There’s just one week left until the biggest event in Apple’s yearly calendar: the launch of the latest iPhone models. But some expert pundits have opined that the peripheral devices that launch alongside the iPhone 17 may actually be more exciting. The Apple Watch Series 11 and AirPods Pro 3, both of which are expected to land this month, have the potential to wow the market with upgrades and new features.

Sadly, however, a last-minute report indicates that one of the more highly anticipated features won’t be ready in time for the AirPods Pro 3 launch. According to an anonymous tipster who got in touch with 9to5Mac, live translation isn’t on the cards to be available out of the box.

On the plus side, it doesn’t appear that the feature has been abandoned, only that it’s been delayed. What’s more, the tipster says live translation “will likely be added in a later software update.” Apple has already announced that live translation in the Phone, Messages, and FaceTime apps is a major part of the iOS 26 update, but has thus far left AirPods out of the conversation.

So you’ll reportedly be able to buy the AirPods Pro 3 at launch, enjoy the other improvements, then benefit later when the feature drops as part of a free update. On the other hand, some customers may have been burned last year when they bought the iPhone 16 on the strength of Apple Intelligence features that were expected to land in an update, but were repeatedly delayed and, in some cases, still haven’t arrived.

Even if live translation doesn’t make the launch slate, the AirPods Pro 3 should still have plenty to offer. Aside from a new chip, improved noise cancellation, and a stylish redesign (including a new-look charging case), the new headphones will get two new health sensors, according to the tipster: heart rate and temperature. Both of which would fit in well as Apple looks to pivot the AirPods to a more rounded and health-focused wearable.

The iPhone 17 and Apple Watch Series 11 will be announced at the “Awe Dropping” September 9, likely alongside the AirPods Pro 3, though some reports suggest they may have to wait until later in the fall. Either way, you can catch all the latest news and rumors in our regularly updated new AirPods hub article.

As the world continues to embrace the digital age, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have risen to prominence, capturing the imagination of both tech enthusiasts and the broader public. NFTs, unique digital assets tied to art, music, videos, and even virtual real estate, have become more than just a passing trend; they’re now a central fixture in the world of collectibles, gaming, and digital ownership. With a growing market and innovative projects on the horizon, 2025 promises to be a groundbreaking year for NFTs. 

Whether you’re trading on the best crypto exchange USA or simply keeping an eye on the next big thing, this year’s NFT drops are bound to pique your interest.

The NFT space is evolving rapidly, with new projects emerging almost daily. What sets the upcoming projects apart is their unique blend of creativity, technology, and the growing adoption of blockchain solutions. Some will push the boundaries of what NFTs can represent, while others will introduce game-changing innovations that will redefine the way we interact with digital ownership. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, here are some of the most anticipated NFT drops to watch for in 2025.

1. Metaverse Real Estate NFTs: A Virtual Land Rush

The concept of owning property has traditionally been confined to the physical world, but with the rise of the metaverse, this is changing rapidly. Virtual worlds like Decentraland and The Sandbox are already offering users the chance to buy, sell, and even develop land, secured by blockchain technology. As the metaverse continues to grow, more developers are jumping on the bandwagon, creating opportunities for investors and creators alike to explore the potential of owning and monetizing virtual real estate.

The allure of virtual land is rooted in its potential long-term value. Just as owning physical property can be a lucrative investment, owning a piece of land in the metaverse could yield significant returns, especially as more brands, businesses, and even individuals start to establish a presence in these digital realms. By 2025, expect to see a significant surge in metaverse real estate NFTs, which will likely redefine our understanding of digital ownership.

2. Celebrity NFT Drops: The Intersection of Fame and Digital Art

Celebrity-driven NFT projects are not new, but they are poised to take a significant leap forward in 2025. As more A-list stars and influencers tap into the power of NFTs, fans will have an even greater opportunity to own digital assets tied to their favorite celebrities. Whether it’s limited-edition artwork, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, or virtual experiences, these celebrity NFTs offer fans a way to connect with their idols on a deeper level.

Owning a celebrity NFT holds a special appeal, just like owning a rare signed album or a collectible merchandise piece; it provides exclusivity and a sense of ownership over something uniquely tied to a public figure. With celebrities like Snoop Dogg and Paris Hilton already making their mark in the NFT space, the trend is expected to gain momentum in 2025, with more prominent names launching their own digital art collections and collaborations.

3. AI-Generated NFTs: Blurring the Line Between Art and Technology

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with non-fungible tokens (NFTs) is one of the most fascinating frontiers in the digital art world. AI-generated NFTs are created using algorithms that allow for the generation of unique, one-of-a-kind digital artworks. These NFTs offer a glimpse into the future of creativity, where machines collaborate with human visionaries to produce groundbreaking works of art.

What sets AI-generated NFTs apart is their ability to create art that is entirely unpredictable and often surreal, offering collectors a sense of novelty and intrigue. In 2025, expect to see a growing number of AI-driven projects that push the boundaries of digital art, incorporating themes of data manipulation, neural networks, and generative design. As technology continues to advance, AI-generated NFTs could become a staple of the market, with collectors seeking out these one-of-a-kind pieces for their innovative approach to art creation.

4. Gaming NFTs: Play-to-Earn Gets Bigger and Better

The gaming industry has long been one of the most promising sectors for NFTs, with the rise of play-to-earn (P2E) models that allow players to earn valuable digital assets through gameplay. These NFTs can range from in-game items, such as weapons or skins, to entire characters and virtual land. As blockchain technology continues to integrate with gaming platforms, the next generation of P2E games promises to be more immersive and rewarding than ever before.

In 2025, expect a flood of new gaming-related NFT projects that will redefine the concept of in-game ownership. These projects will offer players the opportunity not only to play games but also to build, create, and trade NFTs within the gaming ecosystem. Just as players can own valuable physical items in traditional games, blockchain-based games will allow players to own virtual assets that can be bought, sold, or traded, often providing tangible financial value.

These gaming NFTs are not just collectibles—they represent a shift in the way players engage with games. Games like Axie Infinity have already shown the potential of play-to-earn models, and in 2025, expect even larger-scale projects to push the envelope. Think of it as the evolution of the traditional gaming economy, where players can gain financial rewards from the time and skill they invest in the game, rather than relying on conventional methods of monetization.

5. Environmental NFTs: Sustainability in the Digital Realm

As concerns about the environmental impact of blockchain technology grow, some NFT creators are focusing on more sustainable solutions. In response to criticisms about the high energy consumption associated with minting and trading NFTs, projects in 2025 will focus on reducing their carbon footprint while still delivering high-quality digital assets.

These environmentally conscious NFTs will utilize eco-friendly blockchains that are more energy-efficient than traditional platforms, such as Ethereum, which relies on energy-intensive proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanisms. Projects like Flow and Tezos, which utilize proof-of-stake (PoS) protocols, are already gaining traction due to their lower environmental impact. Expect more NFT creators to adopt these greener alternatives in 2025, with a growing number of environmentally focused art drops and collaborations aimed at promoting sustainability in the digital world.

6. Social Impact NFTs: Using Digital Assets for Good

In recent years, a growing movement has emerged to utilize NFTs for social good. From donating proceeds to charity to raising awareness about important issues, social impact NFTs are combining art, technology, and philanthropy in powerful ways. These projects enable creators to directly support causes they believe in, while also offering collectors the opportunity to own a piece of art that contributes to a greater purpose.

In 2025, expect to see more NFT projects with a social impact focus, as creators and organizations use blockchain to fund charitable initiatives, promote environmental sustainability, and amplify social justice causes. Whether it’s a digital art piece that raises funds for a non-profit organization or an NFT campaign that raises awareness about climate change, social impact NFTs are poised to become an integral part of the digital landscape, attracting collectors who want their investments to make a difference.

7. Music NFTs: Revolutionizing the Music Industry

The music industry is another sector poised for disruption by NFTs in 2025. NFTs offer musicians a direct way to monetize their work, bypassing traditional intermediaries like record labels and streaming platforms. Artists can release limited-edition tracks, albums, or concert tickets as non-fungible tokens (NFTs), offering fans exclusive access to their music and experiences.

In addition to offering new revenue streams for artists, music NFTs also empower fans to become active participants in the music ecosystem. Collecting music NFTs could soon become a common practice for fans as they gain access to exclusive content, live shows, or even the opportunity to interact with their favorite musicians. As blockchain technology matures, the music industry will continue to evolve, with NFTs at the forefront of this transformation.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As 2025 approaches, the NFT landscape is set to expand exponentially, with innovative projects pushing the boundaries of art, gaming, and digital ownership. From celebrity collaborations to eco-friendly initiatives and gaming revolutions, the future of NFTs is bright. The convergence of blockchain technology and creativity is fostering a digital renaissance, where anyone can become a collector, creator, or investor.

Whether you’re looking to invest in virtual real estate, own a piece of exclusive digital art, or simply explore the world of NFTs, 2025 promises to be a year full of exciting opportunities. With technology advancing at a rapid pace and the NFT space continuing to mature, there’s no telling just how far this digital frontier will take us. If you’re not already watching, now’s the time to jump on the bandwagon—2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the NFT world.

While you’re trying to figure out if you’re going to invest in a new iPhone 17 this fall, we always like to remind YOU that something better is always coming soon. The latest report from the future comes from analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities, who provides insight on the A20 chip that will be used in the iPhone 18 next year.

TSMC, Apple’s chip manufacturer, is using an enhanced 3nm process for the A19 chip in this year’s iPhone 17, according to several reports. Reports say this will be the last chip to use the 3nm process, as TSMC will move to 2nm for the A20 in the iPhone 18 Pro and the rumored folding iPhone. According to Pu, TSMC will make the A20 using Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging, where the components of the chip are integrated into the chip at the wafer level. This would allow for, say, the A20’s RAM to be integrated with the CPU, GPU, Neural Engine, and other wafer-level components. This is different from the current method of using a silicon interposer to connect the RAM.

With the RAM closer to the CPU and other chip components, this could result in improved power efficiency and a decrease in running temperature, which could provide benefits for battery life. It could also make the physical size of the A20 smaller, which again, would help with power efficiency, and could also benefit the overall design of the iPhone 18–especially the folding iPhone, which will consist of two thin sides that fold into a thicker one.

Pu reports said that the 2nm process involves switching from fin field-effect transistors (FinFET) to gate-all-around field-effect transistors (GAAFET). The switch should allow for an improvement in performance with better power efficiency, but it’s unclear if the effect on power efficiency would be even greater because of the WMCM packaging.

The nanometer process refers to the production of the chip, and 2nm allows for increased transistor density over the previous 3nm and 5nm processes. The higher the transistor density, the better the performance, and the process can also result in better power efficiency. Apple’s first 3nm was the A17 Pro, which debuted in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.

BlackRock plans to acquire approximately 10% of the shares offered in Circle’s initial public offering (IPO), Bloomberg News reported on May 28.

People familiar with the matter said Circle and its shareholders, including co-founder and CEO Jeremy Allaire, are seeking to raise $624 million through the offering. 

Orders for the offering have reportedly exceeded the number of shares available, with the pricing scheduled for June 4.

BlackRock already manages the Circle Reserve Fund, a government money market fund that holds roughly 90% of the reserves backing Circle’s USDC stablecoin. 

The fund reported nearly $30 billion in net assets as of April 30, 2024, based on the Circle IPO filing. 

The investment management firm could acquire its stake directly or through an affiliated entity, although its final participation remains subject to change.

As a result, the IPO would deepen the existing relationship between BlackRock and Circle, as it would constitute one of the largest single-investor stakes in the crypto company.

Institutional participation broadens interest in Circle

The filing also revealed a combined interest from major institutional investors, indicating heightened demand for equity in the stablecoin issuer as it prepares to enter the public markets.

Circle’s USDC ranks as the second-largest US dollar-pegged stablecoin with a $61.3 billion market cap and plays a central role in crypto transfers. The stablecoin registered a $10 trillion year-to-date transfer volume as of April 30, according to data from Artemis. 

Pending legislation in Congress proposes backing stablecoins with cash or government securities, a structure already in place for USDC through the Circle Reserve Fund.

Circle’s decision to proceed with a US-based IPO reflects broader efforts by crypto companies to secure public market capitalization at a time when federal regulatory policy is trending toward acceptance. Kraken is also reportedly eyeing an IPO for 2026.

The IPO filing formalizes Circle’s long-anticipated listing plans, which previously included a terminated Special Purpose Acquisition Company deal in 2022. 

With backing from institutional players and a reserve fund managed by the world’s largest asset manager, Circle is positioning itself to expand operations under a more transparent and regulated capital structure.

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