Apple's Newest MacBook Air and Pro Variants Showcase Advanced Chips, Expanded Storage, and Elevated Prices

Apple’s Newest MacBook Air and Pro Variants Showcase Advanced Chips, Expanded Storage, and Elevated Prices

Alongside its affordable iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air announced on Monday, Apple has unveiled updates for the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and its infrequently updated desktop display line. It seems Apple is reserving its anticipated new entry-level MacBook for an in-person event in New York City on Wednesday, but today’s announcements are likely to please those looking to upgrade.

The MacBook Air now features the newest M5 chip. This is a somewhat minor enhancement but aligns it with Apple’s latest processor that was introduced in the MacBook Pro last autumn. There are no other major hardware changes—it now comes with 512 GB of base storage utilizing “faster SSD technology”—but buyers can still opt for a 13- or 15-inch display.

This laptop also includes Apple’s N1 wireless chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, in line with the latest connectivity standards. It retains the standard 16 GB of RAM, though there’s a regrettable $100 price hike due to the extra storage. The starting prices are now $1,099 for the 13-inch variant and $1,299 for the 15-inch variant. Apple announces that pre-orders will commence on Wednesday, with sales starting on March 11.

More significantly, Apple is broadening the M5 chip family with the M5 Pro and M5 Max, now available in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro. As with previous generations of Apple silicon, the “Pro” and “Max” versions deliver markedly improved multicore CPU and graphics performance.

The M5 Pro and M5 Max can be configured with up to 18 CPU cores (12 performance cores and 6 “super” cores), a boost from 16 on the M4 Max. The M5 Pro can be upgraded to include up to 20 GPU cores, while the M5 Max can go up to 40 GPU cores. Apple claims a 30 percent enhancement in multithreaded CPU performance for the M5 Pro compared to the M4 Pro. The M5 Max CPU upgrade is a bit more modest—just 15 percent higher than the M4 Max, according to Apple.

Thanks to higher memory bandwidth, a more efficient Neural Engine, and improved GPU architecture, Apple asserts that both the M5 Pro and M5 Max provide “over 4X the peak CPU compute for AI” compared to the last generation and deliver 20 percent better GPU performance.

The new MacBook Pros maintain the same hardware configuration that has remained unchanged since 2021—identical port options, Mini-LED display, speakers, and webcam. Even the reported 24-hour battery life remains stable with the M4 models, launched in late 2024. Notably, Bloomberg reported last week that Apple plans to introduce a more significant update for the MacBook Pro this year, expected to reveal the M6 chip, an OLED touchscreen, and a sleeker design.

L.L.Bean Promo Codes and Deals: Enjoy Discounts of Up to 75% on Camping Equipment

L.L.Bean Promo Codes and Deals: Enjoy Discounts of Up to 75% on Camping Equipment

L.L. Bean is renowned among outdoor aficionados, providing a range of products from outerwear and equipment to casual lifestyle items. Established in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean in Maine, the company continues to operate from that location, routinely introducing both timeless and contemporary essentials for nature enthusiasts. Consider the Bean Boots, for instance: L.L. Bean’s signature product that has come to represent the brand. These legendary shoes are suitable for hiking paths and rainy urban environments, remaining faithful to the initial design. If you aim to adopt the rugged Mainer lifestyle or cultivate a warm cabin vibe at home, there are plenty of L.L. Bean promo codes available.

Get 10% Off Your First Order With an L.L.Bean Promo Code
Enjoy a 10% discount on your first order by subscribing to L.L. Bean’s email notifications. This promotion is valid a single time per email address, so select your purchase carefully.

Take Up to 75% Off Outdoor Gear in the L.L.Bean Sale Section
Replenish your outdoor equipment and camping necessities by exploring the L.L. Bean sale section. Whether you require fishing supplies or products from the L.L. Bean Noah Kahan collaboration, you can save as much as 75% without a promo code.

This sale presents new offers twice daily at 6 AM and 2 PM Eastern time. While stock is limited, substantial discounts akin to Black Friday promotions are accessible.

The daily markdown sale showcases a fresh discount from 6 AM until midnight Eastern time, mainly concentrated on items such as backpacks, blankets, and footwear.

Score Free Shipping on Orders Over $75
Eliminate shipping charges by making sure your order reaches $75 or more, as standard shipping is $8 for orders that fall below that threshold.

Military, First Responders, Medical Workers, and Students Can Save an Additional 10%
L.L. Bean provides a 10% discount for medical professionals, first responders, and military personnel, both active and retired. These promotions also apply to family members. Educators and college students can additionally obtain a 10% discount. Verification through SheerID is necessary to take advantage of these discounts.

Earn 20% Off With the L.L.Bean Mastercard
For loyal L.L. Bean enthusiasts, applying for an L.L. Bean Mastercard can provide a 20% discount upon approval, along with free shipping on all orders with no minimum requirement.

Ultimate MicroSD Cards for Your Camera, Switch, and More

Ultimate MicroSD Cards for Your Camera, Switch, and More

When selecting a MicroSD card, the array of figures, brands, and terms such as Pro, Extreme, and Express can be daunting. Generally, if you’re not a semi-professional photographer or videographer, it’s advisable to buy from reputable brands like PNY, SanDisk, and Lexar. Look for the “U” symbol with a 3 inside or a “V30” which offers a solid balance of speed and cost. There are exceptions:

For those using a high-end camera, you might consider a V60 MicroSD card if it fits your budget, as certain cameras can take advantage of enhanced video features with faster cards.

If you’re using a Nintendo Switch 2, a more expensive MicroSD Express card is necessary for playing games, although standard cards are adequate for transferring images and videos.

**Capacity**

Your storage requirements may differ, but when comparing 128 GB to 1 TB, be aware of the challenges of swapping cards on the move with increased capacities, as well as the sharply rising prices for 1 TB and 2 TB cards. The cost gap between 256 GB and 512 GB is narrower, so it might be worthwhile to opt for slightly larger sizes. Confirm that your device supports higher capacity cards above 64 GB, recognized as “SDXC” (Extended Capacity), which is currently the most common type.

**Speed**

For further information on MicroSD speeds, a detailed explanation is available, but here’s a brief summary. The minimum write speed of each card is indicated by a letter and number, where the number represents MB/s and the letter signifies the generation. C10, U1, and V10 represent equivalent speeds, merely labeled differently. Cards often display multiple symbols. For comprehensive details, the SD Association’s website provides a chart that compares speeds. Typically, cards that are slower than V30/U3 are rare in most shops, although they may be included with electronics that don’t require higher speeds.

14 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, Tried Over Countless Miles (2026)

14 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, Tried Over Countless Miles (2026)

**Additional Bags We Considered**

During our quest for the ultimate travel bags, we came across a variety of noteworthy options that didn’t quite secure a spot on our main list. However, personal tastes differ, and some of these could be just what you’re looking for.

**Patricks BB1 Bathroom Bag – $189**: A robust, shock-absorbing bag akin to the Flat Lay style but at a steeper cost. Although it has fewer compartments, it excels with larger items, though other reviewers and I favored bags that offer more secure storage, like the less costly Parallelle Kit.

**Flat Lay Makeup Box Bag – $37**: This small bag unfolds into a flat format for effortless access. While it’s not my first choice for toiletries, it was excellent for beach and pool necessities.

**Monos Metro Toiletry Case – $95**: Recognized for its elegant construction, this bag includes a main compartment along with smaller pockets. While it maximizes space effectively, the absence of a carrying handle was a drawback.

**Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case – $85**: This waterproof case reveals multiple zippered sections when opened, and its fashionable dual-handles give it the appearance of a charming handbag. It works better on flat surfaces due to its design that requires unfolding.

**Vera Bradley Toiletry Bags – $30**: Celebrated for their vibrant patterns and lightweight styles, Vera Bradley bags evoke both nostalgia and contemporary style. The Lay-Flat Travel Organizer stood out particularly for its secure compartments.

**Bagsmart Blast 4.5L Toiletry Bag – $30**: This bag can stand or hang effortlessly, featuring a bright, well-organized interior. Its size kept it from ranking higher, but it remains a reliable option.

**Beis the Dopp Kit – $68**: A preferred choice for its sturdy and compartmentalized design, the water-resistant fabric helps contain spills. Easy cleanup makes it a great fit for short trips.

**Thule Aion Toiletry Bag – $65**: Offering smart design elements like a detachable liquid pouch and an easy-to-clean interior, this bag has ample space but can feel bulky.

**Nex Dopp Kit – $73**: Made from microfiber leather, this spacious choice provides a structured design to safeguard contents, though it has a distinct odor.

**Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag – $50**: More of a multipurpose container, it features individual compartments within a robust and lightweight setup. Its design is not ideal for hanging.

**Kusshi Hair Tools Bag – $89**: This organized carrier includes heat-resistant sections, although the initial strong odor might necessitate airing it out.

**Aer Travel Kit 2 Ultra – $79**: Constructed from durable sailcloth, this bag is both lightweight and secure, though maintenance can be a bit demanding due to its complex design.

**Eagle Creek Pack-It Trifold Toiletry Kit – $50**: Although practical with several compartments, it can lead to spills if items are not placed securely.

**State Bags Benson Toiletry Kit – $65**: This versatile bag meets essential needs with detachable pockets but lacks the more sophisticated organizational features of competitors.

**Cuyana Travel Beauty Case – $298**: For those pursuing luxury, it harmoniously combines style with functionality with its leather finish and gold accents, though it is heavier than average.

**Cincha The Toiletry Bag – $55**: An organized layout accommodating various compartments, this roomy bag is perfect for shared travel situations.

**July Hanging Toiletry Bag – $85**: Fashionable with numerous pouches, this bag might take up significant space in a carry-on and could feel limited in pocket capacity for some users.

**Tumi Alpha Bravo Response Kit – $225**: Boasting Tumi’s renowned reliability, this bag’s versatility stands out, although the cost is considerably high compared to similar options.

**Beautifect Go Mini – $177**: While functional with its illuminated mirror, its weight is noticeable, making it less than ideal for all travel types.

**Fjallraven Kanken Toiletry Bag – $60**: Merging a sturdy exterior with practical compartments, it suits those carrying more items but is less ideal for minimalists.

**Tom Beckbe Canvas Dopp Kit – $195**: A large and chic choice made from quality materials, this bag caters to those who appreciate a rugged aesthetic.

**Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Quick Trip – $25**: Lightweight and adaptable, it serves as a gym or tech pouch, blending simplicity with practicality.

**Kusshi Neoprene Wristlet Clutch – $39**: A multifunctional clutch that also serves as a toiletry bag; suitable for lightweight essentials but may become unwieldy.

**Sympl Dopp Kit – $75**: Focused on specific item dimensions, this sturdy bag’s design may restrict flexibility but ensures safety for smaller essentials.

**Bagsmart Paz Hanging Toiletry Bag – $35**: Designed for lengthy stays or

Highest-Ranked Ski Apparel for 2026: Shells, Coats, Woolen Socks

Highest-Ranked Ski Apparel for 2026: Shells, Coats, Woolen Socks

## Honorable Mentions

During the winter season, the WIRED team consistently evaluates ski clothing. Here are some products we admire.

### Hestra Fall Line 3-Finger Gloves for $190:

I’ve been a fan of Hestra gloves for some time, taken by their sophisticated stitching and considerate design. This year, I tested a pair, and the Fall Line gloves met my expectations. They are available in six sizes to guarantee an ideal fit. The cowhide is supple, with a bit of break-in occurring after just five days. The wrist strap prevents you from losing your glove while checking your phone. They offer warmth without excessive sweating, and the lining can be removed for cleaning. —Martin Cizmar

### Crab Grab Snuggler Mitts for $89:

These mittens resemble tiny sleeping bags for your fingers, filled with Primaloft insulation and cozy sherpa fleece lining for added warmth. A 15K membrane delivers outstanding waterproof protection. Sturdy and suitable for all seasons, these mitts are a fantastic selection for under $100.

### Mons Royale Yotei Merino Classic Long Sleeve for $98:

Even outside the mountains, this shirt is remarkably comfortable. Constructed from 190-gsm, 100% merino wool, it provides warmth with a relaxed fit. On the slopes, it effectively wicks moisture, keeping me at ease. When layered with a shell and the Patagonia R1 Thermal Hoodie, it ensures warmth even under severe conditions.

### Seniq Powder Puff Down Jacket and Bib:

Seniq, a women’s brand debuting in 2024, brings a Gen Z aesthetic with playful color blocking. The Powder Puff Down Jacket features a dry-touch finish, YKK AquaGuard zippers, and a PFC-free DWR coating for water resistance. Additional perks include an asymmetrical front zipper, side pockets, and a spacious removable hood for versatility. The silky shell bibs have a flattering silhouette, multiple pockets, and a 20,000-mm waterproof rating. —Kristin Canning

### Mammut Sender In Hooded Jacket for $259:

This puffy hoodie functions as a superb mid-layer, featuring insulation made from recycled rope remnants and a wind-resistant PFC-free DWR coating. It’s lightweight, warm, and adaptable for snowboarding, hiking, and camping, though it isn’t the most packable option.

### Helly Hansen Evolved Air Half Zip for $112:

This fleece pullover showcases a waffle pattern for heat retention and moisture wicking. Its lightweight construction and high zippered collar with an adjustable hem make it a functional mid-layer for warmth without adding bulk. —Kristin Canning

### Helly Hansen Lifa Base Layer Long-Sleeve Crew for $115 and Pants for $115:

These base layers achieve the perfect thickness balance. They blend merino wool and LIFA fibers for improved moisture-wicking capabilities. They’re soft, lightweight, warm, and odor-resistant, featuring attractive designs and temperature regulation capabilities. —Kristin Canning

We offer a comprehensive guide on [how to layer](https://www.wired.com/story/outdoor-layering-basics/), but here are some key items.

**Base layer:** Crucial for warmth and moisture wicking. Merino wool is optimal but pricey; synthetics are advancing and cotton should be avoided at all costs.

**Mid layer:** A fleece or puffer retains warmth while releasing moisture. Primaloft Gold performs well whether wet or dry, while down provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.

**Jacket:** A waterproof shell is generally sufficient, providing protection from snow and wind. Look for Gore-Tex (without PFAS) with taped seams and ample pockets.

**Socks:** A mix of merino wool and synthetic fibers offers warmth and durability. Steer clear of cotton and avoid wearing two pairs of socks.

**Gloves:** Waterproof options are preferable; leather gloves can serve as a commendable alternative. Mittens offer more warmth but less dexterity.

For further details, refer to our [Best Ski Gloves and Mittens](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-ski-gloves-and-mittens/) guide.

**Waterproofing and breathability ratings:** A hydrostatic head rating (HH) gauges waterproof capabilities. Breathability is measured by grams of vapor passing through the fabric per square meter daily.

**How We Tested**

I have assessed winter sports gear for more than 15 years, collaborating with experts and enthusiasts from the WIRED team. We conducted field evaluations in various conditions across locations like the French Alps, Vermont, Colorado, Arizona, and Oregon to ensure comprehensive assessments.

Best Laptop Tote Bags for 2026: WIRED-Tested and Evaluated

Best Laptop Tote Bags for 2026: WIRED-Tested and Evaluated

Top 6 Tote Bags Comparison

Honorable Mentions

Tory Burch Perry Tote for $395: The Perry Tote is an upscale handbag that functions as an elegant work tote. Crafted from Italian pebbled leather, it features a secure laptop compartment with a zipper and three slip pockets.

Nordstrom Le Pliage for $165: The Le Pliage tote is a timeless, adaptable bag designed to hold travel necessities. Its structure draws inspiration from origami, allowing it to be folded for convenient storage.

Cozy Earth Waxed Canvas Tote for $68: This tote blends minimalist aesthetics with robust construction. The straightforward design features both external and internal pockets, making it ideal for various activities such as shopping or beach outings.

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Start Your Surround Sound Journey with $50 Discount on This Klipsch Soundbar

Start Your Surround Sound Journey with $50 Discount on This Klipsch Soundbar

If you’re tired of the audio from your TV speakers yet don’t want a complete subwoofer arrangement, there’s a solid choice available. The Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is currently discounted by $50 on Amazon, making it a fantastic entry point if you’re seeking a soundbar with options for future enhancements.

Although it has fewer channels compared to some leading choices and lacks side-firing drivers for surround sound, it still produces remarkable audio. With a width of 44 inches and 2.25-inch drivers, it provides clarity and nuanced sound, particularly with its strong bass. Our reviewer, Ryan Waniata, commended its sound quality.

The soundbar comes with built-in controls for essential features like adjusting the volume, but you can also utilize a mobile app for more precise adjustments. In addition to standard functions, it boasts a three-band equalizer and advanced settings for additional speakers. With eARC for TV connectivity, you may find you don’t need the remote or app frequently.

A key aspect of the Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is its ability to expand. The Klipsch Flexus Surr 100 bookshelf speakers and Klipsch Flexus Sub 100 connect wirelessly to the Core 200, providing versatility in speaker arrangement. If you prefer a specific subwoofer, there’s an RCA jack to link it, adding to the variety in this price category.

If you’re poised to enhance your sound system for movie evenings, you can claim a $50 discount on the Flexus Core 200. Alternatively, browse through our best soundbars guide for additional choices.

Comprehending At-Home STI Assessments: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Suggestions (2026)

Comprehending At-Home STI Assessments: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Suggestions (2026)

If the thought of going to a doctor’s office induces anxiety or discomfort, you might opt to gather your own samples rather than having them collected by healthcare professionals. Home STD tests can be more convenient based on your location and means of transportation, and they may be an out-of-pocket expense, which could align better with your insurance coverage. Regrettably, STIs are often stigmatized, yet there should be no embarrassment in taking charge of your sexual health. Home tests might provide a discreet choice if you’re worried about others’ perceptions.

**Cons of At-Home STI Tests**

At-home STI tests can be expensive. While some may be eligible for FSA and HSA or potentially covered by insurance, free testing offered by local health departments or organizations like Planned Parenthood might be more affordable than at-home testing. Errors in sample collection can result in false negatives, necessitating in-person doctor appointments for treatment despite positive outcomes. Verify that the lab is properly regulated and that the test is from a trustworthy provider. Adhere to kit instructions meticulously and take precautions against contamination, keeping in mind factors like improper storage or recent usage of products that could affect results, according to Dr. Gary Schoolnik, Chief Medical Officer at Visby Medical.

Your health status and timing can also influence test reliability. Elements such as menstruation or recent antibiotic intake might impair sample quality; a healthcare professional can modify testing procedures as needed. In urgent situations—like evident symptoms, being immunocompromised, pregnancy, or known STI exposure—seek professional medical assistance rather than relying on home testing. Roos cautions against depending solely on home kits since inaccurate results may lead you to overlook symptoms. For confidentiality, an ordinary doctor’s visit might be more suitable than having STD test kits at home. If a positive result is probable, receiving the information from a healthcare provider may be more advantageous than discovering it independently. Weigh these factors before opting for home testing.

Sony’s WH-CH720N Headphones Offer Great Value at Their Regular Price, but Currently, They Are a Bargain.

Sony’s WH-CH720N Headphones Offer Great Value at Their Regular Price, but Currently, They Are a Bargain.

We have assessed a variety of noise-canceling headphones, and although the Sony WH-CH720N has a somewhat peculiar name, they stand out as the best budget-friendly choice we’ve encountered. They typically offer great value at the regular $178 MSRP, but at the moment, they can be found for $95 on Amazon and $100 at Best Buy.

These headphones are well-made and aesthetically pleasing, boasting impressive active noise cancellation and strong audio quality. They do not fold and come without a case; however, a separate case can be purchased if desired.

They are lightweight and adjust to the surroundings for the best sound experience. If you are in search of economical over-ear wireless headphones featuring active noise cancellation, these are a fantastic option. With a battery life of 35 hours, purchasing them for under $100 is a straightforward choice for those who are budget-aware. We have never encountered this price before.

Although we are not close to events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday, this is one of several headphone offers we have recently found. Explore other articles if you are interested in wireless gaming earbuds or open-style earbuds.

4 Best Smart Scales of 2026: Evaluated and Assessed

4 Best Smart Scales of 2026: Evaluated and Assessed

Extra Intelligent Scales

**[Renpho MorphoScan at $150](https://renpho.com/products/morphoscan-scale):** The Renpho MorphoScan full-body scanner bears a strong resemblance to the Runstar FG2015 with nearly the same display and handlebars. Both scales use the same application for data gathering, even permitting concurrent usage. Nonetheless, this scale is not our top choice due to its $15 higher cost. Anticipate some price rivalry soon.

**[Arboleaf Body Fat Scale CS20W at $40](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJBT9XGK):** This economical Bluetooth scale may not be aesthetically pleasing, featuring large silver electrodes and a sizable display. While weight readings are clear, the other six metrics are less easy to interpret, all displayed simultaneously. The Arboleaf app is more intuitive and offers five additional metrics with detailed explanations. While it is worth the cost, the $40/year upsell for an “intelligent interpretation report” is unnecessary.

**[Hume Health Body Pod for $183](https://humehealth.com/pages/hume-body-pod):** The Body Pod from Hume Health is heavily promoted and touted as the Next Big Thing in body management. Even though the app is attractive, the hardware feels fragile, lacks Wi-Fi, and some functions are accessible only through a $100/year Hume Plus subscription. Comparable results can be achieved with more affordable alternatives.

**[Garmin Index S2 at $191](https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Wireless-Connectivity-Measure-010-02294-02/dp/B08KC5V33R?th=1):** After five years, the Index S2 still stands as Garmin’s flagship model. Its notable characteristic is a beautiful color display that assists users in tracking six body metrics for up to 16 participants with each weigh-in. It features weight trend charts and can show the weather. With direct Wi-Fi connectivity and Garmin’s cloud storage, there’s no need for a phone to track progress. However, the Garmin Connect app is complex, with a steep learning curve if users want to adjust scale settings. Although visually appealing, the color display ultimately contributes little to the overall offering.

**[Omron BCM-500 at $92](https://www.amazon.com/Omron-Composition-Monitor-Bluetooth-Connectivity/dp/B07WHMBH8K):** Sporting a large LCD, multiple buttons, and big silver electrodes, the Omron BCM-500 is distinguished by its brutalist style. It fits well in bathrooms decorated with concrete and wrought iron, syncing with Omron’s HeartAdvisor app. It presents six body metrics directly, cycling through each during weigh-ins for up to four users. While interpreting each data point can be challenging due to the non-backlit LCD, the app delivers easier-to-understand front-page graphs for weight, muscle, and body fat. However, the app is slow to synchronize, and the scale is quite expensive for its lack of Wi-Fi connectivity.