Apple Music Free Tier Spotted in Android Beta Code
Code discovered in the Android beta version of Apple Music suggests the company is developing a free, ad-supported tier. The new subscription layer would allow users to access the service without paying.
Apple Music may soon offer a free, ad-supported tier, according to code found in the Android beta version of the app. The discovery was made by developers analyzing the latest beta release. Strings within the code reference an "Apple Music Free" option alongside existing subscription plans.
The code includes phrases such as "Listen to music for free with ads" and "Free with ads." These strings appear in the app's subscription management interface. The free tier would likely include limitations such as shuffle-only playback and restricted song skipping, similar to other ad-supported music services.
Apple Music currently offers a three-month free trial for new users, after which a paid subscription is required. The individual plan costs $10.99 per month, while the family plan is $16.99. A student plan is also available for $5.99. The introduction of a permanent free tier would mark a significant shift in Apple's strategy.
The move would position Apple Music to compete more directly with Spotify, which has long offered a free, ad-supported tier. Spotify's free version allows on-demand listening on desktop but restricts mobile users to shuffle play. Apple's free tier could follow a similar model to attract users who are unwilling to pay for a subscription.
It remains unclear when or if Apple will officially launch the free tier. The code was found in the Android beta, which suggests the feature is still in development. Apple has not publicly commented on the discovery. The company often tests new features in beta versions before rolling them out widely.
Apple Music launched in 2015 and has grown to over 100 million subscribers. The service is available on iOS, Android, and other platforms. A free tier could help Apple expand its user base, particularly in markets where subscription services are less common.
The Android beta version of Apple Music is available to testers through the Google Play Store. The code discovery was first reported by 9to5Mac, which analyzed the beta's strings. Apple typically releases new features after several beta iterations.
Apple Music's current pricing structure includes a $10.99 monthly individual plan, a $16.99 family plan for up to six people, and a $5.99 student plan. The free tier would add a fourth option. The company has not announced a launch date or confirmed the feature's existence.
Nvidia Unveils N1 and N1X Processors at Computex 2026
Nvidia announced its new N1 and N1X processors at Computex 2026 on June 1. The chips target different performance segments, with the N1X offering higher clock speeds and additional cores.
Nvidia introduced its next-generation N1 and N1X processors during the Computex 2026 keynote on June 1. The company positioned the chips as solutions for high-performance computing and AI workloads. Both processors are built on a new architecture that Nvidia claims delivers significant improvements in efficiency and throughput.
The N1 processor features 12 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores, supporting up to 32 threads. It operates at a base clock of 3.2 GHz with a boost clock reaching 4.5 GHz. The chip includes 24 MB of L3 cache and supports DDR5 memory with speeds up to 6400 MT/s. Nvidia stated that the N1 targets mainstream desktop and workstation users.
The higher-end N1X model doubles the core count with 24 performance cores and 16 efficiency cores, supporting up to 64 threads. Its base clock is 3.5 GHz, boosting to 5.0 GHz. The N1X includes 48 MB of L3 cache and supports DDR5 memory at 7200 MT/s. Nvidia highlighted that the N1X is designed for demanding tasks such as 3D rendering, scientific simulations, and AI model training.
Both processors integrate Nvidia's latest generation tensor cores and ray tracing units. The N1 includes 128 tensor cores and 32 RT cores, while the N1X features 256 tensor cores and 64 RT cores. Nvidia claims these improvements enable up to 2x performance gains in AI inference and real-time ray tracing compared to previous generations.
The chips also feature an updated memory controller and support for PCIe 5.0. Nvidia emphasized power efficiency, with the N1 having a TDP of 125W and the N1X at 250W. The company noted that the processors are manufactured on a 3nm process node, contributing to the efficiency gains.
Nvidia announced that the N1 and N1X will be available starting September 2026. The N1 is priced at $599, while the N1X costs $1,299. Both processors will be compatible with the existing LGA 1700 socket, allowing users to upgrade without changing motherboards. Nvidia also confirmed that the chips will support Windows 11 and Linux distributions.
During the presentation, Nvidia demonstrated the N1X running a real-time AI video upscaling application and a complex fluid dynamics simulation. The company claimed that the N1X outperforms its predecessor by 40% in multi-threaded workloads. Nvidia also announced partnerships with several PC manufacturers to offer systems featuring the new processors.
The N1 and N1X represent Nvidia's continued push into the CPU market, competing with offerings from Intel and AMD. With these chips, Nvidia aims to provide integrated solutions for both consumer and enterprise customers. The company expects the processors to be widely adopted in gaming PCs, workstations, and data centers.
Environmental advocates oppose Trump EPA coal ash rule rollbacks at hearing
At a virtual public comment hearing hosted by the US Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday, environmental advocates voiced strong opposition to proposed regulations weakening coal ash cleanup requirements. The Trump administration seeks to repeal a 2024 Biden-era rule and loosen groundwater protections, relying more on state enforcement.
A virtual public comment hearing hosted by the US Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday drew a long line of environmental advocates who voiced strong opposition to proposed new regulations. The regulations would weaken requirements that utilities must follow in cleaning up toxic coal ash residue at hundreds of sites across the country where coal was burned to produce electricity. Lisa Evans, senior counsel at Earthjustice and a former EPA attorney, said in a statement that the Trump administration has jeopardized the nation’s drinking water supplies as a favor to polluters. She added that it is just not right.
The Trump administration announced in April that it would repeal a rule put in place in 2024 by the Biden administration’s EPA. That rule required utilities to monitor coal ash sites at inactive coal plants. The Trump EPA also said it would loosen requirements for protecting groundwater near those sites. Now the Trump administration wants to rely on states for coal ash monitoring and enforcement, enabling them to bypass national standards in some cases.
Coal ash is a byproduct of burning coal for electricity and contains toxic heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, and mercury. Improper disposal can contaminate groundwater and surface water, posing risks to human health and the environment. The Biden-era rule aimed to ensure consistent monitoring and cleanup across the country, particularly at inactive sites that may not have been subject to previous regulations.
Environmental groups argue that the proposed rollbacks would undermine public health protections and shift the burden to states that may lack resources or political will to enforce strict standards. They also contend that the changes could lead to increased contamination of drinking water sources near coal ash disposal sites. The hearing provided a platform for advocates to express their concerns directly to EPA officials.
The Trump administration has defended its proposal as a way to reduce regulatory burdens on utilities and give states more flexibility. Officials argue that states are better positioned to address local conditions and that the previous rule imposed unnecessary costs. However, critics counter that the move prioritizes industry interests over environmental and community health.
The EPA is accepting public comments on the proposed rule through a specified deadline. After reviewing comments, the agency will decide whether to finalize the changes. The outcome could have significant implications for the management of coal ash at hundreds of sites nationwide, many of which are located near communities already burdened by pollution.
Thursday’s hearing was one of several opportunities for public input. Environmental advocates urged the EPA to maintain strong federal oversight and reject the proposed rollbacks. They emphasized that coal ash contamination is a long-lasting problem that requires consistent national standards to protect drinking water supplies for millions of Americans.
Engadget Review Roundup: ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo, Fitbit Air, GoPro Mission 1
Engadget published a roundup of recent reviews covering the ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo, Fitbit Air, and GoPro Mission 1. The article summarizes key findings from each product evaluation.
Engadget has compiled a review recap featuring several recently tested gadgets. The roundup includes the ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo, Fitbit Air, and GoPro Mission 1, among other devices. Each product received a detailed assessment from the publication's reviewers.
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo is a dual-screen gaming laptop that offers a secondary display above the keyboard. Engadget noted its innovative design but pointed out some ergonomic trade-offs. The device targets gamers and creative professionals who can benefit from the extra screen real estate.
Fitbit Air is a lightweight fitness tracker designed for everyday wear. Reviewers highlighted its accurate step counting and long battery life. However, the lack of GPS and limited smart features were mentioned as drawbacks compared to more expensive models.
GoPro Mission 1 is a compact action camera aimed at casual users. The review praised its ease of use and stabilization but criticized the limited resolution options. It is positioned as an entry-level alternative to GoPro's higher-end Hero series.
Other products covered in the roundup include a smart home hub and wireless earbuds. Each review provides a balanced look at pros and cons, helping readers make informed purchasing decisions.
The full article on Engadget offers more detailed analysis and comparison between the devices. Readers are directed to the original post for complete review scores and additional context.
Engadget's review recap serves as a quick reference for those interested in the latest tech products. The publication continues to provide thorough evaluations across various categories.
For the complete breakdown of each product's performance and features, visit Engadget's website.
Amazon Luna Adds Guardians of the Galaxy and Resident Evil 2 Remake in May
Amazon Luna's May game lineup includes Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy and the Resident Evil 2 remake. Prime members can also claim a code for Mafia II: Definitive Edition.
Amazon Luna, the cloud gaming service from Amazon, has announced its game lineup for May 2024. Subscribers will gain access to several high-profile titles, including Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy and the Resident Evil 2 remake. These games will be available through the Luna+ subscription channel.
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, developed by Eidos-Montréal, launched in October 2021. The single-player action-adventure game follows Star-Lord and his team as they embark on an intergalactic journey. The Resident Evil 2 remake, released by Capcom in 2019, is a reimagining of the 1998 survival horror classic. Both titles have received critical acclaim for their storytelling and gameplay.
In addition to the Luna+ additions, Amazon is offering Prime members a free code for Mafia II: Definitive Edition. This version includes the original game along with all downloadable content, remastered for modern platforms. Prime members can claim the code through the Luna section of the Amazon website.
The May lineup also includes other games such as Yakuza: Like a Dragon, which will be available on Luna+. This role-playing game from Sega marks a shift in the Yakuza series with a new protagonist and turn-based combat. The full list of May additions has been detailed on Amazon's Luna blog.
Amazon Luna operates on a channel-based subscription model. The Luna+ channel costs $9.99 per month and provides access to a rotating library of games. Other channels, such as Ubisoft+ and Jackbox Games, are available for additional fees. Prime members receive a selection of free games each month as part of their membership.
The service is accessible on various devices, including Fire TV, PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Android phones. Luna supports streaming up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second. Amazon continues to expand its game library to compete with other cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce Now.
Mafia II: Definitive Edition is available for Prime members to claim starting May 1. The code can be redeemed on the Luna platform or through the Amazon Games app. The offer is valid while supplies last, and Prime members must have an active subscription to participate.
Amazon Luna's May lineup reflects the company's strategy to attract subscribers with a mix of AAA titles and classic remasters. The addition of critically acclaimed games like Guardians of the Galaxy and Resident Evil 2 aims to bolster the service's appeal. Prime members also benefit from exclusive offers that complement the Luna+ subscription.








