Every now and again, a piece of technology comes along that makes me grin like a child who has just found a secret compartment in a toy robot. This week, that technology was ChatGPT image generation.
I started with a simple idea: what if The Gadget Man was not just a blog, a podcast, or a bloke surrounded by cables, 3D printers, strange gadgets and half-finished ideas, but an actual comic book hero?
Not a cape-wearing superhero. Not someone bitten by a radioactive soldering iron. Just a gadget-loving chap with a cup of tea, a slightly dangerous number of ideas, and the ability to solve problems with technology, common sense and the occasional dramatic pose.
So I gave ChatGPT a photo of myself and typed the following prompt:
This is The Gadget Man, create a 2 page american style comic strip about him stopping a cyber attack by martians
First Draft of The Gadget Man
And there it was. A full two-page comic book spread featuring The Gadget Man battling Martians who were attempting to take over Earth’s systems. It had panels, speech bubbles, glowing screens, alien spaceships, dramatic lighting, and just the right amount of over-the-top comic book nonsense.
There was one small problem. In the final panel, instead of the crowd saying “Thanks Gadget Man!”, the speech bubble said “Thanks Gadget Giant Man!”
So I simply replied:
the last panel says THANKS GADGET GIANT MAN!, it should say THANKS GADGET MAN!
And ChatGPT corrected it.
The Gadget Man and The Alien Cyber Attack
That was the moment it really clicked. This was not just asking a computer to make a picture. This was creative direction. I could guide the scene, spot issues, refine the result, and build a series.
The Gadget Man Comic Universe Begins
Once the first comic was created, I did what any sensible adult would do. I immediately made several more.
The next prompt was:
Excellent, create another comic about Gadget Man visiting Scotland and saving them from EV Charger problems
The Gadget Man and the Mystery of the Scottish EV Chargers
This produced a wonderfully ridiculous adventure in which The Gadget Man travels north of the border to rescue Scotland from faulty EV chargers, broken apps, signal problems and confused motorists. There were Highland cows, charging stations, Scottish scenery, and, naturally, the sort of technological tinkering that saves the day.
Then came one of my favourites:
Create another comic featuring Gadget Man 3d Printing an elaborate controller for use with his VR headset to play Elite Dangerous
The Gadget Man and the 3d Printed Elite Dangerous Controller
This one was pure Gadget Man territory. 3D printing, VR, Elite Dangerous, switches, buttons, joysticks, wiring, and a controller that looked as though it had been designed by someone who had spent far too long thinking, “You know what this game needs? More buttons.”
After that, Vanessa joined the adventure.
Create another comic featuring Gadget Man and his sidekick wife Vanessa. Their adventure is finally getting away for a break at the coast
Gadget Man and Vanessa go to the Coast
The result was a seaside adventure featuring Gadget Man and Vanessa finally escaping for a well-earned break, only to find that even a trip to the coast can turn into a heroic mission when technology, transport and holiday chaos collide.
Of course, Vanessa deserved a break from all this madness, so I followed up with:
Create another comic featuring Gadget Man looking after the house whilst Vanessa spends two well deserved days at a Spa Retreat
The Gadget Man: Vanessa goes to the Spa
This produced a domestic disaster story full of smart home alerts, robot vacuums, laundry mountains, kitchen chaos and Gadget Man attempting to maintain order while Vanessa relaxed in peace. In other words, science fiction with a suspicious amount of truth in it.
Finally, I went bigger. Much bigger.
create another comic book featuring Gadget Man. This time he goes to the ISS to correct it’s orbit
The Gadget Man Saves the ISS
Yes, The Gadget Man went to space. The International Space Station had an orbital problem, and naturally the only person qualified to give it “a little nudge” was a man with a tool belt, a mug of tea, and an alarming level of confidence.
To finish the project, I also created a header image for this very article:
create a header image in the same style showing The Gadget Man creating the comic using ChatGPT
I created my own awesome comic strip using ChatGPT
That image showed The Gadget Man at his desk, creating comics using ChatGPT, surrounded by gadgets, screens, sketches, tools and the usual creative chaos. It perfectly captured what this whole experiment was about.
Why This Is Possible Now
What makes this so interesting is not simply that ChatGPT can generate an image. Image generators have existed for a while. The difference now is the conversational workflow.
OpenAI describes ChatGPT Images as a tool that can create new images and edit existing ones directly inside ChatGPT. You can ask for an image in plain English, refine it, adjust the composition, and explore new visual directions without needing to start from scratch each time. OpenAI also notes that recent image generation models are designed to follow prompts more accurately, render text more effectively, and use chat context, including uploaded images, as visual inspiration
That last point is important. I was not typing a technical command into a complicated art package. I was having a conversation. I could say “make this a two-page American-style comic strip”, then “change that wording”, then “now do one in Scotland”, then “now add Vanessa”, and ChatGPT understood the creative thread.
It feels less like using software and more like working with an incredibly fast illustrator, layout artist, letterer and visual brainstorming partner, all rolled into one.
The Magic Is in the Iteration
The real power here is not the first image. It is the second, third, fourth and fifth version.
Traditional creative work often involves a long gap between idea and result. You sketch, brief, wait, revise, wait again, make changes, and eventually arrive at something close to what you imagined.
With ChatGPT, the loop is much shorter. You can create a concept, respond to it, correct it, extend it, and build a whole fictional world in minutes. OpenAI’s own guidance highlights this ability to generate and refine images using clear prompts, request variations, adjust composition or size, and produce polished visuals quickly.
For someone like me, with a head full of odd ideas, half-remembered pop culture references, gadgets, stories, jokes, and technical rabbit holes, this is incredibly powerful.
I do not need to stop at “Wouldn’t it be funny if…”
I can actually see it.
What This Means for Artists
Now, this is where things become more complicated.
As exciting as all this is, it also raises serious questions for artists, illustrators, designers and the wider creative industry.
On one hand, tools like ChatGPT could be hugely empowering. They allow people who cannot draw to visualise ideas. They help writers create concept art. They help small businesses produce mock-ups, campaign ideas, storyboards, social media graphics and playful content that might previously have been out of reach.
For independent creators, this could be a revolution. A blogger can create a comic strip. A podcaster can build a visual world. A small business can prototype adverts. A game designer can test character ideas. A 3D printing enthusiast can imagine packaging, instructions, posters, comics and product artwork without needing a full design department.
But there is another side.
Professional artists have every right to be concerned. If companies decide to replace commissioned artwork with AI-generated images purely to save money, that has consequences. If the visual language of artists is absorbed, imitated and mass-produced without care, credit or fair compensation, that is not something we should casually ignore.
There is also the question of value. Art is not just the finished image. It is experience, taste, judgement, intention and human interpretation. A good artist does not simply “make a picture”. They solve visual problems. They understand emotion, framing, symbolism, storytelling and audience. AI can generate astonishing things, but it does not live a life. It does not have childhood memories, favourite comics, personal grief, humour, nostalgia or the strange little sparks that make human creativity so fascinating.
A Tool, Not a Replacement for Imagination
The way I see it, ChatGPT does not remove the need for creativity. It shifts where the creativity happens.
The prompt matters. The idea matters. The direction matters. The ability to look at an image and say “that is nearly right, but the final speech bubble is wrong” matters.
In my Gadget Man comic experiment, ChatGPT created the images, but the idea came from a very human place: my own interests, my humour, my love of gadgets, my fondness for comic book drama, my 3D printing obsession, my VR tinkering, my family life, and my lifelong habit of turning ordinary things into stories.
That is where I think these tools are at their best. Not replacing imagination, but amplifying it.
The Future of Comic Creation?
Will AI-generated comics replace traditional comics? I hope not.
Will they change how people make comics? Almost certainly.
We may see writers using AI to storyboard ideas before handing them to professional artists. We may see artists using AI for rough concepts, layouts, backgrounds or experimentation. We may see hobbyists creating personal comics for fun, families, blogs and social media. We may also see new kinds of hybrid workflows where human creators and AI tools sit side by side.
There will be arguments, and there should be. Creative industries need rules, ethics, transparency and respect for human artists.
But there is also something genuinely wonderful about being able to type a sentence and watch a ridiculous idea become visible.
Final Thoughts
What started as a quick experiment became a whole mini comic universe.
The Gadget Man fought Martians, fixed Scotland’s EV chargers, 3D printed a controller for Elite Dangerous, went on holiday with Vanessa, survived domestic chaos during a spa weekend, corrected the orbit of the ISS, and then sat down to create the comics using ChatGPT.
That is absurd.
It is also brilliant.
For me, this is exactly what technology should do. It should unlock ideas. It should make us laugh. It should help us create things that would otherwise remain trapped in our heads.
And if it occasionally turns “Gadget Man” into “Gadget Giant Man”, well, that is all part of the adventure.
Another day. Another gadget. Another comic created.
Well, this is exciting. The lovely folks at Anycubic have been in touch again, and this time they’ve got something rather special lined up for the 3D-printing world. If you’ve been following my recent adventures in the workshop — shelves of resin bottles, spools of filament, and printers humming away like a busy beehive — you’ll know I’ve been especially taken with Anycubic’s approach to innovation lately.
And now, they’ve gone and done it again.
Introducing the Kobra S1 Max Combo
A brand-new machine built to push desktop 3D-printing further — louder, brighter, more colourful, and more capable of serious engineering-grade work.
This is not just a quiet upgrade. This is one of those big leaps.
Kobra S1 Max ComboKobra S1 Max
What Makes It Stand Out?
The expanded spec list from the official campaign page reveals some key details:
Up to 16-colour printing: Start with one ACE 2 Pro module for 4 colours; combine up to four for the full 16-colour capacity.
Huge build volume: 350 × 350 × 350 mm.
Enclosed, actively-heated chamber up to 65 °C. Hotbed up to 120 °C, hotend up to 350 °C.
Hardened-steel hotend (0.4 mm standard with extra 0.6 mm included), optional 0.25 mm brass / 0.8 mm hardened steel nozzles.
CoreXY motion system, active carbon-filter air purification, WiFi6/Ethernet support, 720p monitoring, spaghetti-recognition AI, U-disk/app control.
Materials covered: from PLA/PETG/TPU right up to engineering-grades like ABS, ASA, PC, PA, PA6-CF, PC-CF/GF, PET-CF.
Put simply: whoever said “desktop printers are only for PLA” is going to have a rethink when this lands.
Early Bird Deal (This One’s Actually Worth It)
Anycubic are running a clever early-bird scheme:
Pay £50 now → receive £100 discount off the launch price (5th November to 24th November)
After that, the pricing rolls through phased levels — each with perks (as previously noted).
£749 (25 Nov-1 Dec) with £400 worth of perks
£799 (2 Dec-25 Dec) with £350 perks
£849 (26 Dec-31 Jan) with £300 perks
£949 (from 1 Feb) with £200 perks
So yes — if you’re thinking about it, the earlier the better.
And Here’s the Extra Bit I’m Excited About…
I’ll be in Frankfurt on the 18th November attending formnext — the global additive-manufacturing expo. It’s basically the Glastonbury of 3D printing: people everywhere talking filament, lasers, printheads, sintering furnaces — heavenly stuff.
I’m absolutely planning to track down Anycubic while I’m there and get a closer look at the Kobra S1 Max Combo in the flesh. Expect photos, impressions, maybe even first-hand print samples — all coming your way.
If you’ve got questions you’d like me to ask the Anycubic team directly, let me know in the comments.
Final Thoughts
This is shaping up to be a very compelling machine:
✔ Larger build volume ✔ Multi-colour support baked in ✔ Enclosed, CoreXY, heated chamber = better reliability ✔ Designed for real materials, not just for show
If it delivers what the specs promise, this could be one of the stand-out printers of 2025 — especially for makers and small business production.
I’ll bring back everything I learn at Formnext — stay tuned.
—
Matt Porter – The Gadget Man Currently surrounded by printers. Not sorry.
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
There’s something oddly thrilling about letting technology take creative control. I’ve spent years testing gadgets, reviewing innovations, and exploring the limits of artificial intelligence — but this time, I let the tech get a little more personal.
A few weeks ago, I asked Midjourney — my go-to AI image generator — a simple question: “What would The Gadget Man look like with a fresh new hairstyle?”
The result was, quite frankly, impressive. The AI produced a series of strikingly realistic portraits featuring a textured, platinum-blonde cut that looked part cyberpunk, part 21st-century rockstar. I loved it. The catch? It wasn’t real… yet.
The AI Concept
Armed with a few reference prompts and an experimental mindset, I spent an evening fine-tuning the digital version of myself. Midjourney, in its infinite wisdom, decided that bleached hair and choppy texture were the future of The Gadget Man brand.
At first, it was just a bit of fun. But the more I looked at the AI render, the more I realised — this was something I could actually pull off. So, I decided to make it happen.
Turning AI Into Reality
I booked an appointment with my stylist and brought along the AI images on my phone — full 360-degree green-screen shots of the “digital me.” It’s not every day you walk into a salon and say, “I’d like this look, please — it was designed by artificial intelligence.”
To their credit, they didn’t flinch. Instead, we broke it down into human-achievable steps:
The Cut: Short, faded sides with plenty of texture on top.
The Style: Tousled and natural, with enough lift to keep things casual.
The Colour: A cool, silver-white platinum tone — bold but clean.
The Result
Wait and see!!!
AI as a Creative Partner
This little experiment isn’t just about hair — it’s about what happens when AI moves from the screen into the real world. Whether it’s designing products, testing ideas, or in this case, reinventing a hairstyle, AI has become a kind of creative partner.
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
Coming soon: a behind-the-scenes video of the full transformation — from my original hairstyle to the final platinum reveal. Keep an eye on The Gadget Man socials for the big unveil.
Cambridge, UK — Majority has unveiled its latest creation, the Folio Turntable, a compact and stylish record player that brings together timeless vinyl charm and modern listening convenience.
Designed to be the centrepiece of any music lover’s home, the Folio offers the perfect balance of form and function. Its clean, minimalist aesthetic pairs beautifully with built-in stereo speakers and a transparent cover, while its versatile connectivity options make it ideal for both traditional and contemporary setups.
The Majority Folio Turntable Blends Style, Simplicity and Sound
At its core, the Folio features the acclaimed Audio-Technica AT3600L Moving Magnetic Cartridge, delivering crisp, detailed playback across 7”, 8”, 10” and 12” records. With pitch and RPM controls, users can fine-tune playback for everything from vintage pressings to modern reissues.
The Majority Folio Turntable Blends Style, Simplicity and Sound
Beyond its classic appeal, the Folio is built for today’s listener. Bluetooth 5.3 allows effortless wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets and laptops, while USB playback and recording offer the flexibility to enjoy or archive your vinyl digitally. The RCA and AUX connections make it simple to connect to external speakers or amplifiers for an expanded soundstage.
Key Features Include:
Bluetooth 5.3 – Stream wirelessly from any compatible device
RCA & AUX Outputs – Connect to amplifiers or external speakers
USB Playback & Recording – Convert vinyl to MP3 or play digital tracks
Pitch & RPM Controls – Fine-tune playback for perfect performance
Integrated Stereo Speakers – Enjoy balanced sound without extra equipment
Audio-Technica Cartridge – Trusted performance and long-lasting precision
The Majority Folio Turntable Blends Style, Simplicity and Sound
Compact, finely built, and easy to use, the Majority Folio Turntable fits effortlessly into any living space. Whether placed in a modern apartment or a vintage-inspired home, it delivers an authentic vinyl experience enhanced by contemporary design and functionality.
The Majority Folio Turntable is available now for £169.95 from Amazon and other leading retailers.
For months, I battled a persistent and damaging issue on my Mid 2015 MacBook Pro — a workhorse of a machine that, even at nearly 10 years old, continues to run exceptionally well with a 2.5GHz Quad-Core i7, 16GB RAM, 1 TB SSD and macOS Monterey 12.7.6.
The system process configd would regularly consume 100% of the CPU. The fans screamed. The laptop baked. Performance tanked. Worst of all — two batteries failed completely during the years this bug went undiagnosed.
A Machine with a Backstory
This MacBook Pro actually replaced an almost identical model (with a 500GB SSD) whose keyboard had begun to fail. That original machine is now used as a secondary workstation — mostly plugged in with external monitors, keyboard and mouse and of course, rarely moved.
However, the replacement system was set up via migration from the older Mac, meaning all settings, preferences, and low-level cruft came with it. It’s entirely possible this bug — and the problematic plugin behind it — exists on the secondary machine too, simply hiding in the shadows because that Mac rarely gets unplugged or stressed.
A Hunch from the Past
Throughout the troubleshooting, I had a nagging feeling: years ago, I’d installed a PPP-based VPN service, and I couldn’t shake the idea that something related had survived the years. That memory — almost dismissed — turned out to be the smoking gun.
All the Fixes That Didn’t Work
Before getting to the actual solution, I tried everything:
Resetting network preferences
Disabling IPv6
Safe Mode diagnostics
launchctl unloads
Cleaning out /SystemConfiguration
Monitoring via top and Activity Monitor
Nothing worked. The issue was like digital rot — persistent and invisible.
Enter ChatGPT
Eventually, I turned to ChatGPT for deeper insight. Together, we sampled the configd process and analysed its call stack. That led us to the true culprit:
PPPController.bundle — a legacy dial-up/VPN plugin, long deprecated but still loading in the background.
Despite not being used in years, it was triggering configd into a CPU loop, damaging system performance and hardware.
macOS Protections (and How to Work Around Them)
macOS uses System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Signed System Volumes (SSV) to protect core files. To disable this plugin, you must bypass those protections temporarily.
The Fix (Finally)
WARNING!
DO NOT ATTEMPT ANY OF THE FIXES BELOW WITHOUT CONSULTING A TRAINED APPLE EXPERT! YOU ARE FIDDLING WITH THE WORKINGS OF A COMPUTER AND RISK PERMANENTLY LOSING THE CONTENTS OF YOUR HARD DRIVE. PLEASE, PLEASE!!! TAKE A FULL BACKUP BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANYTHING LIKE THIS.
IT TOOK SEVEN ATTEMPTS TO FIX THIS PROBLEM WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF CHATGPT, SO IT FAILED SIX TIMES BEFORE THE ISSUE WAS RESOLVED.
top -o cpu showed configd no longer topping the chart
configd -v | grep -i ppp showed nothing — the plugin was gone
The Mac ran cooler, quieter, and battery health stopped declining
Re-enabling Protections
After verifying stability:
bash
csrutil enable
csrutil authenticated-root enable
Then reboot normally.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t your average support task. It took two dead batteries, countless failed attempts, a hunch from years back, and finally the help of ChatGPT to trace configd’s madness back to a plugin that had long outlived its purpose.
If you’ve ever migrated from an older Mac, especially one where you’d used PPP-based VPNs or dial-up tools, this issue may be lurking silently in your system too — especially if that system is mostly docked or plugged in. For me, it nearly cooked a great machine.
Now? My Mid 2015 MacBook Pro is back to being a quiet, powerful daily driver — and I intend to keep it that way.
Have a similar story? Reach out or connect with me on social media. Let’s keep our ageing tech running better than new.
In the latest episode of The Gadget Man, I joined Lorna Bailey on BBC Radio CWR to explore a topic that’s close to all our smartphones — apps. From checking our health and managing our money, to securing our homes and snapping hundreds of photos we never quite get around to backing up, apps have become the digital wallpaper of our lives.
But here’s the big question: Have we become too reliant on them? And are there risks lurking in our seemingly innocent app folders?
During this episode, we chat candidly about the app overload many of us experience. Whether it’s a dozen different parking apps or a folder full of CCTV apps just for one house (guilty as charged), we’ve all felt the weight of digital clutter and the anxiety of deleting an app in case we “might need it someday.”
We also talk about the very real risks of having so much of our data connected to apps and the internet — and how tech companies benefit from our every tap and swipe. While some of this data helps deliver useful services, like live traffic info, it also opens doors to targeted ads, invasions of privacy, and even scams.
Tips for Staying Safe in an App-Heavy World:
Only download apps from reputable sources like Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon’s App Store.
Avoid sideloading apps from unknown third-party websites — that’s where trouble can start.
Keep apps up to date — security patches are often part of these updates.
Use antivirus apps to scan for threats, especially on Android devices.
Be mindful in public when making payments with your phone — contactless tech can be abused.
Back up your photos and data regularly to avoid heartbreak if your device is lost or damaged.
There’s also a moment of digital self-reflection: Are we hoarding apps the same way we hoard random kitchen gadgets — “just in case”? You’re not alone. I’ve got folders of unused apps, too.
And while we’re talking about clutter, let’s not forget the thousands of photos we store and forget — until it’s too late. If there’s one takeaway from this episode, it’s this: Back. Up. Your. Photos. Whether it’s to iCloud, Google Photos, or any other cloud service, it could save your most precious memories.
Listen to the full episode to hear all the laughs, insights, and a few home truths about our app obsessions — and maybe get inspired to finally sort out your own digital drawers!
Want to chat more about this topic? Drop a comment below or ping me on social media @gadgetmanblog — I’d love to hear about your app habits, fears, and favourites!
I hope your week’s been a good one! There’s exciting news in the world of mechanical keyboards – and it’s especially good news for us here in the UK. Our friends at Keychron have just released UK-ISO layout versions of two of their most exciting and feature-rich models: the Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard and the ultra-sleek Keychron K3 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard.
If you’re into keyboards – whether you’re a coder, gamer, writer, or just someone who appreciates a satisfying click – you’ll want to sit down for this.
🔧 Keychron K2 HE – Magnetic Switches, Adjustable Actuation & Custom Comfort
The K2 HE isn’t just another mechanical keyboard. It’s something genuinely special. Designed with Gateron’s double-rail magnetic switches, this 75% layout keyboard gives you precision control, allowing you to tweak the actuation point of each key and enabling something called Dynamic Rapid Trigger – think faster response and more fluid key actions. It’s the kind of tech that’s great for gamers but just as welcome for day-to-day work.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
Built around a solid aluminium frame and finished with lovely rosewood accents (light wood for the white edition and dark for the black), it’s not just clever – it’s beautiful too. Each version comes with OSA-profile double-shot PBT keycaps, giving you that ever-desirable combo of durability and aesthetic class.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
You’ve got triple connectivity options – 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and good old-fashioned USB-C. Plus, it works across macOS, Windows, and Linux, which is always a bonus in a multi-device household like mine.
You can grab the K2 HE now from Keychron UK starting at £137, and if you’re a fan of tweaking RGB, sensitivity and multi-action key commands, the Keychron Launcher web configurator is included to let you go full custom mode.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
💻 Keychron K3 Max – Ultra-Slim, Hot-Swappable, and Fully Programmable
If low-profile is more your thing (or you like your gear slim and stylish), the K3 Max might be your next desk upgrade.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
This one’s all about portability meets power. It’s just 31% thinner than traditional mechanical boards thanks to Gateron low-profile MX 2.0 switches, yet it still packs in full QMK/VIA customisability. That means full key remapping, macros, and layers – ideal for developers, gamers, or productivity nerds (guilty as charged!).
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
Like the K2 HE, it also supports 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired modes, and is built for all the major platforms. You’ll find IXPE acoustic foam and latex support under the hood to dampen key noise and improve comfort – a thoughtful touch for late-night typing sessions.
Inside, it’s driven by a beastly ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with 256KB flash and supports a 1000Hz polling rate, even in wireless mode. All that in a super-slim chassis? Count me in.
Even better – it’s currently on offer at £92.70 (down from £103) on the Keychron UK site. Bargain.
🎉 Final Thoughts
Keychron is one of those rare brands that manages to straddle the line between techie excellence and everyday usability. Both the K2 HE and K3 Max represent the pinnacle of what’s possible in the keyboard space today – elegant, powerful, and now with UK-ISO layouts, so we’re not left out in the cold!
Whether you’re building the ultimate battlestation or just want a keyboard that makes typing that bit more enjoyable, these are both serious contenders.
Apple has just dropped a brand-new addition to the iPhone 16 lineup—the iPhone 16e. This model is designed to deliver cutting-edge performance and Apple Intelligence at a more affordable price, making it a compelling choice for users looking for premium features without the premium price tag.
Apple Unveils the iPhone 16e – The Affordable Powerhouse
Design and Display
The iPhone 16e follows Apple’s signature sleek design ethos with a durable build, available in elegant matte black and white finishes. The device features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing vibrant colours and crisp text, perfect for streaming HDR content, gaming, and everyday tasks. It also boasts IP68-rated water and dust resistance, ensuring it can handle the rigours of daily life.
Performance Boost with A18 Chip and Apple C1 Modem
Under the hood, the iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s latest A18 chip, delivering exceptional speed, efficiency, and AI-powered enhancements. The C1 modem, Apple’s first in-house cellular modem, ensures fast and reliable 5G connectivity while also improving power efficiency, further enhancing battery life.
Speaking of battery life, Apple claims that the iPhone 16e lasts up to six hours longer than the iPhone 11 and up to twelve hours more than previous iPhone SE models, making it the best 6.1-inch iPhone in terms of battery longevity.
Camera System: A 48MP Fusion Camera with 2x Telephoto
Photography enthusiasts will love the 48MP Fusion camera system, which allows for high-resolution shots with enhanced computational photography. The integrated 2x telephoto lens provides optical-quality zoom, making it feel like having two cameras in one. Features such as Night Mode, Portrait Mode, and Smart HDR ensure stunning photos in all lighting conditions. The front-facing TrueDepth camera offers autofocus for sharper selfies and enhanced Face ID functionality.
Apple Intelligence and AI Integration
A significant highlight of the iPhone 16e is its support for Apple Intelligence. This AI-powered system introduces advanced features such as:
Image Cleanup Tool – Easily remove distractions from photos.
Genmoji – Custom emoji creation.
Improved Siri – More conversational and able to maintain context across multiple interactions.
ChatGPT Integration – Built directly into Siri and Writing Tools, allowing users to access AI-generated assistance seamlessly.
Action Button for Quick Access
The iPhone 16e features the Action Button, first introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro series. Users can customise it to launch the camera, activate Shazam, switch focus modes, or even trigger in-app functions.
Satellite Connectivity and Safety Features
Apple continues to lead in emergency communication with the inclusion of satellite-based features such as:
Emergency SOS – Contact emergency services when out of cellular range.
Roadside Assistance – Access help via satellite in case of car trouble.
Find My via Satellite – Share location with loved ones, even in remote areas.
Crash Detection – Automatically dials emergency services in the event of a severe accident.
iOS 18 and Customisation Options
The iPhone 16e runs iOS 18, introducing new personalisation options, enhanced privacy settings, and redesigned Control Centre for improved accessibility. Users can now customise their Home Screen with dark or tinted app icons and arrange widgets more freely.
Pricing and Availability
Apple has positioned the iPhone 16e as a budget-friendly yet powerful device, starting at £599 in the UK. Pre-orders begin on February 21, with availability set for February 28. The device will be available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16e delivers an impressive mix of premium features and affordability, making it a strong contender for those looking for top-tier Apple performance without breaking the bank. With the A18 chip, improved battery life, AI-driven features, and a robust camera system, the iPhone 16e is set to be a popular choice in 2025. Stay tuned for a hands-on review soon!
The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) sector is booming, but an outdated tax policy is creating an unfair financial burden on EV drivers who rely on public charging. Lobby group FairCharge is urging the Chancellor to slash VAT on public charging from 20% to 5%, aligning it with home electricity rates and making EVs more accessible for all drivers.
A Two-Tier Charging System?
Right now, EV owners with home chargers pay just 5% VAT on their electricity, while those dependent on public chargers face a 20% VAT rate—a clear imbalance that is penalising those without driveways.
Industry leaders warn that without action, the UK risks stalling EV adoption. According to Osprey Charging, lowering VAT would save drivers over £130 million per year by 2030. ZapMap’s data suggests EV drivers could save £85 million in 2025, rising to £315 million by 2030—with more than half of these savings benefiting those without access to home charging.
Industry Leaders Speak Out
The UK government has heavily backed the EV transition, yet this “archaic tax anomaly” remains in place. Key figures from across the automotive and EV charging industries are now demanding change:
Delvin Lane, CEO, InstaVolt:“The government should act now to remove this barrier and avoid stalling the EV revolution. InstaVolt will immediately pass any VAT cut onto consumers.”
Matt Galvin, MD, Polestar UK:“We’ve been calling for VAT parity for a long time. It’s unfair to penalise those without driveways and risks slowing down adoption.”
Matt Galvin, MD, Polestar UK – Image Polestar UK
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader:“It’s simply unfair that some EV drivers pay more to charge their cars just because they don’t have a driveway. This needs to change.”
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader
Quentin Willson, Founder FairCharge: “I ask the Chief Secretary of the Treasury that he must realise, with the U.K. as the most successful EV market in Europe, the opportunities for growth in the sector are significant. But holding that growth back is an archaic piece of tax legislation conceived before the era of electric cars.”
Quentin Willson, Image Credit : Quentin Willson
Record EV Growth—But Barriers Remain
The UK is leading the charge on EV adoption, with 21.5% of new car buyers choosing a fully electric vehicle in January 2025—a 34% increase from last year. However, FairCharge argues that progress is being hindered by outdated tax rules, limiting affordability for those most reliant on public charging.
Quentin Willson, Founder of FairCharge, summed it up: “The opportunities for EV growth in the UK are huge, yet we’re being held back by an outdated tax system from the fossil fuel era. It’s time for the Treasury to step up and remove this unfair barrier.”
A Simple Fix for Big Impact
Reducing VAT on public charging is one of the most straightforward and cost-effective government actions to accelerate EV adoption. The recently announced £55 million investment in kerbside chargers will still be impacted by the higher VAT rate, meaning those without home chargers continue to be penalised.
As Andy Palmer, Founder of Palmer Energy, put it: “Reducing VAT on public charging is a no-brainer. The cost to the government is small, but the impact on EV adoption is massive. The time for action is now.”
What’s Next?
FairCharge has written directly to the Treasury, urging them to act before this unfair tax system slows down the UK’s EV progress. With major industry leaders backing the movement, pressure is mounting for the government to deliver a fairer charging system for all.
Want to support the campaign? Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out to your MP to demand change. Let’s make EV adoption fair for everyone!
Sometimes, you have an idea so out there, you just have to run with it. That’s exactly what happened with my latest experiment—writing, editing, and publishing a book in under 24 hours. Yes, you read that right: Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney by Matt Porter went from a concept swirling in my head to a fully published book faster than you can say “Bob’s your uncle.” Now, before you start expecting War and Peace or something that’ll win a Pulitzer, let me set the record straight: this book is meant to be a laugh. So, get that tongue planted firmly in your cheek and read on!
A Silly Idea Turned Into Reality
I’ve always loved Cockney rhyming slang. There’s something so playful and creative about it, and being a tech nerd, I thought, “Why not merge the two?” With that spark of inspiration and a challenge I set for myself, the idea was born: a humorous book that reimagines the world of tech with Cockney flair. Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney would be a light, fun read for anyone who’s ever wondered what you’d call a smartphone (a “dog”) or a smart speaker (a “chirper”) in the East End’s colourful lingo.
But then I upped the stakes: I decided to see if I could write, edit, and publish the whole thing in less than 24 hours. Why? Because life’s too short not to try ridiculous things.
You can buy and read Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney right now and very soon in physical paperback at https://amzn.to/40QzUnI
Don’t Expect High Art—This Is Pure, Unfiltered Fun
Let’s be clear: you’re not about to read a literary masterpiece. This isn’t War and Peace or The Great Gatsby. It’s more like a mate telling you stories down the pub, but instead of talking about football, I’m rambling about gadgets and tech in Cockney slang. This book was written fast, with lots of tea, laughter, and a “who-cares-if-it’s-not-perfect” attitude. If you’re looking for a deep exploration of tech or a polished manual, you might be barking up the wrong tree.
But if you’re after a book that doesn’t take itself seriously, one that pokes fun at tech jargon while teaching you some cheeky Cockney phrases, this might be your cup of rosie-lee.
The Writing Process: Fuelled by Tea and Banter
Once the idea hit me, I got to work with one goal: get it done before the clock ran out. I wrote chapter after chapter, each filled with witty slang, light-hearted anecdotes, and ridiculous comparisons between tech gadgets and everyday London life. Need to know why Wi-Fi is like a “Skyhook” or why a computer’s operating system is the “Guv’nor”? I’ve got you covered.
To keep it fun and breezy, I didn’t worry too much about polishing every sentence. It was all about the charm, the humour, and the Cockney twist. The result? A book that feels like a good ol’ natter with a mate—unpolished, maybe a bit rough around the edges, but full of character.
Editing and Formatting: It’s Good Enough
I gave the manuscript a quick once-over (yes, quick), fixing the obvious typos and ensuring the Cockney slang made sense. But did I spend hours agonising over sentence structure or tweaking every paragraph? Absolutely not. This was about speed and spirit, not perfection. Think of it like street food: messy, but oh-so-satisfying.
I also threw in a handy Cockney slang glossary at the end, so you can brush up on your rhyming slang while giggling at the tech comparisons.
The Cover: Simple, Bold, and Straight to the Point
When you’ve only got 24 hours, you don’t spend ages designing a cover that rivals The Da Vinci Code. I kept it simple and bold, with the title front and centre: Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney by Matt Porter. The cover hints at the humour inside without giving too much away—exactly how I like it.
Publishing: The Final Countdown
With just minutes to spare, I uploaded the book to the publishing platform, hit “Publish,” and breathed a sigh of relief. I did it! A fully published book in less than a day.
Why I Did It
Let’s face it, we all overthink things sometimes. This project was a reminder to embrace spontaneity, take risks, and have fun with creativity. You don’t always need months of preparation or endless rewrites to make something worth sharing. Sometimes, done is better than perfect.
Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney isn’t meant to change your life, but it just might make you chuckle, and that’s good enough for me.
What to Expect When You Read It
Lots of laughs: If you’ve ever struggled to explain tech to your nan or been baffled by a new gadget, you’ll feel right at home.
Cockney charm: From “whirligigs” to “dog and bones,” the slang is in full force.
Zero seriousness: This book is pure entertainment, so don’t come looking for an academic breakdown of microchips.
Final Thoughts: Take It with a Pinch of Salt (and a cup of ‘rosie’)
If you’re the kind of reader who enjoys a bit of banter, a bit of tech, and a whole lot of Cockney rhyming slang, this book is for you. But remember: it’s all in good fun. Don’t take it too seriously—just sit back, grab a cuppa, and enjoy the ride.
So, there you have it. My little 24-hour experiment, wrapped up and ready for you to enjoy. Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney is out now on Kindle and will be available very soon in paperback (As soon as I have approved the… Proof), and I hope it brings you as many laughs reading it as I had writing it.
Cheers,
Matt Porter
February 2025
📚 Want a bit of tech banter with a Cockney twist? Grab your copy of Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney on Kindle now, and don’t forget to keep that tongue firmly in cheek.
