A New Patent Could Make the iPhone Look More Like the Apple Watch

Apple is constantly coming up with new ideas and patenting them — some more realistic than others. And it seems like a lot of the new patents have to do with how to update the iPhone. The company just announced that they have officially sold 1 BILLION of their smartphones. So, perhaps in an effort to get us to buy one billion more, the company’s newest patent is not so much a brand new idea, but a mashing together of two of Apple’s most iconic products into one super Apple machine.

Apple’s patent application for a “rotary input” device on a phone was published today after being filed back in 2014. The “digital crown” could be used not only to make scrolling much more efficient, but as a volume controller, touch screen lock, shutter button for taking a picture or even resizing the text on a screen. In the patent, this small little knob — akin to the one found on the side of the Apple Watch — was used on a device that was completely screen with no border (this is not the first time that Apple has toyed around with this idea). This might also be the replacement for the disappearing Home button.

Although, because this is just a patent, it remains to be seen whether or not we’ll see the rotary OR waterproof tech on any iPhones in the future. But maybe in next year’s BIG iPhone release…?

Would you buy a phone with a dial? Let us know @BritandCo!

(h/t 9to5 Mac; photo via Apple)

Prime Day continues to impress us! Apple products like iPads, iPhones, AirPods, and more are almost never on sale for prices this low. This Prime Day, we’re seeing hundreds of dollars worth of savings, which is especially satisfying if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your current desk set-upor revamping your super old headphones. Scroll on for the 7 best deals on Apple products we’ve found, available for historic sale prices now.

Amazon

Apple Watch Series 9

$280, was $399

This powerful little sidekick is now $119 off for Prime Day! You can do practically everything you do on your iPhone with the Apple Watch, like talking, texting, navigation, and workout and sleep support. It easily syncs up with the rest of your Apple devices for a seamless experience. Plus, all of your activity will be super visible and bright, thanks to the Series 9's clear interface.

Amazon

Apple AirPods (3rd Generation)

$120, was $169

You can save nearly $50 on some brand-new AirPods this Prime Day. The 3rd generation model is snug-fitting, sweat and water resistant, and lightning fast when it comes to communicating with your devices. You get up to 6 hours of listening time with a single charge, which is ample time to listen to your new favorite album or audiobook on repeat!

Amazon

Apple iPad (10th Generation)

$450, was $499

If you like to get things done on the go, the iPad is a total lifesaver. It's way more compact than a laptop, but its small size is still perfectly suitable to see the screen clearly. You can snag it in storage sizes 64GB or 256GB and four different vibrant colors on Amazon right now! This pick is compatible with the Apple Pencil as well as the Magic Keyboard (both are $50 off for Prime Day) based on your usage needs.

Amazon

Apple AirTag

$24, was $29

The AirTag ensures you'll never lose track of your wallet, keys, or backpack ever again. It communicates with the Find My app on your Apple devices, so you can locate your items in a single press of a button! This model even has a built-in speaker than can ring out loud to help you track down what you've (seemingly) lost forever.

Amazon

Apple iPhone 12

$282, was $398

The classic iPhone really speaks for itself, but this $115 off Prime Day deal makes it even better. We all live on our phones, so whether it's for scrolling TikTok, messaging your long-distance pals, or playing games, this device does it all. You can shop from storage sizes 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB and 6 different colors on Amazon right now!

Amazon

Apple AirPods Max

$395, was $549

We're never far from a pair of headphones, and the AirPods Max are definitely the hottest style to rock right now. They deliver high-quality audio through the cushioned ear cups, and you can even toggle between several different noise-cancelling settings. These wear really light on the head and even offer some nice breathability, since the headband is made from a light mesh material. With a single charge, you get up to 20 hours of listening time – and at $154 off, that's a major score!

Amazon

Apple Magic Mouse

$80, was $99

If you've been searching for an excuse to upgrade your clunky computer mouse, this wireless Magic Mouse from Apple is gonna feel like a total treat. It's compatible with both Macs and iPads to help you get the job done. This mouse works silently, too, so you won't ever be distracted by noisy scrolling or clicking again. It even has an incredibly long battery life, operating at full power even if you haven't charged it in a couple weeks!

Amazon

Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation)

$380, was $499

A slightly smaller iPad model, the Mini ($119 off) is still as great as the OG. It features a super bright and impressively clear screen display, fast wifi capability, and tons of storage to handle all your notes, apps, and photos. This model is available in storage sizes 64GB and 256GB and 4 different colorways on Amazon now.

Shop our Amazon storefront to snag more amazing Prime Day deals on beauty, home, fashion, books, and more!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I've been anxiously awaiting news on The Last of Us season 2 release date ever since that crazy season 1 finale in March of 2023. ICYMI, Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) have returned to Jackson but unfortunately, all's not well that ends well, because Joel is hiding a huge secret — and it's totally shaken Ellie's trust in him. I love this reluctant duo so much and I'm already making plans to visit my best friend so we can watch (and rewatch) the premiere together.

Here's everything we know about The Last of Us season 2 release date, plus the new The Last of Us trailer.

'The Last of Us' season 2 trailer teases lots of terror.

We've already gotten our first look at Kaitlyn Dever's Abby (a character fans of the game love to hate), but this is the first time we've gotten to hear her — or see her Firefly pendant. We also catch a glimpse of Ellie and Dina (Isabela Merced) dancing during what appears to be an iconic game scene and Tommy (Gabriel Luna) helping defend Jackson from the infected.

While season 1 was full of earthy tones and tons of light vs. dark imagery, The Last of Us season 2 is already showing off a much more aggressive color palette with blacks and reds that underscore just how explosive things are this season (and judging by the flares, I mean that quite literally).

When can I watch The Last of Us season 2?

Yes, The Last of Us season 2 release date is coming sooner rather than later and the show will hit Max in April 2025. We're still awaiting confirmation on whether we'll get all the episodes at once, but I'm guessing it'll be another weekly release schedule to bring us from the spring through the summer.

Is Last of Us season 2 coming?

Yes, The Last of Us season 2 is on its way! The show was renewed in January of 2023 after the pilot aired. The game sequel opens five years after the events of the first game, and Joel and Ellie's relationship has splintered because of Joel's secret: his promise that Ellie's immunity couldn't be used for a cure is actually a lie — and he murdered an entire hospital of Firefly rebels to save her life.

When Ellie finds out Joel lied to her — and when a certain someone finds out Joel's responsible for the massacre — their worlds implode.

Bella Ramsey told Vanity Fair "it’s really a story about revenge and a continuation from the first season about the dangers of unconditional love."

Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal teased to Deadline that The Last of Us team “are always going to find ways to build on the incredible source material that they have, and surprise us with how they can use that material in a different format like a television show."

Check back here for the latest The Last of Us season 2 release date news! And read up on the other most-anticipated TV shows coming in 2025.

I am a very prepared person, which means I do my best to handle life's unexpected chaos with grace. A recent curveball that I did not prepare for was my phone dying in the middle of New York City. When you live in Manhattan, there's always a show to see, friends to grab margaritas with, and events to attend. That means you lose phone battery pretty quickly, which is exactly the one thing you don't want to go without in the middle of the city.

Ahead of my show at Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, I was #influenced to buy this viral gadget to bring into the stadium with me — and it's the best portable phone charger I've ever used. I can't believe I've gone this long without it!

First Impressions

I grabbed the iWALK Small Portable Charger (which I got for $30), and the first thing I noticed was the size. The whole thing is smaller than my iPhone, meaning that it'll fit in just about any size bag and works with a lot of stadium concert rules!

It comes in multiple colors like pink and teal, but I got it in white.

The Timeline

I left for the concert at 2pm with a fully charged phone. I had to use Spotify, Google Maps, Uber, and my camera all before Taylor even came out, which means that by the time Gracie Abrams and Phoebe Bridgers had finished their opening acts (around 8 pm), my phone was on death's door.

The portable phone charger went right into the port and kept my phone alive for the rest of the night! It also didn't interfere with the audio in any of my recordings, which was super important to me.

Final Thoughts On This Portable Phone Charger

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

This product really surpassed my expectations because of how much power you get from such a small device. I've used it multiple times, and every time I do, my phone ends up fully charged, meaning I have enough battery for another round of adventures and antics.

I'll definitely have it in my bag all summer long. You can search on the internet for some other portable phone chargers for your summer, but this is definitely my favorite.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The next best thing after Christmasis not New Year’s – it’s Girl Scout cookie season! We just can’t resist stocking up on Thin Mints and Tagalongs every year. In the spirit of getting a taste as early as possible in 2025, we’ve got our eye on everything related to this year's season.

Get your cravings ready, because we’ve gathered everything you need to know about the 2025 Girl Scout cookie season.

When will Girl Scout Cookie season be in 2025?

Girl Scouts of the USA

Girl Scouts of the USA just announced that cookie season kicked off on January 7, 2025! Girl Scout cookie season typically runs from January to March, though the exact dates depend on the region you live in.

Several Girl Scout regions announced the dates for their season ahead of the "official" start. You can likely anticipate similar dates for other parts of the country:

Last year, in-person cookie sales started as early as January 9 while online sales began on February 16.

Where do I buy Girl Scout cookies?

Girl Scouts of the USA

You can buy Girl Scout cookies in-person or online. Oftentimes, troops will set up shop in front of grocery stores or malls. Once the season starts, you can search for in-person booths here. Many troops also offer online ordering, so you don't even have to leave the house.

How much will Girl Scout Cookies be in 2025?

www.girlscouts.org

The cost of Girl Scout cookies will vary based on the region you buy them in. In 2024, the price per box ranged from $5 to $7, amidreported price raisesdue to inflation.

Several regions have already addressed pricing ahead of the 2025 Girl Scout cookie season.

Girl Scouts of Arizona Cactus-Pine announced their first cost-per-box price bump in nearly a decade, citing rising production costs. All of their boxes will cost $6, but specialty cookie flavors like Girl Scout S'mores and Toffee-tastic will go for $7.

Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois have all of their boxes priced at $6.

Meet The 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Flavors

Girl Scouts of the USA

There are currently 12 Girl Scout cookie flavors, according to Girl Scouts. Their list includes the same cookies that were available in 2024. From Thin Mints to Samoas, we are so excited. Here’s the full list of cookies:

  • Adventurefuls
  • Caramel Chocolate Chips
  • Samoas (AKA Caramel deLites)
  • Do-si-dos (AKA Peanut Butter Sandwich)
  • Girl Scout S’mores
  • Lemonades
  • Lemon-Ups
  • Tagalongs (AKA Peanut Butter Patties)
  • Thin Mints
  • Toast-Yay!
  • Toffee-tastic
  • Trefoils

We’re also holding out hope that a new flavor will be announced ahead of the 2025 season (a la the famous Raspberry Rally)!

Are there any Girl Scout cookie flavors leaving the lineup?

Girl Scouts of the USA

Yes, sadly, there are two Girl Scout cookie flavors that won't be coming back after the 2025 season. Girl Scouts of the USA announced that the Girl Scout S’mores and Toast-Yay! cookies will be retired after this year, so now's the time to stock up if you're a fiend for those flavors.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest 2025 Girl Scout cookie season news!

This post has been updated.

It Ends With Us might have premiered in August 2024, but Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's behind the scenes conflict continues to unfold in the new year. What started out as rumored drama escalated into legal issues when Blake filed a lawsuit against Justin on December 20, claiming his behavior on set was “disturbing" and “unprofessional," adding "improvised gratuitous sexual content" after the actress had already signed onto the film — all in all facilitating a "hostile work environment."

Here's why Justin Baldoni's lawyer called the claims "outrageous" — and what Blake Lively's team had to say.


Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni's conflict is reportedly more than a "feud."

Lia Toby/Getty Images

After Blake filed the suit, and the New York Times published messages between Justin Baldoni and his team, reporting they were behind a smear campaign against the actress, Justin responded with his own $250 million lawsuit against the NYT. Justin's lawyer Bryan Freedman told People the claims are "false, outrageous and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt."

But on January 6, Blake's legal team came back with another statement, holding firm that "this is not a ‘feud’ arising from ‘creative differences’ or a ‘he said/she said’ situation,” they said in a statement to People.

“As alleged in Ms. Lively’s complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer [Studios] and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set. And their response to the lawsuit has been to launch more attacks against Ms. Lively since her filing.”

“Sexual harassment and retaliation are illegal in every workplace and in every industry," the team wrote. “A classic tactic to distract from allegations of this type of misconduct is to ‘blame the victim’ by suggesting that they invited the conduct, brought it on themselves, misunderstood the intentions, or even lied. Another classic tactic is to reverse the victim and offender, and suggest that the offender is actually the victim. These concepts normalize and trivialize allegations of serious misconduct."

“Most importantly, media statements are not a defense to Ms. Lively’s legal claims," the statement continues. "We will continue to prosecute her claims in federal court, where the rule of law determines who prevails, not hyperbole and threats."

And their costars are speaking out.

Both Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have found support from previous costars. Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrera, and Alexis Bledel, who starred with Blake in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, released a statement in which they "stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation."

"Throughout the filming of It Ends With Us, we saw her summon the courage to ask for a safe workplace for herself and colleagues on set, and we are appalled to read the evidence of a premeditated and vindictive effort that ensued to discredit her voice," the statement reads. "Most upsetting is the unabashed exploitation of domestic violence survivors' stories to silence a woman who asked for safety. The hypocrisy is astounding."

They continue that, "We are struck by the reality that even if a woman is as strong, celebrated, and resourced as our friend Blake, she can still face forceful retaliation for daring to ask for a safe work environment. We are inspired by our sister's courage to stand up for herself and others."

Instagram/brandonsklenar

Brandon Sklenar, who stars in It Ends With Us as Atlas, also supported Blake, linking to the NYT story on Instagram with a heart emoji. "For the love of god read this," he said.

Meanwhile, Justin's Jane the Virgin costar Gina Rodriguez told People in September that "sweet, sweet soul" Justin is "my brother forever. Forever and ever."

Stay tuned for the latest It Ends With Us (and Justin Baldoni & Blake Lively) news.