Night photography is one of the biggest challenges for our smartphones. After all, we’re talking about devices with limited space for sensors. To compensate for this, phone makers have implemented algorithms that aim to maximize available light. But what if you’re looking for an image that truly captures reality? Well, Infinix is ​​starting a conversation around “authentic” night imaging with the release of its NOTE 60 Series and the global photography initiative called “Night Safari” using #NightSafariWithNOTE60Series on social media.

Infinix pursues the true colors of the night with the NOTE 60 Pro’s camera

The technical challenge of night photography usually involves managing noise without sacrificing detail. The flagship of this new lineup, the NOTE 60 Pro, attempts to solve this through a combination of hardware choices rather than relying solely on aggressive software filters.

Key to this approach is the integration of the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and a relatively wide f/1.59 aperture. This setup allows the device to theoretically avoid the “plastic” look common in budget night modes. After all, it should allow more current environmental light to reach the sensor physically. The inclusion of a dual native ISO sensor and a custom color filter also suggests a focus on maintaining color accuracy.

#NightSafariWithNOTE60Series contest

Rather than just releasing a spec sheet, the brand is looking to see how these tools perform in the real world through the #NightSafariWithNOTE60Series contest. From April 16 to May 15, 2026, the company is inviting users to share to share unedited or lightly tweaked nighttime moments on Instagram.

The goal of the NightSafariWithNOTE60Series project seems to be creating a collective gallery of “real” night scenes. For participants, the incentive includes the chance to win a NOTE 60 Pro. However, the main interest lies in seeing if mobile sensors have finally reached a point where they can respect the shadows instead of just trying to eliminate them. It will be even more interesting to see if something like this is possible on affordable and/or mid-range devices.

With the NOTE 60 Pro, Infinix is ​​also expanding the XDR pipeline for highlight management. Overall, this technology and hardware combination enhance light rendering and depth perception over simple brightness. Could this be the moment when Infinix takes a big leap forward in mobile photography? We’ll have to wait and see.

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My years of reporting on people's personal finance priorities have taught me that there are many ways to achieve long-term financial success. We're all individuals with varying circumstances and life experiences, for whom many solutions to financial concerns can work.

A new study from Fidelity Investments examines how Americans are viewing and planning for retirement. It focuses on those with 401(k) plans, Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) (and other plans), how people take divergent paths into post-career life, and includes the patterns followed by different age groups.

"As each generation moves into their next life phase, competing savings priorities have them reimagining the idea of retirement," according to Fidelity's 2026 State of Retirement Planning report. "The rising cost of living is the leading competition among all groups, and Gen X in particular is focused on paying off debts."

But the report reveals a warning about retirement confidence levels across generations.

Fidelity reports retirement confidence by age

Among Gen Z, 23% report not feeling confident they can retire the way they want, according to Fidelity. Millennials show a similar result, with 20% not confident.

More urgently, Gen X reports 36% are not confident, while 29% of Boomers say they lack confidence in their retirement savings, including in their 401(k)s, IRAs and Roth IRAs.

A 2025 report from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System puts some of Fidelity's findings in the context of how many Americans are using retirement savings accounts.

"Sixty-seven percent of adults had assets that are specifically designated for producing income in retirement," the Fed reported. "This included the 61 percent of adults who had a tax-preferred retirement account, including employer-sponsored defined contribution plans such as 401(k)s, Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA), or Roth IRAs."

Fidelity explains retirement planning shift

Fidelity found that alternative thinking about retirement is becoming mainstream.

Many Americans are shifting toward a “new retirement playbook,” Fidelity wrote, reimagining what the next stage of life can look like and mapping out how they’ll gradually transition into different forms of engagement, including continued work in new or flexible ways.

More on personal finance:

• Zillow forecasts big mortgage change for U.S. housing market
• AARP sounds alarm on major Social Security problem
• Dave Ramsey bluntly warns Americans on 401(k)s

"In fact, 61% of Americans say they intend to transition into retirement," according to a Fidelity news release about the study. "Among all respondents, the top alternatives include gig work and side hustles (35%), starting a small business (29%), consulting part-time (26%), or switching industries altogether (20%)."

“Retirement is being reframed, it’s no longer a single date and instead is an adaptable stage in the next chapter,” added Rita Assaf, vice president of retirement offerings at Fidelity. “As Americans lean into this new retirement playbook, the importance of planning becomes even more pronounced."

"Knowing what a phased or transitional path can look like in your situation — and how to make sure your financial plan, such as your withdrawal strategies and health care coverage, can work with your emotional plan — can be a differentiator in achieving the retirement you envision.”

Federal Reserve describes retirement savings challenges

With growing concern among Americans about their expectations for Social Security, 401(k)s and IRAs are increasingly important components of one's retirement income.

Here are some additional worries people have regarding their ability to set aside money for retirement savings, according to the Federal Reserve:

• People continued to cite the cost of food and groceries as a major inflation‑related challenge, and they did so at higher rates than in previous years.
• One respondent said the “cost of basic goods especially groceries is way too high,” reflecting a common theme among those with incomes under $100,000, who were more likely to raise food costs as a concern.
• People also voiced significant worries about housing affordability, especially renters who described rising rents as a primary financial strain.
• One renter said their main challenge was “having enough money to pay increasing rent,” while another noted, “I am living comfortably, but still concerned I can’t afford to buy a house.”
• When renters were later asked why they rent instead of own, most pointed to financial constraints, as discussed in the housing section of the report.
• People were also asked to rate their local and national economies as excellent, good, only fair, or poor, providing a broader view of economic sentiment.
• Forty‑six percent of adults rated their local economy as good or excellent in 2024, which was 4 percentage points higher than in 2023 and 8 points above the series low in 2022.
• Despite these gains, the share rating their local economy as good or excellent in 2024 remained well below the 63% recorded in 2019 before the pandemic.
  (Source: Federal Reserve)

Related: Dave Ramsey sounds alarm on Social Security, 401(k)s

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And home prices? They’ve barely budged in many areas, caught in the middle. It’s the kind of moment where hesitation feels safe but also can quietly become costly.

Now, one major mortgage lender is stepping in with a clear message. This may not be a market that rewards patience for much longer. The window isn’t just sitting still. In fact, it may be starting to shift.

Vishal Garg, CEO of Better.com, formally known as Better Home & Finance Holding Company (BETR), believes a recession is on the horizon, even as parts of the economy remain resilient. Speaking at the Semafor World Economy event in Washington, D.C., Garg said the current environment could create a rare opportunity for would-be homeowners.

“I personally believe a recession is coming, and recessionary times are the best time to stop paying rent and be your own landlord,” Garg said, adding that downturns can be the best time to transition from renting to owning, Semafor reports.

His comments arrive at a time when mortgage rates are easing slightly, buyer activity is mixed, and uncertainty is tied to global events, including energy shocks, which continue to ripple through markets.

Better.com CEO warns recession could reshape housing demand

Garg’s outlook centers on the same familiar pattern. Economic slowdowns often lead to lower interest rates, which can make homeownership more affordable.

Mortgage data appear to support part of that thesis. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate recently fell to 6.42% in the week ending April 10, 2026, marking a second straight weekly decline and the lowest level in about a month. The drop has been tied in part to falling Treasury yields, which often influence borrowing costs.

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At the same time, early signs of shifting behavior are emerging. Pre-approvals for home loans are rising as some buyers anticipate future rate cuts. Refinancing applications have also jumped, while purchase activity remains subdued. That’s a clear sign that many buyers are still cautious.

Garg argues that hesitation could be a missed opportunity.

“We encourage our customers to go out there and go home shopping now while homes are available,” he said.

Citadel CEO also said global economy headed toward recession

The recession call is not isolated. Ken Griffin, founder of Citadel, has also warned that a prolonged disruption in global energy markets could push the world into a downturn.

At the center of the concern is the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route responsible for roughly 20% of global energy flows. Continued disruptions have marked its 48th day today, keeping oil prices elevated near $100 per barrel, well above pre-conflict levels.

“Let’s assume the strait is shut down for the next six to 12 months, the world’s going to end up in a recession,” Griffin said on stage at the Semafor World Economy conference in Washington, D.C. “There’s no way to avoid that.”

Related: Legendary fund manager issues blunt warning over Strait of Hormuz

Higher energy costs can ripple through the economy, raising transportation expenses, squeezing consumers, and also tightening financial conditions.

Garg also pointed to structural changes within the labor market. He warned that artificial intelligence could drive corporate downsizing, forcing large-scale workforce retraining. He even highlighted consumer strain in unexpected places, noting that many large purchases, such as event tickets, are increasingly being financed through payment plans.

Better.com quietly leans into AI to disrupt the mortgage industry

While sounding cautious on the economy, Better.com is aggressively investing in technology to reshape how mortgages are processed.

On March 5, 2026, Better.com partnered with OpenAI to launch a tool that dramatically speeds up underwriting. The platform can reduce approval times from roughly 21 days to under a minute, to as little as 47 seconds, by automating key checks.

Related: Mortgage rate experts drop blunt message for 2026

Garg claims the company’s AI systems already operate at “feature parity” with about 80% of the 550,000 loan officers in the U.S., while reducing costs by as much as 80% compared to traditional models, Semafor reported.

Better.com is also expanding access to homeownership through partnerships with Coinbase and Fannie Mae. These initiatives aim to allow buyers to use crypto or other assets instead of cash for down payments. That's a move that could broaden the pool of eligible buyers.

Mortgage rates and affordability pressures define what comes next

Even with falling rates, affordability remains a key challenge. Mortgage applications for home purchases recently declined, reflecting ongoing hesitation among buyers facing economic uncertainty. While refinancing activity has picked up, demand for new homes is still below last year’s levels.

Buyers are waiting for clearer signals on rates and the economy. Lenders and industry leaders, on the other hand, suggest acting sooner rather than later. But according to Garg, the window of opportunity may not stay open forever.

If rates fall further during a recession, competition for homes could intensify again. But if economic conditions worsen significantly, job security and lending standards could tighten, making it harder to qualify.

The housing market is at a determining time, shaped by easing rates, rising uncertainty, and rapid technological disruption.

But regardless of whether we view Garg’s recession warning as accurate, the decisions you make now as a buyer could define your financial future for years to come.

Related: Treasury Secretary delivers surprise take on economy

But whether you do depends on a key distinction many households overlook, Harry Margolis, author of "Get Your Ducks in a Row," said in a recent interview.

Two key factors are how the asset is titled and whether it passes through probate.

That distinction, Margolis said, can have real financial consequences, especially for retirement accounts, bank accounts, and estate plans that involve trusts.

Below is a transcript of that interview, edited for clarity and brevity.

Can you change beneficiaries without updating your will?

Robert Powell: Is it possible to change your beneficiaries without rewriting your will? Here to talk with us about that is Harry Margolis. He is the author of "Get Your Ducks in a Row." Harry, welcome.

Harry Margolis: It’s good talking to you, Bob.

Robert Powell: It’s always a pleasure, because you always have the answer to these common questions.

When do beneficiary designations override your will?

Harry Margolis: It depends to some extent on what you mean by “beneficiary.” For many assets, you have a beneficiary designation that is totally outside of your will. For example, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and bank accounts.

Your will does not affect those assets because it only governs probate property, meaning assets that pass through probate. When you name a beneficiary on an account, that asset does not go through probate. So you can change that beneficiary without changing your will, because they are unrelated.

Where confusion can arise

The problem is when your will says one thing and your beneficiary designation says something else. Legally, the beneficiary designation controls. But that mismatch can create confusion about your intent.

For instance, if your will names one person and a beneficiary designation names someone else, and the will was created later, people may wonder whether you forgot to update the designation. That can lead to disputes.

So yes, legally you do not have to change your will, but you may want to ensure everything is consistent or clearly explained.

Beneficiaries vs. heirs and the role of trusts

When people say “beneficiary,” they might also mean beneficiaries of a trust or individuals named in a will. Technically, those who inherit under a will are called heirs.

If you are talking about beneficiaries of a trust, then you would need to amend the trust to make changes. Often, when someone has both a revocable trust and a will, the will simply directs that all assets go into the trust. The trust then determines who ultimately receives the assets.

That structure allows you to make changes by amending the trust, which is often simpler than changing a will.

When you must change the will

Robert Powell: Let me give you an example. Suppose I have an antique typewriter collection that I leave to my son in my will. Later, I decide my daughter should receive it instead. I would have to change the will, correct?

Harry Margolis: Yes. In that case, you would need to change the will because those assets pass through probate.

You could do that with an amendment, called a codicil, or by creating a new will. In most cases, we prepare a new will. It’s often just as easy, especially if you work with the same attorney who has your original document.

Another reason to create a new will is privacy. A codicil creates a record of changes. With a new will, only the final version controls.

Key takeaway: Know what passes through probate

Robert Powell: So the key is understanding which assets pass through probate and which do not.

Harry Margolis: Exactly. Only probate assets are governed by your will. For everything else, you change the beneficiary designation directly.

Related: Who will care for your kids if you can’t?

Why we love this deal

Renovating your home is rewarding work, but it is also time-consuming and costly. If a complete revamp isn't in the budget, we know one simple way to instantly elevate any bedroom: investing in a new set of bedding. A new bedspread, quilt, or comforter can breathe new life into your bedroom, and with one Target deal, you don't even need to break the bank. The striking Regency Heights 9-Piece Ultimate Touch Botanical Comforter Set has one of the most impressive discounts we've seen in some time, with a whopping 72% off, and it's the perfect choice for a bedroom refresh. 

Showcasing watercolor florals, this comforter is so pretty that you could frame it as artwork, and three of the four gorgeous color combinations are now available for under $50. It's not just the appearance of this complete bed-in-a-bag that's noteworthy. Constructed with soft microfiber, the bedding feels gentle on the skin, so you'll want to snuggle up in it for a peaceful snooze. However, the best thing about this comforter and sheet set is that you can score the $168 queen-size set for just $47 with Target's steep savings.

Regency Heights 9-Piece Ultimate Touch Botanical Comforter Set, $47 (was $168) at Target

Why do shoppers love it?

Including a comforter, two pillow shams, a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and four pillowcases, this bedding bundle has everything you need to make your bed. While we've highlighted the price of the queen-size set, the bedding also comes in twin, twin XL, full, and king sizes, which are similarly discounted. The comforter and matching pillow shams are upgraded with a reversible design for two looks in one, featuring leafy branches with splashes of pink, purple, or blue on the front, and a complementary solid color on the opposite side. We also can't fail to mention the handy side pockets built into the fitted sheet to keep your tablet, smartphone, or fan remote nearby.

Related: Target is selling a $320 storage cabinet for $130 with 3 adjustable shelves and a vintage look

The bedding is crafted from an ultra-soft microfiber that's cozy and cuddly, as well as machine washable for easy maintenance. The material was even given an antimicrobial treatment that prevents odors from developing over time. For a fluffy and lightweight comforter that feels like a cloud, the bedspread is filled with a hypoallergenic polyester filling. "I love that the sheets and the comforter are soft yet lightweight at the same time," raved one shopper who called it "perfect for a summer night's sleep."

Details to know 

• Pieces in set: A comforter, two pillow shams, a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and four pillowcases.
• Material: 100% polyester.
• Is it machine-washable?: Yes.

"This set is so soft and looks great," one shopper wrote. "I was impressed with the quality of the stitching, and it washes wonderfully!

Shop more deals

• Bedsure 3-Piece Reversible Lavender Comforter Set, $50 (was $100) at Target
• Hannah Linen 3-Piece Down Alternative Quilt Set, $21 (was 40) at Target
• Regency Heights 7-Piece Striped Comforter Set, $67 (was $168) at Target

If your bedroom needs an upgrade, the Regency Heights 9-Piece Ultimate Touch Botanical Comforter Set is an exceptional choice with 72% off at Target. With a deal this good, you won't want to wait to score it for yourself.

While I don’t own a Cricut, I have definitely thought about buying one in the past, mostly to keep my sticker-buying obsession in check.

While many of my fellow crafters and I like to knit, sew, draw, or collage as a break from being on our screens all day, Cricut now thinks crafters want to use AI in their DIY projects.

The question is whether my fellow crafters agree.  

Cricut turning to AI to drive revenue growth

Cricut is a crafter’s dream machine. It is a cutting machine that lets DIYers do just about anything, from making stickers and cards to iron-on T-shirt decals.

Like many other companies, Cricut has been chasing AI for a while. The craft company launched its first AI offerings in July 2025, which allow subscribers to use AI-generated images with its Cricut cutting machine.

Cricut president and CEO Ashish Arora said in an earnings call that AI has driven growth.

“We see the use of AI-assisted images and project creation as complementary to our growing image library from our contributing artist program and our curated guided flows and associated templates for the most common project types,” he said.

While Arora said the company's AI features have made a positive impact, Cricut is not doing as well financially as it would like.

Cricut 2025 earnings

• Cricut’s 2025 revenue decreased to $708.8 million, compared to $712.5 million in 2024, the company reported March 3.   
• The company reported an increase in platform revenue such as software and subscriptions, but it sold less products than the previous year.
• While its U.S. sales aren’t as great, Cricut is expanding internationally. International revenue increased 8% to $169.7 million, or 24% of revenue, compared to $157.5 million in 2024.

While there might be fewer people buying Cricut tools in the U.S., the company is betting on current users to sell its subscriptions. And it's betting on AI to continue driving that growth.

“Our goal is to make it incredibly compelling to be a subscriber to leverage our content and software tools,” said Arora.

Cricut’s new features let you chat your way to a new design

Those promised AI features are already here.

Cricut launched an AI project designer on Tuesday, April 14. The latest AI addition will let users describe their project idea and collaborate with AI through chat to generate, edit, and refine their designs in one interface, rather than using multiple editing tools.

This “expands the limits of what’s possible by making creativity more accessible for users,” Cricut said in a press release.

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“For the past 20 years, we’ve been focused on one simple idea: making it easy for people to turn their ideas into personalized projects,” Arora said in a statement. “AI Project Designer turns that intent into action. Instead of navigating tools, you simply describe what you want to make, and Cricut brings it to life. It’s a simpler, faster, and more intuitive way to create.”  

The AI project designer can only be used for 2D projects such as party décor, labels, and holiday projects, and does not support 3D creations. The AI assistant is already available for any Circuit Design Space user to try.

“We are really excited about AI,” Arora stated. “We think it fits very well with our content strategy and is very complementary to it.”

Related: Kroger faces more legal troubles

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On Nov. 18, 1928, an animated film called Steamboat Willie premiered at Universal’s Colony Theater in New York City. The roughly seven-minute cartoon was produced by an animation studio founded five years earlier by Walt Disney and his brother, Roy.

While earlier animated shorts had experimented with synchronized sound, Steamboat Willie was the first to make it a commercial and critical success.

“This one represents a high order of cartoon ingenuity, cleverly combined with sound effects,” Variety wrote a few days later, referring to “Cartoonist, Walter Disney,” as the publication called him, and adding that “the union brought forth laughs galore.”

The cartoon also featured two characters who had appeared in a pair of earlier Disney shorts with limited distribution: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

“Mickey Mouse popped out of my mind onto a drawing pad on a train ride from Manhattan to Hollywood, at a time when the business fortunes of my brother Roy and myself were at their lowest ebb and disaster seemed right around the corner," Disney later recalled.

That now-renowned rodent helped transform The Walt Disney Company (DIS) into an entertainment juggernaut that spans film, television, streaming, theme parks, and consumer products, with more than 230,000 employees globally.

And to think that Walt Disney was once fired from a Missouri newspaper after an editor said he “lacked imagination and had no good ideas.”

Mickey Mouse — widely regarded as the most iconic cartoon character in the world — remains Disney’s global mascot, with a birthday celebrated, appropriately enough, on Nov. 18, the day the Steamboat Willy film premiered almost a century ago.

Disney’s portfolio includes major brands such as Pixar, Lucasfilm, Marvel Studios, ESPN, and National Geographic.

Disney's pervasive cultural relevance

Consider Disney’s amazing output over the years, from animated classics such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Bambi, and Cinderella to The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, and Moana.

A generation of TV viewers in the 1950s and the 1960s tuned in on Sunday nights to watch Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color, hosted by the man himself.

"Disney is quite pervasive within our modern culture,” Martyn Griffin, an expert on the cultural perceptions of work and organization, told the BBC in 2019. “Home videos exposed kids over and over again to the ideas in Disney films. If they were doing this from a young age, it is bound to have an impact.”

On July 17, 1955, the Mouse House opened Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., telling visitors that the theme park is “dedicated to the ideals, the dreams and the hard facts that have created America — with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.”

More Dow company histories:

• History of Walmart: Company timeline & facts
• History of Caterpillar: Company timeline & facts
• History of Chevron: Company timeline & facts
• History of Microsoft: Company timeline & facts

Today, the company operates 12 theme parks across 6 resorts worldwide, attracting roughly 140 million to 145 million visitors annually.

Disney is the global leader in theme park attendance, and the flagship Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is consistently the world's most-visited theme park.

Disney Experiences, which manages theme parks, cruise lines, resort hotels, and consumer products, is the company’s most profitable segment, often accounting for more than 60% of operating income.

Disney's early years

Despite the success of Mickey Mouse, Walt Disney faced significant hardships in those early years, including intense financial pressure at the studio, the loss of key talent to rival firms, and periods of severe stress as the company rapidly expanded.

After taking some time off, Disney decided to create a full-length animation feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which premiered at the Carthay Circle Theatre in Los Angeles on December 21, 1937.

The first full-length animated feature produced in the United States, Snow White was an immediate critical and commercial success.

It went on to become the highest-grossing film of its time, earning about $8 million at the box office, or roughly $183 million in today’s dollars.

Related: Microsoft’s logo over the years: A timeline of innovation

Walt Disney's death, company struggles & rebound

Walt Disney died on Dec. 16, 1966, at 65 years old. At the time, he was involved in planning the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) and the Florida Project, which was the code name for Walt Disney World. 

The company struggled with declining profits following his death — particularly in animation, which saw its staff shrink from 500 to 125 employees, with the company only hiring 21 people from 1970 to 1977.

In 1984, major shareholders, including Roy E. Disney (Walt’s nephew), Sid Bass, Lillian Disney, Diane Disney, and Irwin L. Jacobs — who together owned about 36% of the company’s shares — forced out CEO Ron Miller and replaced him with Michael Eisner, a former president of Paramount Pictures, and appointed Frank Wells as president.

Related: History of Apple: Company timeline and facts

The company rebounded through international expansion and Disney Renaissance, a period from 1989 to 1999 in which Walt Disney Animation Studios revitalized its brand with a series of successful, critically acclaimed animated musicals.

Beginning with The Little Mermaid and peaking with The Lion King, the era produced a string of hit films that combined Broadway-style music with increasingly advanced animation techniques.

Disney in the 21st century

The 21st century has been a period of significant growth and transformation for The Walt Disney Company, particularly under CEO Bob Iger, who took the helm in 2005 and led major acquisitions including Pixar, Marvel Entertainment, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox.

The company expanded into streaming in 2019 with the launch of Disney+.

However, despite its strength in streaming and theme parks, some observers say Disney faces ongoing challenges, including concerns about creative stagnation, a reliance on remakes, and periods of financial volatility.

Bob Chapek succeeded Iger in 2020 but was ousted two years later amid significant streaming losses and pressure on Disney’s stock. Iger returned as CEO on Nov. 2.

Related: The Dow’s best dividend stocks: A shortlist for income investors

Disney's stock splits & addition to the Dow

The Walt Disney Co. held its IPO on Nov. 12, 1957, debuting on the New York Stock Exchange at $13.88 per share. Since then, Disney has executed seven stock splits.

On May 6, 1991, Disney was added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, replacing USX Corp., to become the first pure entertainment company in the index.

Disney suspended its dividend in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed payments in 2024. It currently pays an annual dividend of $1.50 per share, typically distributed in semiannual installments in January and July.

The company has undergone multiple stock splits since 1956, including in 1986 and 1992, most recently a 3-for-1 split in July 1998, followed by a minor share adjustment in 2007.

Related: What happens when a stock splits in the Dow Jones Industrial Average?

How is Disney's stock doing now?

The company reported record revenue of $94.43 billion for fiscal 2025, up 3.35% from the previous year, while net income rose 12% to $12.4 billion.

“Overall, our results reflect our hard work and strategic investments,” Iger told analysts during a recent earnings call. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished to position Disney for continued growth.”

On March 18, 2026, Josh D’Amaro, former head of Disney Experiences, became CEO and has focused on restructuring the company to strengthen its core operations.

His key priorities include enhancing streaming profitability and expanding international theme park investments, including new resorts abroad.

Looking ahead: Disney's future

Analysts say that risks remain for Disney, including intense competition in streaming, high content costs, and potential softness in theme park attendance.

Still, investment firms remain broadly optimistic on Disney stock, citing improving streaming profitability, strong performance in the Experiences segment, and what some analysts describe as a relatively attractive valuation.

“I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing — that it was all started by a mouse,” Walt Disney once said.

A timeline of the Walt Disney Company's history & milestones

December 5, 1901: Walt Disney is born in Chicago, Ill. 

October 16, 1923: Brothers Walt and Roy Disney found the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio in Hollywood, California.

Nov. 18, 1928:Steamboat Willie, an animated film featuring the first public appearance of Mickey Mouse, premieres at Universal’s Colony Theater in New York City.

Dec. 21, 1937:Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premieres at the Carthay Circle Theatre in Los Angeles.

March 8, 1940: Disney’s market cap surpassed $1 million immediately upon its initial public offering (IPO) on the over-the-counter market.

July 19, 1950:Treasure Island, the studio's first completely live-action feature film, is released in the United States.

Nov. 12, 1957: Disney debuts on the New York Stock Exchange at $13.88 per share.

July 17, 1955: Disneyland opens in Anaheim, Calif.

Dec. 16, 1966: Walt Disney dies at 65 years old.

Oct: 1, 1971: The Walt Disney World Resort opens near Orlando, FL.

Sept. 22, 1984: Michael Eisner becomes Disney’s Chairman and CEO.

Related: History of Coca-Cola: Timeline, facts & milestones

May 6, 1991: Disney is added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

Oct. 1, 2005: Bob Iger becomes CEO, succeeding Michael Eisner.

Jan. 24, 2006: Disney announces it will acquire Pixar for $7.4 billion. The deals closes in May, and the company’s market cap grows from just over $62 billion to over $155 billion in the years following.

March 20, 2019: Disney acquires 21st Century Fox — including its film and television studios (20th Century Fox, Fox Searchlight Pictures, 20th Century Fox Television) and other assets — for $71.3 billion.

Feb. 25, 2020: Bob Chapek becomes CEO, succeeding Iger.

Nov. 20, 2022: Iger returns as CEO.

Feb. 2, 2026: Disney reports record full-year fiscal 2025 revenue of $94.4 billion.

March 18, 2026: Josh D'Amaro, former head of Disney Experiences, becomes CEO.

Related: History of Nike: Company timeline and facts

But that reputation has floundered in recent years, and Target has struggled as a result.

Even though Target’s most recent quarterly earnings report had better results than Wall Street expected, comparable sales fell 2.5% and overall revenue plunged 1.5% year over year. 

That's not surprising in today's retail environment. 

Many Americans expect their finances to worsen in 2026, according to a recent YouGov survey. And among consumers expecting a downturn, 54% expect to spend less money on clothing and fashion items, while 38% expect to spend less on health and beauty items.

Even grocery spending is expected to wane. A good 33% of consumers who expect conditions to be worse this year intend to spend less on food. 

All of this is apt to sting for a company like Target, which is why the big-box giant needs to go the extra mile to get customers in the door.

Target's big trade-in program is a huge draw

If there's one thing all parents can agree on, it's that raising kids is expensive. This can especially hold true during the early years, when babies and toddlers need various gear, from strollers to changing tables.

One big expense parents of very young children face is having to buy car seats. But Target is trying to make that easier. 

Related: Sam's Club, BJs step up in area Costco dominates

Between April 19 and May 2, Target is running its bi-annual Car Seat Trade-In event. Guests who bring a car seat to a participating store can get a 20% Target Circle bonus to use on new gear.

“Families trust Target to be there for them during life’s biggest milestones,” said Amanda Nusz, senior vice president of merchandising, essentials, and beauty at Target. 

“With Car Seat Trade-In, we’re making it easier for busy parents to get high-quality, thoughtfully designed products for their little ones while easily recycling what they no longer need and saving on what comes next.”

Target still has work to do

Target is well aware that consumer needs are shifting and budgets are getting tighter by the day. By running its Car Seat Trade-In, it's likely to get a lot more people in the door. 

But a single event geared toward parents is not going to solve all of Target's problems. 

In recent years, the company has been criticized for its disorganized inventory and disgruntled employees. Rolling back DEI policies didn't help the company's reputation, either. 

"They need more cashiers, and they need more people in the aisle, especially in areas that are both high-value sales and high-theft targets," Brad Jashinsky, director analyst at Gartner, told CX Dive earlier this year.

However, Jashinsky also said he's "really excited about Target’s direction," which includes adding more labor hours and improving the customer service experience. 

More Retail:

• Costco sees major shift in member behavior
• Retail chain shuts all locations as legal changes hit industry
• Costco makes major investment in online shopping for members
• T-Mobile launches free offer for customers after major loss

Adding labor hours could help Target address some of its major in-store challenges, like empty shelves and messy aisles.  

Long lines at checkout are another issue that's plagued Target. But adding labor hours could help fix it. And that change, coupled with targeted incentive programs like the Car Seat Trade-In event, could be the ticket to slowly but surely winning customers back.

Maurie Backman owns shares of Target.

Related: Walmart makes key move to target a new type of customer

For the fourth quarter of 2025, T-Mobile reported postpaid phone churn (customer losses as a percentage) increased to 0.93%, up from 0.86% in 2024. 

In addition to raising prices for some of its older plans last year and raising its late fee for customers who don’t pay their bills on time, earlier this year, the carrier raised its Regulatory Programs & Telco Recovery fee again and started charging $3 a month for its Apple TV “On Us” perk, which had been free for customers on Plus-level phone plan since 2021, writes TheStreet’s Patricia Battle. 

Additionally, T-Mobile increased its restocking fees across all device price tiers. Depending on the retail cost, customers will now pay between $25 and $75 to return a device.

However, the carrier also shared good news for customers over the last three months, such as bringing back its free full regular-season subscription to the MLB.TV app, a perk valued at $149.99. 

More recently, the carrier announced a special partnership under which it has launched sweepstakes and introduced perks for all members that go beyond phone plans.

T-Mobile teams up with the National Park Foundation, launches sweepstakes

T-Mobile has partnered with the National Park Foundation to launch the “Do Not Disturb Season” for the summer of 2026. The idea behind this initiative is to encourage people to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature in America’s national parks.

While the campaign promotes silencing phones, T-Mobile highlights that its network (including satellite connectivity) remains available for emergencies or essential communication in remote areas, according to the press release. 

“Our customers take their phones virtually everywhere — including some of the most remote places in the country. Connecting people in those places is exactly what we’ve built our network to do. Do Not Disturb Season encourages people to step away from the everyday noise and spend more time outside, knowing their network is built for the places they want to go — from the trailhead to the summit,” stated  Mike Katz, President of Marketing, Strategy and Products, T-Mobile.

Under the campaign, T-Mobile is hosting a sweepstakes for both subscribers and non-subscribers, which is open until May 8, 2026

T-Mobile Adventure On Us offering highlights

The "Adventure On Us" grand prize package includes:

• Travel & lodging: A 4-day/3-night stay for two at a Hilton property or AutoCamp near a national park, plus roundtrip airfare and a 4-day Hertz Gold rental.
• Gear & tech: A $1,500 outdoor gear bundle, a one-year subscription to AllTrails Peak, and a one-year subscription to AccuWeather Premium+.
• Impact: A $2,000 donation to the National Park Foundation made in the winner’s name.

T-Mobile launches new benefits for all members beyond the sweepstakes 

 Beyond the sweepstakes, T-Mobile is introducing new perks for all its customers. 

• 15% off across all 27 Hilton hotel brands.
• Complimentary Hertz Five Star status through the end of 2027.
• Magenta Base Camp: A new immersive installation at Grand Central Terminal (running April 14–18) where visitors can experience national park sights and sounds and enter the raffle in person.

Why do T-Mobile new deals matter for customers? 

T-Mobile’s new partnership comes at a perfect time, when a growing number of consumers are experiencing the psychological weariness of a constant stream of extra fees and hidden costs, or in other words: fee fatigue. 

Recent industry reports confirm that fee fatigue is a major reason behind customer dissatisfaction and churn in the American wireless market. Consumers are no longer just accepting price hikes; they are reconsidering businesses that hide costs or often raise prices. 

In fact, 58% of customers cite bill increases as the leading reason they reconsider their plan, according to a March report by Oxio. 

Moreover, roughly 42% of T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T customers have seen their monthly bills rise over the past year, 7% above average, according to December data by WhistleOut. 

Key reasons why the offering matters for customers: 

• Outdoor popularity: In 2024, the outdoor recreation participant base grew 3% to a record 181.1 million participants, or 58.6% of all Americans aged 6 and older, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. 
• The savings:  Normally, reaching Five Star status requires a minimum of 12–19 rentals and a minimum $2,400 in annual spending on rentals, according to Hertz.  With T-Mobile’s new benefits, customers essentially get thousands of dollars in loyalty equity, a one-car-class upgrade and 25% bonus points on every rental. 
• Not disturbed but connected: While Do Not Disturb Season promotes silence, the underlying technology provides customers with emergency satellite access in dead zones. 

As the wireless market becomes fiercely competitive, T-Mobile is again trying to differentiating itself from other carriers with lifestyle integration. Teaming up with iconic names such as Hilton, Hertz, and the National Park Foundation, T-Mobile’s un-carrier strategy offers customers more than just a phone plan. 

However, after recent price hikes and additional changes to its offerings that frustrated some customers, members might be skeptical. It remains to be seen if new travel perks and additional benefits will be enough to win back users' trust.

Related: Lowe’s spends $250 million to fix massive problem for homeowners

Why we love this deal

Wireless earbuds are an essential accessory for listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on the go, but that doesn't mean the device comes without its flaws. You're not alone if you've ever turned your head too fast, causing an earbud to fly out of your ear, and keeping them put during sweaty gym sessions or runs around the neighborhood can be a near-impossible feat. That's why we love Amazon's deal, taking 50% off the Soundcore Sport X10 True Wireless Workout Headphones, which solves this everyday dilemma.  

These innovative earbuds use rotating ear hooks to keep them securely in your ears, making them a go-to for workouts. The unique earbud design is backed by over 2,300 five-star ratings, with shoppers sharing stories of doing handstands and jumping jacks without the headphones budging. Normally, you'd have to pay $80 to score these sport earbuds for yourself, but the limited-time deal at Amazon brings the price down to just $40, and they're going fast. 

Soundcore Sport X10 True Wireless Workout Headphones, $40 (was $80) at Amazon

Why do shoppers love it?

Designed for movement, these SportX10 earbuds from Soundcore use a unique over-ear hook that rotates up to 210 degrees, so you can find a perfect fit. By rotating the hook, you can customize the fit to your ear shape, so it won't become dislodged while running or doing yoga. "They stay on my ears no matter what I'm doing," wrote one shopper. 

A sweaty gym session is no problem for these headphones, thanks to SweatGuard technology that seals and protects the device. This waterproof design even has an IPX7 waterproof rating, so while they can be submerged under some water, it's not suggested to use them while swimming or showering. 

Related: Walmart's $60 JBL Tune headphones with 4,000+ perfect ratings are just $40 in all 4 colors

The secure wear is definitely the standout feature of these headphones, but they also come equipped with a dynamic acoustic system that delivers two times more bass than a standard driver. You can enjoy listening to music while pumping out a workout multiple times before needing a recharge, thanks to the long-lasting battery that runs up to eight hours. Once you do need to charge, it takes just 10 minutes of charging for two hours of playback time. On top of all that, the sport earbuds come with hybrid noise cancellation, so you can better focus on your workouts. If you want to toggle off the noise-canceling feature, simply tap the easy-to-use button on the earbuds. 

Pros and cons of the $40 Soundcore Sport X10 earbuds

Pros:

• These earbuds will stay put. The innovative ear hook design keeps these headphones on your ears. 
• They're only $40 on sale. At 50% off, these Soundcore headphones are an incredible value.
• It has a convenient charging case: The 8-hour battery life can reach up to 32 hours by taking advantage of the charging case.

Cons:

• The sound is secondary: Shoppers reported being happy with the sound for the price, but some reviewers noted their Apple AirPods sound slightly better.
• The battery-life could be longer. Eight hours is on the high end of average for earbuds, but some models reach up to nine or ten hours.

Shop more deals

• Monster Open Ear AC210 Headphones, $20 (was $40) at Amazon
• King Lucky Clip-On Earbuds, $22 (was $27) at Amazon
• Bugani Open Ear Headphones, $30 (was $66) at Amazon

Don't let dislodging your earbuds affect your gym session with the Soundcore Sport X10 True Wireless Workout Headphones. The popular audio accessory won't be 50% off for long, so add them to your cart for just $40 now.

From two stores in Atlanta, Georgia (where it has its headquarters) more than four decades ago, Home Depot has expanded to all 50 states and has a large footprint in neighboring Canada and Mexico.

Here’s how many stores Home Depot operates as of 2026.

How many stores does Home Depot operate?

Home Depot operated 2,359 stores at the end of fiscal 2025, which ended on February 1, 2026, and almost all of the stores — which include retail, distribution centers, and service centers — were in the U.S. and its territories. Of those, 2,021 stores were in the 50 states and Washington, DC, while 14 were in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.

The retailer had 182 stores in Canada and 142 in Mexico. 

Related: How many employees does Home Depot have?

What is the average square footage per Home Depot store?

Home Depot stores averaged about 104,000 square feet of enclosed space and about 24,000 square feet of outdoor garden area. That’s about the same amount of space the retailer's stores occupied in fiscal 2015 and only a small change from 2005. 

In its formative years, Home Depot's early stores averaged around 60,000 square feet.

How many stores does Home Depot plan to add?

Home Depot added 12 new stores in fiscal 2025, which was part of its plan announced in fiscal 2023 to add about 80 new stores over a five-year period. The retailer now looks to achieve that goal of 80 new stores in fiscal 2027, and afterward plans to open about 15 to 20 new stores each year.

Related: How much does Home Depot pay in dividends? Yield & payouts explained

How much space do Home Depot's stores take up?

The retailer's stores take up about 244.7 million square feet combined. About 90% of this space is owned, while the remaining 10% or so is leased. 

Home Depot’s average sales per store

Home Depot’s average sales per store can be calculated by dividing total sales by the number of stores.

Sales in fiscal 2025 totaled $164.7 billion, indicating an average of $69.8 million per store. That’s up from $38.9 million per store in fiscal 2025, when the company reported $88.5 billion in sales and had 2,274 stores. 

More on Home Depot:

• Home Depot over the years: A complete history of America's biggest hardware store
• Home Depot founder Arthur Blank’s net worth: Investments, Atlanta Falcons & ranches
• Home Depot founder Bernard Marcus’s net worth: From fired CEO to entrepreneur

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

The following are answers to some of the most common questions about Home Depot's stores.

When did Home Depot open its first store?

Home Depot opened its first two stores in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1979.

Related: Home Depot's Atlanta headquarters: Everything you need to know

Where is the biggest Home Depot store?

Home Depot’s biggest store is in Vauxhall, New Jersey, which is about 20 miles west of New York City. The Vauxhall Superstore reportedly covers about 217,000 square feet.

What are Home Depot’s same-store sales?

Home Depot’s comparable store sales rose 0.3% in fiscal 2025, a turnaround from the 1.8% decline in the previous year. 

How many distribution & fulfillment centers and warehouses does Home Depot have?

Home Depot operated more than 500 distribution and fulfillment centers and warehouses at the end of fiscal 2025, covering 104.7 million square feet, of which 97% was leased.

Related: Home Depot’s stock split history: What you need to know

How much did online sales account for Home Depot’s total sales?

While brick-and-mortar stores are Home Depot’s main sales channel, the company's e-commerce sales are not insignificant and are likely to grow. Online sales accounted for 15.9% of net sales in fiscal 2025, up a tenth from the previous year. The retailer said about half of its U.S. online orders were fulfilled through a store. 

What is Home Depot’s inventory turnover ratio?

Home Depot’s inventory turnover ratio — which indicates how many times it sold and replaced its inventory — was 4.4 times in fiscal 2025, compared to 4.7 times the prior year. The company attributed the lower ratio to higher average inventory levels.

By the time I reached my car, the order was already being picked. I went home and waited for delivery rather than re-entering the queue.

The only real tradeoff came later, when a shopper substituted toilet paper for the paper towels I selected. Even with that imperfection, the experience still felt better than standing in line.

That small decision reflects a broader shift in retail behavior. The checkout process is no longer just the final step of a purchase; it is increasingly the moment that determines whether the purchase happens in-store at all.

"One of the most crucial elements contributing to a customer's opinion of a retailer is their experience in the checkout line. Customers begin making an assessment of a store from the moment they walk through the door, but that judgment can shift based on the encounters they have from start to finish, especially at the finish," according to Retail Customer Experience.

That kind of behavior is what makes checkout speed a make-or-break moment in the shopping journey rather than just an operational detail.

• Close to 50% of all customers will purposely avoid a retailer or brand in the future if they had to wait longer than five minutes.
• One-third of customers forced to wait for over five minutes have abandoned the checkout line.
• Nearly half of those surveyed avoid a store because of someone else's negative experience.
• After 2.5 minutes, customers will become frustrated if there is no progress in the line.
• If a checkout process is being actively managed, customers are more willing to tolerate the wait time.
  Source: Retail Customer Experience

Slow checkout can ruin an otherwise pleasant shopping experience, and Costco has taken significant steps to improve its performance in that area.

Costco makes multiple checkout investments

It is not just Costco where this is showing up. Across large retailers, the checkout experience has become a key pressure point as shoppers increasingly split between in-store browsing and app-based fulfillment.

That's an issue Costco has decided to address, however.

Costco has typically used a very traditional checkout where store employees check your membership card, then scan all your items by hand.

The warehouse club tested self-checkout, but ultimately removed it from most stores.

Now, the membership-based chain has added a number of changes to its warehouses that improve the checkout experience.

"In digital, we continue to make strides with our road map to deliver a more seamless experience for members in warehouse and online. In the warehouses, we're achieving meaningful improvements in the speed of checkout, employee productivity, both as a result of our mobile wallet enhancements, pharmacy pay ahead and the rollout of employee pre-scan technology," CEO Ron Vachris shared during the chain's second-quarter earnings call.

Costco has also been testing an even faster checkout program.

"We're also piloting automated pay stations that will allow members to pay for their pre-scanned orders seamlessly, with an average transaction time of around 8 seconds. Early results show this is improving the flow of traffic, and we've received great member feedback," he added.

These improvements position checkout speed as an operational metric on par with price and inventory efficiency.

Faster checkout equals happier Costco members

Because of its membership-based business, Costco's biggest concern isn't sales; it's membership retention. Creating a better checkout experience helps drive renewals as people don't like standing in line.

Vachris made it clear that Costco wants to deliver a better experience for members in his remarks during the Q1 earnings call.

"This isn't about technology for technology's sake. It's about using technology to strengthen the fundamentals that make Costco who we are. Increasing member loyalty, driving top-line sales, and improving efficiency in our operations so that we can bring goods to market at the lowest possible price," he said.

More Costco:

• Costco reveals shift in shopper spending behavior
• Costco’s latest food court treat has fans divided
• Sam’s Club, BJs gain traction in area Costco dominates

The investment has paid off, and that's before the new pilot tech.

"The warehouses that are first to adopt this pre-scan technology have shown checkout speed improvements of up to 20%. And across our U.S. warehouses overall, we achieved record levels of checkout productivity in the final weeks of the quarter," he added.

Analysts see checkout as a pain point

Mark Hunter, an experienced retail operator and member of RetailWire's Brain Trust, thinks that technology is not the answer.

"The front-end will always be a source of frustration. Some will argue self-scan is the solution yet at the same time self-scan is certainly not the fastest compared to a manned express-lane that has no line. The key is in providing the consumer with enough distractions they do not notice they’re waiting in line," he wrote on RetailWire.

GlobalData Managing Director Neil Saunders thinks that retailers need to be thoughful in their checkout investments.

"When it comes to ordering and checkout, one size does not fit all. Consumers want choice and that means retailers need to have manned checkouts (at sufficient capacity) as well as self-checkouts and other options," he shared on RetailWire.

He also noted that the current version of self-checkout many retailer use is not adequate.

"More thought needs to be applied to the process. As currently configured, self-checkout in most U.S. grocery stores is inefficient. Shoppers schlep [a]round, putting stuff in their carts, unload it and scan it, and then put it in bags," he added.

Related: Another mall retailer quietly closed over 150 locations

The launch of Android 17 Beta 4 has arrived for compatible Android phones, and while users should not expect any major or sweeping changes with this version of the software, that also mostly applies to those that have had their hands and fingers all over Android 17 since the very beta software went live. As all of those users have already spent time with the software and know host of it functions, looks, and feels. If you haven’t used Android 17 in any of its beta forms, then you’ll have a more significant number of changes to look forward to when the complete version of the software becomes available. The fourth and final beta is also arriving just over two weeks after the third beta.

That right there is also the most notable thing about this beta release. It means that the stable version of Android 17 is as close as it’s ever been and as close as it’s going to get until the full launch. Android 17 is expected to be released in a stable version to compatible devices later this year. It’s also worth noting that Google refers to this as the last scheduled beta. That potentially leaves the door open for another that’s unscheduled if the situation calls for it. That’s probably not likely, though. In terms of what’s new with this particular release, here’s what users can expect.

The launch of Android 17 beta 4 brings app memory limits based on total device RAM

Google notes that one of the key changes with this release is app memory limits that are based on the total RAM of a device. This is something that really isn’t going to make any sort of difference for the user directly. It’s a change that targets developers. That could change the way a developer implements something in their app, which could in turn change the way a user interacts with it in some way. But for the most part this isn’t something users will need to worry about. However, this change is being implemented to ensure that apps are using the right amount of RAM and operating smoothly. So in a roundabout way users may take notice.

Another change, Google says, is that this release removes the capability for developers to opt out of “maintaining orientation, resizability and aspect ratio constraints on large screens.” This is something that is more likely to impact users, specifically those with devices that have a larger display. Google lists a handful of other changes with this software version, but it’s all focused on developer-facing tweaks.

The post Google pushes the fourth and final beta for Android 17 appeared first on Android Headlines.

Samsung has started rolling out a new update to its SmartThings ecosystem that brings Now Brief integration. The feature first appeared on the Galaxy S25 series and is now expanding to other Samsung devices and services. The new update will allow users to view quick updates like weather, reminders, and schedules, along with new information coming directly from smart home devices.

Samsung boosts SmartThings with Now Brief integration and safety tools

With the new Now Brief integration, SmartThings will now become a more useful tool in everyday life. Instead of showing personal updates, Now Brief will now include information from connected smart home devices. This means the user can now get an alert directly from the security camera. They may also get updates related to pets and family members without opening different apps.

The integration changes how Samsung devices work together. On the latest Samsung Smart TVs, users will now see simple cards appear when they come close. The cards will display things like home activity, pet status, or family updates. Basically, the integration brings everything into one place. This saves time and makes it easier for the user to access information without putting in any extra effort.

Samsung is also improving the Family Care and safety

Apart from the Now Brief integration, Samsung has also updated the Family Care app. It is now capable of giving reminders for medicines and doctor visits. During calls, users can also see small updates like activity levels or weather conditions. This makes conversations more meaningful and keeps everyone better informed.

Last but not least, Safety features have also been upgraded as well. The new Safety Patrol feature lets robot vacuums with cameras detect if someone has fallen. If needed, they can share visuals and allow communication through built-in microphones. Basically, Samsung is using its smart home ecosystem to keep its users safe and informed.

The post Samsung SmartThings Latest Update Brings Now Brief Integration appeared first on Android Headlines.

Following recent rumors, AT&T has just made its new ‘Elite 2.0’ plan official, and it’s quite expensive. The plan sets customers back by $110 per line or $75 per line for four, plus taxes and fees. And at that price, the new plan doesn’t seem to bring a whole lot to the table, especially over the Premium plan. There are no streaming perks or any extra benefits that will appeal to mainstream customers.

AT&T’s new Elite 2.0 plan includes 250GB hotspot access and 20GB international data

AT&T’s new Elite 2.0 plan offers all the same perks as the Premium tier, but with some differences. For one, you get 250GB of hotspot access compared to 100GB on the Premium tier. Then there’s 20GB of monthly global data for international travel. Besides these, it also includes AT&T Turbo, which boosts the phone’s data performance for enhanced video calling, gaming, and live streaming. 

Additionally, the Elite 2.0 plan also offers customers one free smartwatch plan and one free tablet plan per line. In comparison, the AT&T Premium tier offers only 50% off a tablet or wearable plan per line. 

The plan is quite expensive at $110 per line

If your household has a lot of cellular tablets and smartwatches, the free smartwatch and tablet plan perk in the Elite 2.0 plan is practical and should be appealing. The rest of the plan doesn’t add enough value to justify upgrading if you’re already on the Premium plan. That said, if you use lots of hotspot data and travel internationally, the new plan might suit you. It may also save you some money in the process.

Interestingly, AT&T, on its website, labelled this as its “best plan” already. It seems like a move to lure more customers who aren’t very tech savvy to compare it with other available options.

The post AT&T's Elite 2.0 Plan is Here, and It's Expensive for the Perks It Offers appeared first on Android Headlines.

But even that gap understates what a handful of AI companies have been doing beneath the surface of the broader market in recent quarters. The largest AI profits are not distributed evenly across the index, and your portfolio may be capturing far less upside than you realize. 

Three companies have been compounding at rates that could make the S&P 500 look pedestrian over the next half-decade, and each one occupies a different layer. You may already own all three inside your index fund, but at weightings so small that you barely benefit from their momentum.

Tech stocks have been outrunning the S&P 500, and 3 names lead the charge

The State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLK) tracks tech stocks inside the S&P 500 and has doubled in value over the past five years. The S&P 500 itself returned 65% over that same stretch, meaning tech investors earned roughly 35 percentage points more than the broader index did. 

Three stocks account for a significant portion of that outperformance, and each one ties directly to the AI infrastructure buildout, Motley Fool analysis shows. Those three names are Broadcom (AVGO), Micron Technology (MU), and Alphabet (GOOGL), and each plays a distinct role in the AI economy. 

Broadcom builds custom AI chips for hyperscalers, Micron supplies the memory powering every AI processor, and Alphabet operates Google Cloud, one of the fastest-growing enterprise platforms.

Broadcom’s custom chip business carves out territory Nvidia does not occupy

When you think of AI semiconductors, Nvidia probably comes to mind first as the dominant supplier of general-purpose graphics processing units. But Broadcom has built a separate empire in custom-designed chips called application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) that serve hyperscaler clients. 

Alphabet and Meta Platforms use Nvidia for general workloads but turn to Broadcom when they need chips engineered to their own specifications. Broadcom’s AI semiconductor revenue reached $6.5 billion in Q4 of fiscal 2025, representing a 74% increase year over year, the company’s SEC filing shows. 

“We see the momentum continuing in Q1 and expect AI semiconductor revenue to double year-over-year to $8.2 billion,” CEO Hock Tan told investors on the earnings call, according to Barchart. The company’s total AI backlog now exceeds $73 billion, with delivery expected over the next 18 months, providing unusual revenue visibility.

In Q1 of fiscal 2026, Broadcom followed through on that guidance, with AI chip revenue surging 106% year over year to $8.4 billion.  The company also secured long-term supply agreements with Google and Anthropic for custom chip development extending through 2031.

J.P. Morgan has named Broadcom its top semiconductor pick, projecting $55 billion to $60 billion in AI-related revenue for fiscal 2026.

Micron’s memory chips are hidden engine inside AI processors sold today

Every AI chip sold by Nvidia, Broadcom, or AMD contains high-bandwidth memory components manufactured by companies including Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix. When any of those chipmakers sells an AI accelerator, it automatically creates direct demand for Micron’s products embedded inside the silicon. 

Think of Micron as the essential building block inside the building block, earning revenue from nearly every AI chip transaction on the market today. Micron reported fiscal Q2 2026 revenue of $23.86 billion, nearly triple the $8.05 billion from the same quarter one year earlier, according to its SEC filing. 

Non-GAAP earnings per share reached $12.20, far exceeding Wall Street’s consensus estimate of $9.31, CNBC reported in March.  The company guided fiscal Q3 revenue to $33.5 billion at the midpoint, representing roughly a 40% sequential jump from the prior quarter.

"The step-up in our results and outlook are the outcome of an increase in memory demand driven by AI, structural supply constraints, and Micron's strong execution across the board," said President and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra.

“Micron set new records across revenue, gross margin, EPS, and free cash flow in fiscal Q2,” Mehrotra said during the earnings call. Micron also shut down its consumer Crucial brand to reallocate all manufacturing capacity toward higher-margin AI and data center products. 

Micron Chief Business Officer Sumit Sadana said bluntly that “our supply is nowhere close to being able to meet the demand we see.” Micron’s forward price-to-earnings ratio sits around 7, compared to Nvidia’s 23, making it one of the most attractively valued AI stocks available today. 

Supply remains constrained, and management has indicated that the memory shortage will likely persist well beyond 2026, keeping pricing power in the company’s hands. Investors who dismissed Micron as a cyclical commodity play, as Global Banking & Finance Review indicated, are now watching it post growth numbers typically reserved for high-multiple software companies.

Alphabet’s Google Cloud division becomes the financial engine 

Google Cloud has transformed from a money-losing division into Alphabet’s fastest-growing and most strategically important business segment over recent years. In Q4 of 2025, Google Cloud revenue surged 48% year over year to $17.7 billion, driven by demand for AI infrastructure and enterprise solutions. 

The division’s backlog more than doubled year over year and grew 55% sequentially, reaching $240 billion at the end of the fourth quarter, Alphabet’s SEC filing shows. Cloud is where Alphabet monetizes AI directly, and the customer roster includes OpenAI, Anthropic, and major enterprise clients across financial services and health care. 

More AI Stocks:

• Morgan Stanley sets jaw-dropping Micron price target after event
• Bank of America updates Palantir stock forecast after private meeting
• Morgan Stanley drops eye-popping Broadcom price target

Nearly 75% of Google Cloud customers have used Alphabet’s AI products, and those AI customers spend 1.8 times more on the platform. CEO Sundar Pichai told investors the Gemini AI app reached 750 million monthly active users during the most recent quarter, TechCrunch reported.

Alphabet revealed planned 2026 capital expenditures of $175 billion to $185 billion, CNBC reported, more than doubling its 2025 spend to meet surging enterprise demand. Shares are up 184% over the past five years, comfortably outpacing the S&P 500’s 65% return over that same period for long-term investors.

Do AVGO, MU, and GOOGL deserve a bigger place in your portfolio?

Owning the S&P 500 gives you exposure to all three companies, but the math may not work in your favor at standard index weightings today. 

If these three stocks continue growing at their current pace, your index fund captures only a fraction of the gains they are generating individually. Investors who are comfortable with individual stock selection may want to evaluate whether increasing direct exposure makes strategic sense for their situation.

Key considerations before adjusting your allocation

• Review your current portfolio allocation to understand how much direct AI exposure you actually hold through your index fund positions today.
• Consider whether individual position sizing in Broadcom, Micron, or Alphabet aligns with your personal risk tolerance and your investment time horizon.
• Evaluate each company’s valuation metrics independently, rather than relying on broad index rebalancing to do the work of portfolio construction for you.
• Keep in mind that concentrated positions carry a higher risk, and past performance does not guarantee that future returns will follow the same trajectory.

The risks every AI investor should weigh 

Broadcom faces gross margin pressure as custom chip sales are less profitable than its traditional products, according to GuruFocus, and management has already warned investors about margin compression.

Micron has historically been a boom-and-bust cyclical stock, CNBC noted. Current memory prices could reverse if supply catches up to demand faster than projected. 

Alphabet’s planned $175 billion to $185 billion capital expenditure program could weigh on free cash flow if AI monetization disappoints investor expectations, CNBC reported. Tariff uncertainty also looms over the entire semiconductor supply chain, and none of these companies has fully priced in potential trade disruptions. 

AI spending by hyperscalers could also decelerate if enterprise adoption disappoints or a broader economic downturn squeezes corporate technology budgets across sectors.

Diversification remains the most reliable approach to managing risk, even when individual stock stories look compelling and growth numbers seem extraordinary.

Related: S&P 500 index dividend yield hits nearly 50-year low

The brand behind Apple’s satellite connectivity, Globalstar, was recently acquired by Amazon. In its statement, Amazon said it would work closely with Apple to develop a stronger and more reliable smartphone satellite connectivity network. And now, a new leak has revealed a list of upcoming iPhone satellite connectivity features.

Apple is working on four new iPhone satellite connectivity features

A new report reveals that the upcoming iPhone models, particularly those powered by Apple’s C2 modem, will gain support for 5G satellite connectivity. The support will dramatically improve current limitations, where satellite connections are slow and restricted to basic messaging. 5G satellite connectivity means the users will be able to use all the services and apps on their phones, just like how they do with a cellular network.

Another report from Bloomberg suggests Apple is changing how its phones connect to satellite networks. The updated method is said to reduce the effort required by users to establish a signal in challenging environments.

Apple Maps will soon gain a satellite connectivity feature

Apart from the 5G satellite connectivity and improved connection method, the company is also working on enabling support for Apple Maps over satellite, allowing navigation even without cellular or Wi Fi access. Further, Apple plans to expand messaging capabilities by enabling photo sharing through satellite connections. The tech giant is also planning to allow third-party apps to integrate satellite connectivity features.

If all the features are enabled in the upcoming iPhones, it would change how Apple users access satellite connectivity. Until now, satellite connectivity meant basic SMS services. But that finally seems to be changing soon. Also, keep in mind that the firm has not shared any official words on the features yet. There’s no guarantee that all the above-mentioned features will be enabled in future iPhones. Current rumors suggest the iPhone 18 series may become the first lineup to officially support these features.

The post Leak Reveals Several New iPhone Satellite Connectivity Features appeared first on Android Headlines.

Meta has announced its Quest headsets will see a significant price rise starting from April 19th. Like most price hikes these days, it’s the RAM crisis that’s causing this. Meta says that the cost of building high-performance VR hardware has risen significantly and that the surge in price of critical components, especially memory chips, is impacting almost every category of consumer electronics.

Meta Quest headsets are seeing their price rise amid the memory shortage

As a result of this, the Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S are going to get costlier from April 19th. The company says that in order to deliver the quality of hardware, software, and support that users expect from the Quest platform, it needs to adjust the pricing.

The Meta Quest 3 sees a $100 price hike and will be available for $599.99. Meanwhile, the Quest 3S will be $50 more expensive. It will be available at $349.99 for the version with 128GB of storage and $449.99 for the 256GB model. The updated pricing will also apply to Meta Quest Refurbished units, while all Meta Quest accessories will retain their current prices. 

The prices of refurbished units are also going up

The refurbished Quest 3S is reportedly getting a $50 bump. The 128GB version will set you back by $319.99, while the 256GB costs $409.99. The refurbished Quest 3 will cost $549.99, after a $170 price jump. As for its smart glasses, Meta told The Verge that it isn’t expecting to raise its prices due to the memory shortage in the near future. So this category is safe, for now.

The memory crisis is hitting consumers in a big way. Brands are steadily jacking up the prices of their products, and it’s not just one tech category. Sony recently increased the prices of PS5 consoles and the PlayStation Portal handheld. Recently, Microsoft hiked the prices of its Surface PCs. Beyond these, the prices of smartphones and laptops are already going up.

The post Meta Quest Headsets' Prices Are Increasing, and RAM Crisis is to Blame appeared first on Android Headlines.