Insta360 launches Insta360 GO Ultra mini time-lapse kit
Fairphone releases new Fairbuds XL modular headphones
Alibaba Tongyi Qianwen releases Qwen Code v0.3.0
JetBrains announces discontinuation of Fleet product line
State Administration for Market Regulation issues two mandatory standards for civilian drones
AMD launches new driver supporting FSR Redstone
On December 10, AMD announced the launch of a new graphics card driver supporting FSR Redstone, designed to reshape gaming graphics and performance using machine learning capabilities. FSR Redstone is a new ML real-time rendering technology, which AMD unveiled earlier this year. Its goal is to enhance lighting, reflections, and motion smoothness without sacrificing frame rates.
FSR Redstone includes three core features:
Radiance Caching: By predicting indirect lighting, it reduces ray-tracing computation, making overall scene lighting more cinematic.
Ray Regeneration: This feature regenerates ray-traced details, making reflections, shadows, and material edges sharper and more realistic.
ML Frame Generation: Using high-intensity gaming training models, it generates additional frames for smoother high-speed motion performance. Source
Compatibility status of FSR Redstone, image captured from AMD website
iFixit launches AI assistant FixBot
On December 9, repair expert team iFixit introduced FixBot, an AI-powered repair assistant designed to significantly lower the barrier to device repair through the use of artificial intelligence.
The assistant integrates visual schematics, professional repair guides, and expert-level troubleshooting techniques. To address the common issue of users “not having a free hand” during repairs, FixBot places special emphasis on hands-free guidance, offering step-by-step voice instructions for a truly interactive repair experience.
Unlike general-purpose AI models, FixBot’s intelligence is built on iFixit’s extensive vertical-domain database. Over more than 20 years, the team has constructed the internet’s largest repository of repair procedures, covering more than 72,000 products—from smartphones such as the iPhone to motorcycles and beyond.
iFixit has not yet announced subscription pricing, but to promote the service, all paid premium features are currently available to users for free. iPhone users can now download the app and try the service. Source
Insta360 launches Insta360 GO Ultra mini time-lapse kit
On December 9, Insta360 introduced the Insta360 GO Ultra mini time-lapse kit, featuring a multifunctional pre-recording charging base and a pre-recording neck-mounted battery holder. With a built-in 4800mAh battery, the kit is designed to make first-person POV shooting more convenient.
In terms of hardware, the camera is equipped with a 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor and a 5nm AI chip, supporting up to 4K 60FPS high-frame-rate video recording. It includes a magnetic clip and magnetic neck lanyard, allowing hands-free first-person filming.
On the feature side, the camera offers a dedicated night-video mode with AI noise reduction, brightness restoration, and dynamic-range optimization to deliver clean, bright footage in low-light environments. It includes a variety of built-in popular filters for easy straight-out-of-camera results; supports 4K 2× lossless zoom and HDR video; and can capture 50-megapixel photos. It also features Live Photo mode, seven built-in photo filters, and a new layered battery design. With the expansion module, it can record up to 200 minutes of 1080P footage, or 70 minutes on its own. A microSD card slot is included.
The camera body, display module, and battery compartment can be detached to unlock more shooting angles. It comes with a 2.5-inch flip touchscreen, and when separated, supports wireless image transmission control. The kit is priced at 2,878.2 RMB. Source
Product promo image, via Insta360
Fairphone releases new Fairbuds XL modular headphones
On December 9, Fairphone introduced the 2025 edition of the Fairbuds XL over-ear headphones. The new model upgrades its driver units while maintaining the modular, easy-to-repair design of the 2023 original. Pricing also remains unchanged at 229 USD.
The Fairbuds XL (2025) replaces the PU leather used on the 2023 model’s headband and ear cushions with mesh and bird-eye mesh materials to improve breathability and comfort. It supports a 30-minute auto-shutdown and extends the warranty to three years. The headphones offer a more balanced stereo output, support Qualcomm aptX HD 24-bit wireless audio, include active noise cancellation and transparency mode, and deliver up to 30 hours of wireless playback.
Fairphone notes that the magnets used in the new headphone drivers are made from 100% recycled rare-earth materials. The product also incorporates 92% recycled aluminum and solder paste made with 100% recycled tin, while the entire assembly process is powered by renewable energy. In addition, Fairphone will begin offering Fairbuds XL upgrade components starting at the end of Q1 2026. Source
Product image via press source
Alibaba Tongyi Qianwen releases Qwen Code v0.3.0
On December 9, Alibaba’s Tongyi Qianwen officially released version 0.3.0 of its AI command-line tool, Qwen Code. The update adds full support for Stream JSON, significantly upgrades internationalization capabilities, and strengthens overall security and stability. Ecosystem compatibility has also been improved, with added support for ModelScope Provider and enhanced handling of stream_options.
Qwen Code is a command-line AI workflow tool optimized for the Qwen3-Coder model. By leveraging advanced code understanding, automated tasks, and intelligent assistance features, it aims to boost developer productivity. Source
JetBrains announces discontinuation of Fleet product line
On December 8, JetBrains announced that it will discontinue distribution and updates for the Fleet project. Beginning December 22, 2025, Fleet will no longer be available for download through the Toolbox App or other channels. Existing users may continue using previously downloaded versions, but server-dependent features—such as the AI assistant—may gradually stop functioning. The Fleet team has decided to cease competing with existing IDEs and code editors, and will instead build a new product focused on agent-centric development workflows, using the Fleet platform as its foundation. This new product will adopt a new name, inherit Fleet’s technical groundwork and team expertise, but shift entirely in terms of target market and product positioning. JetBrains promises to continue sharing updates on the progress of this new agent development environment. Additionally, JetBrains announced that starting with version 2025.3, the Islands theme will become the default appearance for JetBrains IDEs. Source
State Administration for Market Regulation issues two mandatory standards for civilian drones
On December 9, the State Administration for Market Regulation approved and released two mandatory national standards: Requirements for Real-Name Registration and Activation of Civil Unmanned Aircraft (GB 46761—2025) and Specifications for Operational Identification of Civil Unmanned Aircraft Systems (GB 46750—2025). Both standards will take effect on May 1, 2026.
Among them, the Requirements for Real-Name Registration and Activation of Civil Unmanned Aircraft standard outlines the workflow for real-name registration and activation of drones. It provides detailed rules on registration entities, registration management and inquiry, deregistration, data exchange interfaces, and security protection measures. It explicitly requires that drones must not have flight capability before activation or after deactivation. The Specifications for Operational Identification of Civil Unmanned Aircraft Systems standard mandates that drones must actively transmit their identity, location, speed, status, and other information to regulators upon startup and throughout the entire flight, enabling authorities to monitor flight conditions in real time.
The implementation of these two mandatory standards supports the effective enforcement of the Interim Regulations on Unmanned Aircraft Flight Management, providing crucial safeguards for the safe and orderly development of the drone industry. Source
On December 2, Samsung officially unveiled its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold. The device uses an inward-folding design, with both sides folding toward each other to protect the main display. To support this, Samsung added various screen and vibration prompts to alert users when the folding action is incorrect.
In terms of hardware, the Galaxy Z TriFold features a 10-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with QXGA resolution when unfolded, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 1,600 nits. The outer display measures 6.5 inches with a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. For dimensions, the device is 3.9 mm thick at its thinnest point when unfolded, 4.2 mm at the center of the screen, and 4.0 mm around the side button area. It weighs just 309 grams, uses second-generation Corning Gorilla Ceramic Glass for the outer display, features a titanium alloy hinge and high-strength armor aluminum frame, and offers IP48 protection against freshwater immersion and solid particle intrusion.
Other specifications include a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip (3 nm process), a 5,600 mAh battery with 45W wired charging, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB or 1TB storage options. The rear camera system includes a 200-MP wide-angle main camera, a 12-MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10-MP telephoto lens. The outer display houses a 10-MP front camera, while the main screen includes an additional 10-MP under-display camera.
The Galaxy Z TriFold comes in a single Crafted Black color. It will launch first in South Korea on December 12 at a starting price of 3,590,400 KRW, and will arrive later this month in China, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. Source
Sony Releases Alpha 7 V
On December 2, Sony China announced the full-frame mirrorless Alpha 7 V (model ILCE-7M5). Pre-orders begin immediately, with a suggested retail price of 17,999 RMB.
The Sony Alpha 7 V features a partially stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor with approximately 33 million effective pixels, paired with the BIONZ XR2 image processor. It integrates AI-driven processing for accurate auto white balance, enabling precise estimation of lighting conditions from the captured scene to reproduce more accurate colors and reduce post-processing work. The camera also supports a pre-capture function that records up to one second of footage before the shutter is released, offering advantages for dynamic scenes such as pets and sports. Source
Image via Weibo @索尼-影像圈
Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Launch Annual Recaps
On December 2, Apple introduced Apple Music Replay, showcasing users’ most-played songs, artists, and albums over the past year. In addition to listening time, number of artists played, most consistently played artists, and preferred genres, this year’s Replay adds new sections—Discovery, Loyalty, and Comebacks—to help users revisit their musical journey from new perspectives. Replay can be accessed through the Apple Music Home tab.
Apple also shared several artist statistics: the most popular song on Apple Music in 2025 is APT by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars; luther by Kendrick Lamar and SZA ranks second; Die With A Smile by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars ranks third; Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us takes fourth place, and Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather ranks fifth.Source
YouTube announced via an official blog post the rollout of YouTube Recap, its annual review feature. Similar to the existing Recap feature for YouTube Music, it presents users’ yearly viewing themes, top interest categories, favorite creators, and musical artists in a short “story” format. YouTube Recap begins rolling out immediately to users in North America, with other regions to follow, accessible via the “Me” tab in the app or on the web. Source
Amazon Music has also released its 2025 annual report, featuring a visual design inspired by music festival posters. In addition to personal and platform-wide streaming statistics, Amazon Music’s annual recap includes unique sections such as “Most Popular Alexa Requests.” Source
XREAL Announces New AR Glasses: XREAL 1S
On December 1, XREAL announced its new AR glasses, the XREAL 1S, the first device in its category to introduce automatic 2D-to-3D content conversion. The XREAL 1S weighs 82g and features dual 0.68-inch Sony OLED microdisplays with a per-eye resolution of 1920×1200. It supports a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz (30Hz in 2D-to-3D mode), 700 nits brightness, 52° FOV, and ΔE < 3 color accuracy. It is powered by XREAL’s custom X1 spatial computing chip and achieves M2P latency as low as 3 ms. The device includes audio tuned by BOSE and a four-microphone array. The XREAL 1S is priced at 67,980 yen in the Japanese market. Source
Raspberry Pi Releases 1GB Version of Raspberry Pi 5
On December 1, the Raspberry Pi Foundation announced price adjustments for some Raspberry Pi 4/5 models due to rising LPDDR4 memory costs. The 4GB Raspberry Pi 4 increases from $55 to $60, and the 4GB Raspberry Pi 5 rises from $60 to $70. Raspberry Pi has also introduced a new 1GB version of the Raspberry Pi 5, priced at $45. In addition, the 16GB Compute Module 5 will see a $20 increase. Prices for earlier models such as the Raspberry Pi 3+ and the Raspberry Pi Zero will remain unchanged. Source
DeepSeek Launches DeepSeek-V3.2 and DeepSeek-V3.2-Speciale
On December 1, DeepSeek announced two official models: DeepSeek-V3.2 and DeepSeek-V3.2-Speciale. The official website, app, and API have all been updated to the V3.2 model for general use. The Speciale version is currently available only as a temporary API service, intended primarily for community evaluation and research.
DeepSeek-V3.2 aims to balance reasoning ability with output length, making it suitable for everyday use cases such as Q&A interactions and general Agent tasks. According to public reasoning benchmarks, DeepSeek-V3.2 performs at a GPT-5 level, slightly below Gemini-3.0-Pro. Compared to Kimi-K2-Thinking, V3.2 significantly reduces output length, lowering computational overhead and reducing user wait times. V3.2-Speciale is an enhanced long-thinking variant that integrates theorem-proving capabilities from DeepSeek-Math-V2. It offers strong instruction-following performance, rigorous mathematical proofs, and logical verification. Its benchmark performance rivals Gemini-3.0-Pro and surpasses the standard V3.2 model in highly complex tasks, though it consumes more tokens and is more costly to use. Source
John Giannandrea to Step Down from Apple
On December 1, Apple announced that John Giannandrea, Senior Vice President of Machine Learning and AI Strategy, will step down from his role. He will continue serving as an advisor to the company until retiring in spring 2026. Apple also announced that renowned AI researcher Amar Subramanya has joined the company as Vice President of AI, reporting to Craig Federighi. Subramanya will oversee several key domains, including Apple’s foundation models, machine learning research, and AI safety and evaluation. Giannandrea’s former teams will transition under Sabih Khan and Eddy Cue to enhance cross-team collaboration.
Before joining Apple, Amar Subramanya served as Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President for AI and spent 16 years at Google, where he was the engineering lead for the Gemini AI assistant. Source
On December 2, Sony Interactive Entertainment and miHoYo jointly unveiled the limited-edition Genshin Impact PS5 DualSense controller, which will open for pre-orders on December 11, 2025. The controller features a dreamy white, gold, and green color scheme, adorned with mystical runes and illustrations of the Traveler twins and Paimon, capturing the signature atmosphere of the game. Starting January 21, 2026, the controller will launch first in selected Asian markets including Japan. From February 25, 2026 onward, it will roll out across North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Release dates and availability may vary by region. Source
TGA “Players’ Voice” First-Round List Announced
The first-round voting list for The Game Awards 2025 “Players’ Voice” category has officially been released. This category is the only award in TGA 2025 determined entirely by player voting, and this year features a total of 30 popular titles. In the first round, players may vote for up to 10 games from the 30 nominees. Voting closes on December 3 at 10:00 a.m. The full list of selected titles is as follows (sorted alphabetically by English titles):
The second round will begin on December 5 at 1:00 a.m., during which players may select up to 5 games from the 10 titles advancing from the first round. Voting for this stage ends on December 7 at 10:00 a.m. The final round will start on December 9 at 1:00 a.m. and conclude on December 11 at 10:00 a.m., closing simultaneously with all other public voting categories. Source
Rumors — Just for Your Curiosity
Developer @wuxianlin recently discovered Smartisan and SmartisanOS-related code in a teardown of the Doubao mobile system software. ByteDance acquired partial usage rights to Smartisan’s patents in January 2019 and has previously responded to rumors regarding potential smartphone development. Source
Image via Weibo @wuxianlin
Deadline reports that Amazon’s God of War series has officially entered full pre-production and has already been greenlit for two seasons. Frederick E. O. Toye—known for directing episodes of Fallout, The Boys, Westworld, and winner of the Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing (Drama) for Shōgun—will direct the first two episodes of God of War. Source
On December 2, French startup Mistral announced the Mistral 3 series of open-weight models, including one large frontier model with multimodal and multilingual capabilities, as well as nine smaller models that are fully customizable and suitable for offline use. Source
Many readers are often curious about what the editors at SSPAI actually buy. Through the “Editors’ New Stuff” column, we hope to introduce the interesting gadgets and products that our team members have recently started using — and let them personally share what the experience of using these “new stuff” has really been like.
Content Note: If any installment of the New Stuff column includes commercial content, it will be clearly marked as “Advertisement” within that entry.
@Sideface: MacBook Air 13 (M4)
Reference price: ¥5599 (after government subsidy)
My MacBook Pro (2017), after eight years of loyal service, has recently started showing its age—its fans spin up loudly and frequently, several butterfly-switch keys no longer pop back up when pressed, and even with a full battery, it lasts less than an hour once unplugged… All signs, loud and subtle, are telling me this old fellow is ready to retire.
This year’s Double 11 wasn’t particularly exciting, but after browsing a few e-commerce platforms, I ended up buying an M4 MacBook Air base model on JD.com. After the subsidy, the actual price was ¥5599—roughly the same as an iPhone 17 standard model. The biggest reason I chose the base Air is that features that once required an extra ¥1500 upgrade—like 16 GB RAM—and the Retina display, which couldn’t even be added for extra money back then, are now standard across the entire lineup. Even the most entry-level configuration no longer has any significant compromises. The only downside is that the box contents are getting increasingly minimal: no Apple stickers this time, though thankfully the 30W charger is still included.
As one device replaces another, eight years have passed, and the MagSafe charging port, long-travel keyboard, and physical function row that were once removed have gradually returned—along with the somewhat awkward notch. Meanwhile, the once-trendy butterfly keyboard and TouchBar have quietly faded out with the rise of the M-series chips. For a true productivity tool, practical, durable, and easy to use matters far more than quirky innovation.
What I’m not entirely used to with this generation of Air is the shift from the wedge shape to a chunky rectangular slab. Whether visually or in hand, it just doesn’t feel that “Air.” Especially the top lid—so flat it lacks even a hint of curvature. Every time I glance at it, I mistake it for a 15-inch model. Holding it feels contradictory as well: it looks thick and heavy, yet feels surprisingly light. And while the black finish does attract fingerprints, it’s undeniably gorgeous.
Since the chips are different and my old laptop had accumulated a messy amount of files, I skipped migrating data and set up this Air as a brand-new device. Right after activation, the first thing I did was disable auto-update to keep macOS on version 15.6—preserving the now-discontinued Launchpad layout. Then I went to Settings → Accessibility → Display, turned on Reduce Transparency, and enabled Dark Mode so the black status bar blends nicely with the notch.
This is my first time using an M-series MacBook, and what surprised me most is that it can install iOS apps. I’ve been working on an article about the “HarmonyOS Star River Interconnection” iOS client, and on my Intel-based Pro, the App Store simply showed it as unsupported. The next day, I switched to the M-series Air, and suddenly the previously greyed-out button became a clickable Install—which felt pretty novel.
As for battery life—a major factor in my decision to upgrade—I’ve heard that M-series MacBooks can last an entire day unplugged. I haven’t used mine long enough to confirm this yet, but I’ll need more time before reaching a verdict.
@Microhoo: Osmo Action 6
Reference price: ¥2998
The iPhone 17 series introduced a square front-facing sensor, enabling full-frame vertical capture without sacrificing image quality—a design that’s both practical and innovative, and quickly became a fan-favorite. Watching the keynote, the first thing that came to my mind was the 1/1.1-inch square sensor on the Osmo 360. If square sensors help simplify dual-lens stitching on 360° cameras, then for action cameras—devices that should never be constrained by orientation—a square sensor makes even more sense.
Unsurprisingly, that very sensor has now made its way into the Osmo Action 6. You no longer have to rotate the camera just to shoot vertical video; you’ll always get full-quality footage regardless. For an action camera that relies heavily on mounting accessories, flipping the camera isn’t just inconvenient—it’s often physically impossible due to how accessories are designed.
With aspect ratio locked, your footage remains consistent no matter how you orient the camera.
But vertical video is only one “convenience” brought by a square sensor. The real advantage shows up in stabilization and flexible cropping. We all know image stabilization is the defining strength of action cameras and a key factor in any comparison. But stabilization isn’t “free”—digital stabilization works by cropping the edges of the frame, sacrificing some field of view. Even if you maintain the same viewing angle, digital stabilization still has a physical limit. A square sensor, with larger surface area for the same diagonal size, widens that limit and gives stabilization more room to breathe.
And flexible cropping means you can choose horizontal, vertical, or any aspect ratio you need after shooting. Especially in extreme sports like cycling or diving—where it’s often difficult to predict your final output format—free-crop mode captures as much as possible so you can compose later without regrets.
Alongside the square sensor, the other major upgrade on the Osmo Action 6 is the new F2.0–4.0 variable aperture. Action cameras have a unique trait: they’re fixed-focus. This requires smaller apertures for sharpness across the frame, but bright apertures are still crucial—especially for low-light imaging, the Achilles’ heel of action cams. The variable aperture solves this physically: a wide aperture for cleaner night shots, and a smaller one for daytime sharpness and controlled motion blur.
To complement the larger aperture, DJI also introduced a new macro lens accessory. Once attached, it locks the aperture at F2.0 and shortens minimum focus distance to 11 cm, giving depth-of-field effects traditional action cameras simply can’t achieve. But where I think it shines most is in night shooting. I’ve never liked the “Super Night” computational mode—it brightens the scene and reduces noise, sure, but looks overly processed and imposes limits on resolution, stabilization, and Log compatibility.
When shooting in normal mode—especially if you want to maintain proper ISO and shutter speeds—aperture becomes the single most important variable. Since the default manual mode tops out at F2.6, the macro lens becomes incredibly useful by allowing F2.0 throughout the shot. Here’s a quick demonstration of brightness differences between F2.0, F2.8, and F4.0 under fixed ISO and shutter:
Square sensor and variable aperture are the two upgrades I find most meaningful on the Action 6, but realistically, their improvements are incremental on paper. So if your only question is: “Is the Action 6 a massive leap over the Action 5 Pro?” then the discounted previous generation might offer better value.
But if you have specific shooting needs and care about image quality, the Action 6 is arguably a milestone product in the action-camera category—a device that establishes a new technical direction for action cams aiming at professional workflows, while retaining the classic form factor.
Especially now, when smartphone video quality is soaring and thumb-sized “micro cameras” are quickly gaining traction, action cameras face an increasingly awkward position. In this context, the Action 6 feels like a bold self-reinvention. I’m genuinely curious to see how the Action series will build upon these optical foundations to hold its ground in future generations.
@Lotta: Tidying Time
Reference price: ¥29.7
A cozy simulation game that had been teased for a year or two finally launched on Steam last week. A friend thought I’d like it and grabbed it for me while it was on release discount. I was initially drawn in by its adorable art style, though I assumed the gameplay would be monotonous. But once I actually started playing, I got unexpectedly hooked—telling myself “just one more level” while blasting through twelve in a row.
The core gameplay is all about sorting and placing: turning messy gray items into “lit-up” ones, categorizing them, and arranging them neatly in each scene. Following the little black cat, you progress through 20 levels—pet supply shop, a travel vlogger’s window nook, student dorm room, office desk, private kitchen, refrigerator, and more—no two scenes are repeated.
Between levels, short dialogue-driven story bits reveal what’s going on with each scene’s owner. The environments are impressively detailed: a breakfast cart with a QR payment code, childproof outlet covers in a nursery, travel gear with long/short camera lenses, lens caps, lens pouches… Even every book and magazine has its own title. Every object comes with a brief description.
This design has pros and cons. On the plus side, it makes immersion easy and the experience richer; on the downside, the gameplay can feel repetitive when you’re placing every single egg back into its carton or fitting every steamed bun into its basket. And each time you start a level and see that mountain of clutter, there’s a moment of panic—but finishing the arrangement brings real relief and satisfaction… before you voluntarily dive into the next level (panic all over again).
So whether it counts as a “relaxing” game depends on the player. But as something to play casually during small breaks, it’s genuinely fun. Each level includes three hidden-object achievements triggered by placing special items correctly (e.g., placing a car key into the car). Beyond that, placements are not restricted—anywhere in the scene counts as long as everything is inside. You can breeze through by tossing things anywhere, or carefully design your own layout. A great pick for players who enjoy decorating in Animal Crossing.
@Tp: “Moonlight Zoo” Concert Tickets
Reference price: ¥780 × 2
After wrapping up the Twenty Years, One Moment tour earlier this year, Sodagreen’s pianist Gong Yuchi not only released his second solo album The Moonlight Zoo, but also began a concert tour of the same name in November. Both the album and the tour are rooted in his longing for his departed pets—imagining a “Moonlight Zoo” where all lost animals could find their way home again.
During the album’s pre-release phase, several tracks were revealed in advance. Among them, “The Moonlight Zoo” and “Stairway To Light” left a particularly strong impression on me from the very first listen. So while preordering the album, I also made up my mind to attend the Guangzhou stop of the concert tour.
Perhaps because concerts (as opposed to pop concerts) are more niche, the ticket-buying experience was unbelievably smooth—I got two ¥780 VIP tickets without any trouble. The seats were dead center, which made the overall experience fantastic. When the performance ended past 10:30 p.m., I still felt a lingering sense of wanting more.
The thematic execution of this concert was truly impeccable. The stage was decorated with silhouettes and lighting inspired by various animals, creating the atmosphere of a “zoo.” Gong and the string ensemble performed as if surrounded by these shadowy creatures. Lighting effects shifted to express different moods and scenes, drawing the audience powerfully into the story. The opening track even featured a burst of light that radiated from the center of the stage outward—it felt as if we were stepping into a time tunnel and truly entering the “Moonlight Zoo.”
Between pieces, a simple narrative unfolded through dialogues between Gong and a little dog, giving the entire concert the charm of an old-school Disney animation: a warm, straightforward storyline paired with beautiful classical arrangements, like a fairytale dedicated to pet lovers. Every audience member received a random wristband printed with an animal, symbolizing that we were all visitors to this magical zoo. During the song-request segment, requests were made based on the animal on your wristband—it was a delightful touch.
I drew a deer and a penguin
Since we bought VIP tickets, we received not only the program booklet but also an extra signed card—something genuinely meaningful as a keepsake.
Before entering, I worried I might get sleepy during the show. But the moment the very first note sounded, I was instantly pulled into this “Moonlight Zoo.” By the time I checked my watch at the final bow, I couldn’t believe that two and a half hours had passed so quickly.
2025 marks my fifth year in Japan. Ever since I moved here in 2021, I’ve made it a habit to review my yearly spending at the end of each year and share the items I used most frequently and enjoyed the most. This year is no exception.
Rather than a “best-of” product list, it’s more like a reflection on my year. Since I continued traveling frequently in 2025, my spending still leaned toward outdoor and lifestyle items, with very little interest in upgrading tech gadgets. So once again, the “Lifestyle” section comes first — if you’re only here for the “Tech” part, feel free to scroll straight down.
Following my principle that “there is no perfect product,” this year’s list also includes a brief “downsides” section for each item to help give a more balanced impression. And because I want to save you the trouble of hunting down prices and where to buy things, I’ll do my best to include a reference price1 and purchase channel2 under each recommendation.
Lifestyle
The North Face Expedition Series Parka
Reference Price: ¥91,300 (approx. RMB 4,133)
Where to Buy: In-store in Japan; as this is a Japan-line product, there is currently no official channel in China
A parka warm enough to handle –20°C, and it accompanied me through the harsh winters of two Northeasts (China’s Northeast and Japan’s Tōhoku) as well as Hokkaido. The reason I chose this jacket is simple: among down jackets, it has the best silhouette, and among parkas, it’s one of the warmest.
As one of the premium offerings from The North Face Japan line, this coat features nearly all of their signature technologies: GORE-TEX (2-layer, not 3-layer), PERTEX Quantum (originally used for UK parachutes, later acquired by Mitsui Japan), CLEANDOWN (high-cleanliness down from a long-established Mie Prefecture manufacturer), and Photon Thermo (The North Face Japan’s go-to thermal tech — essentially far-infrared). It may not be the ultimate top-tier product, but it’s extremely versatile and dependable for cold regions. It also frequently goes on sale, so I recommend waiting for discounts to get the best value.
Downsides: The jacket is heavy; harder to pack than typical down jackets; faux fur hood trim is mediocre; the new model (ND92546) costs ¥2,000 more without noticeable improvements.
ARC’TERYX Gamma MX Hoody
Reference Price: ¥68,200 (approx. RMB 3,088)
Where to Buy: In-store in Japan; in China, available at official stores and retail counters
This year, aside from shells, I bought quite a bit of Arc’teryx: wool socks, gloves, Gamma pants and tops, quick-dry tees, Atom jackets, hats — basically one of each iconic item. Among everything I’ve tried, the Gamma series is the most worth buying. It has repeatedly appeared on “Best Outdoor Softshell” lists and is often sold out.
The Gamma MX I purchased was originally designed as a close-fitting piece for ice climbing, but in recent years the fit has been updated to a more relaxed style, making it suitable for all body types and everyday wear. Details are excellent for this price point: Fortius™ 2.0 fabric for wind resistance and light water repellency with breathability; reinforced glued seams at the hem and hood; windproof cuffs; and a fleeced interior for warmth in spring and autumn.
The reason I recommend the Gamma series: it’s one of the few Arc’teryx lines that genuinely works across multiple scenarios. With three different thicknesses available, there’s an option for both northern and southern climates. In spring and fall, it works perfectly as an outer layer; in winter or during outdoor activities, pairing it with a down jacket or hardshell turns it into a warm and reliable mid-layer. The Fortius™ fabric is very stretchy — great for outdoor sports and commuting — and the light water resistance is enough for Japan’s rainy season.
The more straightforward reason I bought it this year: the new olive-green color was simply irresistible.
Downsides: Expensive. The avalanche incident earlier this year severely damaged the brand’s reputation, and I strongly disapprove of that behavior. However, based on the Arc’teryx events I’ve attended in Japan, their Japan operations are still outstanding.
EVERGOODS × Carryology MPL22 Backpack
Reference Price: ¥56,100 (approx. RMB 2,540)
Where to Buy: Authorized online retailers in Japan; in China, you can order from the U.S. official store or purchase through authorized Hong Kong distributors
When looking for a new backpack this year, I compared popular brands such as Aer, Able Carry, ALPAKA, and Matador. But considering my actual needs — a pack suitable for both inter-city commuting and light hiking around urban outskirts — I ultimately chose the EVERGOODS MPL22.
The MPL22 is designed specifically to transition seamlessly between mountain trails and city streets, making it a perfect match for my use cases. The only issue: the standard MPL22 uses 420d nylon, which doesn’t have the same crisp, structured look as X-Pac and looks a bit too plain in full black. Appearance-wise, it simply didn’t excite me.
The collaboration edition I eventually bought upgrades the material to ULTRA 200TX — an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabric — offering full waterproofing and exceptional strength. The gray exterior has a refined titanium-like sheen under light, paired with a bright blue interior (TX70 ULTRA), a color combination I really love.
In addition, several small design details were upgraded from the standard version: • A metal Velcro patch featuring the Krudde (a fearsome creature from Dutch folklore) • YKK’s high-performance RC-series water-resistant zippers • Anodized aluminum hardware • A fully suspended laptop compartment • A hidden pocket designed to store an AirTag And many more thoughtful touches — too many to list here. Interested readers can refer to the official making-of notes and videos linked later.
After several months of use, whether hiking, trekking, or commuting, I remain extremely satisfied with this bag. Its 22L capacity is just right — never bulky. The adjustable sternum strap adapts well to my body, offering excellent carrying comfort. The internal pocket layout is also very smart, allowing every piece of my EDC to find its perfect spot.
Downsides: The collaboration model is expensive — the standard version offers far better value. Also, the lack of a luggage pass-through strap is a notable regret.
YAMANO3 Flower MOUNTAIN × NANGA Outdoor Shoes
Reference Price: ¥27,500 (approx. RMB 1,245)
Where to Buy: NANGA Harajuku store; in China, available through the official online store
Flower MOUNTAIN is a relatively niche brand. Although I’d been aware of it for a while, it didn’t truly enter my radar until this collaboration with the Japanese outdoor brand NANGA. I saw this pair in person at NANGA’s Harajuku store — my first impression was that the design looked striking and the craftsmanship appeared refined. After trying them on and finding the comfort surprisingly good, I decided to buy them.
Compared with the regular YAMANO3, the collaboration model features two major upgrades:
An upgraded Vibram MEGA GRIP outsole
A Hydro Guard breathable waterproof membrane on the upper, offering a certain level of water resistance
What also appealed to me was the Microban lining, which provides antibacterial and deodorizing properties, and the cork insole, which offers excellent moisture absorption.
The shoes I initially bought purely for their looks have now accompanied me up Mount Asahi and Mount Kuro, and have been worn for multiple outdoor hikes and rainy-day strolls. Similar to the backpack mentioned earlier, I’d describe these shoes as suitable for both city streetwear and light outdoor use. Overall, it’s a collaboration that balances style and function — matching NANGA’s outdoor DNA while retaining Flower MOUNTAIN’s distinctly Japanese aesthetic.
Downsides: Due to the waterproof materials, breathability is somewhat limited, making them better suited for autumn and winter. They are intended for light outdoor activities rather than professional-level hiking.
KEEN HYPERPORT CLOG LEATHER
Reference Price: ¥17,600 (approx. RMB 796)
Where to Buy: KEEN Harajuku store; available on the official China online store, though at a higher price
KEEN, a Japanese brand, released this all-season clog in 2025. Known for its near-obsessive dedication to sandal design (alongside its outdoor line), KEEN launches countless sandal models each year—yet none have ever truly appealed to me aesthetically. This year’s model, however, feels like a hybrid between a Birkenstock clog and something uniquely KEEN. The upper is made of leather and equipped with an easily adjustable buckle for a secure fit outdoors. The outsole uses the brand’s own Aquagrip rubber for reliable slip resistance.
What convinced me to choose this pair was simple: more affordable than Birkenstocks, and much easier to style. After wearing them for a full year, I can say they are extremely comfortable. The toe box is wide enough for natural movement, and the thick midsole makes them far more suitable for outdoor casual use compared to regular slippers. Shopping, commuting—no problem at all.
Where to Buy: Brand retail stores in Japan; SHIRO available from its official Chinese online store, LINC currently not available
This year, my skincare trials revolved mainly around two brands from Hokkaido: SHIRO and LINC ORIGINAL MAKERS.
SHIRO is known for its natural ingredients and signature “transparent freshness.” The FREESIA MIST continues this tradition with a fresh fragrance profile: a bright fruity opening of apple and apricot, a floral mid-note, and a subtle woody base. The texture is thin and spreads smoothly, leaving the skin with a moisturized, subtly glossy finish once absorbed.
LINC also highlights naturally derived scents. The No. 997 hand cream I picked leans fruity as well. According to the brand, the top notes bring a sweet-tart orchard freshness; the middle notes blend the clarity of geranium and lily of the valley, like sunlight filtering through grass; the base introduces a soft sandalwood reminiscent of a tranquil forest breeze. In practice, the sandalwood lingers the longest (a bit similar to LE LABO’s newly released Santal 33?), refined and non-greasy. Compared to SHIRO, the LINC cream has a thicker texture and longer-lasting scent.
Downsides: SHIRO’s fragrance can become cloying over time—or, as many say, may smell a bit “cheap.” Best to try it in person if possible.
Costco 93% Duck Down Comforter
Reference Price: ¥12,980 (approx. RMB 587)
Where to Buy: Costco online store; this model is Japan-exclusive, but similar versions exist at Costco China
This winter has been one of the colder ones in Japan, so I picked up this duck down comforter while it was on sale at Costco. The biggest change it brought is that the entire winter, getting into bed felt like sinking into a hotel duvet—extremely comfortable. The best thing about down comforters is that they’re warm yet lightweight. The duck down filling is also of high cleanliness with no unpleasant odor whatsoever.
I bought the 1 kg version with 95% duck down fill, and there’s also a goose-down option. Regardless of version, all the down is certified by CIL (Comprehensive Sleep Institute), meets RDS international standards, and is processed with Aller G Plus deodorizing and antibacterial treatment. Being able to trust the filling is the biggest reason I recommend it.
In Japan, Japanese-made down comforters often cost over ¥100,000 (e.g., Nishikawa). This Costco comforter is a breath of fresh air—affordable, and even discounted during winter. My final purchase price was ¥12,980, making it incredibly cost-effective.
Downsides: None so far.
Bellroy Lite Duffel Gym Bag
Reference Price: ¥13,900 (approx. RMB 629)
Where to Buy: Amazon Japan; also available through the official China store
This is a gym bag with excellent texture and craftsmanship, supporting two carrying modes: hand-carry and shoulder-carry (with a detachable strap included). The interior is well-organized, with two bottle pockets and two small item pockets; there’s a built-in AirTag pocket; and the bag can be folded down into a compact size when not in use. The capacity is just right for me. The exterior fabric is water-repellent and has successfully protected my belongings through several surprise downpours; the bag itself is lightweight, making it perfect for going back and forth between home and the gym.
Downsides: Expensive at full price. No dedicated shoe compartment. As a travel bag, it lacks a strap to secure it onto a suitcase handle.
Where to Buy: Tokyo outdoor fair; in China, available via the official flagship store
Thanks to the fitness habit I mentioned earlier, I tried quite a few base layer brands this year: Lululemon, Mizuno, Arc’teryx, Montbell and so on. After comparing these, the one most worth recommending is Patagonia’s C1 quick-dry.
That’s almost stating the obvious—anyone who knows Patagonia a bit probably already knows that one of their must-try products is the Capilene C1 quick-dry series. The reason I recommend it is that it strikes a great balance between price and performance: it feels great to wear, has excellent quick-drying and odor-control capabilities, comes with a tear-off care label, and is reasonably priced.
As for other brands, if we ignore price, Arc’teryx’s Konseal Pocket quick-dry series would probably be my top pick. Unfortunately, the price is high enough to buy at least two pieces from other brands, so I’m not including it in the recommendation list.
Downside: It does nothing to hide your body shape—any “flaws” will be fully exposed.
Kao Steam Eye Mask (Lavender Scent)
Reference Price: ¥1,543 (approx. RMB 69)
Where to Buy: Amazon Japan; in China, available via the official flagship store, and actually cheaper than in Japan
An old product in new packaging. A friend once randomly gave me one to try, and I’ve been hooked ever since. These Kao steam eye masks have kept me company through many nights, as well as countless breaks on long bus and plane rides.
They’re designed as single-use, so they’re very lightweight, easy to carry, and you just toss them after use—super convenient. There is an unscented version, but I still prefer the scented ones, especially lavender and osmanthus; those scents make it easier for me to slip into a relaxed, sleepy state. Of course, this is very subjective, but it works extremely well for me.
Downside: None for now.
Mitsubishi Uni-ball Zento Sign Pen
Reference Price: ¥3,300 (approx. RMB 149)
Where to Buy: Mitsubishi stationery exhibition; in China, available through various Japanese stationery resellers
The magnetic cap is dangerously addictive—you’ll find yourself clicking it open and shut nonstop. The pen itself has a metal body with a matte coating, giving it a premium feel. The newly developed ZENTO ink includes a “POA surfactant,” which reduces friction against paper even further, resulting in an exceptionally smooth writing experience and minimal ghosting. The weight distribution of the pen has also been adjusted so that the center of gravity sits near the web of your hand, making it comfortable even during extended writing sessions. The overall balance is excellent—you can almost feel that “the pen moves with your mind” smoothness the moment you pick it up.
Downside: Pricey. If you just want to try the smooth ink, the standard model is enough.
THE SUPERIOR LABOR Wallet
Reference Price: ¥15,000 (approx. RMB 678)
Where to Buy: TSL official website; in China, likely only through third-party buyers
In my earlier article “Three Years with a Backpack: My Travel Gear List,”I mentioned wanting a short wallet to replace the long one I had been using. My options at the time were RE:FORM and Bellroy, but the former’s material attracts dust easily, while the latter doesn’t fit well with Japan’s coin-heavy payment habits.
Just in time for THE SUPERIOR LABOR’s year-end sale, I picked up this classic Japanese-style wallet at a great price. I call it a “Japanese wallet” mainly because of two features (which also made me choose it):
First, despite being a bi-fold wallet with limited space, it includes a coin pocket that opens at a wide angle—perfect for Japan’s cash-centered society. In my case I rarely use coins, so I use this pocket to store my AirTag instead.
Second, the craftsmanship. This wallet is made from Japanese Black Wagyu leather, often called the “black diamond of the leather world.” It is tanned using the traditional shironameshi method, which avoids chemical agents and instead uses natural materials like shell ash, salt, and oils. The coloring is done with urushi-nuri, a technique that uses lacquer tree sap. Both methods are traditional techniques and very much reflect Japanese craftsmanship philosophy.
Downside: Because of the coin-pocket design, the wallet is on the thicker side.
As always, here are some food and drink recommendations to wrap up the lifestyle section:
IYOSHI COLA
Japan’s version of Laoshan Cola: a cola base infused with traditional herbal ingredients, essentially a medicinal-style Coca-Cola. If you enjoy Laoshan Cola, you’ll almost certainly like Iyoshi Cola—the herbal taste is even stronger, and you’ll often find a bit of herbal sediment at the bottom.
This is the kind of drink people either absolutely love or flat-out hate. If you’re a fan of herbal flavors, it’s definitely worth a try. Iyoshi Cola has easily become the drink I consume most frequently this year—nothing else even comes close.
Downside: Expensive; the distinctive medicinal flavor can be off-putting for some.
Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory Cookies
One of my favorite snacks this year. They come in a variety of flavors; my personal picks are Truffle & Cheddar (savory-sweet) and Uji Matcha (sweet). The cookies look a bit like Shiroi Koibito, but taste much better: crisp yet not dry, with smooth, layered fillings that never feel cloying. The Truffle & Cheddar flavor has a subtle savory aroma, with the truffle fragrance blending harmoniously—perfect when paired with black tea as an afternoon treat. The Uji Matcha version balances a gentle bitterness with the soft sweetness of mascarpone, resulting in a wonderfully delicate flavor profile.
Downside: Uses no animal butter; the ingredient list is noticeably long…
Then let’s talk about two things that aren’t practical but add emotional value:
Alapaka 9th Anniversary Limited-Edition Patch
A limited-edition badge collection released for ALPAKA’s 9th anniversary. The brand invited nine renowned street artists from around the world, each offering their own creative interpretation of ALPAKA’s core theme — “Keep Moving Forward.”
Each patch has a completely different style, and I switch them around on my various accessory bags. No deeper reason — they just look cool.
We Are Twinkle People
I bought some Pop Mart stock earlier this year and sold too early. Recently I discovered that the Twinkle figures are way too cute. When I’m in a bad mood, giving the little Twinkle guy a squish instantly lifts my spirits. No major purpose — just emotional value as a little “gift back” to Pop Mart for that stock. The rest is pure serotonin.
Tech Picks
This year’s tech section can be summed up as “nothing remarkable.” My usual habit of upgrading my iPhone annually was interrupted — although I did buy the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, I immediately sold it to a buyback shop. Overall, I’ve hit a “vacuum phase” with electronics, feeling little motivation to replace or upgrade anything throughout the year.
DJI Action 5 Pro
As I mentioned in My Travel Gear List After Three Years of Backpacking, the main purpose of this purchase was to replace my old GoPro 9 — pairing it with a car mount for road-trip scenery, or a neck mount for hiking and trekking logs. The 30,000-yen purchase price plus points made it a great deal. The compact body is easy to carry, and compared with my old GoPro, the magnetic mounting system saves a lot of hassle during setup and removal
Downside: DJI released the Action 6 at the end of this year, making the 5 Pro an older model. Personally, though, I don’t see a strong reason to upgrade.
Panasonic ES-PV3A Electric Shaver
A frequent appearance in my recommendations this year. Lightweight, long-lasting battery, USB-C charging — all solid selling points. But the real highlight is how incredibly compact it is: super portable without compromising shaving performance.
I’ve tried Braun’s foil shavers before, but had to switch back to Philips after developing a nickel allergy to Braun’s foil. Panasonic’s ES-PV3A, however, contains no nickel, and its foil head shaves noticeably cleaner than Philips’ rotary design. It has become an absolute essential for my trips this year.
Downside:
The small body means you must clean it manually — there’s no automatic cleaning base.
Other variants of this model offer no performance differences at all — only cosmetic changes — so the price markup is basically pure “aesthetic tax.”
Zhitai Portable SSD
Because of work, I’ve used portable drives from Samsung, SanDisk, LaCie, and others. Earlier this year, I bought my first domestically made portable SSD — the Zhitai. After nearly a year of heavy usage (storing large quantities of photos and videos, long continuous data transfers), it has remained extremely stable and reliable.
Compared with Samsung’s T7 series, the Zhitai drive is cheaper and faster. While long-term durability still needs more time to judge, its performance so far has been excellent. The included dual-head data cable and surprisingly good-quality carrying case also add extra value to the overall package.
Nitecore EDC23 Flashlight
Since rural areas in Japan often lack streetlights — and because I frequently walk mountain roads at night — I still need a compact flashlight for safety. The EDC23’s flat, compact design is highly portable, yet it can instantly burst to 2,500 lumens of brightness. USB-C charging is another major convenience, saving me from carrying a proprietary cable.
I also bought two other popular models this year — the SK-05 and Xiaomi’s multifunction portable flashlight. Both perform well, but due to size differences, neither is as convenient to carry as the EDC23, so I’ll leave them out for now.
Downside: The 2,550-lumen turbo mode only lasts a few seconds before the flashlight forces a cooldown.
Razer Pro Click V2 Ergonomic Mouse
I bought this as a replacement for my current Logitech MX Vertical ergonomic mouse. Compared with the MX Vertical, the Pro Click V2 is better suited for users with larger hands. Once you get used to Razer’s grip style, you’ll find that its mold design is more reasonable and comfortable than the MX Vertical. The matte plastic shell is also a huge advantage for someone like me with “acidic hands”—it doesn’t get corroded or damaged by sweat the way the rubber coating on the MX Vertical does. In addition, its DPI is significantly higher than Logitech’s, making cursor movements more responsive and precise, especially on high-resolution monitors or multi-screen setups.
Downside: Just like Logitech’s office drivers, Razer’s software is terrible. The mouse also has a built-in RGB light—if you leave it on, battery life drops drastically. When connected via Bluetooth, wake-from-sleep is noticeably slower than Logitech’s.
Final Words
This is both the conclusion and the disclaimer. Everything listed above represents items that I personally selected with great care throughout the year — but my definition of “good products” is entirely subjective. These items are simply what best fit me, not necessarily what will fit everyone. If anything here gives you even a little inspiration, then that alone makes this article worthwhile.
There is no such thing as a perfect product, but I hope this 2025 favorites roundup offers you a broader reference range for your future purchases.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below — I’d be happy to chat. See you again in the 2026 favorites share.
This price is listed in Japanese yen inclusive of tax, along with the equivalent amount in Chinese yuan based on the exchange rate at the time of writing. It is not a tourist tax-free price. ↩︎
The author’s method of acquisition, as well as the potential domestic purchasing channels the author has identified, may therefore be inaccurate. ↩︎
Qualcomm Unveils the Fifth-Generation Snapdragon 8 Mobile Platform
On November 26, Qualcomm officially launched the fifth-generation Snapdragon 8 mobile platform, positioned as a flagship SoC with major advancements in CPU, GPU, NPU, imaging, and AI performance. The platform features the Qualcomm Oryon CPU with a peak clock speed of 3.8 GHz, delivering a 36% performance increase and 42% power reduction compared with the previous generation. Overall SoC power efficiency has also been improved, with total power consumption reduced by 13%.
On the GPU side, the new Adreno GPU adopts a fresh architecture, offering 11% higher performance and 28% lower power consumption. It supports Adreno Game Ready drivers, Auto VRS (Adaptive Variable Resolution Rendering), Mesh Shading, and Qualcomm FPS 3.0, enabling mobile gaming experiences of up to 165 fps. The NPU, built on Qualcomm’s latest Hexagon design, delivers a 46% boost in AI compute performance.
The imaging system uses a 20-bit AI-powered triple ISP, supporting context-aware 3A algorithms, Night Vision 3.0, and integrates Snapdragon Audio Sense for enhanced imaging and audio processing capabilities.
In AI and connectivity, the fifth-generation Snapdragon 8 includes an on-device agent-class AI assistant, multimodal AI activation, and an advanced sensor hub, with support for running mainstream generative AI models. Connectivity features include the Snapdragon X80 5G modem-RF system, FastConnect 7900 mobile connectivity platform, Bluetooth 6.0, and UWB, enabling more stable and higher-speed wireless performance.
Product Core Performance Chart, Image Courtesy of Qualcomm
Panasonic Rolls Out Major Firmware Updates for S1 II, S1 IIE, and S1R II Cameras
On November 26, Panasonic announced new firmware updates for its full-frame mirrorless cameras: the S1 II, S1 IIE, and S1R II. The S1 II and S1 IIE have been updated to version 1.2, while the S1R II has been updated to version 1.3. This update focuses heavily on improving video recording performance, alongside enhancements to autofocus, menu logic, ISO control, and more. The companion app, LUMIX Flow, has also been updated to version 1.4.
The firmware significantly improves continuous video recording stability across varying temperature environments, thanks to optimized thermal management algorithms. In burst shooting, the S1 II now adds a 30fps low-speed burst option in image-priority mode, while the S1R II gains a 20fps low-speed burst. Both models now support pre-burst shooting.
This update significantly extends the continuous recording time for videos. Image courtesy of Panasonic.
This update substantially extends continuous video recording time. Image: Panasonic Autofocus logic has also been enhanced. When multiple subjects appear in the frame, the camera will now display only the primary subject detection frame. A new rectangular AF frame mode based on eye detection has also been added.
For video workflows, the cameras now support a new low-bitrate MP4 (Lite) format, offering 3:2 4K Open Gate recording at 50 Mbps. This reduces file sizes by 41% and increases transfer speeds by 1.7×, making it more suitable for quick mobile transfers and lightweight post-production. ISO control has also been improved: users can now adjust the “ISO Auto” option directly from the custom menu, and dual native ISO ranges are now displayed in real time, making it easier to determine whether the camera is operating in high or low native ISO mode.
Additionally, the updated LUMIX Flow app adds a LUT preview assist feature that syncs with the camera menu to display V-Log LUTs. A multi-frame marker display has also been introduced, allowing the app to show multiple frames exported from the camera when the same scene is captured. Source
Perplexity Launches Virtual Try-On Feature
On November 27, AI search service Perplexity announced the launch of its new virtual try-on feature. When users search for clothing items, they can now tap the newly added “Try it on” button and upload their own photo. Perplexity will then generate a synthesized try-on effect using its large AI models. The feature is currently available exclusively to Pro and Max subscribers and is already live. Source
State Council Releases Plan to Further Boost Consumption Upgrading
The State Council recently released the Implementation Plan on Enhancing the Supply–Demand Alignment of Consumer Goods to Further Promote Consumption, outlining goals to develop three trillion-yuan-level consumption sectors and ten hundred-billion-yuan-level consumer hotspots by 2027. By 2030, the plan aims to establish a high-quality development framework in which supply and consumption interact positively, enabling better supply to unlock consumption potential.
The plan highlights accelerating the application of new technologies and new business models, including creating first-use scenarios for new products in sectors such as intelligent connected new energy vehicles, smart home appliances, consumer electronics, and modern textiles. It also promotes flexible, customized, and highly responsive manufacturing models. The document further proposes connecting consumer big data with production systems, encouraging user participation in product design, and improving responsiveness to niche demands.
The plan pushes for deep integration of artificial intelligence into the consumer goods industry, encouraging the development of various AI-enabled devices including household service robots, smart appliances, smartphones, computers, toys, eyewear, and brain–computer interface devices. It also supports the establishment of smart home experience centers, elderly-care product experience centers, and customized clothing experience centers across regions to expand multi-scenario service offerings. Additionally, the plan calls for enriching product supply in key sectors such as sports, health, culture and tourism, baby and child care, and elderly-friendly products, while promoting green product innovation and improving the quality of rural consumer goods.
The document also lays out measures to cultivate diverse consumption scenarios, including hosting product launch events, developing livestream e-commerce and instant retail, expanding low-altitude consumption and automotive aftermarket services such as vehicle customization, and improving standards for shared consumption. The plan emphasizes supporting measures in finance, branding, and consumer goods safety regulation, calling for stronger interdepartmental coordination. Local governments are urged to implement the plan according to regional conditions, guide enterprises to improve product quality and integrity, and further unlock consumption potential. Source
“Zootopia 2” Becomes the Highest-Grossing Imported Animated Film on Opening Day
On November 26, according to data from Maoyan Pro, Disney’s animated film Zootopia 2 earned over 213 million RMB on its opening day, becoming the highest-grossing imported animated film on a single day in the history of mainland China. Its debut performance surpassed titles such as The Boy and the Heron and Frozen 2, and far exceeded the first Zootopia film’s highest single-day box office in 2016 (166 million RMB).
As a sequel released nearly a decade after the original, Zootopia 2 continues the anthropomorphic world-building and comedic adventure style, created by the original core team led by Byron Howard. The film has received strong audience ratings and significant market attention. According to Maoyan Pro’s forecast, the total box office of Zootopia 2 is expected to exceed 2.6 billion RMB, very likely to surpass the first film’s record and become one of the highest-grossing imported animated films in China’s box office history. Source
Kodak Launches the Snapic A1 Film Point-and-Shoot Camera
Google Assistant to Shut Down in 2026
Adobe Photoshop Releases Chrome Extension
Anthropic Announces Claude Opus 4.5 Model
Casual Rumors to Glance At
Huawei Releases Multiple New Products
On November 25, Huawei released multiple new devices, including the Mate 80 series, Mate X7, and MatePad Edge.
The Huawei Mate 80 series comes in three versions—Mate 80, Mate 80 Pro, and Mate 80 Pro Max. All models feature the “Second-Generation Maple Imaging System,” though camera configurations differ across models. The entire lineup supports Tiantong satellite communication, two-way BeiDou satellite messaging, and debuts 700MHz off-grid emergency communication, enabling up to 13 km connectivity in scenarios with no signal or base station failures due to natural disasters. All models also include a 3D TOF sensor supporting 3D facial recognition, and offer IP69 protection against high-temperature, high-pressure water jets, as well as 6-meter IP68 dust and water resistance.
In terms of build, the standard Mate 80 uses a matte aluminum alloy frame; the Pro uses a glossy aluminum alloy frame; and the Pro Max features a full-metal design. The Mate 80 and Mate 80 Pro both feature a 6.75-inch OLED display at 2832×1280 resolution with 1–120Hz adaptive refresh rate, 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, and 300Hz touch sampling, protected by second-gen Kunlun Glass. The Pro Max upgrades to a 6.9-inch dual-layer OLED “Linglong Display” with a peak brightness of 8000 nits at 1% APL. Battery capacities are 5750mAh for the Mate 80 and Mate 80 Pro, and 6000mAh for the Pro Max. Pricing starts at RMB 4,699 for the standard Mate 80, RMB 5,999 for the Pro, and RMB 7,999 for the Pro Max.
The Mate 80 series also offers an RS Extraordinary Master Edition, which continues the line’s signature “Legendary Star Diamond” design language and comes in Violet, Black, and White colorways. It features a dual-layer OLED panel, imaging hardware comparable to the Pro Max, dual physical SIMs, dual eSIMs, and 20GB of RAM. Pricing starts at RMB 11,999 for the 20GB+512GB version and RMB 12,999 for the 20GB+1TB version.
The Huawei WATCH ULTIMATE DESIGN introduces a new “Purple Gold” variant featuring a dodecagonal purple ceramic bezel, composite rare-earth purple ceramic, ten 18K gold bars, 24K gold numerals, and a 24K gold-plated bracelet. It supports StarLight car keys, eSIM standalone calling, BeiDou satellite messaging and voice messaging, HarmonyOS wrist-based AI assistant, and includes advanced modes such as outdoor expedition, golf, and 100-meter diving. It is priced at RMB 24,999. The MateBook Fold Extraordinary Master Edition adds a new “Auspicious Red” color option, featuring a large dual-layer OLED display—13 inches folded and 18 inches unfolded—with 1600-nit peak brightness and 3.3K resolution. The 32GB+2TB model is priced at RMB 26,999.
The new foldable Mate X7 is available in Obsidian Black, Cloud Blue, Cloud White, Universe Red, and Phantom Purple, weighs 235g, and measures 4.5mm unfolded and 9.5mm folded. It sports a 6.49-inch external display with 3000-nit peak brightness, 1–120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and 1080p resolution, alongside an 8-inch internal LTPO display at 2416×2210 resolution and 2500-nit peak brightness. The standard model uses second-gen Kunlun Glass, while the Collector’s Edition uses second-gen Xuanwu Hardened Kunlun Glass. It supports IP58/IP59 water and dust resistance, includes a 5600mAh battery with 66W wired and 50W wireless charging, off-grid emergency communication, and a 10-day extreme outdoor mode. The standard version supports BeiDou satellite messaging; the Collector’s Edition supports both Tiantong satellite calls and BeiDou messaging. It features the second-generation Maple Imaging System with a 50MP variable-aperture main camera, a 3.5× optical periscope telephoto lens, and a 40MP ultra-wide lens. Pricing starts at RMB 12,999 for the standard 12GB+256GB version.
Huawei also introduced its first 2-in-1 tablet, the Huawei MatePad Edge. It features a 14.2-inch display at 3.1K resolution, 1000 nits peak brightness, and 120Hz refresh rate. The system switches between tablet and desktop modes with shared data and unified file management. It includes an integrated aluminum alloy stand with a distributed hinge, available in Gray and Silver. It supports a floating keyboard with a built-in charging port and hidden pen slot. The MatePad Edge comes in six configurations starting at RMB 5,999 (16GB+256GB).
Huawei additionally announced new color options for the MateBook Pro and the Huawei WATCH Ultimate 2. Source
Kodak Launches the Snapic A1 Film Point-and-Shoot Camera
Kodak has officially launched the Snapic A1, a film point-and-shoot camera featuring glass optics and several “modern conveniences” such as automatic film advance and automatic rewind. The camera is priced at USD 99. The Snapic A1 uses 35mm film, weighs 117 grams, and measures 118 × 62 × 24 mm. It requires two AAA batteries to power film advance, rewind, and the flash. When fully charged, it can shoot approximately ten rolls of 24-exposure film. In terms of specifications, the camera features a three-element glass lens with a focal length and aperture of 25mm f/9.5. The aperture cannot be manually adjusted, and focus distance is limited to two preset zones: 0.5 m–1.5 m and 1.5 m–infinity. The shutter speed is fixed at 1/100 s. The built-in flash has a guide number of 8 and supports automatic on/off and red-eye reduction. The top of the camera includes an OLED status display that shows battery level, focus mode, focus distance zone, and remaining exposures. The Snapic A1 also supports multiple exposure photography, which can be activated via a switch located on the front of the body below the shutter button. Source
Google Assistant to Shut Down in 2026
On November 24, Google officially confirmed in the Android Auto support forum that Google Assistant will be fully replaced by Gemini, with related services becoming unavailable after March 2026. Until then, Android users may freely switch between Google Assistant and Gemini. Google began gradually migrating Assistant features to Gemini in 2024, though a small number of functions still remain unsupported in Gemini for now. Source
Adobe Photoshop Releases Chrome Extension
On November 25, Adobe announced that Photoshop now offers support for a Chrome extension. Through this extension, users can directly perform common Photoshop tasks in their browser, such as asset collection, background removal, precise editing, and cropping. Adobe also announced that installing the extension grants users a 12-month free trial of Photoshop on the Web. The promotion ends on December 8, 2025. Source
Anthropic Announces Claude Opus 4.5 Model
Anthropic announced on November 24 the launch of its latest AI model, Claude Opus 4.5 — a general-purpose model positioned as a leader in coding, agents, and computer-interaction tasks. It offers substantial improvements in deep research, presentation processing, and spreadsheet tasks. The model is now available through the Anthropic app, API, and major cloud platforms. Developers can access it via the Claude API using version claude-opus-4-5-20251101. Input and output pricing is set at USD 5 per million tokens. At the same time, the company updated the Claude Developer Platform, Claude Code, and its consumer app, adding support for longer-running agent tools and expanding Claude’s integrations with Excel, Chrome, and desktop environments. Source
Casual Rumors to Glance At
According to a November 22 report from gaming media Push Square, Implicit Conversions — the studio behind Sony’s official PS1 and PS2 emulators for the PS Plus Premium subscription service — is now quietly developing an official PS3 emulator. Source
The Financial Times reports that Spotify plans to adjust subscription pricing in the United States in the first quarter of 2026, though the exact price increase remains unknown. Source
Kodak’s brand licensee teases the Snapic A1 film camera
CCTV exposes gas stations using modified pumps and cheating software to steal fuel and evade taxes
Apple Music reveals its Artists of the Year
Pixel 10 now supports peer-to-peer transfer with Apple devices
HarmonyOS Galaxy Connect app launches on the App Store
Rumors worth a glance only
OpenAI Releases the GPT-5.1-Codex-Max Model
On November 19, OpenAI published a blog post announcing GPT-5.1-Codex-Max, an agent-based programming model featuring major improvements in long-range reasoning, efficiency, and real-time interaction. Tests show that GPT-5.1-Codex-Max achieves 77.9% accuracy on SWE-Bench Verified, which evaluates real-world software problem-solving capabilities; 58.1% on Terminal-Bench 2.0; and a score of 2439 on the LiveCodeBench Pro coding Elo benchmark.
One of the core upgrades in GPT-5.1-Codex-Max is a mechanism called Compaction. When approaching the context window limit, it intelligently retains crucial content while discarding minor details, enabling the model to process millions of tokens continuously without performance degradation. In internal testing, the model successfully completed complex tasks that ran for over 24 hours, including multi-step code refactoring and autonomous debugging. This technology also boosts token efficiency by roughly 30%, reducing both cost and latency.
GPT-5.1-Codex-Max has already been integrated into several OpenAI-developed Codex environments, including the official command-line tool (Codex CLI), internal code-review tools, and multiple interactive programming environments. Source
Google announces the Nano Banana Pro model
Google has announced Nano Banana Pro (Gemini 3 Pro Image), a model built upon Gemini 3 Pro and a major upgrade following the original Nano Banana. The new model offers stronger reasoning abilities, real-time knowledge integration, more accurate text rendering, and richer creative editing tools—allowing abstract ideas, notes, data, or sketches to be transformed more intuitively into images, infographics, or design prototypes.
Google states that with Gemini 3 Pro’s deep understanding and world knowledge, Nano Banana Pro not only produces more realistic and contextually complete visuals, but can also use Search Grounding to obtain real-time facts and up-to-date information. For example, Nano Banana Pro can automatically gather weather reports, recipes, plant information, and more from the web, and convert them into visualized infographics—ideal for education, popular science, business presentations, and everyday content creation.
In text rendering, Nano Banana Pro supports in-image text generation and layout capabilities. It can produce multilingual, highly readable, detail-rich fonts and paragraphs for posters, titles, packaging designs, infographics, and more, while supporting various font styles, textures, and calligraphic expressions—resulting in more accurate localized outputs.
In terms of consistency and creative composition, Nano Banana Pro can blend up to 14 input images while maintaining identity consistency for up to 5 people. It also enhances local editing and creative control, enabling adjustments to lighting (such as day–night switching), focus, depth of field, composition, camera angles, or even applying complex color grading. Source
WeChat Desktop gets a practical upgrade
WeChat for Windows and Mac released version 4.1.5 on November 20. The update introduces a scrolling screenshot feature, allowing users to scroll downward after initiating a screenshot to generate a long capture. In file management, selecting a file received in WeChat now offers a new “Download to…” option, letting users save files directly to a specified directory instead of being restricted to the default path. Users can also disable “Automatically download files under 20 MB” in settings to prevent small files from being saved automatically to a fixed location.
In addition, the Windows version now adds an emoji button in the message forwarding interface, allowing users to insert emojis directly into the note field and send them together with text. Source
Qualcomm Releases Snapdragon Control Panel
Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon Control Panel, which can automatically detect PC games installed on Snapdragon X Elite devices and provide optimization suggestions based on the system configuration. Its overall operation is similar to AMD and Nvidia GPU control panels, supporting settings such as frame-rate limits, anti-aliasing modes, and texture filtering. Players can also update their Adreno GPU drivers with a single click to achieve more stable performance. Qualcomm states that it has repaired and optimized over 100 games since last year and will continue releasing updates.
Meanwhile, Microsoft and Qualcomm are jointly enhancing system-level gaming capabilities. The Microsoft Prism emulator now supports the x86 AVX instruction set—an important dependency for many games and creative applications. Qualcomm’s previously released Snapdragon X2 Elite chip supports AVX2 emulation, and older Snapdragon X devices will receive related updates in the coming weeks. The new Xbox app now allows ARM64-native compatible games to be installed directly on Windows on Arm devices, and the full PC Game Pass library is now playable locally, not limited to cloud gaming.
Regarding multiplayer game compatibility, Qualcomm is working with Epic Games to bring Fortnite to Windows on Arm devices with full kernel-level anti-cheat support. Qualcomm is also collaborating with Tencent ACE, Roblox Hyperion, Denuvo, InProtect GameGuard, Uncheater, and BattleEye to expand compatibility for more mainstream multiplayer titles. Source
Kodak’s brand licensee teases the Snapic A1 film camera
kodakfilm.reto has released a new teaser video, hinting at the upcoming launch of the Snapic A1 film camera. The video shows a minimalist black design equipped with a 25mm three-element glass lens, balancing compact size with image quality. The camera body features a small display for basic shooting information and operation controls. The Snapic A1 will support automatic exposure (AE) and offer multiple adjustable shooting parameters, giving users a more convenient experience while preserving the characteristic texture of film. The official release date and price have not yet been announced. Source
CCTV exposes gas stations using modified pumps and cheating software to steal fuel and evade taxes
According to a November 19 report from CCTV’s Focus Report, some gas stations have been stealing fuel by tampering with fuel pump motherboards and installing cheating software. During surprise inspections, regulators discovered that these gas stations kept two identical-looking computers—one of which contained software used to configure fuel-theft parameters. The theft ratio typically ranged from 2% to 5%. For example, when paying for 60 liters, consumers would receive at least 1.2 liters less. In addition, some stations were also involved in large-scale tax evasion. One station’s paper records showed a July revenue of 770,000 yuan, but an encrypted ledger found on a USB drive revealed real sales reaching 8.5 million yuan—concealing nearly 8 million yuan of revenue. In May this year, police cracked down on a cheating software operation known as “Leyou,” arresting individuals involved in its development, sales, and use. Over 360 sets of the software had been sold across 21 provinces and cities nationwide. Source
Apple Music reveals its Artists of the Year
Apple Music has announced Tyler, the Creator as its Artist of the Year for 2025, stating that his October 2024 release Chromakopia is his most personally expressive work to date, and it set new Apple Music records for first-day and first-week streams. While on the Chromakopia tour, he also created and released Don’t Tap the Glass, which topped the Apple Music charts in more than 55 countries on its release day.
Apple Music notes that from November 2024 to October 2025, Tyler reached career highs in global streams, listener numbers, and total listening time—surpassing 4.5 billion minutes. He also earned five Grammy nominations for Chromakopia and Don’t Tap the Glass. Source
Pixel 10 now supports peer-to-peer transfer with Apple devices
Google has announced that the Pixel 10 now supports direct peer-to-peer file transfers with iPhone, iPad, and macOS devices via Quick Share—without routing through servers and without relying on Apple’s technical support. Users simply need to enable “Everyone” visibility (limited to 10 minutes if desired) on an Apple device, after which it becomes discoverable by the Pixel. The transfer interface appears identical to a standard AirDrop request. Transfers in the opposite direction also work, as long as the Pixel is set to receive. Google emphasizes that the entire feature is independently implemented and has passed internal privacy reviews as well as penetration testing by third-party security firm NetSPI.
For now, this capability is exclusive to the latest Pixel 10 series, though Google says support will expand in the future. Apple has not yet provided a response. Source
HarmonyOS Galaxy Connect app launches on the App Store
On November 21, the HarmonyOS Star River Connect app officially launched on the Apple App Store. The app currently allows Huawei devices running HarmonyOS 6.0 and iPhone/iPad to transfer contacts, photos, videos, and files between each other, and includes features such as device search, device information display, and transfer history. Huawei previously announced at the HarmonyOS 6 special event that the system would support cross-device transfer experiences with iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, so this app is also expected to expand to macOS. Source
Rumors worth a glance only
According to reports, Samsung originally planned to develop a glass-substrate micro-OLED display technology for Apple, known as G-VR, aimed at reducing production costs for the rumored Vision Air headset. Unlike costly silicon-based micro-OLED, G-VR uses a glass substrate, simplifying manufacturing and lowering costs, potentially allowing Vision Air to be positioned as a more affordable product compared to the high-end Vision Pro. However, new information suggests Apple has shelved the plan and may even ask Samsung to halt G-VR development entirely. While reports do not specify why Vision Air may be canceled, industry analysts believe Apple could be redirecting resources toward its smart glasses project. According to supply chain sources, Apple’s first smart glasses are expected to debut in 2026, although the initial version will not feature full AR display capabilities. A version with true AR display is expected to arrive in 2027. Source
According to GalaxyClub, Samsung is developing a smart glasses device under the codename “Haean,” model SM-O200P. Unlike the SM-I series used for Galaxy XR headsets, this naming suggests that Samsung intends smart glasses to be a distinct product line rather than a continuation of its XR series. The device will reportedly use photochromic lenses that automatically darken in bright environments to reduce glare, then return to transparent indoors—improving usability for outdoor and everyday wear scenarios. The glasses are expected to include a built-in camera for imaging or visual assistance, as well as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for working alongside a phone or other devices. However, the device will not include independent cellular data capabilities and will instead rely on paired devices for network access. Source
Welcome to this week’s Pi Review. You can use the table of contents to jump directly to the sections you’re interested in. And if you discover other apps or topics worth discussing, feel free to join the conversation in the comments.
Must-See App Updates
Beyond the “new and shiny,” many long-standing App Store favorites continue to iterate, release updates, and add more useful or delightful features. At Sspai, we want to help you filter through these changes and quickly catch up on the latest app developments worth your attention.
Moment Pro Camera II: A Classic Third-Party Camera App Reborn — Practicality Above All
Platform: iOS
Keywords: mobile photography, LUT
@Vanilla: Most third-party camera apps these days fall into one of three categories:
Filter-driven, featuring LUTs, film simulations, and similar effects;
Design-driven, using custom skins or UI interactions to evoke a mood or aesthetic;
Feature-driven, offering advanced controls to unlock more powerful shooting capabilities on the iPhone.
The newly released second-generation Moment Pro Camera belongs squarely to the third category. While it doesn’t bring bold innovations in visual design or interaction, it strikes an excellent balance in terms of feature implementation—and crucially, it supports both photo and video workflows. It’s fair to call it a “comprehensive, all-in-one” camera app.
Opening Moment Pro Camera reveals a familiar interface, with the main area naturally dominated by the viewfinder. On the right side of the viewfinder are two indicators showing the status of the flash and orientation lock. To change either of these settings, simply swipe down on the viewfinder to open the shooting settings panel. This panel is divided into two major sections: shooting functions and viewfinder tools. The former includes options like flash and timer settings, while the latter offers tools such as grids, a level, device orientation, highlight/shadow zebra intensity, focus peaking, and monitor settings.
At the top center of the viewfinder, you can quickly adjust parameters related to the captured file, with different options available depending on whether you are in photo or video mode. In photo mode, you can modify settings such as processing method, manual exposure, Fusion, encoding format, pixel count, and aspect ratio. In video mode, you can adjust the encoding format, maximum bitrate, chroma subsampling, resolution, color space, and frame rate.
At the top left and right sides of the viewfinder, you’ll find the software and hardware settings, respectively. In the software settings panel, you can enable options such as mirroring the front-facing camera, locking auto white balance during recording, choosing the Fusion saving format, and toggling geolocation data. In the hardware settings panel, you can configure the audio input source, output source, as well as settings for both the viewfinder and the monitor.
On the left side of the shutter button, you’ll find buttons for LUTs, white balance, the photo library, and mode switching. On the right side of the shutter button are the controls for adjusting shooting parameters (shutter speed, exposure compensation, ISO), switching parameter modes, and enabling the minimalist mode.
At the top of the viewfinder, just above the shutter button, you’ll find an indicator displaying the device’s acceleration. Above that is the lens-switching area. The button on the left lets you perform seamless, continuous zoom, while the button on the right enables manual focus.
Moment Pro Camera II essentially integrates all functions and settings into the main interface, putting everything within easy reach while shooting. The downside, of course, is that the entire interface can look a bit cluttered.
Moment Pro Camera II is available on the App Store for 68 RMB. It’s a one-time purchase with no subscription required — truly a breath of fresh air among third-party photography apps.
WaterMinder 7: Let AI Track Your Water Intake for You
@Snow: In this era where everything seems to be infused with AI, WaterMinder’s major 7.x update this month also puts AI at the center. Its core feature, Gulp AI (AI Swallow Enhancement), is designed to automatically estimate how much water you drink, simplifying the logging process.
Using Gulp AI is incredibly simple. When adding a record, choose Gulp AI and WaterMinder will automatically activate the front-facing camera. You just need to make sure your mouth, neck, and cup or bottle are within the frame. Tap the record button and start drinking. When you’re done, stop the recording. Gulp AI will analyze the drink type and the amount consumed based on the appearance of the beverage and your swallowing actions. Tap Add to complete the entry.
In the 7.1 update, WaterMinder also enhanced its voice logging capabilities. When adding data, you can now use either voice or text input with natural language, and the app will automatically analyze the drink type and the amount consumed.
However, WaterMinder’s AI features are still not performing as well as expected. First, Gulp AI requires your mouth, neck, and a mostly unobstructed view of your cup to be visible at the same time. This basically means you need to face the camera from the side when drinking. And since the front-facing camera’s field of view is limited on all devices except the iPhone 17 series, if you normally use a large cup, your other hand will almost need to stretch out to selfie length just to complete a recording — every sip becomes an arm workout.
Second, Gulp AI’s ability to recognize bottled beverages is also very limited. I tried Coca-Cola, Oriental Leaf tea, 7UP, and Suntory. Only the slim canned Coca-Cola was correctly identified; everything else was labeled as water. The main issue with voice logging also lies in drink-type recognition. Aside from text containing explicit keywords like “cola” or “milk,” which have higher accuracy, any drink not in the database will still be classified as water — meaning you’ll often have to adjust it manually.
Some minor tweaks to the icons do offer small usability improvements, such as more milk-related indicators and the ability to quickly find the icon you need through text search.
Although we at SSPAI have always been committed to discovering and introducing high-quality apps across various platforms, there are still many apps with excellent design, functionality, interaction, and overall experience that we haven’t yet covered. They might be long-standing apps, or newly launched ones — and we’ll introduce them to you here.
Riveo: A Video Creation App Packed with Special-Effects Templates
Platform: iOS, iPadOS, macOS
Keywords: video creation, special-effects templates
@ElijahLee: Riveo is a creative app developed by Forge and Form GmbH, focused on video effects and animation editing. It was even shortlisted as a finalist for the Apple Design Awards.
Riveo’s standout feature is its emphasis on visual effects and creative editing, offering results far beyond typical video-editing apps. First, it provides a rich selection of special-effects templates, including retro styles, beat-synced cuts, action effects, text art, and many other high-quality options. These templates are also very easy to use. In some of them, you simply import photos or videos into Riveo, and the app automatically blends filters and motion effects with your media to create visually stunning videos.
Riveo lets you dive into advanced creative adjustments for any video you make — including those built from templates. The app offers more than 100 effects, ranging from particle effects (smoke, gas, bubbles, cartoon flames, etc.) to decorative lens effects (shattered glass, pencil sketch, fog), and for subjects within a video, you can even overlay motion-based effects. In terms of filters, Riveo supports a wide variety of color styles such as VHS, retro, glitch, ’90s TV, pixelation, and more. The editor also includes keyframe control, allowing you to customize how each effect moves or changes from start to finish. The masking feature is AI-assisted, letting you use a contour or a person for background replacement or layered effects. Other standard tools — adding text, shapes, subtitles, music, and more — are all present as you’d expect from a full-featured video editor.
Text-based templates are also one of Riveo’s highlight features. It supports 3D text effects, including materials like metal, glass, and reflective surfaces. In terms of motion effects, it offers a variety of dynamic styles such as entrance, pop-out, floating, and distortion. Paired with beat-synced music or rhythmic tracks, it can easily create the fast-paced, catchy, and eye-grabbing effects often seen in short videos.
Riveo also provides AI-assisted creative tools. First, there’s AI-powered image transformation: by entering keywords such as “forest,” “universe,” or “anime,” Riveo can transform real portraits or landscape photos into scenes based on the chosen keywords. With the AI generation feature, you simply input a text description of the desired image and Riveo will begin creating. I tried using: “In a magical world, inside a castle, a wand and a wizard hat placed on a thick, vintage patterned tablecloth, with the castle’s stained-glass windows in the distant background.” The generated image had an impressively refined texture, and I was very satisfied with the result. The output can be directly applied to the editor for secondary creation.
Overall, Riveo allows creators to quickly produce impactful, visually distinctive videos thanks to its rich library of templates and effects. Compared with ordinary editing apps that mainly offer cutting and filters, Riveo feels more like a compact visual-effects compositing tool, and it also supports a seamless workflow that integrates shooting and editing—making it suitable for various creative scenarios. In terms of exporting, it supports multiple aspect ratios and up to 4K @ 60fps, meeting the needs of high-quality rendering as well as fast publishing on social media.
You can download Riveo for free on the App Store. Setapp users can access it directly at no additional cost.
Meow: HarmonyOS App Update Tracker
Platform: HarmonyOS
Keywords: App updates
@侧脸君： After upgrading to HarmonyOS NEXT, many people find themselves frequently checking the App Store to see whether their commonly used apps have been released or updated. MeoW, a notification subscription tool, taps perfectly into this need. You can subscribe to the app channels you care about, and whenever an app releases an invitation test, public beta, or official update, you’ll receive a notification right away.
Because the test versions published in App Early Access have limited invitation slots, MeoW has also become a must-have tool for digital content creators, helping them track updates for major apps like WeChat, QQ, Douyin, Taobao, and more. In just one year, it has gained 370,000 installs—a remarkable achievement for a new system whose device base has just passed 23 million.
In addition, MeoW also supports the creation and subscription of personal channels, which I think is a particularly clever move.
After subscribing to a channel, any content update will trigger a push notification, with support for jumping directly to the content source — whether it’s a personal website, Xiaohongshu, WeChat Official Accounts, and so on. To some extent, it has become a content distribution platform and a messaging channel within the Huawei HarmonyOS ecosystem, attracting many content creators and independent media bloggers to join. This also opens up more possibilities for future commercialization.
You can download MeoW from the HarmonyOS App Market.
Related reading: A HarmonyOS App Developed in Less Than a Month Accidentally Became a Hit
InkRoot: An Enhanced Note-Taking App Based on Memos Platform: Android Keywords: Notes
@化学心情下2: I’ve been using Memos, an open-source and self-hosted note-taking service. By deploying Memos on my NAS, I can use the Memos mobile client to quickly capture fragmented information. And because Memos is open source, there are now many third-party Memos mobile clients available for us to choose from—such as InkRoot, which is developed by a Chinese developer.
InkRoot builds on Memos and offers users several ways to use the service: if you simply want to store your note data locally without considering sync, you can directly use InkRoot’s local service. Otherwise, you can consider using InkRoot’s official server. Or, if you’re like me and have already deployed a Memos instance on your NAS, you can use InkRoot as the mobile client for your self-hosted Memos service. The only caveat is that InkRoot has version requirements for connecting to Memos—currently, it only supports version v0.21.0.
Besides the features already supported by Memos, InkRoot also introduces a number of improvements. For example, its recording feature can quickly convert voice into text, and the AI feature can continue and refine the current content.
InkRoot also offers AI Insight features for organizing notes. By setting keywords, time ranges, and included tags, it helps you quickly extract and summarize the fragmented notes you’ve recorded recently. It also comes with multiple note-view modes, including All Tags, Random Review, and a Knowledge Graph, making it easier to organize your notes in a structured way.
You can download InkRoot for free from the official website. The app supports both Android and iOS (manual sideloading via AltStore is required).
Glow HDR: Convert Any Photo into Ultra HDR Format
Platform: Android
Keywords: Imaging, HDR
@大大大K： Ultra HDR is a new feature introduced by Google in Android 14. Compared with traditional HDR images, Ultra HDR overlays an additional gain map within the image, allowing for precise preservation of highlights and shadows, while maintaining backward compatibility—displaying as standard SDR on devices that don’t support HDR. Glow HDR takes advantage of this feature, enabling the conversion of regular SDR photos or the editing of images already in Ultra HDR format.
You need to confirm whether your device is compatible to truly experience the effects brought by Ultra HDR. Glow HDR includes a built-in quick testing tool. From the home screen, enter the Ultra HDR Test feature, where the two logo images at the top correspond to standard SDR output and Ultra HDR output. If your device supports Ultra HDR, the brightness difference between the two images will be very noticeable, and the parameters listed below will also display compatibility reminders. However, keep in mind that the final HDR/SDR ratio may be affected by your current screen brightness and does not represent the final result.
Glow HDR is compatible with JPEG, PNG, HEIC, and other formats, and it supports adjustments to parameters such as brightness and contrast. By swiping right on the function menu, you can edit image quality and HDR ratio, and you can also save your frequently used parameter settings as presets. The histogram is displayed by default in the upper-right corner of the editing page, allowing you to observe color and brightness information separately within both the SDR and HDR ranges during the editing process.
Since Ultra HDR’s gain information is essentially an additional gain layer embedded within the original image, the gain editing status shown in the upper-left corner is usually labeled as “Embedded.” To inspect the gain information of an image, you can tap the button at the bottom of the screen—this will display the gain data in grayscale in the preview window. The button on the right allows you to compare the before-and-after effects of your edits. If you notice no significant difference between the two, make sure to check the test tool to confirm whether your device is compatible with Ultra HDR.
You can verify whether the edited image has successfully applied the Ultra HDR effect by opening it in your system gallery and checking whether the screen brightness is boosted by HDR. Alternatively, you can view the image details in Google Photos to see if the Ultra HDR label is present.
Besides that, Glow HDR also supports batch image processing and metadata adjustments, though some of these features require a donation to unlock. Additionally, if you need to edit HEIC-format images, you may encounter occasional compatibility issues, but they won’t affect basic usage. If you mind this, you can wait for the developer to release a fix. For now, you can download it for free on Google Play.
Tack: Putting a Beautiful Metronome on Your Phone
Platform: Android
Keywords: Metronome
@Peggy_： My understanding of music has mostly come from what I’ve seen in movies and TV shows. One thing that always intrigued me was the peculiar little device often placed on top of a piano—its pointer swinging rhythmically back and forth, accompanied by an off-screen “tick-tock” sound. Eventually, I learned that this device is a metronome, which helps learners grasp rhythm and improve the effectiveness of their instrument practice.
Tack is a beautifully designed metronome app, from its icon to its interface. In terms of visual refinement alone, Tack is one of the rare apps this year that truly blends functionality with aesthetics. Its icon is an abstract representation of a metronome, and upon opening the app, you’re greeted with a brief splash animation showing a metronome’s pendulum swinging in steady rhythm.
Entering the main interface, the most prominent element is the tempo displayed at the center, with arrow buttons on both sides that help users quickly adjust the speed. From top to bottom, there are buttons for increasing or decreasing by 1, 5, and 10 BPM, making tempo adjustments extremely convenient and highly practical. Beyond the basic features, Tack thoughtfully includes visualized beat animations and supports beat cues through both sound and vibration. Additionally, Tack lets you add songs within the app to create your own personal practice playlist. This allows you to save each track’s tempo configuration, eliminating the hassle of reconfiguring your settings every time you practice.
Before using the metronome, you can further set the duration of your practice. Tack allows timing by measures, seconds, or minutes, letting you personalize your practice sessions. Interestingly, once practice begins, the app’s main interface shows a small metronome animation in the upper-left corner that runs according to your current settings—a thoughtful touch from the developer. If you enjoy this little animation or prefer a more prominent visual beat indicator, you can enable the “Show Large Logo Animation” option in the settings to let the beautifully designed metronome take center stage. Of course, if you care more about battery life, you can toggle on “Reduce Animations,” allowing you to focus purely on the app’s functionality and avoid excessive animation that might drain your phone’s battery.
Since I’m not a professional, I can’t go into detail about the more advanced features, but if you happen to need a tool like this, you might as well download and try Tack through the Play Store or F-Droid. The app is completely free.
Google Relaxes Restrictions on Installing Unverified Apps
Aqara Launches FP300 Presence Sensor Overseas
Microsoft Confirms Low-Latency Audio Driver for ARM Windows 11 Coming in 2026
1Password Introduces New “Unlock with Device” Feature
Just Some Rumors to Browse Through
OpenAI Releases GPT-5.1 Series Models
OpenAI released two new models—GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking—on November 13, now available to ChatGPT users. GPT-5.1 Instant serves as the faster default option, while GPT-5.1 Thinking focuses on advanced reasoning and decision-making for complex tasks. According to OpenAI, both models outperform the previous GPT-5 in math and programming benchmarks such as AIME 2025 and Codeforces.
In addition to the new models, OpenAI introduced eight preset communication styles, including “Professional,” “Friendly,” “Frank,” “Quirky,” “Efficient,” “Cynical,” and “Nerdy,” allowing users to match different expression preferences. GPT-5.1 also features “adaptive reasoning,” automatically adjusting its depth of thought based on task difficulty to strike a balance between performance and speed.
ChatGPT will later add more granular personalization settings, enabling users to adjust reply conciseness, tone warmth, and even the frequency of emojis.
The new models will roll out in phases, with paid users gaining access first, followed by free users. API support will be available in two versions: gpt-5.1-chat-latest and gpt-5.1. OpenAI also released a safety system card, emphasizing the need to balance customization flexibility with mental-health-related safeguards. Source
Apple Launches Mini App Partner Program
On November 14, Apple introduced the Mini App Partner Program, allowing HTML5-based mini apps and mini games—hosted within native apps—to be distributed through the App Store.
According to Apple, the program targets mini apps and mini games built with technologies such as HTML5 and JavaScript and embedded within native host apps, offering developers a new compliant pathway and commercial incentives. Under the program’s requirements, host apps must support the Advanced Commerce API for product display and payment processes, adopt the Declared Age Rating API to ensure age-appropriate content, and use Apple’s In-App Purchase system to guarantee a trustworthy purchasing experience. In addition, apps must integrate the Consumption API to report users’ consumption status within mini apps back to Apple. Eligible mini apps can benefit from a 15% in-app purchase commission rate. Developers can join the program by submitting an application form. Source
We welcome Apple’s support for mini app and mini game developers and are pleased to see the launch of the Mini App Partner Program. We will provide access services for developers as soon as possible and work together to build a healthy and thriving ecosystem.
DJI Releases Osmo Action 6 Action Camera
The Osmo Action 6 features a 1/1.1-inch 38-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with an ƒ/2.0–ƒ/4.0 variable-aperture lens—DJI’s first use of variable aperture in an action camera. The Osmo Action 6 supports up to 4K 120fps or 1080p 240fps video recording. It also includes a 4K Free Frame mode, allowing users to freely switch between horizontal and vertical video at any time.
In addition, DJI says the variable-aperture design provides more targeted image performance across different shooting scenarios including strong light, low light, action, and night scenes. In Auto Mode, the camera intelligently adjusts the aperture based on ambient brightness. For night shooting, the Super Night Mode fixes the aperture at ƒ/2.0 to maximize light intake, reduce noise, and enhance shadow detail. In well-lit environments, the Starburst Mode narrows the aperture to ƒ/4.0, creating pronounced starburst effects around point light sources.
The Osmo Action 6 is available in two versions: the Standard Combo, priced at 2,998 RMB and including the camera and basic accessories; and the Creator Combo, priced at 3,698 RMB and adding three batteries, a multifunction battery case, and a 1.5-meter extension rod. Source
Google Relaxes Restrictions on Installing Unverified Apps
On November 13, Google announced that it is developing an “Advanced Process” for developers and power users, allowing them to install apps from unverified developers after fully understanding the associated risks. This process will provide clear warnings and incorporate anti-coercion design to prevent users from being pressured—such as through scams—into bypassing security mechanisms, ensuring the final decision remains firmly in the user’s hands.
The move is seen as a significant concession from Google’s earlier Android policy. Starting next year, Android had planned to fully block the installation of unverified apps, raising concerns among enthusiasts about the potential demise of the sideloading ecosystem. Previous workarounds relied heavily on ADB, making the process cumbersome. Google says it has begun gathering early feedback and will share more details in the coming months. Source
Aqara Launches FP300 Presence Sensor Overseas
Aqara has released its first battery-powered indoor presence sensor, the FP300, for overseas markets. The sensor combines PIR with 60 GHz mmWave radar, enabling it to detect both moving and stationary individuals within a range of about 20 feet. It also integrates temperature, humidity, and light sensors, supporting home automation scenarios such as lighting control and environmental adjustments. Powered by two CR2450 coin batteries, the FP300 can last around three years in a Zigbee setup or about two years when using Thread.
The product is compatible with platforms including Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. When connected via Zigbee, users can fine-tune detection range or disable certain sensors in the Aqara app to extend battery life. Compared with the more advanced FP2, the FP300 does not support multi-person detection, fall detection, or sleep-related features such as heart rate and breathing monitoring. The FP300 is now available on Amazon and the Aqara official website for USD 49.99. Source
Microsoft Confirms Low-Latency Audio Driver for ARM-Based Windows 11 Coming in 2026
In a blog post published on November 12, Microsoft announced that a new built-in low-latency audio driver will arrive for the Windows on Arm platform in 2026. Co-developed by Microsoft, Qualcomm, and Yamaha, the driver is compatible with both USB Audio Class 2 and ASIO standards. It aims to simplify the setup process for professional audio equipment while ensuring all compatible devices can achieve stable, studio-grade performance.
Most major digital audio workstations have already completed native adaptation for the Arm64 architecture, including Steinberg Cubase, Nuendo, REAPER, Bitwig Studio, and Cakewalk Sonar. Ableton Live has also confirmed that its native Arm64 version will be released in 2026. Source
1Password Introduces New “Unlock with Device” Feature
On November 13, 1Password announced a new desktop unlocking mechanism that allows the app to unlock automatically when a Mac or PC is unlocked—no need to enter the master password each time. This system relies on the device’s biometric or password authentication, maintaining end-to-end encryption and the existing security architecture while improving convenience.
The update offers three security presets:
Convenient Mode: 1Password locks and unlocks automatically with the device.
Balanced Mode: The app requires a manual unlock the first time every 8 hours; afterward, it unlocks with the device.
Strict Mode: The app locks immediately when not in use, and every access requires re-authentication.
Users can further fine-tune their preferences through “Preview Changes,” such as choosing a device password instead of Touch ID, enabling auto-unlock with the device, or staying signed in until manually logging out. If opting for a more lenient unlock method, the system will prompt users to create a recovery code to securely regain account access if a password is forgotten. 1Password notes that this feature is not yet available for Business accounts, and security presets do not sync across devices. Mobile platforms already offer similar mechanisms, though the exact unlock logic differs. Source
Additionally, Microsoft has introduced system-level support for 1Password Passkeys in the November 2025 security update. When signing in to apps or services, users can now choose 1Password-provided passkeys—alongside Microsoft’s own password manager—for passwordless authentication, further expanding Windows’ third-party login ecosystem. Microsoft says it will continue bringing native passkey support to more high-quality password managers in the future.Source
Just Some Rumors to Look At
Shanghai’s Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization announced that Tesla’s xBot customer service system and Volvo’s “XiaoWo” intelligent assistant—both recommended and filed by Shanghai—have officially passed approval from the relevant national authorities, becoming part of the first batch of large-model products from foreign enterprises allowed to go online. Previously, Mercedes-Benz’s “Virtual Assistant” also passed review by the Beijing Cyberspace Administration. Source
Valve recently told IGN that the company currently has no new updates regarding the Steam Deck 2. The reason, they explained, is that they have yet to find a processor that can deliver a noticeable performance boost without compromising the current device’s battery life. As a result, the release timeline for the Steam Deck 2 remains undetermined. Source
Google Rolls Out November Feature Update for Pixel Devices
Viwoods Launches AiPaper Reader E-Ink Tablet
Google Play Store to Warn Users About Power-Hungry Background Apps
WeChat Announces Crackdown on Six Types of Malicious External Links
Rumors Worth a Glance
iPhone Pocket Released
On November 11, ISSEY MIYAKE and Apple jointly unveiled the iPhone Pocket. Inspired by the concept of “a single piece of fabric,” the iPhone Pocket features a ribbed open structure and an integrated three-dimensional woven design. It can hold any iPhone along with various small essentials, and supports multiple carrying styles—including handheld, attached to a bag, or worn directly on the body.
The short-strap iPhone Pocket comes in eight color options: Lemon, Tangerine, Purple, Pink, Peacock Green, Sapphire Blue, Cinnamon, and Black. The long-strap version is available in three colors: Sapphire Blue, Cinnamon, and Black. The short-strap iPhone Pocket is priced at RMB 1,299, while the long-strap version costs RMB 1,899. Sales begin Friday, November 14, at select Apple Store retail locations and on apple.com.cn in France, Greater China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Source
Sony Hosts State of Play Showcase
On November 12, Sony held an online State of Play showcase focused on Japan and other Asian regions, unveiling a variety of new game updates and announcements. Highlights include release dates for inKONBINI: A Small Shop with Many Stories and Coffee Talk: Tokyo, details and launch information for Fatal Frame: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE Deluxe Edition, confirmation that Little Devil Inside will release in early 2026, the second closed beta schedule for Marvel Rivals, and the announcement that Elden Ring: Night Descends DLC will launch on December 4.
In addition, Sony officially announced a Japan-exclusive PS5 Digital Edition console, priced at ¥55,000. Source
Google Rolls Out November Feature Update for Pixel Devices
On November 12, Google announced the November Feature Drop for Pixel devices. This update introduces several new features, including:
A new Wicked 2 theme
A Nano Banana model–powered photo editing feature within the Messages app
AI-generated message summaries for long conversations (available only on Pixel 9 series and newer, and for English users)
Personalized photo editing prompts in Google Photos (e.g., “Remove Zhang San’s hat,” currently available only to users in the U.S.)
A new always-on navigation mode for Google Maps on the lock screen
The Health and Journal apps are now available beyond the Pixel 10 series
You can view the complete update changelog [here]. Source
Viwoods Launches AiPaper Reader E-Ink Device
On November 11, Viwoods launched the AiPaper Reader E-Ink device for overseas markets. Running on Android 16, the device features a dedicated AI button that allows users to engage with AI while reading. The AiPaper Reader comes preloaded with three AI assistants—ChatGPT, Gemini, and DeepSeek. By pressing the AI button, users can ask questions about the content they’re reading, generate summaries, or save selected passages to a personal knowledge base for later reference.
In terms of hardware, the AiPaper Reader sports a 6.13-inch Carta 1300 E-Ink display, measures 159.39 × 80.27 × 6.7 mm, and weighs 138 g. It is powered by a 6nm octa-core CPU and supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 4G LTE connectivity. However, it does not include built-in speakers—audio can only be output through Bluetooth headphones. The AiPaper Reader is priced at USD 279.99 and is now officially available in international markets. Source
Google Play Store to Warn Users About Power-Hungry Background Apps
On November 10, Google announced in an official blog post that “excessive partial wake locks” have completed testing and are now officially included as a core metric within Android Vitals.
Partial wake locks are a common Android mechanism that allows the CPU to continue running tasks even when the screen is off. However, because this prevents the device from entering low-power mode, excessive use can lead to significant battery drain. Along with user-perceived app crashes, app not responding (ANR) incidents, and excessive power consumption by watch faces, partial wake locks are now part of Android Vitals’ core indicators. If an app exceeds the defined thresholds for poor behavior in any of these areas, Google will issue a warning to users on the Play Store listing page to highlight potential battery performance issues. Source
WeChat Announces Crackdown on Six Types of Malicious External Links
On November 10, the WeChat Security Center issued a notice announcing a new enforcement campaign targeting malicious external links shared within the platform. The campaign focuses on links related to fraud, pornography, gambling, illegal livestreaming, and malicious links generated through third-party services or exploited vulnerabilities.
The Security Center stated that once such content is identified and verified, WeChat will take action in accordance with national laws and regulations, as well as platform policies including the Tencent WeChat Software License and Service Agreement, the WeChat Personal Account Usage Specifications, and the WeChat External Link Content Management Guidelines. If external links are found to contain illegal or non-compliant content, WeChat will restrict access to them. This includes, but is not limited to:
Links containing fraudulent content such as fake part-time job scams, trojan downloads, phishing pages, Ponzi schemes, or fake lotteries.
Links containing pornographic content.
Links containing gambling content.
Links to illegal livestreams (including false advertising or unapproved marketing of health products).
Links to third-party services abused by malicious actors.
Links exploiting vulnerabilities on third-party platforms. Source
Rumors Worth a Glance
According to information shared by Coolapk user @微笑假装的很好 and cited by industry analysts, Qualcomm has reportedly added Android 16 support for its Snapdragon X and X Elite chips. The same source also revealed that the next-generation X2 Elite chip will come in two versions: a high-performance model and another variant codenamed “Twist”, positioned similarly to the current Snapdragon X series. Qualcomm had previously confirmed during the Snapdragon Summit that laptops offering a full Android system experience are expected to debut in 2026. Source
