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.

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.

Forecasters are calling for below-average activity this hurricane season, which begins Monday, June 1. The National Weather Service is predicting eight to 14 named storms, including three to six hurricanes and one to three major hurricanes of category 3, 4, or 5 strength, packing winds of 111 mph or greater. By comparison, a typical season is characterized by 14 named storms, including seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. The season ends November 30.

“It just takes one,” said Ken Graham, director of the National Weather Service. “Now is the time to start thinking about your hurricane preparedness.” The agency emphasized that even a below-average season can produce devastating storms, urging residents in coastal areas to review their emergency plans and supplies.

The prediction comes from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which released its seasonal outlook. Factors such as cooler sea surface temperatures and wind shear are expected to suppress storm formation. However, forecasters caution that conditions can change rapidly.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity typically occurring from mid-August to late October. The 2024 season follows an above-average 2023 season, which saw 20 named storms. Despite the lower forecast, officials stress that preparation remains critical.

Residents are advised to assemble emergency kits, secure homes, and review evacuation routes. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends having enough supplies for at least three days without power or water.

“Don’t let the forecast lull you into a false sense of security,” Graham added. “One storm can change everything.” The National Weather Service will continue to monitor conditions and update forecasts as the season progresses.

For the latest information, visit the National Hurricane Center’s website or follow local weather updates. The season officially begins June 1 and ends November 30.

Oura has unveiled the Ring 5, a new version of its smart ring that the company calls the world's smallest. The wearable is significantly thinner than its predecessor, measuring just 2.4 millimeters in thickness. Oura achieved this by redesigning the internal components and using a new manufacturing process.

The Ring 5 retains the core health tracking features of previous models, including sleep monitoring, heart rate tracking, and activity logging. Oura improved the sensor array to provide more accurate readings, particularly for heart rate variability and SpO2 levels. The ring also includes a new temperature sensor for tracking body temperature trends.

Oura says the Ring 5 is designed for continuous wear, with a battery life of up to seven days on a single charge. The ring is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities. It connects to the Oura app via Bluetooth, which provides detailed insights and trends based on the collected data.

The Ring 5 is available in four finishes: silver, black, gold, and rose gold. It comes in sizes 6 through 13. Oura also offers a sizing kit to help customers find the right fit before purchasing the ring.

Pricing for the Oura Ring 5 starts at $349 for the base model. A version with a titanium finish costs $399. The ring is available for preorder starting today on Oura's website, with shipping expected to begin in late November.

Oura's previous generation, the Ring 4, launched last year at a similar price point. The Ring 5 represents a significant reduction in thickness, which Oura says improves comfort for all-day and all-night wear. The company claims the new design also reduces the risk of the ring catching on clothing or other objects.

The Ring 5 is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. The Oura app provides personalized health recommendations based on the data collected. Oura also offers a subscription service, Oura Membership, which unlocks additional features such as advanced sleep analysis and guided meditations. The membership costs $5.99 per month or $59.99 per year.

Oura CEO Tom Hale stated that the Ring 5 is the culmination of years of engineering work to miniaturize the technology without compromising on accuracy. The company expects the new design to appeal to both existing Oura users and newcomers looking for a discreet health tracker.

The Oura Ring 5 is available for preorder now, with general availability starting November 30.