPPY26.

#### Feedback and Engagement

The hosts welcome feedback and questions from their audience. Listeners can send inquiries via Twitter, Mastodon, or email, promoting a community dialogue about the latest developments in Apple technology and innovations.

### Conclusion

The discussions about the Gemini agreement, the Apple Creator Studio package, and the future of Siri illustrate the evolving landscape of the Apple ecosystem. As new features and technologies are introduced, users can anticipate an enhanced experience that harnesses the latest advancements in AI and augmented reality.

Apple Intelligence, which debuted in 2024, is set for major progress in 2026, especially with the expected launch of ‘Siri 2.0’ this spring. The recent collaboration between Apple and Google marks a key milestone, expanding beyond Siri to include the next generation of Apple Foundation Models, utilizing Google’s Gemini models and cloud services.

This partnership signifies a strategic transition for Apple, focusing on greatly enhancing its AI capabilities. The official announcement emphasized that the upcoming Siri features are merely the start of a wider effort to advance Apple Intelligence.

With the forthcoming iOS 26.4 update, users should prepare for a new chapter for Siri, although it’s important to manage expectations. Initial features will be released this spring, while more sophisticated functions, like recalling previous conversations and offering proactive suggestions, are slated for introduction at Apple’s annual developer conference in June. This stepwise plan indicates that while the foundation for Siri’s evolution is being established, more significant changes will require time.

Looking to the future, iOS 27 is speculated to unveil numerous significant AI features, including a web search tool powered by AI and a redesigned Siri persona. With Google’s backing, Apple seeks to introduce innovative functionalities that improve the user experience across its devices.

As the AI landscape progresses, Apple’s strategic alliance with Google might reshape its method of engaging with artificial intelligence, promising a more cohesive and intelligent experience for users in the years ahead.

**Apple Trade-In Values Update: Major Modifications and Observations**

Only two months following the prior revision, Apple has once more modified its trade-in values for a range of products, such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. This recent update, which takes into account market fluctuations and product interest, results in both increases and decreases in trade-in values, with significant changes especially in the Mac segment.

### Mac Trade-In Values Experience Notable Increases

Among the most pronounced adjustments, Mac trade-in values have witnessed considerable hikes. For example, the trade-in value for the MacBook Pro has soared to $2,515, rising from $760, a remarkable increase of 230.92%. Similarly, the value of the MacBook Air increased to $900 from $540, showcasing a 66.67% increase. Other models such as the iMac and Mac Pro also saw significant gains, making it an opportune time for users looking to trade in their Macs.

### iPhone Trade-In Values Modified

Conversely, most iPhone models have faced a decline in trade-in values, with reductions varying between $5 and $20. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, for instance, currently has a trade-in value of $650, down from $670, indicating a 2.99% decrease. Additional models, including the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16, have also experienced similar drops, signifying a trend of diminishing values for newer iPhone models.

### iPad and Apple Watch Trade-In Values

The trade-in values for iPads have also been modified, with the iPad Pro now valued at $685, a decrease from $695, while the iPad Air has fallen to $400 from $415. The iPad mini’s value has remained steady at $255.

With regard to Apple Watches, the values have displayed mixed outcomes. The Apple Watch Series 10 is currently valued at $150, a drop from $160, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 stays consistent at $335. Other models like the Apple Watch Series 9 and Series 8 have also seen slight reductions.

### Recap of Trade-In Values

Here’s a recap of the updated trade-in values for primary Apple products:

#### iPhone Trade-In Values
| Model | New Value | Previous Value | Change (%) | Change ($) |
|—————————|———–|—————-|————|————|
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | $650 | $670 | -2.99% | -$20 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | $530 | $550 | -3.64% | -$20 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | $450 | $470 | -4.26% | -$20 |
| iPhone SE (3rd gen) | $80 | $80 | 0.00% | $0 |

#### iPad Trade-In Values
| Model | New Value | Previous Value | Change (%) | Change ($) |
|—————————|———–|—————-|————|————|
| iPad Pro | $685 | $695 | -1.44% | -$10 |
| iPad Air | $400 | $415 | -3.61% | -$15 |
| iPad mini | $255 | $255 | 0.00% | $0 |

#### Mac Trade-In Values
| Model | New Value | Previous Value | Change (%) | Change ($) |
|—————————|———–|—————-|————|————|
| MacBook Pro | $2,515 | $760 | 230.92% | $1,755 |
| MacBook Air | $900 | $540 | 66.67% | $360 |
| iMac | $875 | $375 | 133.33% | $500 |

#### Apple Watch Trade-In Values
| Model | New Value | Previous Value | Change (%) | Change ($) |
|—————————|———–|—————-|————|————|
| Apple Watch Series 10 | $150 | $160 | -6.25% | -$10 |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | $335 | $335 | 0.00% | $0 |
| Apple Watch Series 9 | $115 | $125 | -8.00% | -$10 |

### Conclusion

Apple’s trade-in program continues to adapt, mirroring market dynamics and consumer preferences. Users intending to trade in their devices should evaluate these revised values to optimize their returns. For further details on the regulations and stipulations of Apple’s trade-in program, please visit the official Apple website.

**iOS 26.3: Anticipated Features and Launch Date**

Apple is expected to soon roll out iOS 26.2.1, which centers on bug fixes, while the subsequent major version, iOS 26.3, is likely to debut later this month. Historical trends regarding Apple’s software launches imply that iOS 26.3 will probably become available in late January, continuing the pattern of earlier x.3 releases.

### iOS 26.3 Release Anticipated in Late January

Apple has reliably adhered to a consistent timeline for its software rollouts. Examining the release dates for prior iOS x.3 updates highlights a recurring trend:

– **iOS 18.3**: January 27
– **iOS 17.3**: January 22
– **iOS 16.3**: January 23

All these updates occurred shortly after Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls on January 15 this year. Thus, if Apple sticks to this predictable schedule, iOS 26.3 could launch on **Monday, January 26**, though there is a possibility it might be delayed to later that week or early the following week.

For those eager to try iOS 26.3 before its official release, enrolling in Apple’s public beta program is an available option.

### New Features and Modifications in iOS 26.3 So Far

Typically, x.3 updates from Apple present fewer novel features compared to significant releases. Up to now, iOS 26.3 has revealed only a few updates, including:

1. **Wallpaper Updates**: The wallpaper category now includes a specific area for Weather, distinct from Astronomy, alongside new Weather options.

2. **Android Transfer Feature**: A new option created in partnership with Google streamlines the process of moving data from an iPhone to an Android phone.

3. **Notification Forwarding for EU Users**: Soon, users in the EU will have the ability to configure notification forwarding for non-Apple Watch wearables, a feature that was previously limited to Apple devices.

Further modifications may be introduced at the public release, such as a new Black Unity wallpaper and possible end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging.

As the launch date nears, users who have participated in the beta testing are encouraged to provide their insights and feedback.