How to Use HitPaw Video Converter for PC & Mac
Macworld With the ever-rising popularity of video, fast and convenient video converters have become an essential tool. HitPaw Video Converter is a professional and all-in-one cross-platform application that enables you to easily convert and download videos on Windows, Mac, online, and your mobile phone. Whether you are a content creator, a YouTuber or a viewer of online video, HitPaw Video Converter will improve your video experience. Introducing HitPaw Video Converter HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Video Converter is smart software that can convert videos, music, DVDs and images, and also help you to download and edit video. With its rich feature set and clear, simple-to-use interface, HitPaw Video Converter is an efficient tool for individuals and small businesses who need to work with video and audio files. Key Features Convert videos, music, and DVDs to over 1,000 formats Download videos, playlists, and music from multiple websites Built-in AI tools for background removal, noise removal, and vocal removal Edit videos using features such as trim, merge, compress, add watermark, crop, rotate, filter, and change speed Burn videos to Blu-ray without quality loss Convert 2D videos to 3D Lossless music converter for Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, etc Supports GPU acceleration for faster conversion speeds Add subtitles to videos in various formats (SRT, ASS, VTT, SSA) Built-in player for previewing videos before conversion Batch conversion for multiple files Available for Windows and Mac operating systems How to Use HitPaw Video Converter Video Conversion HitPaw Video Converter is primarily known for its ability as a video converter. It flawlessly and speedily convert your existing format video to 1000+ video formats making it easily the best tool to be used as a YouTube video converter. Here is the simple step by step guide to use HiPaw Video Converter for video conversion: Step 1. Launch the software, select the Convert tab, then click the Add Files button. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 2. Select your output format and quality settings. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 3. Click the Converted button to download the file to your PC. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Playlist Downloader HitPaw Video Converter can batch-download video from more than 10,000 websites. Here’s how to download video playlists using HitPaw Video Converter. Step 1. Find the video playlist that you want to download and copy the URL of the web page. Step 2. Select the Download tab and click Download Playlist. Paste in the URL of the playlist you copied in Step 1. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 3. Select the videos you wish to download from the playlist, then choose the desired output file type and quality. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 4. Click Download and HitPaw Video Converter will begin downloading all the selected videos from the playlist. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 5. When HitPaw Video Converter has finished, you’ll find your downloaded files on the Downloaded tab. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Video Editor HitPaw Video Converter can also be used as a video editor – here’s how. Step 1. Select the Edit tab. Choose one of the available features, such as Trim, Crop, Filters or Effects. Step 2. Click the Add Files button to upload your video(s) and begin editing. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 3. Select the desired output format of the edited video, then click Export to save it to your local machine. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw can handle multiple video formats, including MP4, which is widely used online. HitPaw Video Converter is a multifunctional and easy-to-use tool for both converting video and basic video editing. Video Compression Video compression allows your files to take up less storage space, and also makes them easier to stream. Here’s how to compress your video files with HitPaw Video Converter. Step 1. Open HitPaw Video Converter and select the Toolbox tab. Choose the Video/Image Compressor feature. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 2. Click the Add Video button to upload your video. Then choose the amount of compression you want to apply (low, high or custom). Select the output format, and adjust other settings including bitrate, resolution and FPS as required. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 3. Click the Compress button to start the compression process. The compressed video will then be saved to the location you specified. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw DVD and CD Burning HitPaw Video Converter can also be used to burn CDs and DVDs. Just follow the steps below: Step 1. Launch HitPaw Video Converter and select the Toolbox tab. Click on the DVD Burner feature. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 2. Click the Add Video button to upload the files you wish to burn to disc. Customize the settings for the label, aspect ratio, quality, etc. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 3. Click Burn to begin burning the video files to a DVD disc, DVD folder, or ISO file. Once the burning process is complete, you can play the created DVD and CD. Vocal Remover Step 1. Launch HitPaw Video Converter, select the Toolbox tab, and click Vocal Remover. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 2. Add the audio or video file from which you wish to remove vocals to Vocal Remover. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 3. After you’ve added a file, HitPaw Video Converter uses AI to automatically analyze its content. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Step 4. Once analysis is complete, you can choose to export the music and vocals seperately. Select an appropriate destination next to ‘Save to:’ to export your edited files. HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw HitPaw Video Converter Pricing A free trial of HitPaw Video Converter is available. If you enjoy using the software, the full version costs $19.95 per month. At this price, HitPaw Video Converter is an effective tool for video and audio file conversion, with support for more than a thousand file formats, AI tools, and GPU acceleration. HitPaw Video Converter could be a useful addition to the toolset of both PC or video converter Mac users. Should you buy HitPaw Video Converter? HitPaw Video Converter can help you download video from almost any website and convert them to any format. It supports more than 1,000 video and audio formats (including MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV), allowing for compatibility with any device. The batch-processing functionality is efficient, letting pro users convert and edit multiple videos at once, while a simple user interface will also appeal to first-time users. With additional tools including face blurring and a vocal remover, HitPaw Video Converter is an ideal tool for converting and downloading video from YouTube, Facebook and other platforms. FAQ 1. How do video-conversion tools work? Video conversion tools work by decoding the original video file, applying any desired changes like format, resolution or codec, and then re-encoding the video into the target format. 2. Is there a safe online video converter? HitPaw Video Converter is a safe online video converter that allows users to convert videos without downloading any software. It supports a variety of formats, maintains high quality, and is easy to use. Final Thoughts HitPaw Video Converter is an effective application for the conversion of video files on PC or Mac. With support for more than 1,000 of video and audio formats, it can perform many editing tasks, from downloading YouTube video to converting files to suit a specific device or platform. This fully functional video converter has a simple user interface, offers fast file conversion, and includes sought after features such as batch conversion and video cutting. Whether you are a PC or Mac user and video converter App user, you can depend on HitPaw Video Converter for all your video-conversion needs.

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iPhone SE 4 rumored to finally ditch LCD for OLED in early 2025
Rumors of an iPhone SE 4 with an OLED screen are continuing to gain pace, with Apple reportedly ceasing supplies of LCD panels.iPhone SE 3The iPhone SE is the last Apple smartphone to have an LCD screen instead of using an OLED panel. Rumors have previously proposed the iPhone SE will join the rest of the collection in using OLED at some point in the future.In Tuesday's report from Nikkei Asia, Apple is set to stop working with two Japanese display panel suppliers for iPhone screens. Japan Display and Sharp are providers of LCDs, and will continue to do so for the iPhone SE 3. Rumor Score: 🤯 Likely Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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The silliest iPhone apps of all time
Macworld Sometimes you wonder what you’re supposed to do with all the technology in your trouser pocket. The answer? Well, some developers have given it some very special thought. Here’s a selection of the most bizarre apps that turn your iPhone into a veritable marvel of uselessness. Is It Dark Outside? App Store App Store App Store Have you ever desperately wondered if it’s dark outside, but just didn’t have the heart to get up and check? Is It Dark Outside? solves the problem for you. The app checks whether the sun has set—and that’s it. Ideal for anyone who thinks windows are overrated or wants to practice living in a bunker for potential zombie apocalypses. And those who can’t be bothered to look at the sunset time in the Weather app—or to just ask Siri. Pimple Popper App Store App Store App Store For those who find relaxation in the art of squeezing pimples, there’s an app for that: Pimple Popper. Press, squeeze, and squirt up to four different types of pimples to your heart’s content. We warned you! iBeer App Store App Store App Store A beer that never runs out and doesn’t give you a hangover? Sounds too good to be true. But with iBeer, you can drink endlessly—without spilling a drop. Cheers! Kissing Test App Store App Store App Store Have you ever wondered how good your kissing skills are? Kissing Test delivers the merciless truth, without any embarrassing moments or lipstick stains. Simply select the appropriate gender and you’re ready to go. Please clean the display beforehand. And afterwards too. Lighter App Store App Store App Store It can do everything a real lighter can do, except start a fire. Lighter is the perfect app for all those moments when you need a lighter but don’t want to risk a flame, for example at concerts. Everyone else is waving their smartphones with the flash switched on while the ballad is being played, while you–stylishly–use a lighter like in the 80s. Screaming Goat App Store App Store App Store Who hasn’t always wanted a screaming goat in their pocket? Exactly, nobody. But if you do, Screaming Goat is the perfect choice. One click and the goat screams – you just have to calm it down afterward. plopp – bubble wrap App Store App Store App Store For many, popping bubble wrap is one of life’s few true pleasures. So why wait for real foil when you can have it digitally? Plopp – bubble wrap lets you pop plastic bubbles wherever you are, with a 3D touch feeling (on supported devices). Incidentally, the bubbles also respond to pressure with the Apple Pencil. Ghost Radar Classic™ App Store App Store App Store If you have the feeling that your neighborhood is haunted, just let your iPhone do the work for you. Ghost Radar Classic recognizes ghosts—or at least anything that sounds vaguely like one. Whether this is really reassuring remains to be seen. Milk The Cow: Cow Milking App Store App Store App Store If you’ve always dreamed of milking a cow but never had the opportunity, here’s your chance! Milk the Cow lets you squeeze for all you’re worth and see how much milk you can collect in a minute. Udder ridiculousness included. Ant Smasher App Store App Store App Store For all those who like to squash ants – but only digitally, please. Ant Smasher allows you to practice destroying little crawlers. It could even be a little therapeutic if only the adverts weren’t so annoying. 1.000 dollars for nothing: the legendary “I Am Rich” app no longer exists In August 2008, the app “I Am Rich” by German developer Armin Heinrich caused head-scratching around the world: For a whopping 999.99 dollars, you could buy an app that did nothing more than display a red ruby on the screen. In fact, it was even bought eight times (!) before Apple removed it from the store due to public outcry. Heinrich defended his work as “art” – but criticism of the most expensive yet useless app of all time was inevitable. Today, “I Am Rich” remains a curious chapter in the history of the App Store. This article originally appeared on our sister publication Macwelt and was translated and localized from German by Jason Cross.

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Samsung M8 Smart Monitor (M80D, 2024) review
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating ProsCompetitive price32-inch display with 4K resolutionBuilt-in Wi-Fi with support for AirPlayConsNo EthernetSome features require a Samsung accountNo support for DCI-P3Our VerdictThe low price means that the M8 has a few rough edges, but it’s a great option for home users who want a high-quality display that doesn’t break the bank. Price When Reviewed$549.99 (originally $999.98) Best Prices Today: Samsung M8 (M80D, 2024) Retailer Price $549.99 View Deal Saumsung $549.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Samsung’s M8 Smart Monitor has been on our list of the Best Mac Monitors ever since it was first launched back in 2022, as it provides an attractive 32-inch monitor with 4K resolution at a far lower price than Apple’s expensive 27-inch Studio Display. The M8 has continued to prove popular since then, and Samsung recently launched an updated version, which also goes by the full model number of ‘M80D’ to indicate that this is the monitor’s fourth-generation update (like the Enterprise D in Star Trek). However, Samsung is still selling the previous M80C model, while some online stores even have the older M80B as well, so make sure you check those model numbers before buying. The glass panel that provides the main display hasn’t changed much, still providing 4K resolution with 400 nits brightness, but the M80D model updates a number of other features to ensure that it continues to provide excellent value for money at just $549.99/£529. See how the Samsung M8 (2024, M80D) compares to other models in our round-up of the Best Mac monitors. Admittedly, the low cost of the display means that there are some compromises, and the build quality of the M8 does seem a little rough and ready at times. The monitor comes out of the box in three parts that have to be assembled by hand with the help of a screwdriver, and the plastic casing used for the display and the detachable 1080p webcam feels a little flimsy. But this isn’t a mobile device that you’re going to carry around in a backpack, and the M8 will be fine for general day-to-day use when it’s sitting on your desk at home. The detachable 1080p webcam. The detachable 1080p webcam. The detachable 1080p webcam. It also manages to include quite a few features that the more expensive Apple Studio Display lacks, starting with a versatile stand that allows you to adjust the height – for which Apple charges an extra $400/£400–and also to tilt the screen and even pivot (rotate) the screen into the upright portrait position. There’s even a little solar panel on the handheld remote control that allows you to recharge it without having to plug it in via USB. The Samsung M8 Smart Monitor (M80D, 2024) in Portrait mode. The Samsung M8 Smart Monitor (M80D, 2024) in Portrait mode. The Samsung M8 Smart Monitor (M80D, 2024) in Portrait mode. As mentioned, the screen provides 4K resolution with 400nits brightness, which isn’t quite as bright as the 500nits on my MacBook Pro, but I found it perfectly adequate for watching video or browsing the web even when it was set to just 80% of maximum brightness. The M8 is primarily designed for home users or people who work from home, and it supports HDR content and 99% of the sRGB color standard, which will be accurate enough to handle basic graphics work, photo-editing and presentations. However, professional photographers or video editors who require the more precise DCI-P3 standard will need to look at more expensive alternatives. Somewhat oddly, the M80D model has a different set of connectors, with one USB-C port, one HDMI and two USB-A ports, whereas previous models that we’ve tested had two USB-C and one HDMI. Some people might miss that extra USB-C port, but the M80D still supports Bluetooth for connecting additional peripherals, along with Wi-Fi and AirPlay for Apple devices. This means that you can use AirPlay to stream audio to the M8’s speakers or even mirror the display from your Mac or iPad to the M8 without having to use a cable at all (although a cable connection will be better for video mirroring, unless you have a really fast network). Unfortunately, you do need to create a Samsung account in order to use some features–including AirPlay–which is both tedious and annoying as you inevitably have to accept Samsung’s terms and conditions for collecting information as you use the monitor. The reason for this is that the M8 can be used as more than just a basic computer monitor. Like all of Samsung’s Smart Monitor range it has a built-in Entertainment Hub, which includes apps for Netflix, YouTube and other streaming services (our review unit even included a three-month free subscription for Apple TV+ – although this offer was only available for first-time subscribers). You can connect to the Xbox gaming service and there’s a web browser as well, which you can also control by using Bluetooth or USB to connect a mouse and keyboard. There are some functions that aren’t available to Mac users, such as the ability to pair the display with a Samsung Galaxy Watch in order to monitor your fitness data, and there’s an Easy Settings app that is only available for Windows users that provides additional controls for screen layout and window management. Samsung could also do more to make the M8’s on-screen menus and controls more straightforward, as it sometimes takes a while to wade through multiple menus to find the specific features you’re looking for. Even so, it’s impressive that an affordable monitor such as this is able to include so many useful features, and the M8 remains a good option for home users who want a high-quality 4K display at a competitive price. Should you buy the Samsung M8 Smart Monitor (M80D, 2024)? The build quality isn’t up to Apple standards, and the on-screen menu system is a bit untidy. However, the M8 provides an affordable and attractive 4K display for home users, and even outguns Apple’s more expensive Studio display with its adjustable stand, built-in apps and other features.

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Flexible glass displays could replace MacBook Pro keyboards
Apple looked at using single glass panels and touch-sensitive membranes when it was trying to solve its MacBook Pro butterfly keyboard problems, but the now newly-patented technology also solves dust and wear issues.A glass keyboard could be flexible, and also have a display underneathDue to their design, keyboards are able to be affected by elements gumming up the mechanism, preventing the keys from smoothly lowering and raising when pressed.While old-fashioned keyboards are less susceptible, the chiclet-style notebook keyboards, like the ones used in the MacBook Pro lineup, may be prone. They can easily be stopped from working efficiently if dust, crumbs, or liquids enter under the keys and impact the mechanism. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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When will tech companies start solving problems people actually have?
Macworld Hey, everyone. Huddle up. Come in close. Closer. Carl, put that pudding away. Okay, look, keep this between us, but the Macalope thinks if we pretend to be a startup making another AI pin no one wants, we might just be able to walk off with a mess of cash before the venture capital firms figure out what’s going on. Yep, we’ve got another one! It’s the Plaud NotePin! As Wired puts it, “This Wearable AI Notetaker Will Transcribe Your Meetings—and Someday, Your Entire Life” The Macalope is somewhat tempted to make up another one of his patented fake gameshows–this one entitled “WHO! ASKED! FOR! THAT?!” but you already get the point. NO ONE ASKED FOR THAT. And the Maclope fully expects this one to do just as well as the previous stabs at it. Which is to say, not great, Bob: “Humane’s daily returns are outpacing sales” If trends like this continue, Humane is on track to have negative sales. The Macalope isn’t sure how, exactly, a company manages to do that but these trend lines don’t lie. IDG IDG IDG See? Right here? The line goes into negative territory. The Macalope ran these numbers five times. I mean, he knows that’s not how it works. He just thinks it’s funny. See? The line goes below zero. Hahaha. Ahhhhhh. The AI pin race is like Highlander except instead of there being only one, there can be only none. What is the point of all of this? Mostly to shuffle a bunch of money around until a company gullible enough decides to bake it into their existing hardware product. About a week after the reviews came out, Humane started talking to HP, the computer and printer company, about selling itself for more than $1 billion, three people with knowledge of the conversations said. The New York Times, June 7, 2024 The Times’s report doesn’t speculate on which products HP might be interested in shoehorning Humane’s offering into but as the company that sells subscription-based printers–with monthly print limits and cancellation fees–well, let’s just say the potential is hilarious. “What if your printer was a subscription-based service that printed stuff it just made up?” Okay, we’ve had a lot of fun at AI’s expense. We’ve laughed and we’ve learned. But the horny one is here with a serious message for tech companies: Please go back to making things people want to buy. And, to a degree, this includes Apple. Of course, people are still buying Apple products. Apple still makes good products! But you have to go back to AirPods, introduced in 2016, to find a new Apple product category that transformed a part of this mythical creature’s life. (The HomePod is a solid product, but it’s not transformative, at least in the Macalope’s experience.) Is eight years a long time? Certainly not for any other company, and maybe it’s not that long for even Apple. After all, the Watch came out the previous year and also ended up being pretty transformative. (The Vision Pro doesn’t currently fit this category simply because it’s currently too expensive for most people. That could change, however.) The Macalope isn’t expecting something like the iPhone. There will probably never be a product as transformative as the iPhone again in his lifetime. But companies should be looking at everyday problems actual people have and trying to solve them. Spending too much time writing a book or making other art is not what most people would consider a problem. Certainly, not one that needs to be solved by Hoovering up the content they put online without paying for it. Not living in a big enough police state is also not something regular, non-weirdos consider a problem. Sorry, AI pins. Speaking personally, this furry observer would rather tech companies think smaller rather than bigger. Solve a simple problem people have in a way that feels magical. Until then, no one wants to pay monthly for self-surveillance tech.

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Rumor: Apple developing updated Magic Keyboard for entry-level iPad, iPad Air units
If you’re looking for an updated Magic Keyboard for your iPad, it’s being developed as we speak. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s suppliers are said to be developing a new keyboard for the ‌iPad‌ that will launch next year. The accessory is said to be designed for the entry-level ‌iPad‌ or the iPad Air, […] Source

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Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) review
Macworld At a glanceExpert's Rating ProsDual 4K monitor support for M1/M2/M3 Macs13 ports100W PD to laptopFast SD card readerConsNot for fast data transferSlow MicroSD card readerOur VerdictThis is a good-looking and flexible DisplayLink docking station with numerous (if rather underpowered) USB ports, Ethernet and card readers. M1, M2 and M3 MacBook owners will appreciate the DisplayLink functionality that brings the world of dual external displays within their reach in a sleek Mac-friendly case. Price When Reviewed$199.95 Best Prices Today: Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) Retailer Price $199 View Deal $199.95 View Deal $199.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Plugable has radically redesigned its popular UD-6950PDH docking station, which now comes to the attention of owners of the M1 and M2 (and to a lesser degree M3) Macs. With this docking station, Macs with the plain (non-Pro or Max) M1 and M2 processor can connect two extra displays, whereas in default mode these Macs are limited to just one external display. As we explain in our feature on how to connect two or more displays to an M1 and M2 Mac, this bonus functionality requires the user to install a DisplayLink software driver to get around Apple’s frustrating limitation. While plain M3 (and soon M4) MacBooks can connect to two external displays, the laptop’s own screen must be off with the laptop’s lid closed. A DisplayLink dock allows that M3 MacBook to remain open with the two additional displays attached. Specs and features The Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) features an impressive 13 ports alongside its DisplayLink M1/M2-display savior function. USB-C upstream connector to laptop (100W PD 3.0) 1x USB-C (5Gbps, 7.5W) 1x USB-A (5Gbps, 7.5W) 3x USB-A (5Gbps, 4.5W) 2x DisplayPort 1.2 ports 2x HDMI 1.4 ports Gigabit Ethernet SD card reader (UHS-II, 312MBps) MicroSD card reader (UHS-I, 104MBps) 3.5mm audio 134W power supply Foundry Foundry Foundry There’s a lot of ports here but you won’t get data transfer any faster than 5Gbps as that’s the top speed of all the USB ports, including the upstream USB-C to the laptop. Most Macs boast 40Gbps Thunderbolt these days, so if you require top data-transfer speeds you should consider another of our best Thunderbolt docks for Mac. 10Gbps is the USB-C norm these days, but if you want 40Gbps in a dock that also offers DisplayLink functionality, check out the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink. The Plugable dock ships with a 1m (3.3ft) USB-C cable that theoretically can handle 10Gbps but the most you’ll get from the dock is 5Gbps. The 5Gbps upstream port that you use to connect to the laptop is handily located on one of the ends of the dock, rather than at the front as some dock manufacturers insist on doing. There’s only one downstream USB-C port (to a device other than the host laptop) but four old-school USB-A ports. We’d prefer more USB-C ports than USB-A, which is getting a bit long in the tooth now. Plugable isn’t alone in still providing plenty of USB-A ports, and I expect it knows more about its audience than I do but I look forward to the day when USB-A is no longer a consideration. That singular USB-C port and one of the USB-A ports offer 7.5W of device charging power—which, while better than the other ports’ weedy 4.5W power output, is still not a great deal of use if you want to charge even a phone from the dock. 7.5W is fine for low-power storage devices (and equivalent to a MagSafe-compatible wireless charger), but the dock loses points for not having at least one downstream 20W or higher USB output. An external SSD drive might only need around 3W of power, so the USBs here are going to be able to handle that load but you may need the 7.5W on some storage devices that you connect, especially if they are writing data. External HDDs are more power-hungry so even 7.5W might be a little light. However, the passthrough PD 3.0 power from the dock to the laptop is impressive at 100W. The maximum power output is determined by the 134W power supply, but the lightly powered USB ports mean that it won’t be troubled even fully loaded. Plugable Plugable Plugable On top of the USB ports is Gigabit Ethernet for fast and stable wired network access, and two storage card readers. While it’s flexible in offering both SD and MicroSD card readers, it’s odd that the SD reader is fast UHS-II (312MBps) while the MicroSD is pegged back at 104MBps. While we’ve seen docks with both either UHS-I or UHS-II, we’ve never seen this speed disparity between readers on one dock before. MicroSD cards are often cheaper than SD cards so having this format at the slower speed is something a disappointment. That said, unless you require super-fast data transfer from the card, it shouldn’t bother you too much. Speed aside, having these card readers opens up a world of ultra-affordable portable storage with SD cards offering up to 2TB in a tiny package. At the time of writing, Amazon is selling a SanDisk 1.5TB MicroSD card for $110. A 512GB version costs under $50. Note that memory card prices are quite volatile so keep looking for the best prices over time. Also at the front is a 3.5mm combination audio jack port, replacing the separate speaker and mic inputs found in the original UD-6950. That’s a nice upgrade but is par for the course in modern docking stations. Plugable Plugable Plugable Display power via DisplayLink At the back of the dock are what will interest M1 and M2 MacBook owners: two DisplayPort and two HDMI ports for video connection to external displays. While these ports are not the most up-to-date (DisplayPort 1.2 and HDMI 1.4) they still support up to 4K at a healthy 60Hz refresh rate, which is the standard a dock should aspire to. If you want 5K or 6K, look elsewhere. As mentioned at the start of this review, frustratingly Apple has capped its plain M1 and M2 MacBooks at just the one possible external display. Plain M3 MacBooks can support two but only if the laptop is closed with its screen hidden. With a DisplayLink-compatible docking station, the M1/M2/M3 MacBooks can enjoy displays even with the laptop’s screen on show. You can use both HDMI or both DisplayPort or a mix of each, depending on your monitor requirements. Two video ports will always be left empty, but the flexibility is welcome. As with all DisplayLink docks, HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is not supported on macOS when this docking station is connected. HDCP content—as found on Netflix, Disney, Prime, Apple TV, etc—will not play on the displays or the MacBook’s built-in display while the dock is connected. You can simply disconnect the dock to use these streaming services on the laptop screen, but they won’t play on the external screen when the dock is attached. Plugable Plugable Plugable Design I’m not sure why Plugable designates this new dock as a redesigned UD-6950. It is a completely different build and design and may as well have been given a new name. It doesn’t matter, of course—I am just curious about such things and am often lost in a jumble of confusing similarly named but quite different products. While the old UD-6950 was a capable if plasticky vertical dock with DisplayPort but no HDMI and the UD-6950H was an equally non-metal horizontal dock with HDMI (and DisplayPort), the new UD-6950PDH is a sleeker, horizontal space-gray aluminum alloy chassis that will look much more comfortable next to an Apple MacBook. We appreciate that the dock includes a power button for fast and easy powering of the docking station that enables power-saving when the docking station is not in use. As well as reducing energy consumption, it can extend the lifespan of connected devices. On docks without a power button, you must pull out the USB-C or Thunderbolt cable from the dock when you leave it unattended for a long time to save energy and preserve device battery health. Plugable Plugable Plugable Price The Plugable UD-6950PDH is available in the U.S. for $199.95 and Canada at a price of CA$287.95. This is a reasonable price for a dock with a bunch of useful ports and video port flexibility. No availability outside of North America has yet been announced. For more DisplayLink docking stations look at our chart under the workaround steps on our M1 and M2 MacBook multiple displays feature. Verdict This is a good-looking and flexible DisplayLink docking station with numerous (if rather underpowered) USB ports, Gigabit Ethernet and two card readers. If data-transfer speeds are not a big factor in their buying decision, M1, M2 and M3 MacBook owners will appreciate the DisplayLink functionality that brings the world of dual external displays within their reach in a sleek Mac-friendly case.

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Baseus 65W Free2Pull Power Bank review: 20K laptop battery pack with retractable USB-C
Macworld At a glance ProsLarge battery capacityIntegrated retractable USB-C cableLightweightConsOnly one spare USB-C portOur VerdictThis 20K laptop power bank is plain looking but performed excellently in our charging tests and comes with a super-convenient retractable cable. Price When Reviewed$79.99 Best Prices Today: Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank with Retractable USB-C Cable 65W Retailer Price $69.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank doesn’t do anything special until you pick it up and take a longer look at it. It’s lighter than most power banks of the same capacity, but its brilliance is its integrated and retractable USB-C cable which means you don’t have to carry a spare charging cable everywhere you take the power bank. If you use a USB-C cable to tie up your shoes, this won’t matter to you—but, to the rest of us, it is a massive convenience that really sets it apart from the competition. Power bank tech specs Battery capacity: 74Wh Fastest Power Output: 60W Total Power Output: 65W Power Input: 60W USB ports: 1x USB-C (60W PD 3.0) built-in cable; 1x USB-C (60W PD 3.0). Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.8 x 1.3 inches (15.5 x 7.2 x 3.4cm) Weight: 15.1oz (429g) Airline compatible: Yes Port power In our round-up of the best power banks for MacBook, we have reviewed laptop power banks with higher capacities, more powerful outputs, and more plentiful USB ports. But the more minimal specs on offer here might suit you perfectly. While other laptop power banks offer 100W or even 140W power output per port, the Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank can output just 60W from each of its USB connections, and a low overall shared output of 65W. If your laptop is medium-sized and charges quickly at 60W this may be all you need. You could 60W power up a laptop and still have 5W over to connect your headphones or smartwatch at the same time. (Press and hold the power bank’s button for three seconds to turn on or off the low-current charging mode to safely charge lesser devices.) If you own a 16-inch MacBook Pro, we’d recommend the Anker 27650mAh Power Bank that can fast-charge that model at 140W. For most other MacBooks, 60W should be fine to top up your laptop. There’s no USB-A port on the Baseus power bank, so if you have a device with a charger that requires the old-style USB port, look for a power bank with just such as port as an option. With most devices requiring USB-C these days, we aren’t holding this absence against the Baseus battery pack, but do consider the lack of USB-A if it impacts you and your charging requirements. Eventually, of course, the power bank itself will run out of juice. You can recharge the Baseus power bank at 65W via the spare USB-C port (or slightly slower at 60W using the retractable cable), which is not as fast as other laptop power banks we have tested. The more expensive Anker 20K power bank can be charged at 100W, but at 65W input the 20K Baseus matches the Ugreen Nexode 20K power bank for input power. At 74Wh it is well within TSA, CAA and EASA airline limits for carry-on. Baseus Baseus Baseus Performance In our tests, the Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank recharged a fading 14-inch M2 MacBook Pro (69.6Wh battery capacity) to a very respectable 84%. The 27650mAh Anker power bank, while having a larger capacity, only managed around an extra 10% on top of that. See our list of MacBook battery capacities for more details on the whole range of Apple laptops. While its battery capacity is focused on charging laptops, this power bank can charge two devices at the same time, such as one or two iPhones, your AirPods, or your Apple Watch. Other laptop power banks have up to five USB ports but ask yourself how many devices you will realistically need to charge at the same time. Power banks with a lot of USB ports are best suited to users who may need to use many at the same time. A family on a long-haul flight or camping trip would need either multiple ports or multiple power banks. The Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank is a great choice for users who know their laptop might need a top-up during the day and want to recharge their phone around the same time. The USB C port of this charging power bank supports up to 65W input and output power, while the built-in retractable USB C cable supports up to 60W input and output. The USB C port of this charging power bank supports up to 65W input and output power, while the built-in retractable USB C cable supports up to 60W input and output.Simon Jary / Foundry The USB C port of this charging power bank supports up to 65W input and output power, while the built-in retractable USB C cable supports up to 60W input and output.Simon Jary / Foundry Simon Jary / Foundry Design It’s too big to keep solely for your iPhone, but it is one of the lightest laptop power banks we have tested. While the previously mentioned Anker 27650mAh power bank has a higher capacity, it weighs 23.3oz (659g) compared to the Baseus at 15.1oz (429g). Maybe a fairer comparison is Anker’s own 20000mAh power bank, which weighs 18.7oz (529g), so the Baseus comes in nearly a quarter lighter at the same capacity. Closer is the Ugreen Nexode 20000mAh power bank, which tips the scales at 16.9oz (480g). Still, the Baseus is the lightweight champion. The standout design feature that may well persuade you that this is the power bank for you is its integrated retractable USB-C cable, which measures 27.6 inches (70cm). This is much more convenient than carrying a cable and your power bank around and is neatly tucked away at the top when not in use. We have found that some retractable cables become less retractable over time, but this cable looks and feels well-made for the long term. Simon Jary / Foundry Simon Jary / Foundry Simon Jary / Foundry Display The Anker and Ugreen laptop power banks have more detailed and colorful smart displays. The Baseus power bank has a large but fairly plain and vanilla screen that shows just the remaining charge inside the battery pack. That’s the statistic that is most immediately useful, and I wonder if many users will use these displays to any further degree than their power bank’s remaining charge. Therefore, we wouldn’t pick a power bank based on its digital display unless we were really interested in power input and output information. Price Available in two colors, a standard silver gray and black, the Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank is priced at $79.99. We think that’s a great price for the battery performance and convenience of the retractable cable. This is significantly cheaper than the 20000mAh Anker Prime Power Bank ($129.99), although that does boast three USB ports (including one USB-A) and the fancier smart display. At present the Baseus 20K power bank is on sale in the U.S. only. Should I buy the Baseus Free2Pull Power Bank with Retractable USB-C Cable 65W? A 20000mAh (72Wh) power bank with a 65W output suits owners of the MacBook Air and 13- and 14-inch MacBook Pro, who don’t need more than two charging ports at the same time. What we love about this power bank, aside from its lightweight and great price, is its built-in retractable USB-C cable that means more portable convenience and less cable mess.

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Get ready for the iPhone 16 with Apple’s best USB-C charger for 32% off
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A cheaper Magic Keyboard for non-Pro iPads is on the way
Macworld As Apple’s legions of fans look ahead to the launch of the iPhone 16 next Monday, one leaker has slipped out a surprising prediction about a different (and potentially very popular) product: the iPad Magic Keyboard. Apple sells a range of Magic Keyboards for the iPad Air and Pro, and while these are highly rated for their comfort, ease of use, and attractive and functional cantilever design, they are also incredibly expensive: the 11-inch models are $299, while the 13-inch models cost a startling $349, as much as the 10th-gen iPad. (There is a cheaper alternative for the low-end iPad, the Magic Keyboard Folio, but this doesn’t have the cantilever design and still costs $249.) In other words, even those who can afford an iPad Air or Pro frequently balk at the further expense of a Magic Keyboard… which is a shame, because it’s one of the best accessories for turning an iPad into an effective work machine. Well, if that describes you, get ready for some (possible) good news. In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman mentions almost in passing that Apple is working on a cheaper version of the Magic Keyboard. “I’m told that Apple suppliers are hard at work on a new iPad keyboard for next year,” he writes. “This accessory will be a low-end version [of the Magic Keyboard] that may be designed for an entry-level iPad or the new iPad Airs.” The key factor here is that it sounds like the new keyboard will get the cantilever design, or at least Gurman doesn’t specify otherwise. He notes that it will differ from the higher-end keyboard in its lack of “pricier components like the metal palm rest” but mentions nothing about a fundamentally different design. The other question this prompts, of course, is how “low-end” are we talking? Gurman doesn’t offer a figure, but we can take an educated guess by thinking in terms of upper and lower bounds. It will obviously cost less than the $299 of the current 11-inch Magic Keyboard; but similarly, it’s hard to imagine that it will dramatically undercut the $249 currently charged for the Magic Keyboard Folio. My expectation is that Apple will be looking to sell the Magic Keyboard ‘Lite’ (it definitely won’t be called that, by the way) for somewhere between $219 and $249, and simultaneously give the Folio a price cut, or discontinue it entirely. As for its release date, Gurman says to expect the new product by the middle of 2025, “if all goes to plan.” So it’s debatable whether prospective iPad buyers should take this into consideration when mulling a purchase. And of course, like all “budget” Apple products, bear in mind that, as we’ve discussed, it probably won’t be especially cheap.

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