Accessories

Microsoft announces a modular Adaptive Mouse

Big plus for accessibility

Published

May 11, 2022

Luigi Leonardo

We don’t think much about our mice. The essential PC essential is a classic case of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Besides adding more buttons and more ergonomic shapes, computer mice have remained essentially the same. However, peripherals companies have tried innovations for the device like vertically oriented and trackball-infused mice. Microsoft have recently announced one of the most useful innovations for the mouse: the Adaptive Mouse.

As the name hints, the Adaptive Mouse is a modular device that adapts to certain needs. It is primarily designed for the disabled with special needs. It comes in three different components: the Adaptive Mouse itself, Adaptive Buttons, and an Adaptive Hub. Using a 3D printer, users can easily customize the device to fit their needs.

The mouse component houses the primary functions you’ll need from a device: the buttons and the sensor. Meanwhile, the adaptive buttons can be programmed in eight different ways, allowing for a maximized amount of customizability using only the main components.

Additionally, users can also add accessories for a wider range of uses including a joystick, for example. They can connect up to four different buttons to improve functionalities.

By itself, the customizable device is a huge step for accessibility. It also speaks some optimism into how mice can be customized even for regular consumers.

The Adaptive Mouse is currently slated for a fall launch.

Accessories

AirPods 5 boasts better ANC and sound quality for the same price

Published

September 10, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

Right after the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max series, Apple dropped another bombshell for fans. Complementing the latest iPhone generation, the new AirPods 5 features a bunch of the most impressive improvements for the wearable.

Most importantly, the AirPods 5 will boast 50 percent better noise cancellation than the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. With Adaptive Audio, the wearable can sense your surroundings and adapt accordingly so you don’t miss the important bits happening around you.

It also features Live Translation for talking with others speaking in a different language. Plus, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume if the wearable detects that you’re talking.

For sound quality, the new wearable has a new acoustic architecture and an adaptive equalizer. It promises more detailed sound coming from the entry-level AirPods.

The new AirPods 5 will start at US$ 129. Preorders are already open, but the wearable will ship out on September 18.

Meanwhile, if you’re hankering for a bit more from your wearable, another variant, which starts at US$ 149, adds a Wireless Charging Case, on-stem swipe controls, and longer battery life. This model can reportedly last five more hours with active noise cancellation enable.

SEE ALSO: The iPhone Duo is real!

Accessories

Sony resurrects the WH-1000XM4 with a refreshed model

The return of the king.

Published

September 8, 2026

Luigi Leonardo

For a lot of people (me included), the Sony WH-1000XM4 was the first taste of what Bluetooth headphones could be. It was the first time I desperately wanted a new pair of headphones. It took me until the current XM6 to get a pair, but I can’t forget what came before. And, apparently, neither can Sony.

Today, Sony is resurrecting the WH-1000XM4 with the refreshed WH-1000XM4C. Straying from the lineup’s usual releases, the WH-1000XM4C is the second generation of the universally acclaimed headphones, while the XM6 is still the current flagship model.

It’s not just a simple rerelease, too. Though it still rocks the QN1-based active noise cancellation, the new pair tweaks the sound profile to more closely match the modern standard. It also comes with 10-band and gaming-specific equalizer presets. It will have a slightly smaller battery but with better fast charging to juice up quickly.

The new WH-1000XM4C will be available in Lavender, Black, and Platinum Silver. It will also cost US$ 299.99 — 50 bucks cheaper than the first generation.

Besides the refreshed flagship, Sony is also launching the WH-CH730N, a midrange pair built for commuters, and the WH-CH530, an entry-level pair with more colorful colorway options.

The WH-CH730N will come in White, Pink, Blue, Black, and Oat. It sells for US$ 179.99.

Meanwhile, the WH-CH530 come in Black, Cobalt, Coral, Mint, White, and Pink. It sells for US$ 69.99.

Accessories

Acer PA100 portable SSD brings fast, flexible storage on the go

Up to 2TB

Published

September 4, 2026

GadgetMatch

Acer is expanding its storage lineup with the PA100 Portable SSD. It’s a compact external drive designed for users who need faster storage across multiple devices.

The PA100 uses USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity. It reaches sequential read speeds of up to 560MB/s and write speeds of up to 430MB/s. This makes it suited for everyday tasks such as transferring large files, backing up content, managing documents, and moving media between devices.

Up to 2TB of portable storage

The PA100 comes in three capacities: 500GB, 1TB, and 2TB. This gives users options depending on whether they need extra space for documents and schoolwork or larger collections of photos, videos, and project files.

Acer also designed the drive with mobility in mind. The PA100 has a slim 9mm profile and a lightweight build, while its reinforced construction is designed to withstand everyday travel and handling.

The drive comes with a 2-in-1 USB-C to USB-C and USB-A cable. This allows it to connect to compatible PCs, tablets, smartphones, and other devices without requiring a separate adapter. It also supports major operating systems and USB-C mobile platforms.