Andru Marino is an audio and video producer at The Verge. “I make videos on our YouTube / TikTok / Instagram channels, and have produced our podcasts like Vergecast, Decoder, and Why’d You Push That Button?” He also keeps a lot of notes, and his latest favorite places to keep them are the Triangle and Sidekick notebooks. I asked him about them.
Technology
Don’t Run Out of Juice: How to Save Battery Life on Your iPhone

It is powerful to exist with no smartphone nowadays. A lot of our lives are contained inside these tiny gadgets that we do not need them operating out of juice at an inopportune time. However due to Apple’s dedication to its proprietary Lightning cable (for now), there is not at all times a suitable charger on the prepared.
In our assessments, the iPhone 14 Professional Max supplied 19 hours of battery life, however what in case you have an older mannequin that is struggling to final all day? Regular put on and tear (and our personal dangerous habits) will degrade your battery over time. Apple has additionally been identified to throttle battery efficiency.
Apple’s $29 battery-replacement program is lengthy gone, however the Self Service Restore Retailer(Opens in a brand new window) sells alternative batteries you possibly can set up your self at round $70. In the event you would like to eke out a couple of extra months with out paying for a brand new battery (or iPhone), although, listed below are some issues to strive.
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1. The right way to Present Battery Proportion on iPhone
Earlier than you possibly can monitor your battery life, it is advisable to know precisely what you are taking a look at. The iPhone battery icon within the top-right nook of the display screen represents how a lot juice is left on the machine, but it surely’s not a really exact measurement of battery life.
You possibly can see the precise battery share left by opening the Management Middle, however if you’d like that data at a look within the cellphone’s top-right nook, it is advisable to activate the characteristic. Head to Settings > Battery and allow Battery Proportion. The battery icon will then present a quantity, making it simpler to watch battery life.
(Notice that the iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 12 mini, and the iPhone 13 will want iOS 16.1 for the choice to point out the battery share.)
2. Activate Low Energy Mode
Certainly one of your strongest weapons in opposition to battery drain is Low Energy Mode(Opens in a brand new window). With it enabled, your cellphone solely performs probably the most important of duties, so background actions like downloads and mail fetching are disabled. Low Energy Mode will routinely kick in when the battery falls under 20%, however it’s also possible to activate it manually to maintain your cellphone going for longer.
Head over to Settings > Battery > Low Energy Mode and toggle it on. You can even add Low Energy Mode to the Management Middle below Settings > Management Middle. When activated, the battery icon within the top-right nook will flip yellow. Notice that this mode will solely work in case your cellphone’s battery is under 80%.
3. Regulate Display screen Brightness
The best hurdle in your struggle for extra batter life is your cellphone’s personal display screen. Smartphone shows are greater and brighter than ever, however they’re additionally homicide in your battery life. You possibly can’t actually get round this reality, however you possibly can flip down the brightness.
Manually regulate brightness ranges in Settings > Show & Brightness by utilizing the the slider bar. A slider can also be accessible through the Management Middle; press calmly on the brightness icon and transfer the slider down.
Flip off auto-brightness to make sure your modifications stick. Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Show & Textual content Dimension > Auto-Brightness and toggle it off. Your cellphone will not attempt to regulate its brightness based mostly in your present lighting scenario, which is able to keep away from conditions the place the display screen turns into brighter than it actually should be.
4. Handle Your Lock Display screen
Because the display screen is your battery’s enemy, you must also take into consideration managing when the cellphone’s show turns off routinely. You possibly can deal with this below Show & Brightness > Auto-Lock. In the event you are inclined to put your cellphone down with out locking it, set this to one thing decrease to provide the battery a break.
Launched with iOS 16 is the power to edit your iPhone’s lock display screen. As good of a characteristic because it might sound, widgets are enormous energy hogs, since they must always replace to offer helpful data. We suggest staying away from sophisticated wallpaper and widgets right here, so you are not overworking the battery.
New to the iPhone 14 Professional and iPhone 14 Professional Max, is the All the time-On show, which is able to present the time, widgets, and wallpaper whereas the cellphone is locked. Whereas Apple has taken steps(Opens in a brand new window) to verify it does not eat up an excessive amount of energy, it’s also possible to flip that off from Settings > Show & Brightness and disable All the time On.
5. Flip Off Location Providers
Location providers are useful for apps like Google Maps or Yelp, however these GPS pings taking place within the background can put on down a battery fast. You possibly can flip off location providers fully through Settings > Privateness & Safety > Location Providers and your cellphone will cease feeding location information to those providers.
This, nonetheless, will make various helpful apps cease working. Your climate app will not know the place you might be for the most recent forecast, and you will not have the ability to ask Google for instructions based mostly in your present location. In the event you do not wish to go to the acute, Apple as an alternative lets you rein in particular person apps.
From the Location Providers settings display screen, you possibly can customise how most apps use location information: By no means, Ask Subsequent Time Or After I Share, Whereas Utilizing the App, or All the time. We suggest setting Google Maps to Whereas Utilizing the App, for instance, so the app will solely ping your location whenever you really want it.
In the event you want extra battery life, we additionally suggest shutting down the Discover My app should you’re sharing your location with family and friends. You are able to do this if you choose your title below Settings, then select Discover My > Discover My iPhone, then disable the swap subsequent to Discover My iPhone.
6. Flip Off Background App Refresh and Updates
Once you shut an iOS app, it is going to hold operating for a bit till coming into a suspended state. Nonetheless, these apps can nonetheless verify for updates and new content material infrequently—a course of that may drain battery life. You possibly can disable Background App Refresh fully or simply for sure apps.
Navigate to Settings > Normal > Background App Refresh. Right here, you possibly can disable on an app-by-app foundation should you solely wish to minimize off refresh-heavy apps, like electronic mail or social media platforms. In any other case, choose Background App Refresh on the high of the display screen and set it to Off (or Wi-Fi if you wish to prohibit however not outright disable).
Disabling background app refresh should have no impact on how the app works, but it surely would possibly take a second longer to floor new data whenever you return to them.
Equally, when your apps routinely replace infrequently, that course of can dissipate treasured battery life. It is usually a good suggestion to go away this characteristic on, since updates may also help apps run quicker and smoother, lowering the processing energy wanted to make them operate.
However you possibly can open Settings > App Retailer and disable App Updates if it is advisable to make each second rely. Whereas this characteristic is turned off, you have to to manually replace your apps within the App Retailer.
Advisable by Our Editors
7. Lower Down on Notifications
In case your display screen lights up with a preview of each notification you obtain, it is consuming energy with every textual content, breaking information alert, or Twitter comply with. Reducing down on these interruptions can save your battery and sanity. Open Settings > Notifications and select which particular apps ought to be allowed to ship notifications to your cellphone.
To disable these pings for a sure window of time, use the Focus characteristic below Settings > Focus to arrange restrictions for when notifications are allowed to come back by way of. Choose Focus Standing and allow Do Not Disturb.
Another choice is to set specs from a single notification. In the event you see an provide you with a warning not want to see, swipe left on it and faucet Choices to inform the notification to be delivered quietly subsequent time. This implies it is going to go to your Notification Middle with out displaying in your lock display screen, enjoying sound, or displaying a banner or badge icon. You can even flip off notifications for this app fully.
8. Flip Off Wi-fi Providers
From Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile information, your cellphone has many wi-fi options operating within the background. In the event you’re in an actual energy jam, you possibly can flip a few of these off with the intention to eke out just a bit extra juice earlier than the battery runs out. The quickest answer is to open Management Middle and press down on the menu choices within the high left to alter these options.
Faucet the airplane icon to place your machine in Airplane Mode, which turns off all of your cellphone’s mobile options. Calls and texts will not come by way of, however you possibly can nonetheless connect with Wi-Fi if obligatory for iMessages and different duties. You can even allow this in Settings; simply toggle it on. You may know it is activated by the airplane icon on the highest proper.
Wi-Fi does not do wonders in your battery should you’re not at present utilizing it. Your cellphone repeatedly searches for close by Wi-Fi networks, which is why the listing of accessible networks always modifications whenever you’re out and about. Faucet the Wi-Fi button to show it off or accomplish that from Settings > Wi-Fi.
Equally, Bluetooth and AirDrop are always seeking to join, however there isn’t any motive for them to be energetic always. Flip off these options within the Management Middle or open Settings > Bluetooth and Settings > Normal > AirDrop > Receiving Off, respectively, to show them off. Simply keep in mind to show these providers again on whenever you really want them.
9. Kill Lively Listening
Your iPhone or iPad helps hands-free Siri, that means you possibly can say “Hey, Siri” and ask a query with out having to the touch your iPhone. However meaning the machine is at all times listening, awaiting your command (and utilizing up treasured sources within the meantime). In the event you do not use Siri that a lot, turning off energetic listening might assist with battery drain.
Navigate to Settings > Siri & Search, the place you possibly can disable the Pay attention for “Hey Siri” entry. You possibly can go away Press Aspect Button for Siri enabled, if you’d like the power to name Apple’s assistant with the push of a button. In any other case, you possibly can disable this feature too if you wish to keep away from unintentionally summoning Siri.
10. Purchase a Battery Case
Picture: mophie
In the event you nonetheless cannot handle to make it by way of the day with out recharging, contemplate a battery case. These can shield your cellphone whereas additionally offering additional energy. There are various choices(Opens in a brand new window) obtainable for contemporary iPhone fashions and older gadgets.
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Technology
Weird-shaped notebooks make me want to write again

Where did you first hear about these notebooks?
I don’t really remember when I first saw the Triangle Notebook. It was probably an Instagram ad. I had kept a link to the notebook’s website in a browser tab on my phone for a few months and kept thinking about it.
When did you buy it, and what went into the decision?
I bought it in April, and what really attracted me was how weird it was. Why does the notebook need to be a triangle? Oh, it opens up into a square! Wow, I love that! The main reason I use paper is to doodle, and I thought this shape would inspire me to doodle differently.
And then I saw this company also made another notebook called the Sidekick that basically looks like an L when opened, so it is angled alongside your computer keyboard. That was so wacky to me. So I bought that one too.
What do you like about them?
This seems more like an art experiment than anything. I love objects that make you rethink how they are used. I typically have Post-it notes or a spiral notebook on my desk so I can write something down or doodle during a meeting. The Sidekick doesn’t take up a ton of space on my desk either opened or closed.
The Triangle Notebook is actually great for using on your lap or other unconventional surfaces, as it is pretty sturdy and lays flat on its spine.
Both notebooks also encourage me to use my handwriting more, which was a New Year’s resolution I had.
Is there anything about them that you dislike, or that you think could be improved?
I am not entirely sure if it makes sense to take notes on an L-shaped piece of paper, but that is just what makes the Sidekick different.
The Triangle Notebook could have a few more pages in it. It is nicely bound and sort of expensive ($33), so I would like to get more use out of it. Also it is so long! I don’t know where to store it.
And the pages don’t tear out very easily. I’d love to give someone a note on a weird-shaped piece of paper.
Who would you recommend it to?
I’d recommend the Sidekick to an artist who wants to doodle during meetings — which is why I bought this. But I can also see it working for someone who draws on a tablet and wants to briefly write down some notes about what they are working on.
I don’t know who I would recommend the Triangle Notebook to besides someone who likes weird objects. I’d love to know if someone feels like they do their best work on a triangle-shaped notebook.
You started this by saying you hoped these notebooks would inspire you to doodle differently. Have they?
So far, no. My notes look the same mess as ever, but it has encouraged me to doodle more and write more, so that makes me happy.

$33
Triangle-shaped notebook that opens into a square.


$24
Notebook shaped like an “L” to wrap around your keyboard.
Technology
First electric passenger plane lands at JFK in milestone flight

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It’s not every day aviation history is made, but June 2025 marked a real milestone for New York and the world of electric flight.
For the first time, a passenger-carrying electric airplane landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport, and it wasn’t just a test. There were actual people on board.
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FLYING CAR WITH 620-MILE RANGE SCHEDULED FOR UPCOMING LAUNCH
Passenger-carrying electric airplane (Beta Technologies)
The flight that made headlines
Kyle Clark, founder and CEO of Beta Technologies, was at the controls as the company’s electric aircraft flew from East Hampton to JFK. With four passengers on board, the trip covered about 70 nautical miles in just over half an hour. That’s right, a fully electric plane, carrying people, quietly and efficiently making its way through the skies above New York.
Clark put it simply, “This is a 100% electric airplane that just flew from East Hampton to JFK with passengers on it, which was a first for the New York Port Authority and the New York area. We covered 70 odd nautical miles in 35 minutes.”
The message this sent was clear that electric air travel is here, and it’s practical.

Passenger-carrying electric airplane (Beta Technologies)
WINDOWLESS JETS OFFER A DIGITAL EXPERIENCE ON FUTURE FLIGHTS
Why this matters for everyday travel
The real takeaway isn’t just the novelty of the flight, but what it means for the future of getting around. Electric aircraft like this one are quiet, which means happier communities near airports. They’re also much cheaper to operate.
As Clark noted, “Charging this thing up and flying out here cost us about $8 in fuel. Of course, you have to pay for the pilot and the airplane, but, fundamentally, it’s way less expensive.”
Passengers on the flight could talk to each other the whole time, thanks to the lack of noisy engines and propellers. That kind of comfort and accessibility is exactly what could make electric air travel a hit with commuters and travelers looking for a better way to get from one point to another.
HOW TO LOWER YOUR CAR INSURANCE COSTS IN 2025

Passenger-carrying electric airplane (Beta Technologies)
FLYING CAR WITH 620-MILE RANGE SCHEDULED FOR UPCOMING LAUNCH
The bigger picture: Electric air travel is getting closer
Transportation companies are already eyeing electric battery-powered aircraft for short city trips, especially those that can take off and land vertically. The idea is to help travelers beat traffic and reduce emissions, all while offering a smoother, quieter ride.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also stepped in, finalizing new rules in October for pilot training and certification for air taxis. This move was described as “the final piece in the puzzle for safely introducing these aircraft in the near term.” With regulations in place and companies like Beta Technologies pushing forward, the dream of electric air taxis is closer than ever.

Passenger-carrying electric airplane (Beta Technologies)
NASA’S MARTIAN HELICOPTER PROMISES UNPRECEDENTED VIEWS OF THE RED PLANET
Beta Technologies: Leading the charge
Beta Technologies, based in Vermont and founded in 2017, is at the forefront of this movement. The company recently raised $318 million to fund production, certification and commercialization of its electric aircraft, bringing its total funding to over $1 billion. It’s not just building planes. It’s building the infrastructure needed to support electric flight across the country.

Passenger-carrying electric airplane (Beta Technologies)
What’s next for electric air travel?
The success of this flight is a strong signal that electric air travel is becoming a practical option, not just a futuristic idea. Beta’s aircraft can fly up to 250 nautical miles on a single charge, making it ideal for short hops between cities and suburbs. As more companies join the effort and more charging stations are built, it’s easy to see how electric air travel could become a regular part of how we get around, especially in busy urban areas.
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Passenger-carrying electric airplane (Beta Technologies)
Kurt’s key takeaways
So, what’s the real story here? The first passenger-carrying electric airplane touching down at JFK is way more than a cool headline. It’s proof that electric air travel isn’t just some futuristic thing. It’s actually here, it works and it’s ready to shake up how we get around. With rules that make sense, plenty of investment and people getting more curious and excited, the future of clean, quiet and easy-to-access air travel is looking pretty promising.
When it comes to new tech like electric planes, what makes you hesitate the most? Are you more concerned about safety and reliability or is there something else on your mind? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
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Technology
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7 has returned to its lowest-ever price

I jumped on the smartwatch bandwagon a bit late, but now I can’t go a day without mine. Beyond delivering helpful notifications, it’s perfect for setting timers, tracking workouts, and monitoring my sleeping habits (which are terrible). If you haven’t yet joined the smartwatch party or you’re looking to upgrade, Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 7 is down to $199.99 ($100 off) in the 40mm / Bluetooth configuration at Amazon and Walmart. If you prefer a larger display, the 44mm model is on sale at Amazon starting at $229.99 ($100 off).
While the Galaxy Watch 7 isn’t as flashy as other Samsung wearables, its more simplistic approach is part of its charm. It retains the signature circular design and slim profile of prior models, which remains a stark contrast to the adventure-ready Galaxy Watch Ultra. It’s comfortable to wear while sleeping and working out — as our own Victoria Song noted in her review last year — and it comes with a selection of welcome features, including heart rate tracking, an Energy Score for gauging recovery, and FDA-approved sleep apnea detection.
One of the new marquee tools of the Watch 7 is its AI-powered wellness insights, which provide personalized suggestions to help you hit your health and fitness goals. There’s also a 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor that can measure metabolic health thanks to an experimental advanced glycation end products (AGEs) metric, though both features were rather hit or miss in our testing. Of course, the wearable also offers a range of basic smartwatch features, such as the ability to stream music, send texts, and take calls when your phone is nearby.
Despite its slimmer design, the Watch 7 offers around 24 hours of battery life with the always-on display enabled, though if you upgrade to the 44mm Watch 7, you can eke out a few additional hours. Samsung’s wearable also runs Wear OS 5, as of now, though we’re expecting the Gemini-powered Wear OS 6 to arrive via an update later this year. All that being said, the timing of these deals could indicate that a Galaxy Watch 8 is on the horizon. Samsung typically holds an Unpacked event in mid-July, and this year it may introduce a refreshed lineup of foldable and wearable devices.
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