On Gear Live: Apple’s $400,000,000 Secret to Saving the Planet

  • STICKY POST

Find Our Latest Video Reviews on YouTube!

If you want to stay on top of all of our video reviews of the latest tech, be sure to check out and subscribe to the Gear Live YouTube channel, hosted by Andru Edwards! It’s free!

Apple is on a mission to hit carbon neutrality by 2030—a goal that goes far beyond its products and supply chain. This video explores the tech giant’s groundbreaking Restore Fund, a $200 million initiative aimed at reforesting Brazil’s Atlantic Forest while tackling the hardest-to-eliminate 25% of its carbon footprint.

A key highlight of this story is an exclusive interview with Lisa Jackson, Apple’s Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives. Lisa shares insights into how Apple’s Restore Fund is blending corporate responsibility with tangible environmental results, and how their commitment to renewable energy and carbon neutrality is setting a new standard for the tech industry.

The story dives into the heart of the Atlantic Forest, where Apple and local partners like Symbiosis are restoring biodiversity, planting resilient trees, and using cutting-edge tech like the iPhone’s LIDAR to measure their impact. The video examines whether nature-based solutions like the Restore Fund can scale up fast enough to make a significant difference and how global companies like Apple are shifting from minimizing harm to actively restoring ecosystems.


Advertisement

AI has been hyped up like the world’s next superstar athlete, but when it comes time to perform, has it actually stuck the landing? In this episode, we dive into the state of AI today, breaking down what’s working, what’s failing, and how companies like Apple, Google, and OpenAI are shaping the future.

We discuss Apple Intelligence, its delayed rollout, and whether Apple’s privacy-first approach is actually hurting its AI capabilities. Plus, what’s going on with AI-generated images, the evolution of Siri, and the battle between Google Gemini, ChatGPT, and Apple’s attempts to keep up. And of course, we analyze whether companies are just slapping "AI" on everything from bird feeders to massage chairs to sell more products.

On top of that, we discuss T-Mobile’s partnership with Starlink and the conspiracy theories running rampant about Elon Musk tracking everything. Also, are we witnessing the slow demise of TikTok in the U.S.? Taylor Lorenz joins the discussion to break it all down.


What if I told you there's a robot vacuum that not only cleans your floors, but also outsmarts every obstacle in your home and gives you a literal break from maintenance for months at a time? Today, we're diving into a cleaning beast that might just change how you think about smart home tech. This is the Dreame X40 Ultra.

The Dreame X40 Ultra is one of the most advanced robot vacuums I've come across in a while. This thing combines modern tech upgrades with a focus on hands-off intelligent cleaning. It can handle tricky pet hair to dusty corners without constant supervision. Let's break down why the X40 Ultra is making waves and why you might never need to clean your floors manually again.

Click to continue reading The Dreame X40 Ultra is the Ultimate HANDS-OFF Robot Vacuum!


Latest Gear Live Videos

Turns out, Apple can fumble iPhone sales and still make Wall Street happy. The tech giant’s stock jumped 3.3% in after-hours trading, even after reporting a nearly $2 billion shortfall in iPhone revenue compared to analyst expectations. 

Apple pulled in $69.1 billion from iPhones last quarter, making up over 55% of its total revenue. But global iPhone shipments dipped 4% year-over-year, thanks to stiff competition in China from Huawei and Xiaomi. That market hit was big—Greater China revenue fell 11% to $18.5 billion. 

By the numbers:

• $124.3 billion – Total revenue last quarter (a new record) 

• $36.3 billion – Net profit (up 7.1% YoY

• $26.3 billion – Services revenue (up 14%

• 4% – Decline in global iPhone shipments 

• $3.57 trillion – Apple’s current market valuation 

Still, services revenue soared and Apple Intelligence—its AI push—has users excited (except in China, where it’s not yet available). Despite the iPhone miss, investors are staying bullish—because hey, who needs phone sales when you’ve got a $3.57 trillion valuation?


Roborock is taking robot vacuums to the next level with its new flagship model, the Saros Z70, unveiled at CES 2025. This isn’t just a dust-and-dirt remover—it has a foldable robotic arm, dubbed the "OmniGrip," that can pick up small objects like socks, dog toys, and even light sandals, saving you from pre-cleaning chores. 

Why it’s a game-changer:

  • Smart object handling: The OmniGrip arm, with its five-axis design, can lift objects under 300 grams and put them away in designated spots. It even marks objects to circle back for them after cleaning the floor underneath. 

  • AI precision: Using sensors, a camera, and an LED light, the Saros Z70 determines whether an object is movable and adjusts accordingly. 

  • Customizable control: Activate the arm and set object-handling preferences via the Roborock app, which also lets you assign drop-off zones. 

Roborock isn’t stopping there. Alongside the Saros Z70, it unveiled a lineup of handheld wet-dry vacuums and washer-dryers, showing its commitment to innovative home cleaning solutions. Expect the Saros Z70 to hit shelves later this year.


Google Gemini TV

Google is upping the ante on smart TVs by giving Google TV a serious glow-up with far-field microphones and Gemini AI integration, announced at CES 2025. Soon, you won’t need to press a button or say “Hey Google”—just ask away. Want to know Disney’s latest movie releases or what beaches to hit in Asia this summer? Your TV’s got you. 

What's new?

  • Far-field mics: Say goodbye to talking into your remote; just speak directly to your TV. 

  • Proximity sensors: Your TV will detect when you're nearby and serve up personalized widgets. 

  • Smart home controls: Check your video doorbell or dim the lights right from your screen. 

Google isn’t alone in the AI-powered entertainment race—LG and Samsung are adding Microsoft’s Copilot to their TVs. It’s official: The TV arms race has shifted from screen resolution to making your TV your new best friend.


RAW on Netflix

The WWE is kicking off 2025 with a seismic move: Monday Night Raw debuts on Netflix tonight at 8 p.m. ET, ushering in a new era for the wrestling juggernaut. WWE has promised a spectacle that rivals WrestleMania, and it’s clear they mean business. 

Here’s what to expect:

  • Must-see matches: Roman Reigns faces Solo Sikoa in a high-stakes tribal combat, Liv Morgan defends her Women’s World Championship against Rhea Ripley, and CM Punk finally clashes with Seth Rollins. 

  • Star-studded appearances: The Rock returns to electrify the crowd, Logan Paul reenters the ring, and John Cena begins his farewell tour. 

  • Special touches: Rapper Travis Scott performs the new Raw theme, while commentary comes from Michael Cole and Pat McAfee. 

The action unfolds at Inglewood’s Intuit Dome, marking its first wrestling event ever. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a casual viewer, tonight’s debut is a can’t-miss Netflix moment.


Fiat 500e Red 2024 review

Fiat’s 500e Red Edition is the brand’s electrified love letter to the urban commuter. A revival of the beloved Fiat 500, this compact EV aims to capture hearts with its unmistakable Italian design, practical size, and eco-conscious credentials. But in today’s crowded electric vehicle (EV) market, does it deliver enough to stand out? Let’s take a closer look.

Performance: The City Sprinter

Underneath its curvy retro shell, the Fiat 500e Red is powered by a 117-horsepower electric motor paired with a 42-kWh battery pack. On paper, these specs might not set the world alight, but on the road, the story changes. The instant torque of 162 lb-ft makes this pint-sized EV a joy in urban environments, where darting through traffic lights and weaving through congestion feels effortless.

However, don’t expect jaw-dropping speed; the 500e Red takes around 8.5 seconds to reach 60 mph, a pace that’s more “afternoon espresso” than “double shot.” Its top speed of 85 mph reinforces its urban focus, but for most buyers, that’s precisely the point. If you’re looking for something zippy but not overwhelming, it hits the sweet spot.

Click to continue reading 2024 Fiat 500e Red Review: Small Car, Big Personality


Circuit Breaker by Andru Edwards newsletter

Level up with the latest in consumer electronics and gadgets with Circuit Breaker, our free email newsletter that's all about the hottest tech.


Mercedes AMG GT63 S E review

Mercedes-AMG doesn’t do subtle. The 2024 GT63 S E Performance is proof of that. It’s not just a car; it’s a bold statement of engineering and a glimpse into the future of high-performance driving. Practicality is a stretch here, but it’s not entirely out of reach - if your idea of practical includes an 831-horsepower hybrid machine.

Click to continue reading 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT63 SE Performance: The Ultimate Hybrid GT


Advertisement