Apple has announced plans to expand its iCloud storage options, adding two new tiers that offer up to 6TB and 12TB of storage. The new plans will be available starting on September 18, 2023.
The current iCloud storage options are:
5GB: Free
50GB: $0.99/month
200GB: $2.99/month
2TB: $9.99/month
The new 6TB and 12TB plans will cost $29.99/month and $59.99/month, respectively.
All iCloud+ plans offer the same features, including:
Increased storage space
iCloud Private Relay: A privacy-focused feature that encrypts your traffic when browsing the web
Hide My Email: A feature that generates unique email addresses to use when signing up for websites or services
Custom iCloud email domains: A way to create custom email addresses for your domain name
HomeKit Secure Video: A feature that allows you to store security camera footage in iCloud
The new 6TB and 12TB plans also offer unlimited HomeKit Secure Video camera connections.
The expanded iCloud storage options are a welcome addition for users who need more space to store their photos, videos, and other files. The new plans are also a good option for families who want to share a single iCloud account.
Apple’s entry-level iPad has just become its most compelling deal ever, dropping to a **record-low price of 299∗∗(normally299∗∗(normally349) at major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. For anyone needing a reliable, no-frills tablet for everyday tasks—streaming, web browsing, light productivity, and video calls—this is one of the best tech bargains of the year.
What’s New in the 11th-Gen iPad?
Compared to its predecessor, Apple’s latest budget iPad brings meaningful upgrades that make it a much better long-term investment:
✔ A16 Bionic Chip – The same processor powering the iPhone 14, delivering smoother performance for multitasking and apps. ✔ 128GB Base Storage – Double the 64GB of the 10th-gen model—no more constant storage anxiety. ✔ 11-inch Liquid Retina Display – More screen space for movies, reading, and productivity. ✔ Improved 12MP Front Camera – Better for Zoom calls and FaceTime. ✔ USB-C Apple Pencil Support – Great for note-taking and light creative work.
Who Should Buy This iPad?
✅ Students – Perfect for note-taking (with Apple Pencil), research, and streaming lectures. ✅ Casual Users – Ideal for browsing, social media, and video streaming. ✅ Remote Workers – A solid secondary device for emails, Slack, and video calls. ✅ Families – A durable, long-lasting tablet for kids’ entertainment and learning.
What You’re Missing (And Why It Might Not Matter)
As Apple’s most affordable tablet, the 11th-gen iPad lacks some premium features:
❌ No Apple Intelligence (AI Features) – Only newer iPads (Pro, Air) support Apple’s upcoming AI tools. ❌ No Apple Pencil Pro Support – The USB-C Pencil works fine, but you miss extras like Find My and squeeze gestures. ❌ Non-Laminated Display – Slightly thicker bezels and less premium feel than the iPad Air.
But here’s the thing: If you just need a fast, dependable tablet without the bells and whistles, these omissions won’t affect your experience.
Is This the Best Budget Tablet in 2024?
iPad vs. The Competition
Feature
11th-Gen iPad ($299)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE ($399+)
Amazon Fire Max 11 ($229)
Performance
A16 Bionic (Very Fast)
Exynos 1380 (Mid-Range)
Mediatek (Basic)
Display
11″ Liquid Retina
10.9″ LCD
11″ LCD
Stylus Support
USB-C Apple Pencil
S Pen Included
No Precision Stylus
Software
iPadOS (5+ Years Updates)
One UI (Slower Updates)
Fire OS (Limited Apps)
Best For
All-around use
Android fans
Prime Video & Kindle users
Verdict: If you want long-term software support, better performance, and Apple ecosystem benefits, the iPad is still the best value.
Final Recommendation
For $299, the 11th-gen iPad is a no-brainer for casual users. It’s fast enough for daily tasks, has great battery life, and will receive updates for years. Unless you need AI features or a pro-level stylus, this is the best cheap iPad deal right now.
In a major win for smart home enthusiasts, SwitchBot has announced plans to integrate over 45 of its products with Home Assistant in the first half of 2024. This move, confirmed in an email to The Verge, underscores SwitchBot’s commitment to interoperability and user flexibility in the rapidly evolving smart home ecosystem. Among the highlighted devices is the highly anticipated SwitchBot Hub 3, which was recently revealed in a filing with the Connectivity Standards Alliance.
What’s New in SwitchBot’s Home Assistant Integration?
SwitchBot’s integration rollout, set to begin in April, will include some of its most popular devices, such as:
Robot Vacuum K10 Plus Pro: A powerful cleaning solution that can now be seamlessly controlled via Home Assistant.
Curtain 3 Smart Shades: Automate your window treatments with precision and ease.
Garage Door Opener: Add your garage to your smart home network for enhanced security and convenience.
These new integrations will join existing SwitchBot devices like the SwitchBot Lock Pro, which already supports Home Assistant. This expansion not only enhances the functionality of SwitchBot’s ecosystem but also solidifies its position as a leader in the smart home industry.
Why This Matters for Home Assistant Users
Home Assistant, an open-source platform beloved by tech-savvy users, thrives on its ability to unify devices from various brands under one roof. However, integrations with major smart home players can often be fragile. Companies sometimes make undocumented software changes or actively block third-party integrations, leaving users frustrated.
SwitchBot’s proactive approach to integrating its devices with Home Assistant is a breath of fresh air. By officially supporting these integrations, SwitchBot ensures a stable, reliable, and user-friendly experience. This is particularly important for Home Assistant users who value customization and control over their smart home setups.
The Bigger Picture: A Shift Toward Open Ecosystems
SwitchBot’s announcement reflects a growing trend in the smart home industry: the push for open ecosystems and interoperability. As more consumers demand seamless integration across devices, companies like SwitchBot are stepping up to meet these expectations. This move not only benefits users but also fosters innovation and competition in the market.
For Home Assistant users, this means greater flexibility and fewer headaches. Instead of relying on fragile community-created integrations, they can now enjoy official support for a wide range of SwitchBot devices. This is a win for both convenience and reliability.
What’s Next for SwitchBot and Home Assistant?
With the first wave of integrations launching in April, users can look forward to a more cohesive and powerful smart home experience. The inclusion of devices like the Robot Vacuum K10 Plus Pro and Curtain 3 Smart Shades demonstrates SwitchBot’s dedication to enhancing everyday life through technology.
As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, partnerships like this one between SwitchBot and Home Assistant will play a crucial role in shaping the future of connected living. For now, smart home enthusiasts have plenty to be excited about as SwitchBot brings its innovative products into the Home Assistant fold.
