Technology

Giving your old phone to a friend or family member is a great way to get some extra life out of a device you no longer need. But before you hand it over, consider more than deleting your photos and removing a few apps. Your phone may still contain personal information, remain connected to your accounts, or have hardware inside it that you don't want to accidentally give away.

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Phone and watch notifications are one of the most effective ways to share information from Home Assistant. A recent update to the Home Assistant Companion app quietly made these notifications even more powerful.

One of the best things about Waze is also one of the worst. The app lets users report hazards, which are then shared with every other Waze user on the same stretch of road. These alerts can be really useful, but they can quickly get incredibly annoying.

Once you've spent $2,000 on a new graphics card or a high-end CPU, your first instinct is probably to download a suite of benchmarking tools. You want to see the numbers, compare your score with other systems, and make sure you got what you paid for.

For TV nerds, it's the most wonderful time of the year—Fall TV season! It's the time when many of the shows you've been waiting on are finally coming back. But it also means that you've got a few weeks to get it together before your remote and your watchlists go into overdrive.

Google is releasing its second Pixel Drop for September, and it's big news if you need to get in touch with loved ones — or just can't get enough of Hogwarts. The new update for Pixel phones delivers VIP contact updates and a set of Harry Potter themes, among other perks.

I write about Excel shortcuts a lot, and I've picked up plenty over the years. Some are useful only in very specific situations. Others become so familiar that I don't even think about pressing them anymore. Since Microsoft introduced Ctrl+Shift+V to Excel in 2022, it's become one of those shortcuts for me.

I was a massive science fiction fan growing up (I still am). I never imagined that one day I'd have a fully functioning computer that could do just about anything in my pocket. That tiny computer does a lot every single day. The fact that it runs on a battery is amazing. Unfortunately, some processes, apps, and usage can kill your battery fast. But if you're on Android, your phone probably has a hidden feature that will warn you when it happens.

Most Linux advice targeted at newcomers starts and ends with “just pick Ubuntu or Linux Mint,” but I find that to be an oversimplification. However, at the same time, I do understand that it’s not helpful to overwhelm someone with the hundreds of distros out there. So, we’ve developed a quick cheat sheet that walks you through a dozen beginner-friendly distros and shows how they compare across the four key areas that matter for a Linux newcomer. This should help you decide for yourself instead of simply listening to someone else’s opinions.

The iPhone 18 Pro is almost here. Preorders went live on Sept. 12, and the latest iPhones are available beginning Sept. 18. So if you've secured your iPhone by preorder and are just waiting for it to ship, there's still more shopping to do.

A new phone means a new case. There are already a ton of options available. Of course, Apple has its own batch of new cases, but Otterbox, Casetify, and Velvet Caviar also have new models ready to protect your new device. But the accessories don't stop there.

Ahead of the iPhone launch, we also rounded up a ton of iPhone accessories, including grips, straps, power banks, and wireless chargers that you can shop now.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max cases to shop now

There are a ton of iPhone cases already available. Brands are meeting Apple's very fitting fall color scheme. Say goodbye to last year's cosmic orange and hello to the deep burgundy of the iPhone 18 Pro. Find a matching burgundy case or go for a chic tortoise shell look.

Opens in a new window Credit: OtterBox OtterBox iPhone 18 Pro Profile Series Case $39.99 at Amazon
Let's start simple with this classic OtterBox iPhone 18 Pro Profile Series Case. It's not fancy or eye-catching, and that's exactly the point. The minimalist case is also MagSafe compatible. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Casetify iPhone 18 Pro Max MagSafe Case $64 at Amazon
Here's another classic option, available for both the Pro and Pro Max. It's shock and drop-proof, and incldues an opening for a phone lanyard or strap. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Casetify iPhone 18 Pro Max Ripple MagSafe Case $56 at Amazon
Looking for a case to match the new burgundy color? Casetify's MagSafe Ripple case provides extra protection — and extra color-matching. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Velvet Caviar Velvet Caviar Burgundy 1990 Jelly iPhone Case $40 at Velvet Caviar
Velvet Caviar's burgundy iPhone case features a semi-transparent jelly base. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Torras Torras Clear iPhone 18 Pro Case $11.02 at Amazon
$13.99 Save $2.97 If you like the color of your new burgundy or glacier blue iPhone 18 Pro, then don't cover it up. This affordable iPhone case protects your phone without hurting your wallet, too. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: ESR ESR Clear MagSafe Compatible iPhone 18 Pro Case $14.99 at Amazon
Looking for an affordable clear case that works with MagSafe? Try ESR's straightforward clear case, which will still protects your phone against sudden drops. ESR promises military-grade drop protection. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: PopSockets PopSockets iPhone 18 Pro Case Mirror Abalone $40 at PopSockets
For something a little funky, PopSockets has some of the best iPhone 18 Pro case designs, and they obviously fit great with PopSockets phone grips, too. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Pela Pela iPhone 18 Pro Case Navy Stripes $49.99 at Amazon
Pela has a huge selection of iPhone 18 cases on Amazon, and the company uses eco-friendly, plant-based materials in its phone cases. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Velvet Caviar Velvet Caviar Jelly Glow Aura iPhone 18 Pro Case $39.99 at Amazon
It's giving pastel, it's giving Lisa Frank, it's giving '90s tie-dye. (It's also giving drop protection and MagSafe.) Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max Clear Case with MagSafe $49 at Apple
Apple's official phone cases aren't always the most affordable, but they are some of the best, for obvious reasons. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Casely Casely iPhone 18 Pro Case Shell Shocked $44.95 at Amazon
If you love the look of tortoise shell accessories, which, fortunately, are not made from actual tortoises, then try this Casely case on for size. Click the link to see dozens more styles from the brand. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Casetify Dark Cherry Jelly iPhone 18 Pro Case $64 at Casetify
Here's another burgundy-themed case to match your new iPhone. The dark cherry is a near-perfect match for the new iPhone color. Shop Now iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max grips and straps to shop now

Alongside the new iPhones, Apple also showed off some new accessories. The tech giant launched two new straps, a wrist strap and a crossbody strap. They're compatible with specific Apple cases, but there are plenty of other brands making grips ready for your next iPhone.

Opens in a new window Credit: PopSockets PopSockets Low-Pro Grip for MagSafe $39.99 at Amazon
PopSockets are iconic but the brand's latest ultra-thin grip is exceptional. It is barely there when not in use but can be used as a grip, magnetic mount, and adjustable stand. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: PopSockets PopSockets Phone Grip $9.94 at Amazon
But there's nothing wrong with the classic PopSockets grip either. The grips come with classic adhesive backing or as a MagSafe option. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Wrist Strap for iPhone $29 at Apple
Alongside the new iPhones, Apple also dropped a new wrist strap to go with them. Made of 100 percent PET yarn, the straps attach to your phone case so it's always within reach. Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Crossbody Strap for iPhone $59 at Apple
In addition to its Wrist Strap, Apple also launched a Crossbody Strap that attaches to select cases. The strap adjusts in length for a comfortable fit, allowing you to go hands-free with your phone. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: PopSockets PopSockets Phone Wallet $40 at Amazon
If you want the best of both worlds — a phone grip and a phone wallet — PopSockets makes exactly that. You can buy a version that either attaches with adhesive or MagSafe, depending on what works best for your phone case. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe $59 at Apple
For an exceptionally thin phone wallet, Apple came out with the FineWoven Wallet which attaches via MagSafe. It comes in colors very fitting for fall like burgundy, olive, wildflower blue, and magenta. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Pela Pela Phone Grip $15 at Pela
For fans of Pela's non-toxic phone cases, you can also get a phone grip from the brand. It folds flat when not in use and pops up to wrap around your finger when you need a secure hold. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Octobuddy Octobuddy Suction Phone Mount $14.99 at Amazon
We can't talk about iPhone accessories without talking about the Octobuddy. It's a creator favorite that lets you prop up your phone and film nearly anywhere. Shop Now iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max power banks and wireless chargers to shop now

If you're upgrading your iPhone from an iPhone 14 or earlier, then you're going to need a new charger or power bank. Since the iPhone 15, Apple has implemented a USB-C port on all its devices, which means the iPhone 18 Pro follows suit. Don't get us wrong, the new iPhone 18 Pro has incredible battery life, but when you're on the go, a power bank or portable charger is a lifesaver, so now is a great time to upgrade.

Plus, we also rounded up some wireless chargers if you want to embrace the MagSafe lifestyle.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Belkin BoostCharge Pro Power Bank 10K with Apple Watch Charger $99.95 at Apple
If you're upgrading your iPhone and Apple Watch, why not get a portable charger that can power up both. The Belkin BoostCharge Pro Power Bank 10K with Apple Watch Charger has a USB-C cord to charge your phone and a built-in wireless charger for your watch. It provides hours of charge as well as built-in loop clips to attach to bags or backpacks. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Twelve South Twelve South Power Bank and Charger $39.95 at Apple
Twelve South's power bank and charger is built for everyday use. It's lightweight and clips onto your keys and bags so you always have a charger nearby. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Belkin Belkin 20W USB-C Power Bank $24.99 at Amazon
For a budget-friendly power bank, Belkin's 10K portable charger with USB-C is a reliable choice. For under $25, it quickly charges your iPhone to nearly 50 percent in just 26 minutes. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank $65.99 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $4 Anker makes fast and reliable chargers, so while we know the new batch of iPhones have amazing battery life, it's always good to have a backup on hand. The Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank has a built-in USB-C cable that delivers a super speedy charge. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker MagGo Power Bank $69.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $10 If you don't want to deal with cables on the go, Anker's MagGo Power Bank attaches wirelessly via MagSafe so you can keep using your phone while it powers up. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker PowerIQ USB-C Power Bank $21.99 at Amazon
$25.99 Save $4 The Anker PowerIQ USB-C Power Bank is an ultra-slim battery pack made for travel. It holds up to two full phone charges at a time and can even power up an iPad. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MagSafe Charger (2 m) $39.99 at Amazon
$49 Save $9.01 Apple's MagSafe charger works on all MagSafe devices. It provides a faster charge than a traditional cable and comes in two lengths, either 1 meter or 2 meters. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Zolo MagSafe Wireless Charger, 2-pack $25.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $14.00 Anker offers a 2-pack of wireless chargers that are a great value. Grab the Anker Zolo MagSafe chargers for just $39.99 at full price or $25.99 when on sale. Anker's Zolo chargers come with extra-long cables and an ActiveShield system that monitors your phone's temperature while charging. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Belkin Belkin Qi2.2 25W Wireless 2-in-1 Foldable Fast Charging Station $53.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $6 Stop bringing multiple chargers on the go and instead swap them for Belkin's foldable charging station. It has a soft-touch silicone base and simultaneously charges your phone and watch or AirPods. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Qi2 MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station $67.49 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $22.50 For your at-home charging setup, get Anker's Qi2 MagSafe charger. It charges all your devices at once: your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. It even props up your iPhone horizontally, basically making it a bedside clock. Get Deal

If you abruptly lost Android app sideloading on your Fire TV device last fall, you can relax. Amazon now says a future update will restore sideloading on affected hardware, with a caveat.

When you’ve owned a 3D printer for a while, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking it’s the solution to every problem. This is especially true when it comes to storage and organization. However, as much as it may hurt to admit, there are times when it just doesn’t make sense.

My car came with more USB ports than I thought I would need, and it's understandable to ignore any that don't charge your phone. But you can do a lot more with your ports than just charge a battery. Once you have a cable that works and isn’t useless, you can use those same ports to do a lot more to your car.

TL;DR: Watch Elche vs. Real Madrid in La Liga for free on CazéTV. Access this free livestream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

La Liga is already taking on a familiar shape. Barcelona are topping the standings after five rounds of fixtures, but Real Madrid are lurking only three points behind. And they can bridge that gap this week by virtue of playing before their rivals midweek.

Real Madrid visit Elche for another vital domestic fixture. They're coming into this matchup on the back of an impressive 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano. They'll be desperate to pick up three points before they face local rivals Atlético this weekend.

If you're interested in watching Elche vs. Real Madrid in La Liga from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Elche vs. Real Madrid?

Elche vs. Real Madrid in La Liga kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET on Sept. 15. This fixture takes place at the Manuel Martínez Valero.

How to watch Elche vs. Real Madrid for free

Elche vs. Real Madrid in La Liga is available to live stream for free on CazéTV.

CazéTV is geo-restricted to Brazil, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Brazil, meaning you can live stream Elche vs. Real Madrid for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Elche vs. Real Madrid for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Brazil

4. Visit CazéTV

5. Watch Elche vs. Real Madrid for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Elche vs. Real Madrid without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture (plus Premier League action) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for La Liga?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on CazéTV, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries, including Brazil

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices, including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Elche vs. Real Madrid for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Watch Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur in the 2026 EFL Cup for free on ITVX. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Two Premier League teams are in action today as Liverpool host Tottenham Hotspur in the third round of the EFL Cup.

It's been a sluggish start to the Premier League for Liverpool, with just a single win from four games. The EFL Cup presents an opportunity to build some excitement and momentum — and the Reds will certainly go into this game expecting a win. That's because Spurs are yet to score a single goal in the league, following last season's tense relegation battle. Spurs did get through the second round of the EFL Cup with a 5-1 win, so perhaps this competition will bring them better luck.

If you're interested in watching Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur in the 2026 EFL Cup from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur?

Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur in a 2026 EFL Cup kicks off at 3 p.m. ET on Sept. 15. This fixture takes place at Anfield.

How to watch Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur for free

Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur in the 2026 EFL Cup is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can livestream Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur for free from anywhere in the world.

Livestream Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit ITVX

5. Watch Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on ITVX, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices, including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur in the EFL Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

As much as I want my PC to run as smoothly as possible and avoid running into issues, I don't take exceptionally good care of it. Sometimes, old habits get the best of me, and I find myself slipping into a lack of maintenance that doesn't do my computer any favors.

You might know every definition in the gay glossary — in English. But what about when you travel?

According to the hookup app Grindr, 41 percent of users have experienced slang getting lost in translation, and most have this happen before they meet someone in-person. A third (36 percent) said it happens over the app, while a smaller amount said it happens during an IRL conversation (17 percent) or hookup (14 percent). This is according to a Grindr survey of over 3,400 users done in early September.

SEE ALSO: Grindr to pay £26 million to settle lawsuit after allegedly sharing users' HIV status

And in some cases, Grindr users have faked it. Faked knowing what their date was saying, at least. Sixty-one percent said they pretended to understand what a match was saying and hoped context would save them. Over half (53 percent) said misunderstanding killed the mood.

"A guy asked if I wanted a 'dreier.' I heard 'dryer' and had absolutely no idea what he was suggesting. Turns out, 'dreier' is German for a threesome," a Grindr user told the app. Here's (just a) tip from Grindr: you're in a German-speaking country, know the words "jetzt" and "gleich." These are German for "now" or "in a moment," which could be useful to signal you're availability

Another user told the app, "I thought 'duchar' just meant to shower in Spanish, so I thought I knew exactly what the plan was. Turns out, he was talking about douching. Slightly different preparations required."

Here are some other Spanish gay slang you might want to learn: "passivo" means bottom; "activo" means top; "papi" means daddy; and "morbo" means something kinky, sexually exciting, or adventurous.

What about some other places? In South Asia, "panthi" refers to a masculine partner who tops, while "kothi" typically refers to a more feminine partner who bottoms. If you're visiting China, 1 is shorthand for top and 0 is shorthand for bottom. And if you're visiting a Portuguese-speaking country, "hospeda" refers to a host or someone who can accommodate.

Grindr's sex and relationship expert, Zachary Zane, said, "Language can make sex and flirting so much hotter, but take that language abroad and things can get messy pretty quickly." He also shared his own experience of this happening: "I once thought 'arriba' and 'abajo' meant top and bottom in Spanish, only to discover I was asking guys in Colombia if they were 'up' or 'down.'"

Grindr also has an in-app translation feature, too, so you can try it out in case you're stuck. The app shared with Mashable that 31 percent of users have picked up on a new phrase while abroad, so you might learn a word or two.

The early buzz and excitement around Apple's foldable iPhone Duo may have sparked something in Samsung.

SEE ALSO: Apple's iPhone Duo is here, and Samsung is already throwing shade

New rumors reported by 9to5Google suggest that Samsung is moving up its foldable roadmap to compete with the iPhone Duo. Citing credible leaker Lanzuk, 9to5Google reports that Samsung is weighing an earlier-than-planned launch for a follow-up to the Galaxy Z TriFold, along with a separate slideable device that had also been penciled in for a 2027 debut.

The outlet also notes that the timeline remains unclear and that both devices could still land on their originally rumored 2027 schedule regardless.

It's a notable turn given how the first TriFold's story played out. Samsung's original tri-folding phone was, by most accounts, a niche product from the start. At roughly $2,500, it initially launched only in South Korea, where Samsung reportedly lost money on every unit sold. The device made its way to the U.S. in Jan. 2026 at a price of around $2,900, sold out, and was pulled from Samsung's store page just three months later.

Thus, Samsung wanting to accelerate the timeline for its own buzzy foldable is big news.

Per 9to5Google, the rumored Galaxy Z TriFold 2 is said to be thinner, lighter, and more durable than its predecessor, with Samsung reportedly aiming to hold pricing "nearly identical" to the original. Given the costs involved in building the first version — and reports that it allegedly sold at a loss — keeping the price flat on an improved model would be a meaningful engineering and manufacturing feat.

Apple's iPhone Duo reveal appears to have applied real pressure on Samsung's foldable plans, and whether that translates into an actual early launch — or just renewed urgency behind the scenes — should become clearer as 2027 approaches.

For now, the iPhone Duo is set to launch Oct. 23.

Meta wants creators and small businesses to spend less time juggling tools — and pay a monthly fee for the convenience.

At its Sept. 14 launch event in New York City, the company introduced Meta One, a subscription service bringing publishing, analytics, customer-service and AI features to Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and Meta AI.

"We want to give people more flexibility and choice in what they can do,"

That's the idea behind the service, though its value will depend on how much subscribers are willing to spend.

Credit: Meta One What it costs

Individual subscriptions range from $2.99 a month for WhatsApp Plus to $3.99 each for Instagram Plus and Facebook Plus. Core bundles all three with expanded AI access for $7.99; Premium raises AI usage limits for $19.99.

Professional plans start at $14.99 for Essential, $49.99 for Advanced, $149 for Expert, and $499 for Max. Essential includes enhanced profile links and verification benefits for eligible accounts. Advanced adds scheduling, publishing, analytics, and shared-access tools, while Expert and Max increase allowances and support. Pricing is per profile, so professional tools for both Instagram and Facebook require separate subscriptions.

The core apps and everyday Meta AI experience remain free. Subscriptions do not remove ads.

Credit: Meta One Less work, fewer tools?

For creators, the strongest pitch may be the ability to get routine work done in one place. Advanced subscribers can schedule Instagram posts and Reels up to a year ahead and Stories up to a month ahead, upload content in bulk, and give others account access without sharing a password. The tier also adds limited clickable links in posts and Reels, competitive insights, and downloadable reports with longer performance histories.

Dara Denney, an advertiser and creator who spoke about the product, said the shared account access feature has already helped her delegate publishing. Her assistant recently used it to publish a sponsored post she had forgotten to schedule and prepare the accompanying Stories.

"Sometimes just one sponsor post takes about an hour to actually deploy," Denney said. "The thing that [Meta One] has really provided the most value for me is my time.”

Credit: Meta One

Isaiah Barnes, the creator behind Velocious Visuals, pointed to the convenience of using tools where he already publishes: "It’s all in-app, within the same platform where the content is being produced."

He added that competitive insights seamlessly help him plan content for clients across industries. "A lot of my clients are in different niches, so it helps me figure out what’s trending in their area," he said. "It makes the content creation process more intentional."

Yongjae Choi, founder and CEO of health-food company OMA, explained how including links directly in posts (rather than in the bio) helps her customers navigate her product launches better.

"We now can have more communication and channels with our community and customers," she said.

Credit: Meta One Credit: Meta One More AI, with limits

Meta One expands access to Business Agent on WhatsApp Business, enabling it to answer customer questions using information provided by the business. Owners can take over conversations when needed. Getting started is free; subscriptions increase the monthly response allowance.

The planned Edits Plus subscription will add cloud storage for syncing projects and expanded access to an upcoming assistant that analyzes Instagram performance and suggests content ideas. Facebook’s creator assistant is also gradually being incorporated into Meta One, with subscriptions increasing its free monthly AI allowance.

Meta One also offers discovery benefits, including higher search placement on Instagram and Facebook. Facebook subscribers can receive additional visibility through Feed features, a more prominent follow button, and automated follow invitations.

The expanded AI offerings follow Meta’s Sept. 8 launch of Muse, a personal AI agent designed to carry out tasks such as booking travel and managing projects across connected apps.

SEE ALSO: Meta's Muse Glimmer wants to bring AI agents to your laptop Paying to get noticed

To me, and other journalists in the room, the bigger question is whether paying for extra visibility will remain a choice or become a necessary cost of building an audience in such a crowded influencer economy.

When asked whether the additional subscription service could disadvantage creators who cannot afford to subscribe, Helen Ma said, emphasizing the company’s investment in free tools.

"We are very committed to keeping the experience for creators free," she said. "There’s many more people on teams that are building the free experiences for creators than the people that are working on subscriptions."

Meta already offers several ways to pay for a business presence. Creators and businesses can spend on ads and boosted posts to reach more people, while Meta Verified offers a subscription for verification, impersonation protection, and support. These are optional expenses, but they are part of the budget for users who choose them.

So if you want to promote content while using Meta One’s Advanced tools on both Instagram and Facebook, you’re looking at two professional subscriptions starting at $49.99 a month each, plus whatever you spend on advertising. (Meta One includes verification benefits, so a separate Meta Verified subscription should not be counted as another required expense.)

The question left for creators is how those costs add up — and whether they will be able to avoid paying more as their competitors adopt it.